The Hvac Blog

Doe's Brand Matter

2011-11-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

People often have ask me the question doe's the brand really matter? There is a huge price difference.

The answer in my opinion as a service professional is absolutely, there were a lot of brands focused as budget models during the past years for new construction. Because the down fall of new construction nationwide those brands have to focus on getting into the retro fit or change out market. Be careful of brands that offer outstanding warranties like lifetime replacement warranties or 10 Yr parts and labor most of them are through a 3 party company and if there is a problem trying to get them to help you as the consumer can be like pulling teeth.

My personal recommendation is Trane Or Lennox you will be happy you made the choice in most cases you will pay more for those brands but in the long run you will be better off.

Let me add one for thing, make sure you have a Nate Certified Technician to do your install, the installation is probably 80% on how well the equipment will operate.

Sorry Everyone! I have not posted new content for a while

2011-10-27T15:54:00.000-06:00

Sorry Everyone! I have not posted new content for a while. My wife had some medical issues that I had to address. Thanks for your patients new content will be posted shortly.

Air Quality in the Home

2011-08-11T16:49:00.002-06:00

Author: Mike

Air Quality in the Home
There are things that you as the homeowner can do to make your home's indoor air healthier.The quality of indoor air can be worse than that of outdoor air. Today many homes are built or remodeled without regard to the factors that assure fresh and healthy indoor air. Our homes today are built more tightly, contain many furnishings, appliances and products that can and do affect indoor air quality.
Signs of Indoor Air Quality Problems Include:
asthma and allergic reaction symtomsstrange and mouldy odorsstale or stuffy aira detectable lack of airdirty or faulty central heating or air-conditioning equipmentdamaged flue pipes and chimneysunvented combustion air sources for fossil-fuel appliancesexcessive humiditythe presence of molds and mildewadverse health respond after remodeling, weatherizing, bringing in new furniture, using household and hobby products, and moving into a new home, and feeling noticably healthier outside of the house.Some Quick Facts:
Indoor air quality can be worse than that of outdoor air.Problems come from construction materials used in building homes, moisture intrusion, insects, pets, appliances, radon, materials used in household products and furnishings, smoke, and other sources.Health effects range from minor irritation to major health risks.Remedies include ventilation, cleaning, altering moisture intrusion, and following manufacturers' directions when using houshold cleaning products.Common Sources of Air Quality Problems
Poor indoor air quality can come from many sources . At least some of the following contaminants can be found in almost any home:moisture and biological pollutants, such as molds, mildew, dust mites, animal dander, and cockroaches;high humidity levels, inadequate ventilation, and poorly maintained humidifiers and air conditioners;combustion products, including carbon monoxide, from unvented fossil-fuel space heaters, unvented gas stoves and ovens, and back-drafting from furnaces and water heaters;formaldehyde from durable-press draperies and other textiles, particleboard products, such as cabinets and furniture framing, and adhesives;radon, which is a radioactive gas from the soil and rock beneath and around the home's foundation, groundwater wells, and some building materialshousehold products and furnishings, such as aerosol sprays, paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, construction adhesives, and additives used in carpeting and furniture, which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs);asbestos, which is found in most homes built over 20 years ago. Sources include deteriorating or damaged pipe insulation, fire retardant, acoustical material (such as ceiling tiles) and floor tileslead from lead-based paint dust, which is created when removing paint by sanding, scraping and burning;particulates from dust and pollen, fireplaces, wood burning stoves, kerosene heaters and unvented gas space heaters; and tobacco smoke, which produces particulates, combustion products and formaldehyde.put in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Install a smoke detector in each bedroom or in the adjacent hall.If you have gas or other fossil-fuel appliances in the house, install carbon monoxide detectors.Combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are available at most home centers such as Home Depot.Check the batteries frequently.The air circulation If any outdoor contamants enter the home threw the air, the pollutants will elevate and accumulate to levels that can be hazardous to your health Unless they are built with a limited mechanical means of ventilation, homes that are designed and constructed to minimize the amount of outdoor air that can "leak" into and out of the home may have higher pollutant levels than other homes. Some weather conditions can drastically cut back the rate of air interchange, pollutants can build up even in homes that are commonly considered to be "leaky."
How Does Outdoor Air Enter a Home?
Outdoor air enters and leaves a house by infiltration, natural ventilation and mechanical ventilation. In natural ventilation, air moves through opened windows and doors. Air movement associated with infiltration and natural ventilation is caused by air-temperature differences between the indoors and outdoors, and by wind. With infiltration, outdoor air flows into the house through openings, around windows, doors, thru floors and ceilings, joints and cracks in walls. at last, there are a number of mechanical ventilators, from outdoor-vented fans that remove air from a single room, such as the bathroom and kitchen, to air-handling systems that use fans and ductwork to continuously remove indoor air and distribute filtered and conditioned outdoor air to strategic points throughout the home. When there is little infiltration, natural ventilation or mechanical ventilation, the exchange rate is low the pollution levels may increase and so can the contaminants that we breath.Some floor tiles contain asbestos.
Solution:Periodically inspect for damage or deterioration. Do not cut, rip, sand or remove any asbestos-containing materials. If you plan to make changes that might disturb the asbestos, or if materials are more than slightly damaged, contact a professional asbestos remediator for removal. Call your local or state health department or the Environmental Protection Agency.
Moisture promotes biological pollutants including allergens, such as mold, mildew, dust mites and cockroaches.
Solution: Eliminate moisture sources. Install and use exhaust fans. Use a dehumidifier, if you find it necessary. Remove molds and mildew by cleaning with a solution of chlorine bleach (1 cup bleach to 1 gallon water). Maintain fresh air with natural and mechanical air circulation.
Your fireplace can be a source of carbon monoxide and combustion pollutants.
Solution: Open the flue when using the fireplace. Have the flue and chimney inspected annually by a licensed chimney sweep for exhaust back-drafting, flue obstructions, cracks, excess creosote, and damage. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to protect your family!.
An air conditioner can be a source of biological allergens.
Solution: Empty and clean the water tray often. Follow all service and upkeep procedures, including changing the filter on a regular basis.
Gas and kerosene space heaters can release carbon monoxide and combustion pollutants.
Solution:Never use unvented kerosene or gas space heaters. In the room where the heater is located, provide fresh air by opening a door to the rest of the house, turning on an exhaust fan, and slightly opening a window.
Tobacco smoke contains harmful combustion and particulate pollutants, including carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts.
Solution: Do not smoke in your home or permit others to do so, specially near children. If smoking cannot be avoided indoors, open windows and use exhaust fans.
New draperies may be tempered with a formaldehyde-based finish and emit odors for a short time.
Solution:Before hanging, air draperies to eleviate odors. After hanging, air out the area. Maintain moderate temperature and humidity.
Paint manufactured before l978 may contain lead.
Solution: Leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition. Before removing paint, test for lead. Do not sand, burn off or remove lead-based paint yourself. Hire a someone with special training to correct lead-based paint problems.Many animals create airborne allergens, such as dander, hair, feathers and skin.
Solution: Keep pets outdoors as much as conceivable. Clean the entire house regularly. Deep-clean areas where pets are permitted. Bathe pets regularly.Biological allergens caused by dust mites can trigger asthma.
Solution: Clean and vacuum regularly. Wash bedding with water hotter than 130 degrees F. Use more hard-surface finishes; they are less likely to attract and hold dust mites.
Kitchen
Unhealthy and irritating vapours may be released from chemicals in household cleaners and similar products.
Solution: Select non-aerosol and non-toxic products. Use, apply, store and dispose of them according to manufacturers' directions. If products are concentrated, label the storage container with dilution instructions. Use up a product completely before discarding its container.Pressed-wood cabinets can be a source of formaldehyde off gasing.
Solution: Maintain moderate temperatures (less than 80 degrees) and humidity (less than 49%). When purchasing new cabinets, select firm wood or metal cabinets, or those made with phenol resin; they emit less formaldehyde. Ventilate the area well after installation.
Unvented gas stoves and ranges are sources of carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts and are dangerous.
Solution: Keep appliance burners clean. Have burners periodically adjusted Install and use an exhaust fan. Never use a gas range or stove to heat your home.
Bathrooms
Organic gases are released from chemicals in some personal care products, such as deodourant, hair spray, toner, shampoo, nail polish and perfumes.
Solution: Select odor-free or low odor-producing products. Select non-aerosol varieties. Open a window, or use an exhaust fan. Follow manufacturers' directions when using the product and disposing of containers.
Air fresheners can release organic gases.
Solution: Open a window or use the exhaust fan. Follow manufacturers' directions. Select natural products.
Bedroom
Humidifiers and cold-mist vaporizers can encourage biological allergens, including mold, mildew and cockroaches, that can trigger an asthmatic attack, and encourage the spread of viruses and the growth of bacteria.
Solution: Use and clean these appliances according to manufacturers' directions. Refill daily with fresh water.
Moth repellents often contain the pesticide paradichlorobenzene.
Solution: Avoid breathing vapors. Place them in a tightly sealed container. Store separately, away from living areas.
Chemicals used in the dry-cleaning process release organic gases.
Solution: Bring any odors to the attention of your dry cleaner. Try to air out dry-cleaned goods before bringing them into the home. Seek alternatives to dry cleaning, such as hand washing items. Consider using green dry cleaners who use newer, non-toxic solvents and methods to clean garments.
Utility Rooms
Unvented gas clothes dryers produce carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts and can be a fire hazard.
Solution:Regularly dispose of lint around and under the dryer. Provide air for gas units. Vent the dryer directly to the outdoors. Clean the lint trap, vent and ductwork on a regular basis.
Gas and oil furnaces and boilers, and gas water heaters can produce air-quality problems which include back-drafting of carbon monoxide and combustion pollutants.
Solution: Have your heating system and water heater, including gas piping and venting, inspected every year.
Asbestos pipe wrap and furnace insulation can release asbestos fibers into the air.
Solution:Periodically check for damage and deterioration. Do not cut, rip, sand or remove any asbestos-containing materials. If you plan to make changes that might disturb the asbestos, or if materials are more than slightly damaged, contact a professional certified remediator for repair or removal.
Basements
Ground moisture encourages biological allergens, including mold and mildew.
Solution: Inspect for condensation on walls, standing water on the floor, and sewage leaks. To keep your basement dry, prevent outside water from entering by installing rain gutters and downspouts, do not water close to the foundation, correctly grade soil away from the home, and by applying waterproofing sealants to the basement's interior walls. If you have an accumulation of standing water, consider installing a sump pump. If sewage is the source of water intrusion, have drains professionally cleaned. If moisture has no obvious source, install an exhaust fan controlled by humidity levels. Remove mold and mildew. Regularly clean and disinfect the floor drain.
Radon is an invisible, radioactive gas which poses the risk of lung cancer.
Solution:Test your home for radon. Have an experienced radon inspector test your home and a certified contractor mitigate your home if your radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.
Chemicals in hobby products, such as solvents, paint, glue and epoxy, release organic gases.
Solution: Follow manufacturers' directions for use, ventilation, application, clean-up, and container storage and disposal. Use outdoors when possible. When using indoors, open a window or use an exhaust fan. Re-seal containers tightly. Clean tools outside or in a well-ventilated area.
The Garage
Car and small engine exhaust are sources of carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts.
Solution: Never leave vehicles, lawn mowers, snowmobiles, etc., running in the garage.
Paint, solvent and cleaning supplies may release harmful vapors.
Solution: Provide proper ventilation when using them. Follow manufacturers' directions. Buy only as much as you need. If the products contain methylene chloride, such as paint strippers, use them outdoors. Re-seal containers well. Keep products in their original, labeled containers. Clean brushes and other materials outside. Consider using non-toxic green products whenever possible.
Pesticides and fertilizers used in the yard and garden may be toxic.
Solution: Use non-chemical methods whenever possible. Follow manufacturers' directions for mixing, applying and storing. Wear protective clothing. Mix or dilute these products outdoors. Provide ventilation when using them indoors. Store them outside of the home in their original, labeled containers. After using the product, remove your shoes and clean your hands and clothing to avoid bringing the chemicals into your home.
Indoor Air Pollution and Health
Health effects from indoor air pollutants may be experienced soon after exposure or, possibly years later.
Immediate Effects
Immediate effects may show up after a single exposure, or it may take repeated exposures. These include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Sometimes, the treatment is as uncomplicated as eliminating the person's exposure to the source of the pollution. Symptoms of some diseases, including asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and humidifier fever, may also show up soon after exposure to some indoor air pollutants.
The likelihood of immediate reactions to indoor air pollutants depends on several factors: Age and pre-existing medical conditions are two important influences.How a person reacts to a pollutant depends on individual sensitivity, which varies tremendously from person to person. Some people can become sensitized to biological pollutants after repeated exposures, and it appears that some people can become sensitized to chemical pollutants, as well. A comprehensive inspection and laboratory testing can help identify the culparts.
Certain immediate effects are similar to those from colds and other viral diseases, so it is often difficult to determine if the symptoms are a result of exposure to indoor air pollution. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to the time and place that symptoms occur. If the symptoms fade or go away when a person is away from home, for example, an effort should be made to identify the possible cause. Some health effects may be made worse by an lack of fresh air, or from the heating, cooling or humidity conditions that exist in your home.
Long-Term Effects
Other health effects may show up years after exposure has occurred, or only after long or repeated periods of exposure. These effects, which include some respiratory diseases, heart disease and cancer, can be severely debilitating or fatal. It is important to improve the indoor air quality in your home even if symptoms are not noticeable.
While common pollutants are found in indoor air many are responsible for illness. Concentrations or periods of exposure are necessary to produce specific health problem, but are different for each person. People may react very differently to exposure to indoor air pollutants. Further investigation and testing are needed to better understand which health effects occur after exposure to the average pollutant concentrations found in your home, and which occur from the higher concentrations over short periods of time. Indoor air contaminants can be a source of illness. Hire an IAC2 certified inspector trained in air quality to perform your next home inspection.
Article provided by A+ Inspections - Serving Orange, San Diego and Southwest Riverside Counties 1-888-239-6969

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/wellness-articles/air-quality-in-the-home-3931284.html

About the Author

About the author: Michael Maseline, owner of A+ Inspections, licensed general building contractor, certified inspector, indoor air quality consultant, mold inspector and building science thermographer, serves the tri-county area of San Diego, Orange and Riverside in So. California. Phone: 1-888-239-6969Website: http://www.aplusinspections.net Email: info@aplusinspections.net

Air Quality and Energy Costs

2011-08-11T16:47:00.002-06:00

Author: TheeDesign Studio

Initially developed to protect an HVAC system's coils, ductwork and other components from dust and dirt, air filtration systems have evolved to include measure to protect and maintain a building'sindoor air quality. Most building managers and home owners acknowledge the relationship between air filtration and the quality of the air in the building, however the relationship between air filtration and energy use seems to be bypassed and overlooked. Unfortunately, many building mangers tend to focus on the filters price and look for ways to lower operating expenses by downgrading their filters.

In actuality, the filter directly and greatly impacts the operating costs of the system, more so than the cost of the filter itself. Depending on the type of filter and the application, the operating expenses can outweigh the filter cost by a factor of five to ten.

Energy Use

When trying to find a balance between indoor air quality and reasonable operating costs, it is important to understand how the air filtration system works and which differences impact the energy usage for your HVAC system. Here's how it works.

A filter is installed in the HVAC system and works to remove dust, dirt and other particles from the air as it passes through it into the system. This filter adds resistance to the air system, requiring the system's fan to use more energy to supply the proper air volume for the room. The unfortunate issue is that high quality air filters, ones that provide the highest level of particle filtration, tend to also increase the resistance and cost of operating the system.

The entire issue has gotten a little more complicated as outdoor air has become more polluted. Bringing in air from outdoors requires more filtration than in the past, and because of this, the minimum airflow volume is higher than ever, requiring more energy from the fan. Of course, reducing resistance of the air filter will decrease fan energy requirements, but this translates into more particles remaining in the air and poor indoor air quality.

Filters need to be replaced on a regular basis. Over time, a filter becomes more and more loaded with particles of dirt and dust, making it more difficult for air to pass through the filter, and impacting resistance of air flow. Not only does a clogged filter raise operating costs, but it also decreases the quality of the air passing through the filter.

Finding a Balance between Efficiency and Energy

Before the escalating energy costs, finding a balance between proper filtration and reasonable operating costs wasn't an issue. However, with expensive filters and even more costly energy bills, balancing indoor air quality and cost is vital to maintain a building and healthy occupants. One fortunate thing is that the range of available filtration systems has expanded over the recent years, offering solutions to fit every situation and can help meet both goals of proper filtration and cost efficiency.

There are many different types of filter designs such as traditional filters that trap particles between fibers, electrostatic filters that capture and hold particles with a charge, Filters with disposable or rechargeable containers to collect particles, or even ultraviolet based systems that help reduce concentrations of bacteria, viruses and fungus that might be in the air system. In order to select the best system for specific situations, it's important to understand the types of contaminants found in a particular facility and the acceptable level of air quality for each application.

Most particulate contaminant in a building consists of dirt and dust particles, smoke, vapors, and bacteria. Particles are measured in very small metric units called microns. For example, dust and dirt can range from 10 microns to thousands of microns in diameter, where as smoke and bacteria range from .1 to 10 microns in diameter. The needs for each building will be different according to the amount and type of contaminants inside and around the space that will be filtered. Before selecting the right filtration system, building managers need to look for and eliminate sources of contaminants before looking for ways to filter them. Some common forms of contaminants include exhausts, chemicals, off-gassing from building materials, nearby loading docks, roads or dumpsters and other sources. After acknowledging and managing the unnecessary sources of contaminants, they need to determine the filters efficiency. Of course, it would be wonderful to remove every particle of contaminants; however, it just isn't practical. Higher efficiency filters systems mean higher filter and energy costs. Research sufficient efficiencies for filtration systems so you can protect air quality with manageable maintenance costs to keep the system working the best it can. The overarching goal is to match a filter's efficiency to the application's needs to have the best scenario.

If you are in the Raleigh area and would like a free consultation on your building's indoor air quality and filtration needs, contact the experts at Air Systems Services by calling (919) 266-5755, or fill out the contact form at our website, http://www.airsystemservices.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/remodeling-articles/air-quality-and-energy-costs-4806309.html

About the Author

About Air System Services

Air System Services provides sales, service and installation of high efficiency home HVAC products from Trane, Lennox and Honeywell. Serving the Triangle and surrounding counties in NC, Air System Services provides customers with hassle-free air solutions with an emphasis on customer service. Contact the heating and cooling specialists at Air Systems Services by calling (919) 266-5755, or by visiting their website at http://www.airsystemservices.com

How To Get Heating And Air (HVAC) Estimates Online

2011-08-11T16:41:00.002-06:00

Author: Imaculate Johnson

HVAC also abbreviated as "heating, ventilating and air conditioning" systems. HVAC technologies refer to the technology of automatic environmental coziness. HVAC designing is a subset of Mechanical Engineering, which is inhibited from the scientific rules of fluid mechanics and thermal heat transfer.

In the state of California, there are a number of HVAC companies. These HVAC companies offer state of the art heating and cooling services in your sweet home. California HVAC technicians play a major role in customizing the equipment to your requirements. Moreover, this technology can be implied in your workplace as well. The Californian HVAC technicians' aims to provide all out comfort in all the four seasons.

The state of California is of significant geographical importance. It covers various angles of both longitude and latitude. The state of Canada is splits into three regions namely, Northern, southern and Central California. Literally speaking, each state has its own flora and fauna. Hence, the residents in each section of the state have variable demands, which heavily rely upon the weather, rain and wind directions of the particular state. But nothing is impossible for California HVAC technicians. This group will prove to be the apples of your eye after the California HVAC technicians have completed their duty.

As the climate of South California state is hot and humid, HVAC companies in California offer effective air conditioning systems. Due to extreme hot and dry weather in the state, an air-conditioning cooling system is of great purchase. HVAC technology is best suited for indoor locations. It purely works on the process of convection. The HVAC air conditioner, fit by the California HVAC technicians would throw all of the hot air out of the room. Moreover, cold air of HVAC technology would take its place and give you the most soothing effect.

In the Central part of California, the ecology is almost of the same stature. The summers here are hot and really dry. Moreover, this state also posses colder winter season. This particularly reflects the need of HVAC heating systems. HVAC companies in California also provide its customers with the most comfortable heating effect, eliminating the chance of any gas leakages. HVAC companies also facilitate its customers with expert California HVAC technicians. These expert and recognized California HVAC technicians will always make sure that the equipment which they have installed lives up to your wild expectations. Either be the suffocating hot summers or chilly winters, these California HVAC technicians' promise to provide you with the utmost comfort. The California HVAC technicians are trained and recognized by the American Society of heating and refrigerating. So, there is no need for a second thought in calling the HVAC companies for installing and even maintenances of your equipment.

The portion of Northern California faces the colder breeze. This state has chilly and moist winters, with the night temperature often creeps down with the passage of time. Here, the cold and chilly days and nights often go until the late spring season. However, hot summers can be managed through ventilation. But still, builders of new residential projects tend to hire the services of HVAC Companies in California. The companies, on call of the builder or contractor send an expert team of California HVAC technicians who promises to match your needs with a wide smile.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-ideas-articles/how-to-get-heating-and-air-hvac-estimates-online-3863435.html

About the Author

You will be able to find a host of contractors and professional technicians at hvac-companies.com that excels in dealing with HVAC companies. They will provide you with all kinds of technical help you want regarding HVAC systems.

Summer storm damage: What to look for and how to fix it

2011-08-11T16:38:00.000-06:00

Sorry,This Article Has Nothing To Do With HVAC but just thought I would Share It With You.

(ARA) - Storms are a natural part of summer. After a storm has passed and it is safe to go outside, take stock of your home and repair any minor damage caused by the storm. Repairing minor problems quickly can help ensure they don't evolve into major headaches.

The home improvement and maintenance experts at Lowe's offer some guidelines for assessing and dealing with storm damage:

Checking the roof

Your roof and gutters will often take the brunt of a storm's power. After a storm, check out roof shingles by walking slowly around your home and inspecting from the ground. Use a good pair of binoculars to look for lifting or missing shingles around the edges, valleys, plumbing and furnace vent pipes and the chimney.

You can also inspect your roof from inside the attic. Discoloration of the decking or plywood surface of the roof could signal problems. And if you can see light coming in around plumbing vents or the chimney, it means the flashing needs to be repaired or replaced.

Roof repairs can be difficult and dangerous for homeowners, even if you're an adept do-it-yourselfer. So be careful when climbing on your roof to inspect damage, especially after a storm when damage is unknown. Ask for professional help at your local home improvement store if you have any doubt about your abilities. You can also visit www.Lowes.com/roofing for more information about patching or replacing your roof.

Maintaining your gutters

Clogged gutters and downspouts can keep water from being carried away from your roof. Follow this gutter health checklist for obvious signs of failing gutters:

* Gutter hanging off the roof
* Downspout disconnected from the gutter or house
* Missing gutters
* Water in the basement or elsewhere inside the house
* Leaking or dripping gutter seams
* Overflowing gutters

Gutter damage usually takes one of three forms - holes, cracks or sags. You can easily repair minor sags or pin-sized holes yourself. If careful inspection reveals a pinhole, use an abrasive pad to clean the area. Then, cut a piece of material - the same kind as the gutters - that is 1 inch larger than the hole on all sides. Using a stiff brush, spread a bit of gutter repair compound on the area around the hole and place your patch over the top. Cover the patch with another layer of compound to ensure a good seal.

To repair minor sags, simply add a new hanging bracket to the sagging area or replace an existing one if it's old or damaged. Screw in the bracket until the gutter is back in proper alignment. Be sure to use hanging brackets that are designed for your type of gutter system.

Cracks or more serious gutter damage may require professional help.

Caring for decks

The safety of your deck after a storm passes through is of great importance, especially if you entertain regularly on your deck. Check for damaged boards and replace them with the appropriate decking material. Tighten loose fasteners or replace them if they won't tighten. Tap down and set protruding nails or replace them with deck screws. Check for splinters, especially along handrails and steps, and smooth them with sandpaper.

If your deck is too far gone and you have to build a new one, consider using composite decking, such as Trex or ChoiceDek. The decking material is low maintenance, splinter free and mold resistant. You can also use traditional treated lumber for a more economical option.

Sometimes storm damage is unavoidable. But making quick repairs can help ensure your home is safe, sound and dry before the next storm of summer arrives.

How home automation can help cut costs and save energy

2011-07-28T16:57:00.000-06:00

Who wouldn't like an extra set of hands around the house? Or some help with basic everyday activities such as keeping your home comfortable? And if that extra help could also make your home more energy efficient - reducing your utility bills - wouldn't that be an added bonus?

Home automation, once considered an elite luxury, is doing exactly those tasks for more homeowners than ever before, and in ways that may surprise you. Many homeowners recognize the importance of saving energy, something that benefits the environment and their budgets. Three key areas of home automation that influence energy savings are window coverings, thermostats and lighting.

Heating and cooling a home accounts for the largest portion of a house's overall energy use. Artificial lighting also contributes to home energy bills. Automating these areas of the home that consume the most energy allows users to improve a home's energy efficiency.

Window coverings

You may think of your window treatments as more of a design statement than an energy-efficiency, but window coverings - from blinds to shades - can help control the flow of sunlight into your home. In summer, drawing the blinds can help keep the interior of your home cooler. Opening window coverings when it's cold outside in the winter can allow more warming sunlight to enter your home.

By automating your window coverings, you can better control the amount of light - and heat - entering your home, even when you're not there. You can program an automation system to close window coverings after everyone has left the house for the day to help keep things cooler in the summer. Or, in the winter, when many of us leave the house before the sun is up, an automation system can open window coverings to allow sunlight and warmth into the home after the sun rises.

Thermostats

Turning your thermostat back between 10 percent to 15 percent for eight hours a day can save you as much as 10 percent on your heating and cooling bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy's website, EnergySavers.gov. Programmable thermostats allow you to automate temperature changes in your home.

In summer months, you can set the thermostat to allow the temperature in your home to rise higher so the air conditioning runs less when no one is there. The same technique can help reduce heating bills in the winter. By setting a programmable thermostat to change temperatures when needed, you can achieve more precise control over the temperature in your home - without the risk of forgetting to set the thermostat back yourself every time you leave the house.

Lighting

Artificial light is another major energy-user in American households. Reducing electric usage can be as simple as turning off lights behind you when you leave a room. But how often have you come home from work, only to discover that the front porch light was on all day, or that someone forgot to turn off the bathroom light before leaving the house?

Automating light functions can ensure that lights don't stay on, consuming power, when no one is around to need them. And automation can also make your home safer by turning on lights in the evening so you're not walking into a dark house.

The Energy Triangle

The term "energy triangle" refers to heating/cooling, artificial and natural light and how the three can best work together to keep your home's interior comfortable and efficient. A new system from Somfy Systems, dubbed TaHomA, allows you to automate and coordinate the function of your home's thermostat, lights and window coverings for optimum energy efficiency.

You can use your computer, iPad or iPhone to access the system remotely and adjust the temperature inside the house, turn lights on or off manually or by timer, and even raise or lower the shades throughout the house. The home automation system helps ensure you pay to heat, cool and light the house only when you need to. Log on to www.somfytahoma.com to learn more.

Cool tips for beating summer heat in outdoor spaces

2011-07-13T20:19:00.002-06:00

(ARA) - Relaxing on the patio, lounging by the pool, playing in the backyard with the kids - for all our anticipation of warm weather fun, summer heat can put a damper on outdoor activities. When extreme heat forces us back inside where air conditioning keeps everything cool and comfortable, it can be a challenge to remember what we love about the warmer months.

"Extremely hot weather can make it difficult - but not impossible - to enjoy your outdoor living spaces," says Rick Kelly, an outdoor cooling expert with KuulAire, makers of portable evaporative coolers. "Fortunately, some inexpensive outdoor updates can help you enjoy your patio, deck or garden even on the hottest dog days of summer."

Here are some tips to help keep your outdoor living spaces cool and comfortable throughout the summer:

Your interior decor is designed to make the inside of your home an inviting space, with a controlled temperature and comfortable furnishings. You can create the same effect in your outdoor living space.

Replace hard plastic resin furniture or iron pieces that become griddle-like in the heat with furnishings that echo the comfort and beauty of your indoor furniture. Elevate the luxurious feeling of your outdoor furniture by adding plush cushions, floor coverings and accent lighting. Draping your patio or deck with light, sheer fabric evokes the feeling of curtains and helps keep insects away.

When scorching days drive you inside, you savor the cool comfort of air conditioning. You can air-condition your backyard, patio or deck, too - with a portable evaporative cooler. KuulAire offers two models, the KA77 and KA55, which are both rated for outdoor use. The units can significantly lower the temperature in 150 to 600 square feet of outdoor living space - and use less electricity than it takes to run a typical hair dryer. Wheels and casters make it easy to move the units to where you need them most.

Don't overlook how outdoor decor can help elevate the comfort quotient of a patio or deck. Decorative citronella candles smell and look great, and serve a practical purpose by helping keep bugs away. A tabletop fountain adds a merry sound to your outdoor environment, enhancing the feeling of relaxation. Choose colors and patterns that echo the design elements you most love about your interior design.

Cooking is another important element of summer fun and many summer foods are comforting. When temperatures soar, who wants to slave over a hot grill? Replace traditional barbecue foods that require grilling with no-cook options like fruits and vegetables. Consider preparing naturally cooling foods, like smoothies and cucumber salad. Invest in coolers or portable refrigerators if you'll be storing food outside. If you simply must grill, be sure to keep it away from furnishings, flammable materials and perishable foods.

"With gas prices high and the economy still recovering, many of us will probably stay home again this summer, rather than invest in costly summer vacations," Kelly says. "It's often less expensive and more satisfying to improve outdoor spaces with upgrades that will last the whole summer, than to spend a lot on a few days of travel."

Efficient ideas to keep your home cool and your utility bill low

2011-07-13T20:17:00.000-06:00

(ARA) - A full two-thirds of the United States is expected to experience above-average summer temperatures this year, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac. With some areas of the country already well into seemingly endless runs of 100-degree weather this summer, it is important for homeowners to take steps to maintain their air conditioning systems now to avoid problems later in the summer.

For most homes, heating and cooling consumes more energy dollars than any other system. Unfortunately, regardless of costs, air conditioning systems often serve as the best refuge from the high summer heat and humidity.

All homeowners can take steps to ensure a longer life for their heating and cooling equipment, says Gary Stiles, who teaches HVAC training at the Everest Institute - Houston Bissonnet campus.

"Basic air conditioning maintenance will provide better comfort, and a well-maintained unit runs more efficiently, lasts longer, and suffers from fewer breakdowns," says Stiles. "While there are no guarantees, consumers can greatly increase their chances of enjoying a cooler summer by following a few simple steps:

* First, be sure to clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as needed. If you're not sure where to start, filters are often located in the return air duct of the air conditioner itself, directly in the furnace or in filter grilles located in ceilings and/or walls. Check the specifications of your model and buy a replacement, which can be found at most retail stores.

* When it's hot outside, keep your window coverings closed during the day to keep solar heat from entering your home and making your air conditioner work harder.

* Give your air vents room to breathe by keeping them clean and removing furniture, carpeting or drapes that could block air flow.

* In addition to keeping things clean inside; your outdoor unit should also be cleaned twice a year with a water hose. Turn the unit off at the breaker and start washing at the top and work your way down.

* Set your thermostat as high as is comfortable in the summer.

* Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you are finished cooking or bathing.

* If you know where your unit's drain line is, confirm it is open by running water. Even better, pour bleach directly into the line to kill any algae in it. If you have an air compressor, you can also blow air into the hose from the outlet end to determine if the drain line is open."

These tips are just a small part of what Stiles and other HVAC program instructors teach Everest students. For more information on Everest's HVAC program, visit www.everest.edu.

Cool ways to curb air conditioning costs this summer

2011-06-26T13:01:00.002-06:00

(ARA) - Cooling a home during the summer with a window air conditioning unit can account for nearly 50 percent of an average homeowner's utility bill. And in the hottest regions of the country, cooling off with central air can generate up to 70 percent of your home's utility bill.

But not to fear: There are several ways to curb your electricity use this summer. One simple way is to turn up the thermostat by one degree during warm weather. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that you can save up to 3 percent on your summer energy bill for every degree you raise your thermostat for 24 hours. Set your thermostat between 72 and 78 degrees. Each degree setting below 78 will increase your electricity use by as much as 4 percent - and that's sure to add up to several hundred dollars over many hot summer days.

Other ways to reduce your home's cooling costs include making sure your air conditioning unit is running at peak performance, replacing the HVAC filter at least every three months or as needed, turning on ceiling fans and making sure they are blowing down (not up), opening windows during cooler evening hours, closing curtains and blinds where sunlight radiates heat into the home and sealing all air leaks that let cool air escape outside.

If you like do-it-yourself home improvement projects, installing a radiant barrier in your attic is one of the most effective energy-saving projects that's sure to help you save precious dollars on your air conditioning bill. What's more, you can receive a 10 percent tax credit - up to $500 - from the government.

A radiant barrier works in your home similar to the way a reflective foil car shade works in your car. Just as a car shade keeps the interior of an auto cooler when it's parked in the sun, radiant barriers keep your home's interior cooler when installed in your attic, where the sun's radiant energy is absorbed.

New do-it-yourself energy-saving home improvement products like Energy Star-certified Enerflex Radiant Barrier are easy for homeowners to install themselves, and they quickly realize reduced monthly electric bills. Enerflex Radiant Barrier is unique in that one person can install it, without the need for tools, as it flexes into place between the rafters on the underside of a roof.

An attic radiant barrier is a safe, proven building material for reducing the strain on a home's air conditioner. And that leads to significant energy savings. When you can spend a few hours over a weekend and complete a project that saves money month after month, it's hard to ignore the benefits.

Professionals in the construction, roofing, energy and heating and cooling industries have long known the benefits of installing a radiant barrier, says Rick Jordan of EcoRite Products, a major radiant barrier manufacturer. Only recently have products been manufactured specifically for the DIY installer market.

Radiant barriers reduce the radiant heat gain that permeates a home when the sun beats down on it. Studies on installed radiant barrier products show attic temperatures are typically reduced up to 30 percent during the summer months, which can translate to a 30-degree heat reduction on hot summer days. In fact, a radiant barrier is most effective in the summer months as it dramatically reduces the workload on your air conditioning unit. In general, installing a radiant barrier can help homeowners reduce air conditioner use and save as much as 20 percent on electrical bills.

"Based on my 30 years of experience in teaching energy efficiency, I believe that if you live in the South and your ductwork is in the attic, you will greatly benefit from installing Enerflex Radiant Barrier," says Doug Rye, a licensed architect and the foremost expert on home energy efficiency.

"We installed Enerflex Radiant Barrier in an Alabama home last summer, and determined that the attic temperature was nearly 30 degrees cooler than before. When the attic temperature and the ductwork are 30 degrees cooler, one should have better comfort and lower utility bills," says Rye.

Easily installed Enerflex Radiant Barrier makes spending less on air conditioning a breeze - something to think about as gas prices and other expenses zoom in on your pocketbook.

Visit www.Enerflexfoil.com for more information on radiant barriers or to find a retailer in your area.

Tips to save on home energy costs this summer

2011-06-26T12:58:00.001-06:00

(ARA) - Summer's sizzling temperatures can make it difficult to keep your home comfortable, and even more difficult to keep up with the higher utility bills that often come with it. Yet even a few well-chosen improvements can make a big difference in home comfort and energy efficiency. Here are some ways to save on energy costs this season.

Pre-set temperatures
A programmable thermostat is a small upgrade with a big impact. Not only can you cool the house more efficiently, but you can pre-set indoor temperatures up and down throughout the day, every day of the week, to match your family's summer schedule. With proper use of pre-programmed settings, you can save up to approximately $180 a year on energy costs, according to the U.S Department of Energy (DOE).

Install efficient windows
Outfitting your home with ENERGY STAR-qualified windows can reduce energy bills by about 7 to 24 percent compared to non-qualified windows. Estimated savings will vary depending on current cooling costs in your region.

Cool more efficiently
About half of a home's energy goes to heating and cooling, according to the DOE. You might consider a hybrid system, which flexibly and affordably brings together two different fuel sources, such as a gas or oil furnace, and an electric heat pump. Hybrid systems are calibrated by your installing dealer to automatically switch between the most economical source of power for efficient cooling and heating year round. For example, an American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Platinum ZM Hybrid Comfort System (also known as the Heritage Hybrid (TM) Comfort System 4DCZ6) can deliver up to 68 percent savings in heating and cooling costs over a comparable 10-year-old system.

Seal air leaks
Keep the hot summer air out of your home and the cooled air in. Seal ductwork and insulate the ducts in areas such as the attic, unfinished basement and garage. Make sure that vents and registers that meet floors, walls and ceilings in your home are well sealed.

Reduce hot water use
Lower your water heating costs by using and wasting less hot water in your home. You can significantly reduce hot water use by simply repairing leaks in fixtures such as faucets and showerheads. Installing a low-flow showerhead also helps.

Everyday energy savers
Even small changes in family routines can make a difference. Turn off computers and monitors when they are not in use. Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes. Turn the lights off when you leave a room. Heat meals in your microwave instead of the conventional oven - cooking will be simpler, more energy efficient, and you'll have more time to enjoy the summer, too.

For more ideas on saving energy this summer and throughout the year, visit www.americanstandardair.com and www.energy.gov.

Trane Air Conditioning Is A Healthy New Approach

2011-06-04T08:01:00.000-06:00

Author: Vikram Kumar

A Trane air condition system can give you healthier air. If you live in Maryland, you should look for air conditioning contractors Maryland who can provide you with this system of air conditioning service. While you want your home to be cool and comfortable during the hot weather, as well as get rid of the humidity, you also want to make sure that you get the cleanest air as possible for your family. Not only is a Trane air condition system a unit that offers cleaner air but it is also more affordable when it comes to cooling your home. This type of air conditioning unit costs less money to operate than traditional units that tend to be a bit more costly. Air conditioning is necessary for most people during the summer, but it can also be costly. With this type of unit installed by those who know air conditioning installation Maryland, you can save money and have cleaner air.

One of the reason that air conditioning is so costly is that the run on a continual basis. They usually end up costing your electric bill to skyrocket. While you want to keep your home cool, you also want to do it in an economical way so that you can save on your energy bills. You can take the humid factor out of the house, cool down the house and do so in a way that does not end up sapping up all of your electricity, leaving you with a large bill at the end of the month. When you take advantage of the air conditioning contractors Maryland, they can offer you air conditioning solutions that will save you money as well as keep your house comfortable and cool, as well as keep the air clean. You can find air conditioning installation Maryland that will be able to install Trane air conditioning in your home in a way that will help you relieve your energy bills and keep your home cool at the same time.

You want to go with air conditioning contractors Maryland who will be using EPA standards when they are installing your air conditioning units. You can then get the best advice from them as to which type of air conditioning solution is best for your home. A Trane air conditioning system may be the best option for you if you are looking at an energy efficient way to cool your home as well as make sure that you are saving on energy and complying with EPA standards. You can maintain comfort in your home and keep it cool without it costing you a lot of money. You need to make sure that air conditioning installation Maryland offers you these choices when it comes to getting the best system for your money that will also comply with EPA standards in the industry.

You can have better control over how cool you want your home to be when you use one of these systems. You will be able to control the environment in which you live much easier when you go with this type of air conditioning unit as opposed to others. If you are not sure how this type of system works, then you can discuss this option with air conditioning installation Maryland contractors. They will be able to answer your questions for you and give you the answers that make the most sense. You want clean and cool air in your home without having to break the bank when it comes to your energy bills.

There are air filters contained right in Trane air conditioning that will filter out the bad air and make the air that is pumped into your home not only cool, but clean as well. This gives you better quality air as well as much cooler air and does not end up costing you a lot of money. You can be energy efficient, still have a cool and comfortable home and even have cleaner air for you and your family when you use this type of system. Talk to your air conditioning contractor Maryland about the best option for energy efficient air cooling for your home.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/trane-air-conditioning-is-a-healthy-new-approach-2167542.html

About the Author

Not only do you get cleaner air but you also get to save money when you hire air conditioning contractors Maryland. For competitive rates on air conditioning installation Maryland, contact Riley Heat And Air.

Circuit Setter Installation Tips

2011-05-13T21:45:00.003-06:00

After having selected a circuit setter rather than manual or automatic balancing valves as part of your water system, installing the device is rather straightforward and usually causes no trouble. However, keeping a few simple hints in mind during installation can help prevent leaks and keep your home’s entire water system in working order.

1. Use a torch with a precise, pointed, and sharp flame. Do not use a broad blow torch, as precision in soldering the circuit setter is key.

2. Clean thoroughly. Especially at the ends of the tube and the connections, dirt can gather and must be removed before installation.

3. Select the right solder for the job. Tin-antimony solder (number 95-5) will provide optimum results. A high quality flux will is also important.

4. Protect the circuit setter from excessive heat while soldering. Wrap the body of the device in a cool rag to keep it from overheating, and carefully aim the flame away from the body while soldering. Do not install the Model Readout Valves until the body has cooled to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

5. Check for leaks. Always check the newly soldered connection for leaks before moving on to the next steps. This will save time, money, and a great deal of frustration if any installation work needs to be redone.

Air Conditioning - Some Common Problems

2011-05-01T12:07:00.002-06:00

Author:

Elijah James
As the use of air conditioning devices continues to rise, there is a large increase in the demand of air conditioning systems. People are falling slaves to these air conditioning devices as they are well known for providing comfortable indoor environments. This has lead people to use these air conditioning systems excessively. In some cases people are using these machines to their full potential because they cannot spend even a single day without using their air conditioner. There a number of air conditioning problems being observed in the market as people don\'t do simple general maintenance on their air conditioning systems regularly.
It is of great importance that you should always keep checking your devices to know if there is something wrong with their components. It is always practiced that if you misuse any mechanical device their parts will always end up breaking down. Sometimes people often complain about the inefficient and reduced working conditions of their air conditioning devices. These problems are always faced due to the lack of proper maintenance of your air conditioning devices. To avoid such problems you should always have a routine maintenance check of your air conditioning and refrigeration devices.
There are many different types of air conditioning manufacturers in the marketplace. Some are small manufacturers while others are top rated. This difference in these air conditioning manufacturing companies is due to the quality and efficiency level of the air conditioning products. There are tons of air conditioning companies who are popular for their high quality air conditioning components and air conditioning models. If you want to avoid facing air conditioning problems then it is of high importance that you make some precautionary measures while using your air conditioning systems.
There are different types of air conditioning problems often seen due to the difference in model and the basic air conditioning components used inside these air conditioners. Keeping a check on the maintenance of your air conditioners will not only help you avoid air conditioning problems but also by saving a great deal of money which is usually spent on the air conditioner repairs. In the past there was no facility of air conditioning repairs and maintenance but now days there are a number of companies who are helping people by providing proper air conditioning services and repairs if a component is found damaged.
To avoid problems such as lack of proper air circulation and ventilation in your room always check the air circulation system installed in the air conditioning system. It is commonly observed that if there is any object or pollutant inside the air circulation system or the filter is not properly cleaned which is mainly presenting the inner side of the air conditioning system, people complain that there is a no proper air circulation inside. This mainly results in uncomfortable air conditioning environment indoors. If you are new and inexperienced while using an air conditioning system always read the air conditioning manual for necessary precautionary measures provided with the purchase of every air conditioners.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/air-conditioning-some-common-problems-4632733.html
About the Author
For more great information about air conditioning & Window Air Conditioners we have a range of great tools and resources on our website http://airconditioningprices.net.

Hvac Products And Leaky Ducts To Be Taken Care Of

2011-05-01T12:04:00.002-06:00

Author: Newyorkcityair

The term HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning which has become an inseparable part of our human life. It has made our home more comfortable, pollutant air free no matter what the season is. HVAC products have become necessity these days for both personal and professional use. Buy the HVAC products from the wholesaler and I am sure you would get the best deal. It is very necessary that you look for the best quality at the best competitive price available.

Though it has become a very important part of our life, before we decided to buy this HVAC system to make our life comfortable, a basic knowledge of what these systems are and how they function should be gathered so that our life does not become burden with HVAC system but improves with it. Use of HVAC products has become very popular these days as it maintains the same balanced of temperature throughout our house and according to what your requirement is.

Ducts can be placed all over your house which are connected to the HVAC system and as this system is centrally located , it can work efficiently, but if you have a long stretch of ductwork, then sometimes it becomes difficult to maintain the exact temperature and humidity. Moreover a large ductwork can cost you more. There is also a other way where you can have grills located on the walls or the floors that can effectively maintain the temperature.

The problem of ventilation is another problem in number of housed these days, but with the advent of HVAC systems, maintaining proper humidity and freshness in the houses is no longer a problem and can be handled easily by HVAC system

To make your houses a better place to live in various products like humidifiers, dehumidifiers, heat exchangers, air cleaners etc can be installed in the HVAC system to upgrade the level or quality of air inside your house. The HVAC products normally work on gas or electricity depending on the utilities available and what the building norms permit. Another important factor is of the size and the type of the HVAC system which can be installed depends on things like windows, the wall framing, and the sun orientation of your house. As regard to other components of heating, ventilating and Air conditioning system the duct work remains pretty much invisible to, most of us until a problem arises with it

A properly installed and maintained HVAC duct system is obviously vital to safety and energy efficiency. A condition known as back draft may arise if there is a leak in the duct system. What happens then is, combustion gases from furnace are vented into the living space which should have been outdoors. A situation arises where heavy build up carbon monoxide gas takes palace inside which is heavily dangerous. So it is seen that a leak of HVAC ducts can contribute to the poor quality of air inside, by allowing dust, insulation particles and pollutants from outside to enter the duct and in a process gets circulated throughout the home leading to inhale of impure air. Thus we can see that leak ducts are a problem and it reduces the efficiency of the working of the HVAC system installed because heated or cooled air can leak out instead of being directed where it was designed to go.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/small-business-articles/hvac-products-and-leaky-ducts-to-be-taken-care-of-1990653.html

About the Author

You can find your best hvac service in nyc NYC Air Conditioning HVAC Company Service at Newyorkcityair.

Get the most bang for your energy buck

2011-04-21T21:21:00.000-06:00

Get the most bang for your energy buck

With demand for electricity and natural gas rising along with energy costs, American homeowners can easily spend hundreds of dollars a month on utility bills.

"From air conditioning larger homes to powering today's high-tech electronics, we are using more energy than ever and that is certainly hitting many homeowners in their pocketbooks," says Victor Gonzalez-Maertens, an energy efficiency expert with Lennox Industries - a leading manufacturer of home heating and cooling equipment. "But there are ways to stretch your dollar further by evaluating how you spend money on energy and learning how to control those expenses."

Gonzalez-Maertens explains that there are four key areas of energy consumption for the typical household: heating and air conditioning, appliances, water heating and lighting. Here is his advice for getting the most bang for your energy buck in these areas:

Heating and air conditioning

Heating and cooling accounts for about 46 percent of the average home's utility bill and is typically the largest energy expense. To cut down on climate control costs, be sure to schedule annual routine maintenance on your heating and cooling system to ensure it's running as efficiently as possible.

If the air conditioning system is more than 10 years old or the furnace is more than 15 years old - the average life spans of cooling and heating units - consider replacing them with a new, Energy Star-qualified system that will be more energy efficient and can help lower utility bills. For example, by replacing an old 10 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating) cooling system with a Lennox 21 SEER system, which is twice as efficient, homeowners can save more than $1,500 over a five-year period.

Programmable thermostats are another way to maximize energy efficiency. These devices automatically control the temperature to use less energy at certain hours of the day, such as nighttime or when homeowners are away from home.

Household appliances and electronics

Household appliances and electronics, such as refrigerators, clothes washers and computers, are responsible for about 28 percent of a home's energy bill, according to Energy Star. Make sure appliances are clean and free of dust and lint to ensure proper ventilation and to increase their efficiency. In addition, check refrigerator and freezer doors to ensure they are sealed tight to prevent cool air from escaping.

When washing dishes, use the air-dry setting on automatic dishwashers rather than heated drying to conserve energy. Finally, be sure to unplug TVs and other digital devices when not in use, as they consume energy even when they're turned off.

Water heating

Heating water is another major energy expenditure and accounts for about 14 percent of a household's energy bill, according to Energy Star. Consider insulating the water heater with a water heater jacket that can be purchased at most hardware stores. Homeowners also can lower the temperature setting on the water heater to save energy. Some water heaters come from the factory already set at 140 degrees or higher, but a setting of 115 degrees can provide comfortable hot water for most uses. Finally, consider replacing a water heater if the existing one is more than 10 years old, as the average life span of a water heater is 10 to 15 years.

Lighting

Twelve percent of the energy budget for an average household goes to lighting, according to Energy Star. Switching out traditional incandescent lights with more efficient fluorescent lighting is a quick and easy way to save on utility bills. In fact, by replacing 25 percent of lights in high-use areas with fluorescents, the California Energy Commission says homeowners can save about 50 percent on lighting-related energy expenses. Energy Star-qualified fluorescent lamps also last six to 10 times longer. For exterior lighting, be sure to use compact fluorescent or high-pressure sodium fixtures - which are more efficient - and consider motion sensors that operate lights automatically.

For more information about how to stretch your energy dollar further, visit www.itpaystolivesmart.com, www.energystar.gov or www.comfortconsultant.net.

Choose a Qualified Company for Your HVAC Installation

2011-04-21T21:16:00.000-06:00

Choose a Qualified Company for Your HVAC Installation

Author:

Fred Peterson

According to All Seasons Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. president Fred Peterson, when it comes to searching for a professional heating and air conditioning company to handle your installation or repair needs, a qualified company is not necessarily easy to find.

With so many cooling and heating repair companies to choose from in Champaign, Illinois, selecting the company that is best for your residential job can oftentimes become a challenge. However, it will be rewarding in the end when you can rest assured that your heating and cooling system is in the perfect working condition.

Certified Technicians

Once you have spoken with multiple companies and received estimates for your job, the next step is to look at the qualifications of the company\'s technicians. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is a national heating and cooling organization that certifies installers. Having a certification from this organization ensures that the HVAC professional has been trained on how to properly install and repair heating and cooling systems.

The problem with hiring companies that do not require that their technicians become certified is that there is no way to know what to expect when the technicians come to your home. If you are hoping to have a furnace or air conditioner replaced, for example, then it is important to ask about whether a proper no-heat loss test is going to be performed by the technicians. If it\'s not, then this might not be a company that has technicians who are skilled and experienced enough to handle your job.

In Champaign, not all heating and air conditioning companies can guarantee that their technicians are NATE certified. However, at All Seasons Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., all of our heating and cooling technicians are NATE certified, which is just one of the ways that we reassure clients that their new heating and air conditioning units will be put in properly and in compliance with industry standards.

Proper Insurance

It\'s also important to make sure that the heating and cooling company you are hiring meets all the proper insurance standards. Unfortunately, not all air and heat repair companies meet all these standards. Some companies may hire technicians who are not certified by any national organizations, and some might not have the proper insurance to protect themselves and their clients in case something goes horribly wrong on the job.

Longevity of the Company

In addition, I recommend that homeowners look at the longevity of any heating and cooling company before hiring one for their job. Most companies that have been in business for a period of time will have developed a good, professional standing within the community. Knowing this, I recommend that people calling our air and heat repair company in Champaign, or a surrounding area, ask for references in the local community to find out about the reputation of the heating and cooling company before hiring us for the job. After all, you need to feel comfortable with who you are talking with.

Needs of Clients

It\'s also a wise idea to speak with the company\'s representative for a period of time to discuss your needs and issues in detail. We want to know all of our clients\' wants, their needs, and their concerns so we can properly install or recommend a proper system that is going to work to their advantage.

After speaking with clients, we sometimes discover that they could benefit from a system that will clean their air, lower their energy bills, add some humidity to the air, or dehumidify the air, even though the clients themselves might not realize this when initially calling to ask about having a new system put in place.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/choose-a-qualified-company-for-your-hvac-installation-4490408.html
About the Author
Fred Peterson is a writer for http://www.yodle.com'>Yodle ,, a business directory and online advertising company. Find an HVAC contractor or more HVAC articles at Yodle Consumer Guide.

The ActivTek Air Scrubber

2011-04-17T18:22:00.000-06:00

I actually wondered about this product so I purchased it to put it in my own home. After Installation of the ActivTek Air Scrubber I ran the fan for 6 hours straight I can honestly say that I noticed and immediate difference in the quality and cleanliness of the air in my home. This is a must have product.

How to Avoid Problems in HVAC Installation

2011-04-17T12:41:00.000-06:00

According to Aris Parviz of Virginia's Able Air-1, Inc., not all HVAC contractors are equally qualified to install your HVAC system. A high percentage of HVAC problems can ultimately be traced to installation issues. And here, Parviz talks about some common HVAC installation problems and how they can be avoided.
Your HVAC system is a big-ticket item and, for you and your family, its proper installation and service is a high-stakes game. Not only is your investment at risk from shoddy service but your family's health and safety may also be at risk. While some HVAC providers promise low rates and quick service, it's important to do your homework. Unfortunately, a lower price sometimes means cutting corners. As HVAC professionals, we find that many common HVAC problems could have been prevented if a system were installed correctly to begin with.
Building Codes
If your HVAC system is not up to code, it's a failure before it's even been turned on. While it may seem obvious that the proper permits must be secured and current building codes observed when installing any HVAC system, some providers simply don't stay informed. Inadequately ventilated gas furnaces or incorrectly-sized ducts, for example, are issues we see all too often. Building codes exist for a reason. When they're not observed, safety, performance and efficiency issues commonly arise.
Safety Issues
Safety issues are common when HVAC systems are improperly installed or inadequately considered as changes are made to a home. One example is the build-out of a basement around an existing gas furnace. Many furnaces are originally installed in basements that are unfinished. When a basement is later finished, walls are normally built around the furnace. Eventually, these basement furnaces are replaced with newer, higher-efficiency models, but additional ventilation is not provided to the surrounding space. This lack of air to the furnace can create a dangerous situation for the home's inhabitants. It takes an excellent HVAC contractor to understand and anticipate these safety issues, and to make the proper adjustments to ensure your family's safety.
Right Systems
Today's HVAC systems have become much more robust and complex than traditional ones. Advancements in the HVAC industry have made it possible to go beyond just heating and cooling, and to address the quality of the air your family breathes. Air filtration systems and built-in humidifiers are just some ways to improve indoor air quality.
Therefore, it's important to choose the right HVAC system for your home. But some bargain providers simply don't have the experience or knowledge to help you make the correct choice. In addition to selecting the correctly-sized system, you will want to consider other factors as well. Be sure to work with an experienced HVAC expert to help you understand your options.
Heat Load Calculations
When your family's needs change, your HVAC system should adjust to meet them. For example, if you add another bedroom or a home office to your home, the new space adds an additional load to your home's heating and cooling system. Down the road, if you want your HVAC system replaced, you need to hire an HVAC provider to reassess your HVAC requirements, accounting for any changes that have been made to your home since the original system was installed. This is called a heat load calculation.
Unfortunately, the process is commonly overlooked. Some contractors, when replacing an HVAC system, will simply check the model number of the original system, and replace it with a newer version. To avoid future problems with the new system, make sure to reassess the family's heating and cooling needs. AbleAir-1's highly experienced technicians will take care of all your HVAC needs. Our qualified service and installation teams offer experienced installation, maintenance, and repair for all models of air conditioning systems.
Aris Parviz is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find an HVAC contractor or more HVAC contractor articles at Yodle Consumer Guide.

Is your home causing your health concerns?

2011-04-17T09:14:00.001-06:00

Is your home causing your health concerns?

When you get the sniffles - do you blame your allergies, or the air inside your house? Surprisingly, air pollution trapped inside your home could be the cause of many of your family's health concerns - especially if members suffer from asthma or allergies.

Poor indoor air quality is a health threat. Indoor air is one the top five environmental threats to the country, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. And in the winter months, your family is probably spending a lot more time inside, breathing in the polluted air.

Indoor air pollutants come from many different sources. The combustion fuels you use - oil, gas, kerosene, coal and even wood - add chemicals to the air. So do tobacco products. Pets and carpeting can add dander and dust particles to the air. And even the cleaning products you use can build up. Newer homes are built to be more air tight, which helps to keep the heating bill lower in the winter months, but does nothing to freshen the air inside the house.

Minor health consequences from breathing poor quality indoor air include watery eyes, a scratchy throat and runny nose. But more serious consequences could show up after years of breathing in poor quality indoor air, and those include respiratory diseases, heart disease and even cancer, according to the EPA.

You can clean the air inside your home to help reduce the pollutants, dust and dander in several ways:

* Take a peek inside your air ducts. Use a flashlight and mirror, or a digital camera to see if the walls of the ducts are coated in dust bunnies and grit. That build up of dust signals you need to have your heating and cooling system cleaned. Your heating unit will continuously circulate any dusty and dirty air throughout your home, so that your family is always breathing it in. Hiring a National Air Duct Cleaners Association member to clean your HVAC system will help you keep the air circulating throughout your home free of dust, pollen and dander. NADCA members must carry general liability insurance and must have at least one certified air systems cleaning specialist on staff.

"Cleaning your ducts isn't something a do-it-yourselfer should try to tackle," says Bill Benito, board member of NADCA. "NADCA-recommended contractors will loosen contaminants with brushes and compressed air, then use negative pressure collection equipment to collect all the debris so that nothing is blown into your living areas." Visit www.nadca.com to find a NADCA member near you.

* Replace your furnace filter frequently, and use the highest efficiency filter recommended by the manufacturer of your heating and cooling system.

* Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans when needed, and make sure these units circulate to the outdoors, rather than blowing back into the house. If you have the opportunity, take the covers off the fans and clean off the fan blades to help remove additional particles from the air.

* When the temperatures warm up, open up your screened windows and doors to help circulate the air inside your house.

Nobody likes having a runny nose or scratchy throat, and if your family members are exhibiting these symptoms, you may need to review the air quality in your home. To learn more, visit www.nadca.com.

Keep Fresh Air Flowing During The Winter Months

2011-04-17T09:11:00.001-06:00

Keep fresh air flowing during dry winter months

Winter is the season for being cozy, while spending long days and nights inside the comfort of our tightly closed homes. It's also an infamous time for feeling dry and under-the-weather.

With people spending more time indoors, air circulation is compromised, and the level of contaminants increases. Fleeting freshness and moisture take a toll on our skin, throats, noses and overall health, and can be especially harmful to those suffering from allergies and asthma.

Up to 72 trillion microscopic irritants, or allergens, find their way into your home every day. They include dust, pollen, pet hair and dander, dust mites, mildew, lint, fungus, most tobacco smoke, cooking grease and bacteria. Many of these particles are undetectable by your nose and throat, and can get deep into your lungs. This year, be proactive in creating a safer indoor environment for your family and guests by following these few quick fixes.

Filter your way to fresh comfort.
A whole-home air filtration system, like the AccuClean (TM) from American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, can remove up to 99.98 percent of unwanted particles and allergens from a home's filtered air, a benefit that no standard 1-inch throwaway filter or ionic-type room appliance can match. These systems are designed to work as part of your heating and cooling system, meaning they're designed to clean the filtered air in every room of your home. Air filtration systems work behind the scenes to keep you breathing easier and feeling healthier year-round.

Routine maintenance to your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is equally - if not more - critical to keeping the indoor air quality of your home safe and systems operating at peak efficiency. Changing or cleaning your filters regularly will minimize the introduction of dust and other contaminants into your home. Check your owner's manual or contact an HVAC professional to determine the appropriate filter schedule for your system. In addition, an HVAC professional can perform a routine maintenance checkup to ensure all components of your HVAC system are operating properly, and advise you on ways to improve the safety and comfort of your home. To locate an independent HVAC dealer near you, visit www.americanstandardair.com.

Why so dry?
The chill of outside air has a relatively low dew point. When we bring that outside air inside and heat it, even more moisture is sucked from the air, making your body uncomfortably dry. The addition of a humidifier will restore and balance the moisture in your home's air, ensuring there's not too much moisture that can harbor bacteria and germs, not to mention damage to woodwork on window frames and doors.

Extra tips for a happier, healthier, warmer winter:
* Reverse the switch on your ceiling fans so they blow upward, toward the ceiling. By doing so, you will reduce cooling drafts and force naturally rising heat back down into the room.

* Add a touch of green. House plants are a small, but natural source of oxygen, and will liven up any room.

* On pleasant or mild winter days, hang bed sheets out on a clothesline to dry, for a crisp and fresh winter-wonderland smell that will have you falling fast to sleep at night. Or even open your windows for 15 minutes to break stale or musty air.

* Keep an odor-eliminating air freshener around the house to quickly spray on upholstery, clothes, blinds or carpet before guests arrive.

* Turn the heat down in your shower. Hot water may feel amazing on a cold winter morning, but it contributes to the dryness of your skin.

Now that you're ready to beat the bummer of cold weather, your family can enjoy spending time together. And before you know it, it will be time to pull shorts and swimsuits out of winter storage.

Comfortconsultant.net

2011-04-16T18:01:00.001-06:00

Comfortconsultant.net

Attention followers: Comfortconsultant.net is another wonderful site to checkout for HVAC articles plumbing news and much more. You can also advertise your business with website banners for really reasonable with lots of traffic.

Thanks

Attention: HVAC Contractors

2011-03-26T23:49:00.000-06:00

I am looking for a select few HVAC contractors and Plumbers who would like to write some articles and publish content for free on a new national website. I also have front page advertising for this site if you are interested for a minimal fee. Spaces are limited and I would like your support if possible.

This website is to give the public valuable information on products and services on heating cooling and energy saving products and much more.

please contact me at Info@ecohomeguide.net

Thanks so much for your support

Buyers Please Beware!

2011-03-18T15:01:00.000-06:00

If you are looking to get a new heating or cooling system in your home please beware of the following.

Due to the economy some contractors are very desperate for work and they will tell you things that are false just to keep the price really low so it looks pleasing to buy. REMEMBER YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR WITH HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION.

Watch out.

I ran into consumer that was told by a contractor that they do not need a variable speed blower motor in their furnace and it has nothing to do with the efficiency and comfort of their system, just so he could keep the price low to sell them a standard piece of equipment. Total BS..

Having a variable Blower motor will even out the hot and colds spots in your home and help save you a lot of money on your power bill. It will also help you get a higher seer rating in most cases on your air conditioner.

Note

Make sure your comfort consultant who bid the job does a heat load calculation this is not something you should ask him to do. It should be done every time.

Ask for a copy of business license and NATE certification. Please protect your self and do your research

Thank you.

New Website Launched

2011-03-17T21:11:00.000-06:00

Ok You asked I Delivered.

Still a work in progress but I am very excited to launch my new site The Eco Home Guide.
Membership to this website is free for a limited time so get signed up while you can.

As a member you can write and publish your own articles. And for a minimal fee you can advertise with us as well. Premium advertising spots are still available.Traffic will be flocking to this user friendly website.

This site is for Contractors as well as consumers to post opinions and comments on products and much more check it out.

Join Today.

Please email me at Info@ecohomeguide.net

Thanks for your support

Comfortlink Remote Thermostat

2011-03-14T19:03:00.000-06:00

Defined: Trane introduced this new offering consisting of a Z-Wave Themostat, Shlage Bridge and appliance module.

All I can say about this technology is It is AWESOME.

After seeing it at a Trane award show and using it first hand it's going in my home.

Definitely a worth while investment for your family.

New Website/Blog Starting

2011-03-14T12:40:00.000-06:00

Attention Hvac Company Owners and whom ever is interested, I appreciate you guys and gals that have followed this HVAC Blog. I have some great news!

I am starting a new site in conjunction with this blog. The site will be a membership site that will allow you to post your own blogs and articles to it as well as banner advertising and photos and much more. I am looking for a select few interested right from the start. With the economy down and advertising is so expensive with few results, I will be offering premium Advertising Banner Spots on the home page as well as other areas on the site.

All I am asking for to get started tell traffic builds up, is $25 to 50.00 a Month and there will be discounts on annually payments as well.

I am really excited to launch this site.

This website will be user friendly and will have information on energy savings products that will help consumers save money during these times. You as a Paid member can be an author on the blogs track you advertising results as well as add coupons and much more.

Again please let me know if you're interested.

Please comment on this article with an email address I can get a hold of you.

Time is running out to launch.

New Tax Credits For 2011

2011-02-14T15:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone, it looks like the Tax Credits are out but not as good as last year.

Here are the details,

$150.00 Tax Credit on any furnace 95% and above.

$50.00 Tax Credit on any variable speed furnace.

And $200.00 Tax Credit on 16 seer and above systems, Be Careful the EER ratings have to be 13 in order for this to happen. Systems can be 16 Seer but not qualify for 13 EER make sure you have this in writing from your HVAC company before you have a system installed.

HVAC Tax Credits For 2011

2010-11-01T18:31:00.000-06:00

I wanted to let you all know because I have been asked this question everyday.
It has not yet been announced that I am aware if there will be any incentives for tax credits next year.
Usually us contractors here talk of what is going on and so far nothing has been discussed or talked about.

Best advice so far that I know is, if you can afford purchasing a new furnace do it, you will save yourself a lot of money if there's no incentive next year.

I will keep you posted.
Thank you.

How To Choose The Right Heating And Cooling System

2010-10-31T19:03:00.000-06:00

By: Tony Bassett


When you are at a point when you are looking to get a new furnace or air conditioning system in your home there are a few key things to look for when choosing the right equipment or hvac contractor.
You will want to get at least 2 to 3 estimates any more than that you may be just wasting your time. Make sure you are bidding brand for brand Seer for Seer and Apples to Apples. (There Is A Huges Differences In Some Brands Beware.)
I have found in my experience when homeowner calls and get 5-6 bids on 4-5 different brands they tend to be more price driven than quality and a lot more confused by which way they should go.
To find out about the top brands check Consumer Reports, After installing and servicing I have found Trane Furnaces and Air Conditioners have proven to be the most reliable and dependable units there are on the market today. Consumer Reports is very accurate when it comes to equipment with the most service calls, again make sure you are looking at the top four not the bottom feeders.

When a heating and cooling contractor comes to your home to do a estimate, make sure the take out there tape measure and do a heat load calculation, those that do not do this important action do not go with. The key to having a great heating and cooling system in your home is to have it sized and installed right.
The most important thing besides the quality of the equipment is the installation.
This is where you will notice the price difference as well, a good contractor will phrase the value of there installations and show you in detail what there company will do during the installation of the equipment. If you find that it is more expensive than what you intended wait and save to go with the system you want you will be glad you did.


About the Author

(ArticlesBase SC #1576156)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - How To Choose The Right Heating And Cooling System

The Hvac Guide

2009-10-11T21:09:00.000-06:00

If you need an incentive to begin investigating a replacement system, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 may stimulate you to purchase sooner than later. Tax credits are available at 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, in 2009 & 2010 (for existing homes only) for some HVAC components. To be certain your planned improvement qualifies, check with your tax professional, HVAC specialist or watch for the new federal energy-savings guidelines to be released soon.

So you''ve bought a new home and your home inspector turns to you and blithely says, "Oh, great new HVAC system."

"A what?" you say in response.

"You know," he says "a thermodynamic system that takes care of all of your heating, ventilation and airconditioning."

So that''s what the acronym HVAC stands for you think to yourself.

Welcome to the world of climate control. Even though most people know a little something about air conditioning and heating, few of us stop to think much about it. We tend to take our comfort for granted until the furnace runs out of oil or the air conditioner''s compressor dies. Then, suddenly, we wish we were experts on the subject.

What an HVAC Does
The primary purpose of an HVAC system is to regulate room temperature, humidity, and air flow within acceptable and safe limits to ensure that we are comfortable and healthy.

Room temperature - Room temperature regulation is accomplished by both heating and cooling the air in a room. Simply put, on cold days the system adds heat to the air and on warm days the air is cooled. Obviously the human body is not meant to be subjected to cold temperatures for long periods or hypothermia and perhaps death can occur. Conversely, consistently high temperatures can cause heat stroke or death. Children and elderly folks are particularly susceptible to extreme temperatures because they are more likely to have immature or poorly functioning temperature regulation mechanisms.

Humidity - Too much humidity in the air is not only uncomfortable, but it encourages the growth of molds, some of which are harmful to our health. High humidity can also cause fatigue by decreasing physical strength. Likewise, too little humidity creates moisture-deprived air that dries the membranes in our noses, throats and lungs making us more susceptible to disease. The proper regulation of humidity in our indoor air, therefore, has both comfort and health implications.

Air flow - Simply adding or subtracting warm or cold air is not enough to accomplish effective temperature control. It is also necessary to move the air around or distribute it evenly and efficiently. The movement of air within a building or system and the exchanging of inside and outside air is a process called ventilation. Ventilation changes or replaces room air, subtracts humidity and filters out impurities such as allergens, odors, airborne bacteria and toxic gases. When ventilation is efficient, the airflow from room to room is equalized in such a way that a specified room temperature is achieved throughout the home, air quality is maintained at safe levels and stagnation of the interior air is prevented.

Components of an HVAC System
The basic components of a modern HVAC system are designed to work together as an integrated unit. The usual components are:

* Furnace
* Air conditioner
* Heat pump
* Humidifier
* Air handler
* Heat coil
* Air filtration system
* Programmable thermostats
* Sensors
* Duct system

Selecting an HVAC System
Most HVAC systems are initially installed by a HVAC contractor who contracts out equipment and installation services to a builder. But if you are thinking about replacing your current heating/air conditioning system, you will want to gather as much information as you can on the pros and cons before purchasing a product.

If you are considering replacing only part of your current system such as an air handler or condenser, you should know that the industry recommendation is to replace the entire system to ensure reliability and efficiency; otherwise the efficiency rating, which is based on the entire working system, may be erroneous.

Efficiency Rating
What is an efficiency rating you ask? It is a measure of the percentage of energy used efficiently. The U.S. government, in an effort to provide consumers with the means to make informed decisions, requires an efficiency rating for all HVAC equipment. Efficiency ratings vary by name depending on the type of equipment. For example, air conditioning equipment is rated by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). Heat pump equipment is rated by the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) and gas furnaces are rated according to their Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). A high rating in any category means a high level of efficiency.

What Can a HVAC Contractor/Technician Do For Me?
There are many HVAC systems on the market affording you the liberty to choose the one that is right for your home. However, selecting and installing a new HVAC unit is not a simple process. If you are an average home owner, under no circumstances should you purchase a system yourself without the advice of a trusted licensed and insured HVAC contractor.

HVAC technicians can give you advice too, but their primary job is to service and repair existing systems, not install them. Some companies have both contractors and technicians on board and others have repair technicians only. You will need to ask what services are offered by each company. Always ask the contractor about his years of experience and for references.

Equipment Sizing
When planning to buy a new piece of heating or cooling equipment, you will want to know how many BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour of heat the equipment must produce or remove to keep your home comfortable. This is called the heat load. The heat load calculation determines the size of your system. Correct sizing is directly related to your comfort and the cost of operating the equipment. For example, if the equipment is undersized, your home will not be adequately cooled or heated. Too large and the system cycles on and off more frequently than it should which increases your operating cost.

Load Calculation
HVAC contractors can determine the size of the system that meets your home''s particular specifications by doing a load calculation. A load calculation includes some of the following elements:

* Square feet of home
* Climate
* Condition, number and type of windows (heat/cold retention)
* Warm or cool air that may be lost through ceilings, walls and attics (insulation)
* Inefficient ducts (location, distance from energy source, insulation, etc.)
* Heat emitted by appliances, lights, and the residents themselves
* Shrubbery, trees, and roof overhangs
* Overall home design

Do I Need a New HVAC System?
The answer to this question is unfortunately not easily generalized because all equipment isn''t alike. However, there are several rules of thumb you can take into consideration when deciding to go "new" or stick with the old. Some experts will say that if your system is broken and the repair will cost more than $500.00 that the smart investment in the long run is to replace rather than repair. The avearge life-expectancy of a furnace is a long 16-20 years, but if yours is better than 10 years old, you may want to begin considering replacement options. The other factor to take into account in making your decision is the efficiency of your furnace. An old furnace, even if it appears to be working well, may be cheating you out of dollars by extracting only 60% of the available heat from your heating fuel. Newer models extract as much as 90% of the heat. You have to balance the cost of your fuel against the output you are receiving.

The same holds true with heat pumps and air conditioners. Older ones operate at a 60% efficiency whereas newer ones achieve 90% or more efficiency. To illustrate in dollars and cents, if your monthy fuel or power bill is $100.00 and you install a new system, you could see your energy cost drop to as little as $65.00/month, a savings of $35.00/month. Multiply that by twelve months and you have a yearly savings of $420.00.

An easily added, inexpensive programmable thermostat will help save dollars too, especially if no one is home during the day.

Other factors that may point to the need to consult an HVAC specialist are:

* Some rooms are too hot and others are too cold
* You have humidity problems (too humid in the summer and too dry in the winter)
* Your home seems to be excessively dusty
* Your cooling system is noisey

Selecting the Right Contractor
As mentioned earlier, your HVAC contractor should be licensed, bonded and experienced in the type of equipment you want installed. Ask for references and ask how long the contractor has been installing HVACs. Select someone with whom you feel at ease, who listens and who is an effective communicator. Ask for a detailed written proposal that includes all the costs. The proposal should decribe each step in the process including what will be done, the materials that will be used and a time-line for the completion of each step. Periodic maintenance will be important in keeping the system running smoothly once it is installed so ask your contractor if he offers an annual service contract and what service is included. Does he offer price reductions on repairs or deliver priority service to customers installing a new system?

Regulating the HVAC Industry
In the past, the HVAC industry was regulated by the manufacturers of HVAC equipment, but now there are a number of organizations that provide regulation and standards such as The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASRAE) www.ashrae.org, Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors'' National Association (SMACNA) www.smacna.org, and the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) www.acca.org. The Uniform Mechanical Code, a source of codes for HVAC professionals, sets forth requirements for the installation and maintenance of heating, ventilating, cooling, and refrigeration systems.

Tax Credits
If you need an incentive to begin investigating a replacement system, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 may stimulate you to purchase sooner than later. Tax credits are available at 30% of the cost, up to $1,500, in 2009 & 2010 (for existing homes only) for some HVAC components. To be certain your planned improvement qualifies, check with your tax professional, HVAC specialist or watch for the new federal energy-savings guidelines to be released soon.

Aside from saving money, receiving tax credits and conserving energy, the most important reward for buying a new HVAC system or overhauling your current one is the peace of mind you will experience knowing that the health and safety of your family is protected.
Pat Perkins is a writer for Yodle, a business directory and online advertising company. Find more Heating and Air Conditioning Services articles and tips at local.yodle.com.
Home HVAC System Guide

Furnace Brands..

2009-10-11T09:58:00.000-06:00

Hello Readers,

My name is Tony Bassett I have been in the Hvac Industry for over 15 yrs. I have done everything from residential installs, services and sales. In my recent studies of all different brands and after working on them I have found Trane and American Standard in my opinion to be the top most reliable brands there are out there on the market today. Some of the other brands are ok, but beware of the ones that preach " way to good to be true" warranties. The expected life span of a furnace is typically 12-15 yrs, and a air conditioning system about 12-18 yrs. So the point that I am trying to get to is a 10yr parts and labor warranty is the most common as far as being the most logical.

The most important part of any type of equipment you choose is the installation. Find a company that offers extensive training to there installers and service technicians, this key.

When Looking for a heating or air conditioning system only get three bids. Research the top three brands and get bids on those. If you are getting bids on equipment and one is substantially lower in price then the other two it is usually equipment that make a difference. If you are leaning towards the lower price company you may want to do extensive research on the brand and the company before making a decision. Otherwise save your money until you can get the system you can afford or want, you'll be happy you did.