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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2012-08-02 08:13:26

Q- I am looking for advice on a heating and cooling problem. Here is the issue: We have a two story home. In the summer, the upstairs is significantly hotter than downstairs, and in winter, the downstairs is significantly colder than upstairs. We have a 7-year-old single 4-ton, single zone HVAC system. What could be the problem and what would you suggest we do to fix it?

A- Your problem is common, and very likely, there is more than one factor contributing to the uneven cooling. Heating and cooling a home is actually much more complex than most people realize, and many variables play a role in the effectiveness of your HVAC system. Your best bet is to bring in a technician that can evaluate the factors and suggest options based on your needs. Here are just a few of the variables that can contribute to the problem you have described: • Having single pane windows • Too small of a system • Not enough ventilation There are several ways to solve the problem: • Put in two systems, one for upstairs and one for downstairs. This is probably the most expensive option. This would give you the advantage of cooling or heating each level specifically. However, if one breaks, then you are left without heating and cooling in that area. • Next is put in a zoning system. This option is less expensive than putting in two complete systems, and even less when it is being put in new structures. The advantage is being able to direct the full capacity of the cooling system to the area that needs it when it needs it. • Thirdly, use two wireless thermostats. In this case, you push a button on the thermostat in the area that you are using and it will heat or cool according to that thermostat. The problem with that option is that if there are other significant issues with airflow or insulation the system may simply continue to run trying to overcome that deficit. • Finally, fix existing airflow and insulation problems. Depending on the problem this could cost much less, or much more than the other options. Before you spend a ton of money trying to figure it out, have a technician lay out your options and go from there. The problem could be a simple fix.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2012-06-01 14:46:33

Q: Every year I stress out over turning on the heater in winter or air conditioner in summer, worrying that it is not running properly or spewing out some horrible fumes into my house. What should I look at to know that it is in good working order?

A: One of the things you can do as a homeowner is keeping your unit free of debris. This will make it run more efficiently and protect it from damage. Unfortunately, there are not many things you ought to do to your HVAC unit. Tinkering around with it will likely void any warranty and may put your life and health (as well as that of other occupants) at risk. Rather than worry endlessly about the functionality, it is highly recommended that you have your air conditioning system maintained at least once a year by a licensed HVAC company. By having regular tune-ups, you can help lower utility bills by reducing energy consumption and waste, extend equipment life, give you and your family peace of mind that the equipment is safe, need fewer repairs and improved system reliability, and finally, increase cooling capacity and efficiency. A service technician will check the following things: • Check thermostat operation • Clean or replace the filter • Check the system’s temperature split • Check wiring and connections • Inspect the fuse disconnect • Inspect all contactors, relays and pressure controls • Inspect the safety circuit • Inspect the motor and indoor blower for dirt build up • Assure proper amperage to all motors • Inspect bearings and lubricate moving parts • Clean and inspect the drain • Inspect outdoor coil • Inspect duct seal • Run the system An inspection assures the system’s safety and operability, so you can turn it on with complete confidence and peace of mind.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2012-03-27 10:28:15

Q: My kids were recently diagnosed with asthma which has caused us to begin to learn all we can about creating a safe environment. Can you tell me the options in improving indoor air quality? We would appreciate all the information you could provide.

A: Absolutely. I will try to provide as much information as possible. Here are the top considerations: •Have your HVAC system serviced and cleaned. If you have a regular HVAC company, ask them about what they recommend based on what they observe within your system. •Check your ventilation. Homes today are built “tighter” and have fewer air leaks than older homes. Without proper ventilation, indoor air pollution builds up. Most residential central air conditioning and heating systems are closed, which means that the air re-circulates inside the envelope of the structure. In homes, windows and doors provide manual intentional ventilation when it is desired. Unless ventilation is incorporated into the HVAC system, leaks in the home or building “envelope” to the outside are the only steady source of fresh air. It may be necessary to install a fresh air exchanger. •Consider air filters and air purifiers. This can be either a whole house system or portable devices. It is important to note that different types of systems and filters will remove different types of pollutants, so be sure to check the specifications of your system and match it to your needs. •Humidity control is another important consideration. Depending on the “envelope” of your home, you may or may not need to consider adding a humidifier or dehumidifier to stabilize the air quality and prevent mold. The EPA recommends indoor humidity should range between 30% and 50%. Indoor air quality is a growing concern. The EPA suggests that indoor air quality may be up to 70 times worse than outdoor air quality. These are some common contaminates: •Burning candles •Building materials •Fabric softener •Dry-cleaned clothing •Cleaners •Air fresheners •Hobby supplies, such as glue and paint •New furniture and draperies •Cigarette smoke •Pollen •Mold •Pet dander With asthma and allergies more prevalent than ever, it is essential to consider all of the factors affecting your indoor air quality.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2012-02-28 11:41:15

Q: We are thinking of putting in an HVAC system. Is there any way to tell what system is best for our home?

A: There are many options in HVAC, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and many variables between each structure. Chances are good that you will need an HVAC professional to help make the final determination. HVAC systems, which provide the indoor climate control for both residential and commercial buildings, are actually quite complex. HVAC systems come in many types and applications. They are classified as either central or local. The central air conditioning and heating system provides the necessary heating, cooling, and ventilation from a central location in the building such as from a boiler or furnace. It works by circulating heated water or steam through piping or ductwork to achieve heating and cooling. Each one is designed to accommodate a space specifically, and the configuration of rooms within that space. Determining the right type of system for your home or building is extremely important for the system to do the job efficiently. If it is working too hard or the system is too large for the space, it results in added costs to run the equipment. Another advantage in assuring the equipment is a proper fit for your home is that it extends the life of the system. Since HVAC represents a significant investment, it is a good idea to protect that investment with proper use. The best thing to do is talk to some professionals, and find out what options are reasonable, given your structure and needs, then choose from there. A professional is not only knowledgeable of industry standards, but also of any new technologies.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-12-05 15:04:45

Q: In building a new home, what should be considered in HVAC? Although the new home will be sufficient for our needs for some time, should we consider a larger system just to be sure it will cover future needs?

A: Planning your HVAC for a new build is extremely important. It gives you an opportunity to fit the system to your home precisely, which is important for not only the life of the system, but how the system operates, the expense of the system, and the comfort it provides you. HVAC systems should be specially configured to fit the specifications of each home. This includes square footage, climate, elevation, and home design. It is important to have a licensed HVAC contractor, consultant, or engineer specify what is ideal for your home. It may seem like a good idea to plan ahead and get a system to meet the needs of a possible addition somewhere down the road. However, you should avoid over-sizing at all costs. Over-sizing equipment increases the cost at the time of the installation as well as the cost of operation. More importantly, it means the unit will not have to run as long to achieve the home’s temperature settings, leading to higher humidity. This means discomfort for the homeowner and the possibility of mold growth in the future. Building a new home gives the home owner an opportunity to take advantage of leading technology and design innovations in HVAC. Geothermal systems are more efficient, affordable, and effective than ever before – maybe now is the time to abandon conventional systems that rely on non-renewable energy. Ductless mini-splits (multi-zone systems) allow homeowners to independently control the temperature in any room in the house, offering higher efficiency and comfort than other traditional systems. Or, if you have an accessible body of water near your home, perhaps a water-source heat pump would be the best option for your home. Talking with an experienced, knowledgeable HVAC contractor, is always a good way to learn about new trends and technology that can save money and energy and make your home a more comfortable place to live.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-12-05 15:01:01

Question: I’ve heard a lot about geothermal energy. What is it, and how can I use geothermal energy to heat and cool my home?

Answer: Geothermal energy is generated in the Earth’s core, from intense heat that is continuously produced. However, you only need to dig a few feet into the ground take advantage of that energy. At a certain depth, the temperature of Earth’s crust stays relatively constant. In our area, a temperature around 580F is usually maintained at a certain depth throughout the year. With a geothermal heat pump, a home or business owner can take the heat stored in the ground and heat their building – either with warm air or radiant floor heat. In the summer, the heat pump runs in reverse and dissipates heat from the air into the ground. Geothermal heat pumps have been around for decades, but innovations in technology have now made geothermal heating and cooling a viable option for homeowners. In fact, you could save up to 70% on your energy bills for heating and cooling with some geothermal systems. Simple payback could be as short as 5 to 7 years, and the life of a geothermal heat pump is comparable to conventional HVAC systems. However, the initial cost of a geothermal system is greater than a conventional system (generally around 30%) because of the ground loops that must be installed in the ground, which will then last for 50 years or more. What is involved in the installation of a geothermal heat pump? The most important aspect of installing a geothermal system is correctly installing the ground loops. Ground loops are pipes that are buried underground, in either a vertical, horizontal, or underwater configuration (if you have a pond or lake nearby). When the loops are connected to the heat pump, fluid is circulated between them transferring the heat between the heat pump and the earth. It’s extremely important to work with an experienced HVAC installer who can install the loop field properly – don’t hesitate to ask for references on this!

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-11-21 12:14:27

Q: Any tips for keeping my home heating bill down?

A: Last month, I explained that one of the best ways to keep your heating bills down is to assure that your heating system is running efficiently with regularly scheduled tune-ups. This month, I will discuss what is, or should be, involved in those maintenance checks. According to Energystar.gov, maintaining your HVAC system results in significant savings. They suggest that a regular fall/winter maintenance check should include the following: • Check thermostat responsiveness. A faulty thermostat may cause your system to run unnecessarily. • Tighten all electrical connections. Measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections reduce the life of major components as well as pose a safety hazard. • Lubricate all moving parts.- Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use. • Check and inspect the condensate drain- in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels. • Check controls of the system- to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly. • Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger- Improperly operating gas (or oil) connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes improper burner operation. Either can cause the equipment to operate less safely and efficiently. • Inspect, clean, or change air filters- Change your filter every month. Most problems with the system are due to a clogged and dirty filter. If your furnace flue is on your roof and you receive heavy or drifted snowfall make sure the flue is free of ice and snow. If your flue is iced up it can’t exhaust which will make your furnace shut down. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-10-24 11:38:11

Q: Any tips for keeping my home heating bill down?

A: One of the best ways to keep you heating bills down is to assure that your heating system is running efficiently. According to energystar.gov, As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So maintaining your home’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills, and your comfort. According to a recent survey of homeowners across the country by Honeywell, Inc., 45% of American homeowners neglect to have their heating-cooling equipment professionally serviced at least once a year. An annual heating system “clean & check” tune-up is one of the best home maintenance investments you can make. A poorly functioning system can result in: • Higher expenses by as much as 15% • Accelerated equipment wear and increased maintenance costs • Health risks Proper maintenance can extend the life of your system up to 10-years and make it run much more efficiently, lowering your monthly bills. However, one of the most reasons to have you system checked regularly is that it can save lives. Small cracks in a heat exchanger or problems with the flue system could allow deadly carbon monoxide gas to seep into your home. Hundreds of people in the U.S. lose their lives each year in these tragedies. Next month, we will discuss what is involved in a residential fall tune-up.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-09-29 15:57:31

Q: Now that fall is in full swing, my thoughts are heading toward preparing for winter. Do you have any suggestions to prepare my HVAC system for winter? If you have any money and energy saving tips, I would appreciate them as well.

A: Fall is the perfect time for homeowners to prepare their homes for winter and make sure their heating systems are working safely and efficiently. This preparation is not only important in your safety and comfort, but also your budget. First, never assume that everything is working properly. Most homeowners are not trained to spot common dangers that may lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, such as stress spots or cracks in the heat exchanger. If you are not comfortable in your knowledge of the system or could not spot the dangers, call in a heating specialist and have your system thoroughly evaluated. In addition to cleaning your system, checking refrigerant levels for the heat pump and adjusting your system as needed, the heating specialist will look for cracks or damage to the heat exchanger and any other dangers and malfunctions within the system. One of the best do-it-yourself home heating projects homeowners should regularly perform is changing the filters in the furnace. A clean filter helps the system run efficiently, saving you money. In saving money, consider the over-all energy efficiency of your home and the places you may be loosing your heat. If your windows are older, consider upgrading to products that are more efficient or using storm windows. Examine whether or not you need additional insulation in your attic. Finally, install or change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. A few minutes can save the life of your loved ones.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-07-01 08:19:00

: What is the smell when the AC turns on, especially after it has been off for awhile? Answer: Chances are it’s MOLD, and those mold spores spread around, landing everywhere in the house. Or if mold is growing in a damp place elsewhere in the house, the air conditioner helps distribute the spores as the air is recirculated. UV (Ultraviolet) can play an important-if not vital- role in controlling home damaging mold. As insurance companies raise rates and even exclude mold damage from their coverage, UV can be a big help. Air filtration plays another big role in indoor air quality. The EPA considers a MERV 11 filter a premium performance filter for residential applica

Answer: 60,000,000 people in the United States are affected by allergies, and mold is one of the most common allergens. The dark, cool and moist surfaces that typically exist in an HVAC system are very favorable places for mold growth. Applying UV light in these vulnerable areas can make a huge difference in the spore counts in the air. By reducing the density of mold spores, the indoor air quality is enhanced and allergy symptoms reduced. Fresh outside air is healthy to breathe, in part, because natural UV from the sun controls the level of airborne microorganisms. With a UV system installed in your HVAC system, the numbers of airborne bacteria and viruses that cause colds and other illnesses will be reduced as the air is circulated through the system. Question: What is the smell when the AC turns on, especially after it has been off for awhile? Answer: Chances are it’s MOLD, and those mold spores spread around, landing everywhere in the house. Or if mold is growing in a damp place elsewhere in the house, the air conditioner helps distribute the spores as the air is recirculated. UV (Ultraviolet) can play an important-if not vital- role in controlling home damaging mold. As insurance companies raise rates and even exclude mold damage from their coverage, UV can be a big help. Air filtration plays another big role in indoor air quality. The EPA considers a MERV 11 filter a premium performance filter for residential applications. They are 99% efficient on pollen and many other irritants such as dust mite allergens. A UV system uses about the same amount of electricity as a standard light bulb. Yet it, along with a MERV 11 filter, can help your HVAC system increase its efficiency - so you may use less power overall… When mold becomes established on cooling elements it begins to insulate it from the passing air. This makes the heat transfer from the air to the elements more difficult. When this happens, the HVAC system begins to run a little longer and cycles more often to accomplish the same temperature setting. This obviously uses more energy and in addition, increases wear and tear on the system.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Chris Cotter

2011-06-01 11:08:00

Question: I have always believed that if something isn’t broke, why fix it? Is it worth having an HVACtechnician clean and start-up my A/C? Is there maintenance that I can do myself?

Answer: It is good thing that you are starting to think about your HVAC system now, before the weather really heats up. The last thing you want do is to have to sweat it out when you find that it does not work effectively on that first really hot & humid day. It is easy to take your air conditioner for granted, especially when it seems to work with little maintenance. The fact is, if you don’t maintain your A/C equipment (just like your vehicle’s oil change or computer anti-virus) it will not last you as long, and will not run as efficiently – costing you more each month in energy consumption. You can save money, save energy, extend the life of your equipment, and enjoy cleaner, cooler air by having it checked each spring or summer. While it is always best to have a licensed HVAC technician service the unit each year, there are some things you can do yourself to prevent damage and help get the unit ready to run for the summer. When an air conditioner sits unused and unmaintained for months, it will likely collect debris on or around the unit. When the unit is turned on, the air will pull the dust into the unit’s inner workings, which can cause serious and costly damage. First, be sure to remove all of the debris from on and around the unit. Trim away bushes and trees so they provide a space of 2-3 feet, to allow for proper circulation and prevent leaves from collecting on or around the condenser. It is also a good idea to clean or replace air-handler filters 4 times a year. This will not only assure that you are getting a great airflow, it will reduce the amount of dust and allergens you are circulating into the air. If you suspect problems with the sealed refrigeration system (i.e. your A/C just isn’t cooling like it should), it is time to call a service technician. Repairs to the refrigeration system are not simple “do-it-yourself” jobs and mistakes in this area could be both costly and dangerous.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Dave Longstreth

2006-08-01 09:43:00

QUESTION: We have a multi level home, and are having trouble maintaining a good temperature throughout our entire home.  The upstairs is too warm, the basement too cool and the main floor just about right.  Is there anything we can do to even out the temperature level on all the levels of our home?

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ANSWER:  Where you place the thermostat in your home is the key to having a good temperature control throughout your home.  The problem is that having only one thermostat for a house that has three separate levels will not be able to control the temperature levels properly.  The widely known fact of physics, hot hair rises and cool air settles comes into play with your problem.
 One solution to this problem would be to change your air conditioning system to a zoned system.  Zoning is an automatic baffle inside the air ducts that opens or closes the ducts towards the direction of a zoned thermostat system.  The number of zones to cool your house is up to you, but you have to have one main thermostat that will direct the air to either heat or cool your home, but it will not do both.  Each zone designated by different thermostats will trigger the air conditioner to cool when cooler air is needed.  Zoning baffles will close off all of the ducts to the lower levels and will open all of the ducts to the upper levels.  If the upper level of your house gets too warm, you will not be able to turn the upper-level thermostat to a cooler setting and expect the air conditioner to turn on the air conditioner.  You will have to set the main thermostat to a cooler setting before the air conditioner will be operational.
This is a great way to fix a problem of varying temperatures throughout separate levels of your home without installing another air conditioner.  For more information on home repairs and remodeling, carpentry, plumbing, painting, appliances or heating and air services please contact Dave Longstreth with Phoenix Repair Company at (316) 409-8803.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Ken Vonfeldt

2005-04-01 10:50:00

: Please settle a re-occurring argument in our home! I say that turning the air-conditioner off all day and then back on when we get home in the afternoon makes the system work harder, therefore using more energy. My husband disagrees, insisting that the system works no harder after being off all day. Who's right?

ANSWER: I sure don't want to get in the middle of a family dispute, but since you asked I would say you are both right and you are both wrong.  Consider the following points:• The cooling capacity of your air conditioning unit actually decreases as the outdoor (or ambient) temperature increases. • Your air conditioner's efficiency also decreases as the ambient temperature increases.• In addition to cooling your home, your air conditioner also removes moisture (humidity).• The hottest time of the day usually occurs from 3 to 5 pm.Based on these facts, your air conditioner will actually provide more cooling in a more efficient manner in the morning and after the sun goes down than it will in mid- to late afternoon. So, if your unit is turned completely off all day, your home will stay relatively comfortable until late in the day, when the ambient temperature rises to it's highest point and as a result the indoor temperature will rise to an uncomfortable level. In addition to the uncomfortable temperature, the humidity level will also increase. Turning your unit on when you get home will cause your unit to run continuously for several hours as it works to bring the indoor temperature down to your comfort level. On the hottest of days, it may run well into the night to overcome the heat buildup. The drawback to operating your unit in this manner is the indoor temperature and humidity level will not be comfortable for several hours. What you saved in electrical costs by not running the unit all day will be spent running it all night.If you choose to leave your unit on and the temperature set at your comfort level, the unit will maintain that temperature all day. In the morning, it will not have to run much because the unit's capacity is at its highest. In the afternoon, it will run as much as is necessary to maintain that temperature. It will be comfortable when you arrive home after a hard days work, but it will have maintained that level unnecessarily because no one was home to enjoy it. The drawback to this scenario is you are paying higher electrical bills to maintain comfortable temperature and humidity levels when you are not home.So what is the answer? Purchase a good programmable set back thermostat. A good programmable thermostat will have four time periods for various temperature settings that will meet your needs on a daily basis. Programmable thermostats can be set up to maintain a comfortable temperature when you are at home, say in the morning before you go to work and while you are home in the evening. During the day when no one is home, you can set the thermostat up to maintain a higher temperature so that when you get home it doesn't have to run as long nor work as hard to achieve a comfortable temperature level. Also, during the night time hours while you are sleeping, the temperature doesn't necessarily have to be what it is when you are awake, so you can give your unit a break during the night. The better programmable thermostats will even take indoor conditions into account and calculate how long it will need to operate your air conditioner to get the temperature of your home to the right level at the time you plan on arriving. As a bonus, these programmable thermostats will help you save energy costs in the winter months.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Ken Vonfeldt

2005-04-01 09:21:00

: How often should I have my HVAC equipment serviced?

ANSWER: Heating and Air Conditioning equipment should be serviced at least twice a year. To get the most performance and longest life from your system, allow a professional to perform routine checks on your heating system in the Fall and the air conditioning system in the Spring.  Annual servicing includes cleaning the system, checking for any problems or potential problems to ensure peak efficiency which lowers energy costs and prolongs the life-span of the equipment. Your technician will typically inspect: • operating pressures • refrigerant charge• filter condition • compressor • fan motor• capacitors • belts • crankcase heaters• coils • lubrication of moving partsSemi-annual inspections increase the overall dependability of your system while drastically reducing the chance of a breakdown, which almost always seems to occur at the most inopportune times (like at night or on the weekend)! It also helps in maintaining a safe and healthy operation and protects the environment.  Most heating and air conditioning contractors and dealers offer annual maintenance agreements, which can also provide discounted parts and labor rates in the event of a breakdown.There are routine maintenance steps that you can perform yourself throughout the year:• Check the air filter in your furnace or fan coil at least once a month if not more frequently. A dirty filter will cause excessive strain on your furnace, air conditioner or heat pump. Replace your filter when necessary, or clean it if you have the reusable type. • Keep your outdoor condensing unit free of dirt and debris; grass clippings, leaves, and shrubbery. Check the base pan (under the unit) occasionally and remove debris to help the unit drain correctly. Make sure your condensing unit and base pan remain level.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Ken Vonfeldt

2005-03-01 10:09:00

: What are the energy saving advantages of a digital thermostat?

ANSWER: You've used a thermostat a thousand times, but have you ever thought about just how important that thermostat's job is? This device controls the heating and air-conditioning systems (the two pieces of equipment that use the most energy) in your home. In these days of rising energy prices, I'm not surprised that you're curious about the advantages of a digital thermostat. Thermostats do two things: Compare the thermometer reading of a room's temperature to the "ideal" thermostat temperature you select, and give start-and-stop commands to the heating or cooling system in order to achieve an indoor temperature that is as close to your "ideal" thermostat setting as possible. By doing those two things, a thermostat plays the role of a "comfort detective" in your home.The main difference between a digital thermostat and a mechanical thermostat is the digital can do a few things that a mechanical thermostat cannot. One of the most useful features of a digital thermostat is programmable settings that you can set for each day of the week. For instance, in the winter, you can program it to automatically turn up the heat for an hour or two in the morning while you get ready for work, turn down the heat until you get home, turn up the heat in the evening and then turn down the heat while you sleep. This feature can save you money by turning down the heat when it isn't needed. And you can achieve the same kinds of savings with summer cooling setbacks when the house is empty during the day, or after you've fallen asleep in your cool, comfortable bedroom. If you turn down the heat 1 degree Fahrenheit for 8 hours a day, you can save about 1 percent of your heating energy costs. Turn it down 10 degrees F, to save about 10 percent. The same goes with the air-conditioning: Turn the temperature up 10 degrees F for 8 hours a day to save approximately 10 percent on your energy bill. For budget-conscious homeowners, the days of manually "cranking" a thermostat up and down are over. An electronic programmable thermostat is now considered the key component for getting the most out of today's heating and cooling systems. While programmed setbacks make the most measurable differences in energy costs, a programmable thermostat saves in other ways as well. Newer electronic thermostats are far more accurate than older, manual thermostats. An older thermostat could allow temperature variations of up to five degrees. New electronic thermostats can be accurate to within a half a degree. That means less wear and tear on your furnace and air conditioner from too much turning on and off. There are lots of different programmable thermostats with different features. Talk to an expert and get the one that's right for your system and has all the features you want without making you pay for the one you'll never use.DID YOU KNOW…?Ideally, the thermostat should be located in the part of the house where people spend the most time. It should be about 5 ft off the ground and at least 18 inches away from an outside wall. It should not be exposed to any heat sources other than the air in the room, such as sunlight, other appliances, heater vents, windows or hot-water pipes. It is also best not to put a thermostat near a stairway or in a corner because they affect the circulation of air.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2002-11-01 14:20:00

:  My folks just bought a new furnace. It has cooler air coming out of the vents than their old furnace. How is cooler air going to warm a house more efficiently and more effectively?

ANSWER:  The temperature of the air coming out of the vents should be in the range of 95° to 110°. This temperature may feel cooler than the old furnace vent temperature and is probably more effected by the volume of air moving through the vents than actual temperature difference. Most of the new furnaces will move more air than the older furnaces.Will the "cooler air" warm the house more efficiently and effectively? The quick answer is it won't make much difference. But, the real answer takes more detailed information. To know the actual air temperature of the heat the furnace is putting out requires specific testing. Temperature readings at the furnace and at the vents will determine actual air temperature. When this testing is done, you will know if everything is all right or if you have problems.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2002-09-01 10:41:00

:  We need a new furnace. Before we just replace what we have, we thought it might be a good idea to investigate all of the different heating systems for the home. What are they and what are the different fuels that are available.

Question:  We need a new furnace. Before we just replace what we have, we thought it might be a good idea to investigate all of the different heating systems for the home. What are they and what are the different fuels that are available. Answer:  There are several choices.  The furnace that most homeowners will be looking for will be a furnace that uses either natural gas or propane as the fuel source. Within this category, there will be varied choices:Lets start with what you are replacing. If your furnace is 20 years old it is about 60 to 65 percent efficient. If the furnace is older than 20 years it may only be 40 to 60% efficient.Now lets compare the efficiencies of today. The efficiencies will vary from 80 to 90% efficient.Within this range of efficiency, there are several differences. As a general rule, all 80% efficiency furnaces will have some type of automatic ignition system, thus eliminating the old pilot light. They will also have a fan assisted exhaust system that will be attached to your existing B-vent flue.When you consider the  90-92% efficiency furnace, there are other differences. First, the flue is entirely different. These furnaces use either a 2 inch or 3 inch PVC flue system. Most of the time the flue is run out the rim joist in the basement.Some of these furnaces feature a sealed combustion burning system. This is the best, as it provides the most efficiency and additional safety. But remember, they don’t all have this feature.Now for other fuels. Electricity is the second most predominate source. It can be used in several different ways. Electric furnaces using heat coils to provide heat. Air to air heat pumps, they extract heat from the outside air to heat your home. Water source heat pumps draw heat from the water to heat your home.When selecting a new heating system, here are some things to consider. How long do you plan to live in your home? If you are going to be in the same home for more than 5 years,  over time it will pay to put in a 90 - 92% efficient gas or propane sealed combustion furnace. The utility cost savings will pay for your new furnace.If however electricity is your heat source the purchase costs and operating costs vary so much that you will need a professional to give you guidance.But one constant remains, operating costs will continue to rise.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2002-08-01 10:47:00

:  We are looking at a new heating and air conditioning system. We have run across a piece of equipment called a ‘ductless split system’. What is it? How does it work? Do all manufacturers make them?

Robert Freeman Question:  We are looking at a new heating and air conditioning system. We have run across a piece of equipment called a ‘ductless split system’. What is it? How does it work? Do all manufacturers make them?Answer:  A ductless split system is a system that is primarily designed to condition a space that is usually a single room that is wide open and could vary in size from small (200 to 300 square feet) to fairly large (500 to 1400 square feet). This type of system is not used as a whole house with several rooms system. There are several manufacturers that produce the ductless split system. You will find they vary widely in price and quality.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2002-06-01 17:41:00

Question: It seems like members of our family suffer from more allergies than most.  Additionally, our youngest daughter has asthma.  What can we do to reduce the symptoms?

Answer:  The question you have asked is more complex than it appears. Rather than take all of the space here to answer it all, part of your answer will appear this month and the remainder will appear next month.  First we need to discuss a bit about air filtration.  Later we will talk about air purification and humidification.According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, your exposure to air pollutants can be more than 100 times higher indoors than outdoors. The first step to better indoor air quality is by identifying and eliminating the sources of indoor air pollutants. Eliminating indoor pollutants, to the extent feasible, is the most effective way to clean your air. For example: If you presently allow smoking in your home... discontinue it immediately. If possible, keep pets outside. Also, make a habit of cleaning your living spaces frequently. Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to permanently remove small dirt particles rather than simply redistributing them, as is the case with a conventional vacuum cleaner. Use products that minimize contaminate levels in the air. Minimize mold by controlling moisture.Ventilation can reduce contaminates in the home. Natural ventilation can be used by opening windows (unless you or your family are sensitive to pollutants in the outdoor air.) Exhaust fans, which vent stale or contaminated air to the outside, should be installed in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas. Replace the furnace filter every 30 days. A dirty filter can add more pollutants to your home. Purchase a filter of reasonably high quality. Disposable "throwaway" filters are generally made of coarse fiberglass mats in a frame mounted on a filter rack. These "throwaway" filters may not clean the air as effectively as you need, and may also need to be replaced more frequently. The "throwaway" filter is generally designed to filter the air for the HVAC equipment only. It does not provide well filtered air for your home. Reusable foam filters have a slightly higher performance capability, due to the use of the oils and adhesives applied to the filter, which cause the particles to adhere better. Electrostatic filters have a means for electrically charging the filter to attract particles. Electrostatic filters may capture more particles, but are not recommended, because the density of the filter restricts air flow. The filter most recommended by the HVAC industry is a 1" "throwaway" filter that carries at least a MERV 8 rating (MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) and is the newest way of rating filter efficiency. Other air filtration products include High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters and electronic air cleaners (EACs). HEPA filters are considered to be very effective at small particle removal.Remember, a healthy indoor air climate can only be sustained with regular maintenance of your home system.Next time we talk more in depth about EACs, along with, air purification and humidification.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2001-09-01 11:00:00

Question: We bought our house about 5 years ago. According to the records, the air conditioner is about 7 years old. We are not experiencing any problems with it. The furnace, however, is a different story. As best as we can tell, the furnace must be at least 12 years old and doesn't provide even heat distribution throughout the house. We had a heat pump in our former home and loved it. Is it wise to replace both the air conditioner and the furnace when one is working fine? Is a heat pump going to save us money in energy costs over a "dual" system?

Answer: The problem of your furnace not providing even heat distribution raises the question "Do you have good cooling distribution?" If your cooling gives you good air movement and even distribution, the heating distribution problem may be solved by increasing the blower speed when the furnace is in the heating mode. If this doesn't solve the problem, the furnace sizing may need to be increased. Before considering changing the furnace or making any other changes, I recommend checking the furnace blower, and, if possible, increase the blower speed.To answer the question about changing both the air conditioning and the furnace when the air-conditioning is working fine, you should evaluate the heating/cooling currently installed in your home. When evaluating your system, consider the following: (1) does your system provide you with year around comfort? (2) how much are your year-round operating costs? (3) what is the age of your equipment? (4) cost of future repair (increases as your system ages). And finally, how long are you planning to stay in your home? I cannot answer the first two questions, but can give suggestions for the others. If you do not know the age of your equipment, find the model number and call your local dealer. They should be able to give you an approximate age from the model number. Most any type of equipment more than ten years old is not anywhere close to the efficiency of heating/cooling equipment made today. By finding the approximate age of the air-conditioner, this will help you anticipate the cost of future repair. If you are planning to live in your current home more than 5 to 7 years it may pay you to install new high efficiency equipment. Generally speaking, the new equipment will pay for itself in operating cost savings in 5 to 7 years.To answer your question "Will a heat pump going to save money in operating costs?" Probably not. A heat pump in the cooling mode will have almost the same efficiency as your current air conditioner. With ever increasing energy costs, it is difficult to predict what type of system will be the best.But one fact remains: Whether you are heating your home with a gas furnace or a heat pump and cooling your home with a regular air conditioner or a heat pump, you can expect the operating costs of your existing equipment will increase, due to increasing energy costs.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2001-07-01 15:19:00

Question:  Why is my unit icing up.  I have frost on the coil and copper tubing.  Why am I getting such little air flow from my registers?

Answer:  There are several things that may be involved in your problem. Check the outdoor unit.  Is it clean and free of debris?  Is the filter in the furnace clean?  If both of them are clean and you still don't have good results, then  examine the following.First, the unit may be low on freon.  Hopefully, a small charge of freon will be all that is needed.  If you suspect a leak, then hopefully it can be found and repaired.  If it is beyond repair, then replacement of the portion of the system that is leaking will be necessary.  There are three components that might be leaking . . .  the outdoor unit, the evaporation coil (that is normally inside lip of the furnace) or the refrigerant lines.    Now to address the final portion of your question - poor air flow from the registers.  Once we have established the system has a proper freon charge and the outdoor unit and indoor furnace filters are clean, this leaves us with only two other areas that need to be checked.  The evaporator coil may need to be cleaned to remove any build-up of debris that blocks air flow.  The last thing to check is the blower inside the furnace, as it can have a build-up of debris, which again reduces air flow.Remember, keeping the system clean is the most important thing you can do.  Change the furnace filter every month.  Wash out the outdoor unit at least 3 or 4 times during the cooling season.

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Heating & Air Conditioning

Robert Freeman

2001-07-01 09:02:00

:  My husband and I are constantly battling over the thermostat.  I get cold, he gets hot.  How do ‘sane’ people solve this problem where both are satisfied? 

Robert Freeman Question:  My husband and I are constantly battling over the thermostat.  I get cold, he gets hot.  How do ‘sane’ people solve this problem where both are satisfied?  Answer:  It’s called ‘both giving in a bit’.  Set the thermostat between 75 and 78 degrees.  Your air conditioner will work more efficiently when it is set and left alone.Question:  What temperature do I set my thermostat when I leave town for a couple of days (or longer)?  Or should I just turn off the entire system?Answer:  Generally, 80 degrees is recommended.  It is not a good idea to turn off your entire system.  With the system off, the temperature in the home will rise significantly, and if you are gone for longer than you planned, this could be dangerous.  The inside walls and furniture will absorb heat and the house plants will die.  Even if you return in a couple of days, the cost of the  energy it takes to bring the temperature to the preferred level will be greater than if you had set the thermostat to 80 degrees initially.Question:  During the day, is it more cost effective to open the windows when it is cool outside and turn off the air conditioner, then shut the windows and turn on the air conditioner during the hotter part of the day?Answer:  No.  By opening your windows you allow heat and humidity into the home, not to mention the dirt, dust and pollen.  When you cool the home your system will have to work all the harder to remove that heat and humidity.  Set your thermostat and leave it.  It is much more efficient.Question:  Now that I am not using my furnace, do I still need to change my furnace filter?Answer:  Yes.  Studies show that by regularly changing the furnace filter (once a month) can reduce energy consumption by an average of 12%.  If you have a media filter, you will want to change it once every 6 months.  If there is a smoker in the home, the media air filter and electronic air cleaner cells need to be changed and cleaned more often.Question:  I see my neighbor cleaning his outside air conditioning unit from time to time.  Is this necessary?Answer:  You should clean the outside unit three to four times during the cooling season.  PLEASE NOTE... to clean the outside unit yourself, turn the thermostat to the OFF position.  Disconnect the power to the unit.  You may have an electrical disconnect outside.  Either turn the breaker to the off position or pull the fuse in the outside electrical disconnect.  If you do not have an outside electrical disconnect, go the breaker box inside the home and turn the air conditioner breaker off.  FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN A FATAL ELECTRICAL SHOCK.  Rinse the coils with a high pressure nozzle attached to the garden hose.  Reconnect the unit to power after rinsing the coils.  If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, please call a professional.  Regular cleaning of the outside unit will assure you of the maximum amount of BTU cooling from your unit.Question:  I turned on my air conditioner and nothing happened.  What should I do?Answer:  Make sure your thermostat is set to cooling and the temperature is set at least 5 degrees below the temperature of the room in which the thermostat is located.  Check the air conditioner breaker or fuse box to be sure the unit is receiving power.  If your unit still does not work, call a professional.Question:  It seems as though the size of the air ducts would have something to do with controlling utility costs.  Are there guidelines for how big the ducts should be for air conditioning?Answer:  Most generally, the sizes of the air ducts and supply ducts will have little to do with the energy necessary to run a system efficiently.  A rule of thumb says ducts should carry 400 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air for every one ton of cooling.  So if you have a two ton system, you need ductwork that will carry 800 CFM.  One 6-inch round duct is good for about 120 CFM, a 7-inch duct carries about 150 CFM, an 8-inch duct carries about 200 CFM of cool air.  Also, you want to make sure that the return ducts are the same size as the supply ducts.  In adjusting your system,try not to damper down the system any more than needed because reduced airflow could cause the indoor coil to freeze.Question:  We’re looking at a new heating and air conditioning system.  Which one is the best?Answer:  Brands are important, and most of the well known brands are all good, but the installing contractor plays a more important role.  You might have the best equipment but if poorly installed, it will not work as well as it should and it will be less efficient.  Check the contractor.  Get references.  The second part of the equation is proper sizing of the equipment.  Ask to see the contractor’s heat loss and heat gain calculations for your home before you buy anything.  Let him explain why he is recommending the sizes he is recommending.