Air Conditioning Options - Central, Ductless, Or Through-the-Wall

Question:

I would like to install air conditioning on the 1st floor of my 2 story home. I have casement style windows that swing out so I can't install a window unit. I could install central air, but I don't use the 2nd floor of the house. The windows are 10 yr old Anderson. Should I replace 1 window with a double hung window so I can fit in an air conditioner or go for central air?

Answer:

My first choice for energy efficiency, as well overall comfort, would be to install a central air conditioning system. These systems can be "zoned" so they will only cool one floor of the home and not both. However, you certainly should plan on both and discuss that with your contractor as it may be less costly to install some of the ducting to "get ready" for cooling the second floor at some point in the future.

Another option might be to install a through-the-wall air conditioning unit. Many of the larger units are available with wall mounted sleeves. To install, you'd need to cut a hole in the exterior wall and frame it out the same way you'd frame an opening for a window or door. It is very important to do this correctly, as you will be impacting the structural integrity of the house. Also, this type of system will very likely cause a heat loss in the winter as it is very difficult to seal it to prevent cold air leaking in.

A better option, which cost-wise will be in between the cost of a central system and a through-the-wall mounted portable, might be ductless air conditioning. I have Fujitsu ductless air conditioning system like this in my office and the ductless air conditioning system works extremely well as a supplement to my central system, which doesn't fully extend into the office space. With ductless air conditioning, you have a wall blower that hangs on the inside wall of your home. This is connected via a refrigerant line to a small compressor which sits outside, just like a central system. The compressor supplies chilled refrigerant to the blower inside, which circulates the cooled air.

Given the above, my choice would be (1) central; (2) ductless; (3) through-the-wall.

Regardless of what you ultimately decide, you should be certain to choose the most energy efficient air conditioning unit possible. Energy Star has an excellent new program called Cool Your World With Energy Star @ Home that can help you understand cooling efficiency and options.

Stop Losing Your Hair Now!

Are you tired of finding strands of your hair in the sink, on the counter, or in the shower? No matter what age you are, no one likes to lose hair; everyone would rather keep it implanted on their scalps, where it belongs. Of course, if you have plenty to spare, you may not mind losing a few down the drain. But for those who are concerned about the exodus of their locks, here are some preventative measures to take before resorting to hair transplants or chemical processes.

1. Wash your hair every other day. Some people wash it daily, but as long as your hair remains manageable and not greasy, you can probably switch to alternative days. This will protect weak new hair follicles, giving them a chance to develop more fully. It also means you will be brushing or combing your hair less often, which means less stress on your scalp and strands.

2. Forget the 100 strokes a day. A generation or two ago, women taught their daughters to brush their hair 100 strokes daily. But professionals have come to realize that lengthy brushing may loosen hair strands and pull out excess hair. A dozen strokes or so ought to be enough for most heads of hair, but consult with your hair care stylist if you have questions or feel your hair needs more attention.

3. Use a detangle product. If your hair is long or thick, or for any reason is prone to tangles or split ends, apply a conditioner that defuses tangles or a detangling cream that smoothes them before combing. When you do comb or brush your hair, it will be easier to manage and result in less breakage.

4. Don't overuse hair care products. Too much spray, gel, or mousse, along with too much heat treatment can cause damage over time. Use products like these sensibly. Keep an eye on their effect. If your hair starts looking dry or greasy, or if the ends look dull or split, make an appointment with your hair stylist or try a deep conditioning product at home.

5. Protect your hair from the elements. Avoid too much sun on a hot day. Keep your head covered in pelting rain, cold, snow, or sleet. Humidify your home when the air gets dry. Steps like these will help to keep your hair strong and safe from potentially damaging elements.

6. Comb wet hair gently. Begin with the lower layers and gently comb in the direction the hair takes naturally. Work your way up to the scalp, carefully working through tangles or snarls. Don't use a brush on wet hair, as it can cause breakage.

7. Give your hair extra care after swimming in a chemically treated pool. You may have to wear a swimming cap or give your hair a conditioning treatment afterward.

Taking a few precautions like these can help to reduce the amount of lost hair and broken strands that you will find in the sink from now on.

Commercial Air Conditioning - Cooling Solutions For Work Spaces

If your work space is full of heat generating electrical and electronics, then you definitely need some heat removal system to save yourself and your equipments. Air conditioning is one way of doing it. In an industrial set up, proper heating, ventilation or air conditioning (HVAC) is essential to ensure that the work environment is safe for other employees and workers.

Which places need commercial or industrial air conditioning?

Places where large number of people and heat generating equipments are employed need air conditioning to remove heat and circulate fresh air and remove the stuffy gases out.

Example: Hospitals, IT companies, manufacturing factories, hotels, etc.

Types of Commercial & Industrial Air Conditioning

Modern systems use ductless or split air conditioning. The cooling unit and condenser are located far away from the room on roof tops usually. The cooling is thermostat controlled. Ducted cooling system is not used these days due to inefficiency.

Apart from that many different cooling technologies are available, such as air cooling, water cooling, glycol cooling and chilled water cooling.

Air cooled systems

• Widely used for its convenient ductless set up and easy maintenance.


• There is a condenser unit outside which helps in exchanging the fresh air and removing the hot air inside.


• But the cooling pipes cannot run very long distances. Hence, the height between the work space and the roof or outside environment can be a constraint.

Glycol cooled systems

• This is a much sophisticated cooling system in which temperatures below 50繙F (10繙C) can be achieved.


• Glycol is the coolant used. These can run for long distances and can provide cooling for multiple work spaces with a single condenser unit.


• But, quality and quantity of glycol should be optimum and hence need more maintenance.

Water cooled system

• Water is cooled inside a cooling tower which in turn is relayed back to the heat exchanger placed in the work environment.


• Multiple work spaces can be cooled with a single cooling tower.


• But, maintenance of cooling tower and optimum quality of water required can pose economic set back.

Chilled water system

• This has a greater heat removing capacity.


• One chiller plant is required and it can cool an entire building.


• Can be used for larger areas with greatest efficiency.


• But installation charges are sky high and the system removes lots of moisture from the air which might cause problems for employees.

Depending upon your requirements, you can choose among these discussed cooling systems to cool and ventilate your work space. Some of them can be worked in combination with each other as a single system doesn't work in all environments. Choose wisely and make your work space employee friendly.

Fujitsu Air Conditioning Units

Up until the past few years, the only way enjoy air conditioning was either by having central air or window unit. Of course, this is not possible in some spaces that offer no window and not practical areas where it is not cost-effective to install an entire central air system. Fujitsu made it possible to provide air conditioning to places that could not receive it before.

Why Use These Units?

First of all, Fujitsu makes an exceptionally quiet product. The noisy parts such as the compressor and motor are stationed outside of your home so the noise level inside is minimal. They also feature unique individual zoning. What this means is that you can program different goal temperatures for up to four different areas in your home. If no one ever uses the spare room or office, adjust the unit so you're not paying for air conditioning that you're not using. This makes these air conditioners incredibly energy efficient. Not to mention, they run on R410A refrigerant so they don't contribute to ozone depletion.

Fujitsu designs their air conditioners so that they are exceptionally easy to install, only requiring a hole large enough to feed copper tubing through. They also add a sense of security, especially if you are used to having a window unit on the ground floor of your home. With Fujitsu's system, there is nothing keeping you from locking your windows at night.

Features

These units are very unique on how they work. Refrigerant is pumped through thin copper tubing to the mounted blowers which then provide your home with cool, fresh air. In addition to this effective cooling method, they also offer a full menu of exceptional features.

Units such as the Fujitsu wall mounted systems ASU12RLF absorb dust, mold spores and odors with their washable panel filter and they come with automatic restart, sleep timer and a wireless remote control. Nearly all Fujitsu air conditioning units are incredibly energy efficient, feature Energy Star ratings and are designed to cool your home off faster than their competitor and maintain their desired temperature, regardless of the climate outside.

Aromatherapy - Make Your Own in Minutes For Pennies

Perhaps the best thing about aromatherapy is that it is so easy and pleasurable to engage in; both for the creator of the concoction and most assuredly for the client. Few people will complain about receiving a prescription to bathe with scented oils or apply a fragrant body oil; two of the most popular aromatherapy techniques.

If you are considering starting an aromatherapy business for yourself--before you get started in this astonishing world of scent, it is important that you find out what practicing aromatherapists are doing so you can find that perfect niche for yourself.

Today many herbalists, body workers, cosmetologists, chiropractors and other holistic healers are discovering how multifaceted and versatile the healing art of aromatherapy is. To this end they are able to enrich their practices by introducing these pure essential oils for a compendium of maladies like: the altering of moods, stirring memories, arousing sexual desire and generally improving the quality of life. Many others concentrate on enhancing their client's beauty and longevity by offering them a wide variety of healing beauty products.

The majority of our nation today is influenced by the economy--finding most people today going both 'green' and back-to-basics. However, as natural as they wish they could be, the majority live in a stressful world and are constantly on the lookout for natural alternatives for health challenges like depression, anxiety, fear, grief, loneliness, mental fatigue, mind fog, insomnia, PMS symptoms and so many more. The peace and tranquility that should manifest themselves as normal attributes are often weighed down by environmental factors such as stress in the workplace or--even worse--unemployment. Many others suffer from social isolation, poverty, chemicals and toxins or even poor diet and countless more conditions.

Aromatherapy is BIG business today and at the end of this article you can be assured that we keep our promise that you will never have to pay mega-bucks again! This article is more than an overview of this ancient 3000+ year old art. As you stroll down Lavender Lane's aromatic healing path with us you will discover how--for more than a quarter-of-a-century we have been teaching and sharing how you can create a compendium of natural and therapeutic aromatherapy concoctions in mere 'minutes for pennies'. Plus, should you desire to retail your products at craft fairs or onto store shelves or in spas or even mail order like us; we will happily show you how. We will also share with you one of the most important phases of your marketing--how to package your concoctions--making you appear as professional as is your creation.

First, here is a 'crash course' on aromatherapy that the 'newbie' should at least have some concept of. Each essential oil contains numberless chemical components. To best illustrate a comparison, take an apple for instance. FACT: One, whole, clean, fresh apple contains over 10,000 nutrients in combinations of antioxidants, phytochemicals (plant vitamins) enzymes and more. Yet science so far has only recognized a fraction of them, and until more are discovered; they haven't got a clue what the rest of them are or what they do--and apples have been around since the beginning. Aromatherapy (the art of implementing an essential oil to this end or that) has been around since people have. Nevertheless, each type of essential oil is composed of many different aromatic molecules of which more than 30,000 have been identified and named, and it is common for a single essential oil to contain one hundred different aromatic molecules. One can only fathom their countless true complexities and their inconceivable properties or restorative benefits.

Exactly how aromatherapy works is still unclear. What we do know is that merely smelling a fragrance can influence us physically and emotionally by altering hormone production, brain chemistry, stress levels and general metabolism..

An 'essential oil'---or the 'soul' of the plant if you will, is 50 times more concentrated than that of the herb or flower it was carefully extracted from. Essential oils give plants their characteristic odors, enabling us to take deep drafts of a fragrant rose bloom or drink in the perfume of lilacs and lavender. It is because essential oils are by their very nature aromatic, that the therapy involving their use has been christened "Aromatherapy." And whether a person is looking to enhance their beauty, relieve pain, increase energy, reduce stress, grow hair, promote sleep, heal wounds, evoke special emotions, or even kill fleas--there is an essential oil for all these and countless other conditions.

BEAUTY SECRETS? Billions of dollars a year are spent every year by consumers who are trying to slow down the aging process--or at least cling to as youthful an appearance as they can for as long as they can. The face is usually the most exposed part of the body--bombarded by heat, cold, drying, sweating, wrinkling, dirt, smoke and a world of other invisible toxins. Today especially, stress is on the increase, having a huge impact on most people's lives. And as such, takes a great toll on the body which is very much mirrored in the face. If the consumer is looking to enhance their beauty they must take special care of it and there is a compendium of products that can be incorporated into their regime--each of which contains the right essential oil(s) to meet their purpose.

These products are found in the forms of cleansers, steams, exfoliants, masques, toners, floral waters, moisturizers, bath oils, massage oils, and more. When these pure essential oils are added into these mediums (carrier oils, waxes, sea salt, lotions, floral waters, butters, soaps, etc.) the essential oils penetrate to the dermal layer of the skin where new cells are developing. And depending upon which essential oil is used in which application, their varied attributes will either stimulate and regenerate skin cells, reduce bacterial and fungal infections such as acne and other related skin problems, soothe delicate, sensitive, inflamed skin, promote the release and removal of metabolic waste products, and produce healthy skin cells quickly following sun damage, burns, wrinkles or healing of wounds. Additionally, these essential oils contain plant "hormones" that help balance and alleviate hormonally related skin problems. When incorporated into a bath or massage, or through inhalation, these essential oils may be of aid in the relief of muscle pain, menstruation, lung congestion, insomnia, fever, headaches, infections, indigestion, constipation, etc.

Scent and the psyche too is nothing new. The manipulating of fragrance to affect the emotions dates back to the ancients and today is no different. According to a 1992 issue of the British Journal of Occupational Therapy, it describes the potential of aromatherapy to "promote health and well-being". In hospital environments, patients receive aid through massage, inhalation, baths, compresses, creams and lotions. According to the journal's extensive list of potential uses, aromatherapy can diminish stress, sedate, relieve depression, invigorate, promote activity and alertness, stimulate sensory awareness, facilitate interaction and communication, treat certain medical problems and provide pain relief.

Scent is an integral part of society. From the time we get up we are accustomed to bathing or showering with a scented body soap or gel, a fragranced shampoo and/or conditioner, followed by a scented deodorant and then perhaps by a scented after-shave, perfume or cologne. Our cleaning supplies are laden with scent to make our clothes, our dishes and our houses smell fresh and clean. We buy scented candles, incense, oil lamps and potpourris that we may be surrounded by aromas. Yet---these are probably ALL synthetic in nature.

"Pure" essential oils are extracted right from the plant, wherein any allergies usually associated with fragrance are almost non-existent. It is the "synthetic" fragrances that create many problems. With the rise of synthetic chemicals, and the increased strength of these fragrances, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration estimates that 4,000 different chemicals are currently used in fragrances--most of which are in perfumes and colognes and is on the increase. The problem is that through the inhalation of "synthetics"---many suffer a wide range of physical difficulties from sinus pain to anaphylactic shock and seizures. This fact alone should be reason enough to educate people toward the incorporation of "pure essential oils" over synthetics--especially if they could make their own sweet scented body and skin care products as well as their own therapeutic concoctions.

NOTE: Please be assured that there is MUCH ADULTERATION out there due to a general lack of education coupled with greed as to essential oils versus the synthetic fragrance oils--and that is why it is doubly important that YOU, John & Jane-Q-Public become educated of these important differences.

So that the beginner will not be overwhelmed or confused as to how aromatherapy works--here is an easy to visualize, easy to understand example of how these pure healing oils get into the blood-stream--do their thing--and get out. We all know how good garlic is for the body--curing a compendium of ills. Take a clove of garlic, cut it in half and rub the soles of your feet a couple of times. Put your socks and shoes on and go about your business. In about 3 hours you can taste it. That's it. When you bathe, your body's pores open to receive these healing oils, as does your body react accordingly through massage or through inhalation. Studies with brain wave frequency has shown that smelling Lavender increases the alpha waves in the back of the head, which are associated with relaxation. The fragrance of Jasmine increases beta waves in the front of the head, which is associated with a more alert state.

Aromatherapy is sweeping the world like wildfire and as we journey through this enlightening article; if the reader believes that this healing skill is something that they would like to incorporate into their lives as well as that of others; we highly recommend you consider this avenue.

There has been a good deal of information passed on to you so far and before you view the essential oil list, the intention of this article is to share with its readers that they or their families or friends may seek aromatherapy to allay their respective problems, and that they absolutely can--and never need pay mega-bucks again for these therapeutic and exotic preparations.

The following is but a smattering of the most commonly used essential oils and some of their numerous uses. Note: These oils are recommended for external use only.

• LAVENDER for stress, muscle pain, headaches, prevents scarring, stretch marks and has a reputation for slowing wrinkles, etc.

• ORANGE for high blood pressure, treating flu, colds, congestion and for killing fleas...

• ROSE GERANIUM for reducing inflammation, infection, eczema, acne, burn injuries, scarring, stretch marks, regulation blood pressure, etc.

• PEPPERMINT for headaches, muscle spasms, inflammation, indigestion, nausea, congestion, etc.

• ROSEMARY for memory, poor circulation, low blood pressure, sore muscles, rheumatism, cellulite, etc. (And-balding. However, you have to have a little life left up there.)

• EUCALYPTUS for sinus & throat infection, fever, flu, herpes, acne, boils, insect bites, lice, herpes, vapor rubs, aftershaves, colognes, etc.

• LEMON oil for viral & bacterial infections, hypertension, water retention, weight gain, bruises, increasing general well-being, etc.

• TEA TREE oil for insect bites, cuts, sunburn, shingles, candida, diaper rash, earaches, acne, paper cuts, head lice, abrasions, scalds, herpes lesions, ringworm, athlete's foot, boils, eczema, and much, much more.

SAFETY: Overexposure to essential oils, either through the skin or by nose, can result in nausea, headache, skin irritation, emotional unease, or an overall "spaced out" feeling. Getting some fresh air will help you to overcome these symptoms.

Just to show you how easy recipes can be--here are some examples:

For thousands of years the ancients established elaborate rituals that combine hot and cold baths, ointments and aromatic massages.

THERAPEUTIC BATH SALTS
1 cup Dead Sea Salt (course or fine grind).

Add 25-35 drops of essential oil or oils depending upon what therapeutic oils you have chosen for what malady. If you have chosen a blend you need to consider that each oil has a high-note, middle-note or base note which is the evaporation time; so the end scent may change from what you smell during preparation.

1 tablespoon 'Turkey Red' oil which is water-soluble. Almost all oils float, but not this one. Instead it will marry with the bath water and soothe and moisturize your body.

If you choose to color your salts use a few drops of food-safe food coloring until the desired color is attained.

If you choose to make a fine grind all you need to do is put the salts in your blender and blend. It won't hurt your blender a bit and I prefer to grind before I add the other ingredients.

Mix everything well and package. Be sure to use a pretty, wide-mouthed container and then package accordingly. Remember--presentation is as important as is the creation itself.

Depending how much water is in the tub--add 1/2 to 1 cup per bath. Once mixed in the bath, the salt will melt, the color will dissipate, the 'Turkey Red' oil will soothe and moisturize, and the essential oils will penetrate your body within minutes. Additionally, by the very inhalation of the chosen oil(s) and the fragrance, it will either relax your or invigorate you. This application is wonderful because your skin is the largest organ of your body.

SALT SCRUB:

For those who prefer showers, these are great exfoliants. (Do not use on the face).

To 1 cup of fine Dead Sea salt add 25-35 drops of essential(s) and enough carrier oil (Safflower, Grapeseed, Olive, Turkey Red, etc.) to totally moisten the salt. You don't want it too dry and you don't want it too runny. Rub on to loosen all those dead cells and invigorate the new ones, then wash off.

SUGAR SCRUB:

Using the above recipe, instead of salt use raw sugar. We use turbinado.

HEALING MASSAGE AND BATH OIL:

To 16 ounces of carrier oil (Turkey Red, Sweet Almond, Grapeseed, etc.) add approximately 160 to 200 drops (total) of essential oil or oils. This equates to 16-20 drops per ounce. Shake well and let the oils marry overnight. For a bath oil use approximately 1/4 cup of oil. The carrier oils may be mixed and matched.

NEVER PAY MEGA-BUCKS AGAIN!

As we hope you have discovered, most of these natural, healing and therapeutic creations are very simple to make for you and your family and friends--and they make awesome gifts too.

Mr Slim Air Conditioner - 2 Reasons to Have One

Nothing beats the hot summer heat quite like air conditioning. If you are lucky enough to have central air, you are probably the envy of your less lucky friends (and your house is probably the "go-to" house for gatherings). If you do not have a home with central air you probably have a few window units that you haul out of storage every year. But what if you could have air conditioning without having to deal with those leaky window units? Mitsubishi's Mr. Slim line may be a solution you're looking for.

The Mr. Slim air conditioner is currently the most popular ductless air conditioning system offered by Mitsubishi. Why is that? There are two major reasons why this is one of the more sought after air conditioning units manufactured by Mitsubishi.

1. It offers homeowners the chance to have "installed" air conditioners without having to pay for expensive duct work and a complete central ac unit. The Mr. Slim line is installed into the walls above your windows and HVAC experts connect the indoor unit (which blows the cool air) to the outdoor unit (which brings in air from the outside for cooling) by copper tubing as well as copper and control wiring.

2. The Mr. Slim ac system is an energy efficient air conditioning unit. This means that it will not raise your electric bill the way that other portable air conditioners will. Even better, installing the Mr. Slim air conditioner will make your family eligible for the energy efficient home improvement tax credit that is available for next year's taxes. This credit could save you as much as fifteen hundred dollars on your 2010 taxes!

Dealing with the heat is one of the most problematic issues of summer, but Mitsubishi's Mr. Slim air conditioner allows you to deal with that heat in a comfortable and affordable manner!

Heating & Air Conditioning Scam Alert - Read This Now!

As a homeowner myself and a Professional Home Inspector in the Dallas Fort Worth are for years I just had to tell somebody about some of these ideas that companies are trying to get us to believe. I hope this helps understand some of these issues.

Homeowners there are literally hundreds of products and devices being promoted everyday in the HVAC industry that claim to reduce energy or increase the capacity of AC systems by huge percentages. Do not become another victim of dishonest contractors and ideas that offer to good to be true results. Listed below are some of the most popular items going around in the business today.

1. Refrigerant and Oil Additives- The claims being made by installing these into your AC system say you will see incredible energy savings in the 20 percent range! These additives have been around for a long time. There have been hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars spent in trying to prove these claims by research laboratories. Many of the results from these tests indicate no change in system capacity or performance. If there are 20 percentage points to be gained in energy efficiency then the top equipment manufactures will be doing all the promoting and selling not small independent contractors selling these miracle additives. Homeowners also need to be aware of the impact on the warranty of your AC systems. Most all of the major manufactures do not recommend anything in a refrigerant system other than the proper refrigerant and the factory recommended oils.

2. Refrigerant Management Devices-These add on devices are advertised with enough "Tech-No-Babble" that would even confuse a NASA scientist. The idea is that these devices re-align the refrigerant molecules into a rotating flow mass to reduce laminar flow and friction losses throughout the refrigerant piping on the liquid side of the systems. Again there have been thousands of dollars and many hours spent by testing laboratories to verify these claims and how much they could reduce your energy consumption or increase the cooling capacity of an AC system. The results are not conclusive in determining that these devices can in fact improve efficiency or capacity of a system. Any under performing AC system will seem to operate better after installing one of these devices if it is not up to design conditions in the first place. The first thing that should be done is to verify the performance of an existing system and make sure that all heat transfer surfaces are clean, the proper refrigerant charge is in the system, the refrigerant is not oil logged already and there is design air flow across both the evaporator and condenser. When these items are done and in place you will see that other add-on devices are not be needed to achieve the design capacity and performance of the system.

3. Motor Mizers, Harmonic Filters, and Electrical System Stabilizers - I like to refer to them as "Little Black Boxes with Wires". These are high on my list because they are one of the most common products I have seen out there and unfortunately for many they are even being sold! These devices will gain you as advertised by some companies 26-34 percentage points in energy reduction! I have talked with many electrical engineers about these devices and they cannot reduce the KW of your system by 26-34 percent period! Again if these types of devices really produced the savings that are claimed then the utility companies would be promoting these ideas and technology and installing them at no charge to the consumer to help reduce the demand on the utility grid.

4. High Efficiency Air Filters- I will no doubt catch a lot of grief about this one but I am used to it. I will start out to say here that having good clean air filters is a must for any AC system and for any homeowner. You have to understand a little bit about electrical energy and motors not to be tricked by this popular method contractors use to get into your back pocket. A dirty air filter in your AC furnace will consume less fan energy than a clean one! Now you can re-read this again and it says that; a dirty air filter in your AC furnace will consume less fan energy than a clean one! This is not a typo it says exactly what I wanted it to say. The next time when you need to
change a very dirty air filter in your furnace perform this simple test. Borrow a meter that can measure the amperage of the fan motor. If you do not have one or get a friend who is an electrician and take the amperage reading on the fan motor before you change the filter. Be sure and take the reading with the fan compartment door in place like normal operation. Take a few readings and record them over a five minute time period. If you are taking these readings in the summer be sure to let the unit run for a few minutes while taking the readings to get a fairly accurate and stable reading. Now change the filter(s) and take the readings again for the same amount of time and with the fan compartment door in place. You will find that the fan energy or KW increased by some amount. Depending on exactly how dirty the filters were before changing them out will determine how much change in amperage or KW you will notice. What you may notice after changing the filters out is that the home feels more comfortable and the AC system may run less to keep the home cool. This is where the energy savings show up if there going to be any at all. The increase in air flow across the evaporator coil because of the new filters will increase the fan energy or KW, but the overall amount of time the unit runs may be reduced resulting in energy savings. This needs to be understood very clearly because there are a lot of contractors out there selling very expensive and sophisticated air filtering systems guaranteed to save you a lot of money. In my opinion the best air filter for the money are the pleated type filters in the one, two, or four inch thickness that are changed frequently. Make sure that the filter compartment is air tight and that the filters fit well in the filter rack or frame and do not allow air to bypass the filter. You cannot go wrong with regular filter replacements and using good pleated filters. Now there is one other thing to know about air filters that is very confusing to homeowners and that is that air filters have an efficiency rating. The ability of a given air filter to remove particulate matter from the air stream is rated in efficiency by how much of the airborne particulate matter it catches by passing through the filter once. This efficiency is not to be confused with electrical efficiency or energy reduction.

5. Magnets- I guess as long as I am alive there will be someone or something that will come along every once in awhile who will make an incredible claim about magnets. In the HVAC industry I have seen magnetic devices promoted to treat water that is used in very large commercial and industrial systems instead of the traditional methods of using good science and chemistry techniques to treat water. In the residential sector magnets have been advertised to save you 20-25 percent in your gas energy bill by using them on your gas piping serving your gas appliances such as your heating furnace. By simply strapping these magnets on your iron gas piping they supposedly re-align and straighten the gas molecules in the stream of gas flowing to you your furnace before the gas reaches the burner section. Again this is just one of many devices and products being pushed on homeowners who have not been informed as to what is happening out there today. You may want to talk with your local gas utility provider as well on this one.

6. High Efficiency Capacitors- There are some contractors out there today who are selling unknowing homeowners new capacitors for their ac units because they are telling them the capacitors are out of the normal range or value for a capacitor. Do not fall for this gimmick. A capacitor is basically either good or bad and no in between condition. A capacitor will have a different reading in micro-farads based on if the capacitor is hot or cold. A warm capacitor that has been in operation will read differently than a cold one out of the box. Do not let a service technician fool you with this trick. If a capacitor fails either the fan(s) or compressor will not start. A bad capacitor is a valid reason for replacing a capacitor. But capacitors will not improve the efficiency of you're A/C system by any significant amount that you can measure or will see in a lower electric bill.

Beat the Heat Without Air Conditioning

In summer, prolonged high temperatures can easily strike areas of the nation where cooler climates are the norm. In these areas, many houses don't have air conditioning, and surviving in the extreme conditions becomes difficult for anyone. The examples below are actions which can help you keep cool during a heat wave, although you may have an air-conditioned house, its better for the environment to give it a rest once in a while.

1. Make use of box fans and ceiling fans to promote air flow throughout your house. Opening doors in the house and using box fans to push hot air outdoors could function as a great "exhaust" system and pull chillier evening air into the house. During the cooler nights, open all home windows and promote as much air circulation as possible. When the sun goes up, close most doors and house windows, ensuring to close drapes and window shades too, to keep the indoors cool for as long as feasible. When the exterior air cools to a lower temperature than inside, open up the windows and turn on the fans again.

2. Fill up a container with cold water and soak your feet. Wet towels can easily have a fabulous cooling feeling when worn on the shoulders or top of your head. Take cool showers or baths, and consider making use of a spray bottle brimming with cold h2o for invigorating spritzes all through the day.

3. Head downstairs. Given that warm air rises, the second floors of a house will certainly be hotter than the lower floors.

4. Remove extra sources of heat. Incandescent light bulbs can produce unwanted heat, as can computers or home appliances that are running. Try not to use the oven to make meals.

5. Don't forget to keep hydrated,. This means you'll need to drink more water than usual. Replacing lost electrolytes by drinking sports drinks. Don't wait to feel thirsty either. Drink sufficient amounts of essential fluids before you really feel thirsty in order to prevent dehydration.

6. Stay away from alcoholic drinks and coffee, as each of these types of things can act as diuretics and promote dehydration.

7. For a DIY "air conditioning" system, sit in the path of a box fan that is covered with a wet cloth, or a container filled with ice.

8. Heat waves are the best time to visit the library, movie theater or museum! Public buildings usually have air conditioning during the hottest hours of the day.

9. Don't eat large, protein-rich meals. Eating heavy generally that can increase your metabolic heat and heat up the body, to an even more uncomfortable temperature.

Home Owners - Save With a New Energy Efficient Central Air Conditioner Unit

Spring is here, which means that the summer heat is already here in Arizona. We all know how essential having an effective air conditioning system in the home is to our comfort during an Arizona summer - as well as how expensive it can be to cool a home through the long, hot days, when temperatures can reach 122 degrees Fahrenheit!

Replacing that old air conditioner or upgrading to a central air conditioning system instead of using window units could save you a lot of money this summer and for many summers to come. Older, less energy efficient air conditioners cost a lot more to run than do the newer generations of Energy Star certified air conditioning systems. Summer electricity bills in Arizona can reach $300 a month for apartment dwellers...people who own homes, especially those with pools, can have real difficulty paying their sometimes enormous summertime utility bills.

A newer and more efficient central air conditioning system will keep you cooler than your older system even as it saves you many thousands of dollars over the life of your central AC system. In fact, upgrading to a new central cooling system can easily save you a thousand dollars or more in a just one Arizona summer! This is a level of savings which is makes switching to a new central air conditioning unit well worth the expense and effort; and of course, you'll also benefit from the increased performance of a new unit, which will keep you and your household cool and comfortable all summer long, summer after scorching Arizona summer.

Of course, replacing your old central air conditioner unit with a new unit is a significant expense. There's no way around that - but it's important to keep in mind that the amount that you'll be able to save on your energy costs by doing so will make this investment pay for itself; and an investment is exactly what it is. You'll be making your home a more comfortable place, saving a lot of money on your SRP or APS electricity bills and also increasing the value of your home!

Especially in these uncertain economic times, we could all use some savings wherever we can find them. Energy costs are a significant part of most household budgets. You may not necessarily be able to save on costs like your mortgage, gasoline or insurance - but your energy bills are something that you as a homeowner can take measures to directly reduce your expenses. You can save a significant amount of money on electricity bills in Arizona, which can skyrocket into the many hundreds of dollars in the summer, even while keeping your home the coolest on your block!

Additionally, having a recently installed, energy-efficient central air conditioning system in a home makes a property in Arizona far more valuable and more attractive to prospective buyers. In fact, without an air conditioning unit, most houses won't sell in Arizona - it just gets too hot, with summertime temps averaging well over 100 degrees. Of course, even if you never plan to sell your home, you and your entire family will be able to enjoy your new AC system for years to come.

Another thing to remember about upgrading to an energy efficient new central air system is that there are currently utility rebates and tax credits available in Arizona to consumers who decide to make the change. Many manufacturers and local retailers of central air conditioning systems are currently offering rebates and other promotions, such as 20% off certain top brands of air conditioners like Carrier, Trane and Goodman, to encourage homeowners to adopt the newer systems. Many cities in Arizona are offering rebates, and be sure to check with your electricity provider, either Arizona Public Service (APS) or Salt River Project (SRP), to see if they are offering an incentive. There are also Energy Star tax credits available as part of the federal economic stimulus package - so if you've been thinking about replacing that old and inefficient central air conditioning unit with a more modern one, this is the time.

If you'd like to see a big savings on your electricity bill this summer, it's time to make this important investment in the comfort of your family, the value of your home and through the savings on your utility bills, your own financial stability. Replacing your old central air conditioner or having one installed if you are currently using window units will benefit your entire household. This summer promises to be nothing out of the ordinary, and in Arizona, that means the thermometer has already started climbing into the triple digits. Make sure that your home is a cool and comfortable place to relax and seek respite from the hot summer sun.

What You Don't Know About Portable Air Conditioner Efficiency

Portable air conditioners are a convenient method for providing supplemental or primary cooling in situations where the central air system is ineffective or a window air conditioner is impractical or prohibited. Unlike a window air conditioner, the portable version offers built in mobility for flexible installation and easy off-season storage.

But comparing the efficiency among portable air conditioners can be tricky because they are not subject to Energy Star guidelines (much like small space heaters) and the efficiency information provided by the manufacturer or retailer is sometimes incorrect.

1. Don't bother looking for the Energy Star label on portable air conditioners.

The Department of Energy, for unspecified reasons, states on their website they don't offer Energy Star ratings on portable air conditioners at this time.

2. Use the EER Instead - But Watch Out

Although Energy Star ratings are unavailable for portable AC's, the next best measure of energy efficiency is the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) which measures how many BTU's per hour are used for each watt of power a particular unit draws. An EER rating of 10 or higher is considered above average.

The EER number can usually be found in the product description or specifications, but even when it is available, it is sometimes incorrect. The most likely reason for this oversight is human error since the EER number is mistakenly under-stated as often as it's over-stated across a wide spectrum of brand names.

However, you can easily verify the EER of any portable air conditioner by dividing the number of BTUs by the wattage found in the product's specs.

For instance, the Whynter 14,000 BTU dual hose portable air conditioner consumes 1250 watts which works out to an above average EER of 11.2 (14,000/1250 = 11.2). Also, if the EER is NOT stated in the product description you can easily figure it out for yourself using this simple formula.

3. Cost to Operate a Portable Air Conditioner

As a group, portable ACs are surprisingly cheap to operate with hourly costs ranging from 10 cents per hour for compact 8,000 BTU models on up to 15-17 cents per hour for the large 14,000 BTU capacity models (based on a rate of 12 cents per kWh).

Although the cost to run is reflected in the EER - higher EER = fewer watts per BTUs - it can't hurt to know how much any given unit will cost to run.

If you know how much your local energy company charges per kWh (it's on your electric bill) and the appliance's wattage (from the product specs) you can figure out the cost to run just about any electric appliance with this simple formula: Watts x.001 x Cents/kWh = Cost To Run Per Hour.

Here's how the formula would look for an 1100 watt portable AC running at 12 cents per kWh: 1100 x.001 x.12 =.132 or 13 cents per hour rounded off.

How to Fix a Broken Air Conditioner

A faulty or broken down air conditioner can be a big annoyance, especially as it usually breaks down in the heat of summer in the middle of the say. Air conditioners can fail for a variety of different reasons. Below is a checklist of 5 troubleshooting points that may help you get you air conditioning system up and running again.

1) Clean The Return Air Filter - A dirty filter can either reduce the output of an air conditioner or even damage the system if it becomes very blocked. A simple clean of the filter can easily get your system up and running again. You should aim to clean your filter every few weeks or as needed.

2) Examine The Controller - Owner error is the main reason an air conditioning controller can cause the system problems. Some things to check are to see if the controller has batteries, check the temperature set on the controller and check to see if heating or cooling is chosen. All these things can cause an air conditioner to not work correctly. Also be wary of adding timers and programs unless you know how to use and set your controller. If you are at all unsure about the controllers operation, speak with the company that installed your system.

3) Check The Compressor Coil - If your hvac system is not running, check around the compressor for damage. Anything that looks unusual or even sounds unusual can be a sign of damage. Be sure to check to make sure that the coils are not obstructed by anything and make sure nothing is stuck in the fan.

4) Reset The Power - Try restarting the unit to fix an air conditioner that has stopped working. Simply turn the unit off at the meter box for about a minute and then restart. This quick and simple trick has been known to restart a system many times.

5) Look At The Ducting - With central air conditioners or ducted units, be sure to get up into the roof to examine the ducting. Look for any lose fittings that may be causing problems. Also check that the duct runs are smooth as any sharp bends can restrict airflow.

Try these 5 hvac troubleshooting tips and hopefully you should be able to get your hvac system up and running again. If you still have problems after trying these 5 points, it is time to call in an air conditioning contractor.

Why Have Air Conditioning Duct Repairs?

If you've never had air conditioning duct repairs at your home or commercial establishment, it's high time you consider getting one. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems are designed to control the good quality indoor air entering your household, and if not taken care of can result to severe health effects to the individuals and pets living within abode. Most duct problems worsen during the colder months or due to accumulation of cigarette smoke. By repairing them you eliminate the cigarette smell gradually. Explained here are some key reasons as to why you should regularly seek duct repairs.

Air conditioning duct repair should be considered when there are visible mold deposits inside the ducts. These come as a result of regular moisture collection by the air conditioning ducts. The mold spores contaminate the air within your home leading to allergic reactions in family members or even pets. The general symptoms of mold allergies comprise clogging of nose with mucus, shortness of breath and producing a wheezing sound when breathing. The other reason can be when rodents and insects make the ducts their habitat. This worsens when their fecal matter particles contaminate the air.

Lastly, it can be due to presence of dust cakes inside the ducts. This is often a result of snow that clogs up your air conditioner and can do a lot of harm. The dust cakes contain over 250 diverse allergens, which are definitely not worth inviting. Therefore, it is important to hire experienced professionals for duct repair or even try doing it yourself. This is because your health and your family's depend on this. There are also many organizations that can offer the air conditioning services both installation and repair.

You can decide to do the maintenance all by yourself, but it is advisable to regularly contact professional duct cleaners particularly when the climate is humid. This cleaning which includes blowers and coils is done to keep up an efficient functioning of the conditioning ducts. You'll realize that the clean up facilitates easy breathing as well as energy saving since it enhances the system's ability to cool down your home or organization. The duct clean up system is also essential for removing moisture especially during the cold seasons. This is found in the conditioning system's condenser coil.

The condition system condenser coil is important for getting rid of heat from the indoor air and thus the moisture can easily condense in it. The disadvantage of having the moisture is that it creates room for air dust particles to attach themselves on the coils which slow down the cooling process as well as the dehumidification that had occurred. It is therefore a good idea to have frequent air conditioning duct repair. In cases where your air condition duct system has failed, the air's moisture has a tendency of condensing on the inner parts of the air condition ducts.

Dos and Don'ts For the Air Conditioning

Do you have any doubts about you using your air conditioning unit efficiently? Do you get huge energy bill each month? Improper usage of the electronic devices often results in the large consumption of electricity resulting in the huge bills every month.

We are providing you with some useful tips on operating your air conditioner in an efficient way and things which you should avoid doing as well.

If you are regularly keeping the thermostat settings to on, then you are totally wrong. When the compressor is working, it works on moving out the moisture from the room but when it is switched off; the fan alone is blowing and is in fact bringing all the moisture back in the room. You get a zero cooling effect here. In fact humidity levels will shoot and your electricity consumption will shoot up.

How frequently you replace the filter in your air conditioner? Many units may require replacement of filters and few would need just cleaning regularly. You can easily get filter replacements from the local hardware shop. Filters in the air conditioners usually get clogged with the dirt and dust and as a result if not cleaned regularly, have to work more hardly for pumping out the cool air. This could push your energy bills to new heights! Just make cleaning the filter in your air conditioning unit a monthly task to achieve the best from your unit.

A most common mistake which people usually make is to keep thermostat settings on the coldest point just on the onset of summers! Just set the thermostat at efficient level of 78 degrees for summer and 68 degrees for winter to get proper cooling from your air conditioning unit.

Do you get your air conditioner regularly serviced by a qualified technician? Your air conditioner needs to be regularly serviced for ensuring a proper level of the refrigerant level and efficient operation. If the level of refrigerant is too high or low, the performance of the unit is adversely affected and could also result in expensive mechanical damages in the long run.

A rule of the thumb to smooth operation of any machinery is to maintain a proper schedule for its service. You will not desire to just keep on making huge investments in your air conditioner only to have this conk out by your negligence!

6 Ways to Lower Business Costs Through Commercial HVAC

Business owners are always looking for ways to lower their operating costs, and one of the easiest ways to do this is by upgrading and maintaining your commercial HVAC system. Of course how much you will save and the exact route you will need to take in order to cut costs will vary from business to business, depending on what kind of commercial HVAC system you have.

Here are six ways you can save money by replacing or doing better maintenance on your HVAC system:

1. Adjust your company procedures slightly so that there is not as much strain on your HVAC system. Move lunch hour to the hottest time of the day during summer so that you can turn the air conditioner up and install programmable thermostats to adjust the temperature at these times. This will not only save money on your air conditioning bill but also save wear and tear on your HVAC system.

2. Perform regular maintenance on the heating and cooling components of your commercial HVACsystem. The condenser coils should be cleaned regularly, belts and filters should be changed, and duct leaks should be patched up. By keeping your system running smoothly, you could save up to 30 percent of the energy you spend on fans and up to 10 percent of the energy you spend on heating or cooling various spaces.

3. Cut the cost of operating the fans that push the air throughout the building by having adjustable speed drives put in. These drives adjust the motor speed of the fans so that they are only moving the amount of air that you actually need. This will save you 30 to 40 percent off of your heating and cooling costs each year.

4. Replace all units that are more than 10 years old with newer, more energy efficient models. A high efficiency commercial HVAC system can save you up to 40 percent of the energy that is spent on models that just barely meet the minimum standards for energy efficiency and possibly even more than that if you are replacing a totally outdated system that doesn't even meet the minimum standards anymore. The most efficient units have a SEER higher than 11 or 12.

5. Have an energy management system put in, especially if you aren't ready to replace a complicated old HVAC system. The energy management system will give you various options for temperatures in different zones, as well as control temperatures changes according to times when equipment will be firing up or shutting down for the day. An energy management system can save you up to 40 percent on your systems.

6. Instead of repairing pumps or fans, replace them with more efficient models that will save you money on operating costs.

For a more radical change, you might even consider putting in an evaporative cooler, which are much more energy efficient than ordinary air conditioners. If you live in an area that has very low humidity in most of the year, then your business may especially benefit from this change.

Of course there are numerous other ways you can save money by making small adjustments to your HVAC system, and as you can see, you do not even have to follow all of these tips to save a significant amount of money on your operational costs. Some of these tips require a larger investment than others, so it all depends on where your business is financially right now and whether it is time to replace some of your HVAC equipment.

A Look at the Top AC Brands

While there isn't an official list of air conditioner brands, there have been many unofficial accounts of the preferred brands for both quality and efficiency. Two brands that consistently rank in the top five air conditioner brands are Trane and Carrier due to their long-standing reputation for excellence.

What sets these two brands apart from their competitors?

Trane: Space-Aged AC

Trane has earned a strong reputation in the air conditioning industry with over one hundred years of excellence in home heating and cooling.

Trane air conditioners are known for:

• high efficiency in all models


• established strict requirements for technicians who install Trane equipment


• recognized for excellence by peers and technicians


• produced their first air conditioning unit in 1931


• incorporates the latest technology in their models


• Trane equipment used in the Apollo 15 Lunar Rover in 1971

Carrier: The inventor of air conditioning

Carrier air conditioners also have a long history of satisfied customers and a strong reputation. Carrier thermostats such as the ComfortZone II are preferred by many customers for their functionality and ease of use.

Other things that Carrier is recognized for include:

• energy efficiency recognized by Energy Star and the EPA


• economically responsible research and design


• impressive cooling abilities


• Use of "ozone friendly" refrigerants


• Largest HVAC producer and distributor in the United States

You have many choices when it comes to air conditioner brands to install in your home, and making the right choice now will save you both hassle and time later. Going with a trusted brand is important because you can feel confident that they will stand behind their product. Additionally, a warranty from a company with a strong history and reputation is a warranty that you can rely on for as long as you keep your air conditioner.

Another important thing to consider when evaluating the relative merits of each AC brand is that choosing a good contractor is just as important as installing a good system. Even the best system will not work as efficiently as possible or last for as long if it is not installed and maintained by an experienced and properly trained professional.

Just Add Air Conditioning Refrigerant - Why It's Not Always Cool

Adding refrigerant to a car's air conditioning system is a quick easy way to make your car blow cold air again right? Well although this practice is very common - people are many times adding freon without any idea of what the pressure readings are and this can be dangerous. And many times the problem won't even be low refrigerant, but if ac gauges are not used how is one you know? Blindly putting 134A into a cars air conditioning system without knowing the capacity, how much is in the system already or even knowing what the low and high side readings are, is not recommended. Using an inexpensive single hose, no gauge A/C charging kit like the ones sold at parts stores can cause damage to the cars AC system. Overcharging can ruin a compressor and adding stop leak included in many of the DIY 134A charging kits can restrict flow in key components. 

Using an air conditioning A/C manifold gauge set and seeing BOTH high and low side readings only makes sense. It's the way professional auto technicians check an A/C system. You need to know gauge readings to look for. Normal readings, high readings, low readings all tell a story. On a 134A system the high and low side service ports are different sizes and cannot be reversed. Only charge through the low side, this is the blue color coded side. So when a system is determined to be low, the refrigerant will be hooked up to the yellow hose and the blue knob on the A/C gauge set will be opened to allow refrigerant to flow into the system. Once the proper readings Are obtained and cold air is blowing again the job is done. It's common for systems to have a very slow loss of freon over time. But if the system loses it's charge quickly, the leak needs to be diagnosed and repaired. 

Most Common Tools Needed For AC Repair

1. A/C Gauge Set 


2. Thermometer


3. Electronic Leak Detector


4. Vacuum Pump

Air Conditioning - The Most Important Part

What makes one air conditioning system better than the next? Is one brand of air conditioner better than the other? Does a higher efficiency system make it better than a lower efficiency unit? What is it that can make or break a system?

When many people decide that they need to buy a new, or replace their air conditioning unit they may start by doing a search for the dealer that installs the brand name that they are most familiar with. Or they may just pick the dealer that is closest to them. Maybe they just ask their friends who they would recommend.

A few lessons on air conditioners first. There are only a few manufacturers of compressors, the most important part of the unit. It is very likely the brand A, B, or C all will have the same brand compressor inside.
Next, the coil configurations of many brands are basically the same. Making little difference there, also.
The physical sizes are very similar per ton. The indoor units often are so identical that you have to look at the label to see who made it. Often times different brands are made on the same assembly line and different labels are attached to the units as needed to fill the orders of a particular company.

What is the most important part of an air conditioning system installation? It is the human factor. Does the person that looks at your house and sizes the unit know what they are doing? If you called company X and they ask you the square footage of your house and then said you needed Y unit, make that is the last time you talk to them. There is no way anyone and do a correct installation that way. If the sales person came out to the house and stood across the street with three fingers up and then told you that a three ton unit was what you needed then give them the boot!

To size a heating or air conditioning unit properly a complete heat loss/gain calculation is needed. To do this properly some experience is helpful and detailed numbers are a must. The r value of the insulation in the house is needed. The door and window sizes are very important. The condition of the doors and windows are a very critical factor. The orientation of the windows can make a very big difference. Large southwest facing windows can increase a cooling load by tons. The location of a building will also be a very big factor. Obviously a house in Florida will need to have more cooling than a house in Maine. The point is that you should insist on a detailed heat loss/gain calculation along with every quote. They will vary some from program to program and from differences in the human input to the programs. You should be able to get a good idea of what you after seeing a few different ones. Throw out the extremes and go with the average.

The other factor that is very important to consider is workmanship. The best air conditioning system installed incorrectly is still junk. If the copper piping from the condenser to the air handler is not sized correctly or is not installed properly the system will not work right or last long. Maybe even more important is the quality of the ductwork that distributes the heating or cooling to the building. If the tape that holds the joints together comes apart and allows the ductwork to leak then you are now heating or cooling unwanted areas. Sometimes as big as the outside. Now that will mess with your efficiency and not exactly in a good way. So make sure that the workmanship on the ductwork in up to the highest standards. Many times after the installation it can be very difficult to repair leaking ductwork at all. Good quality repairs are just not going to happen. If the ductwork in metal the same goes. Metal can also have many leaks if it is not formed or installed correctly. I have seen many hack jobs over the years with both ductboard and metal.

My experience with heating and air conditioning systems has taught me that even the best equipment can be ruined by a poor installation. Finding the right contractor to do your installation may take some time. You may have to wait to get the contractor that will do the best work for you. Overall the wait will be worth it. Even if a good contractor has higher prices to install your air conditioning system it will be worth it in the long run. Your energy costs will be much lower over the lifetime of the system.

Cutting the Cost of Using Central Heating

With the economy being what it is many people are looking for ways to cut the cost of using central heating in their homes and businesses. Cutting utility costs can allow a family to have more available cash for the other things they may need. At this time of year people start to tighten the purse strings where they can in preparation of the upcoming holidays.

One of the easiest ways of cutting the cost of using central heating is to set the thermostat in one position and leave it there. When you adjust the thermostat controls up and down you cause the unit to have to kick on more often. It is the compressor in these units that pull the most electricity so keeping the compressor from having to kick on saves you money.

When the house seems to be cool to you then you need to put on a sweater to keep you warm. If you are watching television place a throw blanket on your lap to generate some heat, and getting up and moving around will also create warmth in your body. Just keep your hands off of the thermostat. In times when you get a severe chill that you cannot seem to get over you should try taking a warm shower. The hot water of the shower will help to warm you on the inside and the outside as well. Drinking warm liquids like coffee, tea, and hot chocolate also will increase your internal temperature.

When the house is warmer than you like you should use fans or ceiling fans to help create a breeze in the room and lower the temperature. The fan uses less electricity than the compressor on the appliance does. A fan cause also isolate the cool air to a location where the person that is too warm is rather than making the entire house a lower temperature.

Central heating is designed to keep all areas of the home or business at the same temperature. So another thing you can do to reduce the operating cost of the system is to close off the vents in the rooms that are unoccupied. If you have bedrooms in your home that are designed for guests to use and are not currently being occupied go inside the room and close the vent cover so that the piped air from the central heating unit does not flow through them. When you require the room to be heated you simply open the vent covers a few hours before your guests arrive. This saves a lot of money on the yearly energy bills.

Think of the other rooms inside your home that may not get used on a daily basis. All of those rooms can have the vents shut off so that you stop heating them unnecessarily. Dens, formal dining rooms, formal living rooms, and sewing or craft rooms, are a few of these types of areas that are not used every day so they do not need to be heated every day.

Air Conditioning Repairs and Maintenance - Tips and Suggestions

Machines eventually die out or become dysfunctional, if not properly maintained or repaired at timely intervals. A disruption caused to any of the essential household machines triggers inconvenience, especially if you need to operate the machine everyday. For instance, air conditioning system should be monitored at regular intervals to ensure that the machine stays in good condition. The tips on air conditioning repairs processes enable in implementing definite ways of getting your air conditioner back in shape even from the worst condition.

The Repairing and Maintenance Tips

The summer months seem enduring with so much heat draining energy out of the body. Every individual would love to return home amidst a cool and peaceful ambience for some respite. In that case, no one would prefer to have a machine that disrupts often. The right tip is to get the air conditioner verified by professionals.. A simple step can do a major job. Remove the accumulated debris or dirt from the external unit and this will solve the problem. Your air conditioner will function smoothly and be a new machine once again.

Remember that the air filter should be checked once in a month to ensure that it is dirt free. A clogged air filter will turn up heat inside the room, instead of plummeting temperature. Though you might think that you can fix the air conditioner easily by your own hands, but the process is not as simple as it looks.

You need the right technician and professional advice to fix problems. But before you let any professional enter your room for repairing make sure that he is a reliable source and belongs from the right organization. Remember air conditioning maintenance procedures are the right ways to curtail repairing cost. To make things happen, you should consult with professionals to know how to go about your job.

There are advantages of possessing an old unit since it is instilled with many original parts and can be repaired with repairing know-how. On the contrary, the new units are customized with complicated parts, which are difficult to be repaired. Besides, you will find the new parts quite expensive due to electronic and digital complications.

An air conditioner with less than ten years of usage can be suitably repaired, since it stays in the condition to be repaired. You can also enjoy the fact that the parts that need to be replaced will also cost less, thus enabling you to enjoy the best features. Every time your air conditioner gets defunct, you need to rush for replacing the old one with a brand new. Remember, proper maintenance will help prolong an air conditioner's working life. If you are conscious enough and remember to change the air filter or remove the grime and dirt, it will continue to work efficaciously.

Hence, curtail the repairing cost with cautious maintenance procedures within minimal cost from the day you purchase the highly priced machine.

Is Home Air Conditioning a Must Have?

Home air conditioning provides many benefits over running fans or even the traditional air conditioning unit that is installed via the window. For one thing, home ac units are centrally controlled. Unlike window limited units, these home air conditioning units have the capability of cooling the entire home at one time, via an air duct system that pumps the air and evenly distributes it throughout the house. With the window units, they are not only becoming obsolete, but they are limited in their usage.

Typically these units only distribute a comfortable amount of cooled air about the room in which they are installed. They also burn more energy and in turn cause higher electric bills and even presents a danger to circuit breakers. Besides these disadvantages, these units are also extremely bulky and heavy and often requires a team of two or more persons for installation. The further danger is having a window opened in which the unit is installed and having it fall out potentially hurting someone severely that may be in its path. Centralized units combats all of these worries with the convenience and efficiency of its design.

Next to the bulky obsolete air conditioning units comes traditional fans. Many think that these devices are better for cooling and saving energy but they too present similar problems as with the window installed units.

Besides being lighter in weight, these units also present an issue with circuitry that has the potential to start fires, particularly when multiple units are running, as would be the case for homes with multiple areas that need to be cooled. They may stretch further in their capacity to cool, but these units merely circulate the air already about the home. There is no temperature control or actual cooling of the air and this can present a major problem of pollutants and quality of air.

Centralized air conditioning units for the home combat all of these issues. For one, they require less energy usage because of the efficiency of air distribution. They also operate on a separate system than outlets and plugins to ensure safety from fires while they also have the capacity to actually cool the air with its temperature controlled settings. The user can set the temperature to a desired point and allow for the unit to automatically shut on and off depending on the homes temperature. This in itself provides for less energy usage and more savings.

Most units also have a built in fan system that can circulate the crisp cool air built up in the home for added savings against running the cooling mechanism continuously.

There are also health advantages to using these units, which include the better air quality that comes with temperature controlled cooling over running fans. Home units have installed filtration systems to trap air dust and other polluting particles to give a cleaner more breathable environment. This helps against such chronic disorders as asthma, coughing and sneezing and lessens the chance of sickness. The air we breathe is important and home air conditioning units are sure to provide a safer option.

How to Buy a New Air Conditioning Unit

Do need a new air conditioning unit? Summer heat can be very annoying and when you don't have air conditioner or you need a new air conditioner, it can be confusing to select the brand, model and style. You really can't do without it at home or in the office. When you visit an appliance center or an electronics center, you will be overwhelmed with all the kinds of air conditioners that are on display. When you choose the wrong air conditioning unit, you will need to bring it back to store which is a waste of time.

Before going to the store, measure the room where you need the air conditioner. Buying a very big air conditioning unit will be a waste of electricity. You also need to check the size of the window where you will install the unit. The salesperson can tell you the BTU of the unit depending on the size of the room. You also need to make sure that the size of the unit will be good for the size of the window.

With global warming and climate change wreaking havoc on millions and millions of people, we should always be on the side of green. Check the unit it is has Energy Star Ratings of 10 to 12. You will not only contribute to the protection of our environment, you are also lowering down your consumption of electricity which will lower down your expenses.

You should also make sure that the unit is easy to operate. The control for the thermostat and fan should be working. The remote control should be working also.

As for the brands, you can check online forums and you can consult your friends who have bought air conditioners already as to what brands they can recommend. You may also have an inkling for a particular brand.

Make sure that you compare prices from different stores so that you can get the best deal.

Insulate Yourself From Discomfort and Reduce Your Monthly Heating and Cooling Expenses

Whether it's new construction or improving the existing insulation on a completed home, there are a lot of different types of insulation materials from which to choose.  Not all insulation is created equal though and not all insulation can be used on existing completed structures.  Proper insulation will lower your monthly heating costs and cooling costs, but you must know how to shop for the right material.

The most commonly used insulation has been the traditional fiberglass batting that can be found in any brick and mortar home improvement store.  Some home improvement stores even carry polyiso foam board insulation. Concrete insulation is not as common or as inexpensive as other types and is used while building new construction. SIPS or structural insulated panels are a relatively new and highly effective type of insulated wall, but is only used for new construction as well.  Loose fill insulation is blown into wall cavities and is commonly found in attic spaces or walls.  Each of these types of insulating materials will reduce costs.  You need to check the "R" factor that is listed on the insulation to determine how efficient it is.  The higher the R-Factor, the more efficient the material is and the lower your monthly air conditioning bill should be.

The last two types of insulation have become quite common and beneficial, especially for use in completed existing structures.  Polyurethane spray foam insulation is commonly used in walls and ceilings, and are excellent for filling in irregular wall cavities.  Radiant barriers and reflective foils are used quite frequently to drastically reduce heat transfer through attics, ceilings, and floors.  Radiant barriers like Temper Shield help to regulate the temperature in the living quarters during the summer months and greatly reduce the loss of heat from the interior of the home during the winter months.  This translates to more even temperatures and lower utility costs throughout the year.

Only fiberglass batting, spray foam, polyiso boards, and radiant barrier films are able to be considered do-it-yourself methods of insulation.  However, it is only recommended for small areas should the homeowner decide to attempt the installation themselves.  For larger areas or higher volume spaces, obtaining the services of a professional installer is highly recommended to ensure proper installation.  This will guarantee maximum insulation benefits and maximum savings as well as a quick and frustration-free time for the homeowner.

Having a home energy audit performed is always a good method to identify where the worst and poorly insulated areas of a home are located.  Once the results are learned, then the homeowner will be in a better position to determine the best type of insulation to have installed.  Once that is done, the savings on fuel and electricity for heating and cooling a home will be realized over the expense of investing in the family's home and comfort.

Sleeping Right Next to an Air Conditioner

Some people find that they cannot get to sleep at night during the summer unless their room is ice cold. Which is somewhat funny since some of these same people insist on being nice and warm during the winter. Anyways, it is important to make sure that you are not over doing it when it comes to sleeping with an air conditioner on at night. Fresh air is always best but if you cannot sleep with your window open for safety concerns or fears than go ahead and stick with the air conditioner. Just make sure that the room does not get too cold though.

You would be surprised how many people will end up with a cold in the middle of a hot summer because they slept in a room that got below forty degrees. In order to make sure that the room does not get too cold, you might want to look into a temperature controlled air conditioner.

There are window units that allow you to punch in the exact temperature that you want and then the unit will shut off when it gets to that temperature instead of continuing to make the room colder. As the room heats up some, the air conditioner will kick back on in order to get the temperature back to your desired setting.

These window air conditioner units usually cost a little bit more but not by much. If you want to make sure that you have a comfortable night of sleep without freezing to death, these are the air units to go for.

An Introduction to Portable Air Conditioners and Window Air Conditioners

In periods of hot weather, everyone has its little trick to preserve some freshness inside the house: put a wet towel over the windows, place a bowl of ice in front of a fan...

But from a certain temperature, these tips are no longer sufficient, and we must move to more effective solutions.

Maybe you are reluctant to invest in a "heavy" air conditioning system, expensive and complicated to install? If so, I suggest you to take a look at portable air conditioners and window air conditioners.

Portable air conditioners are not simple fans: they are complete devices, able to regulate the temperature of a room by producing cool air. However they are not the "heavy" devices you can see in some buildings, and they do not have to be installed by a professional for an expensive price.

The two main types of devices you can install by yourself are:

Portable air conditioners:

These units consist of a single unit and have two advantages. First, their price: these air conditioners are among the cheapest types. And second, their mobility: since they are mounted on wheels, they can follow you in all parts of the house. Prices start below $300 for the lowest powers.

Window air conditioners:

These devices are fitted on a window opening. The part inside the house provides fresh air, and the part outside expels hot air. Contrary to what many people think, they are not difficult to install, and they come with all the needed accessories (mounting brackets, extensions to fill spaces, etc). Prices are similar to the portable versions.

Is an air conditioner only for the hot season?

Now, you may think that your air conditioning device won't be useful during the winter. But this is usually not the case! First, many air conditioners combine several functions: air conditioning, but also ventilation, air filtration and dehumidification.

Many are also equipped with a "reversible" function: the simplest models can then be used during winter to provide some supplemental heating, while the higher range models can advantageously replace your heating system!

This will allow you to adjust the temperature, summer and winter, with a single installation. The big advantage is that, contrary to a typical electric heater, these devices can produce nearly 3 times more heating power than they consume, because they work by "pumping" thermal energy from the outside.

Finally, your air conditioner can also be used as a simple fan. This is a very economical way to handle the heat, and it works very well for a moderately hot weather.

Robinair 15600 AC Vacuum Pump

The name Robinair is synonymous with quality and respect in the automotive air conditioning industry. They produce a full line of air conditioning service products and are used by professional mechanics worldwide. One of their best known products in their top of line high quality vacuum pumps is the Robinair 15600. This model is the choice of professional air conditioning mechanics and auto shops worldwide.

The most common air conditioning vacuum pump is the Robinair 15600. This versatile vacuum pump is a 6 cfm, 2 stage vacuum pump that is most often found in the automotive service shops. For the professional automotive shop, the 6 cfm is minimum size vacuum pump you need. This size can handle vehicle air conditioning systems ranging from a car all the way to buses and RVs. The Robinair 15600 has the cfm to removc moisture and air from most vehicle air conditioning systems. This unit has the power reach a 600 micron vacuum in under 60 minutes on most air conditioning systems. A weaker unit takes more than twice that amount of time. Also, the latest A/C systems are built to much tighter specifications and getting a good solid vacuum has never been more important. The reason is the modern systems are far less tolerant to contaminants and moisture build up and this can cause long term damage. If moisture builds up in the lines, it can crystallize at expansion points in the air conditioning system. This is why pulling a good vacuum is critical. A good solid vacuum in the system will evaporate the moisture and prevent "freeze up". Moisture causes many other problems. High moisture levels combined with refrigerants is very corrosive to air conditioning systems. You will not notice the effects of corrosion until its done some serious damage.

It may be tempting to use an inexpensive Venturi type vacuum pump. This type a vacuum pump works off of shop air to produce a vacuum on an air conditioning system. They are cheap and relatively easy to use. However, they will not pull a proper vacuum and they leave damaging moisture behind. The Robinair 15600 vacuum pump is a 2 stage model that runs off of 110 volts. The 2 stage rotary design and high cfm rating on the 15600 insure you will get the required 600 microns of vacuum. (It can achieve this under 60 minutes saving you time as well.) Venturi type vacuum pumps are really made for the home garage mechanic and professional air conditioning service techs do not use them. A good 2 stage vacuum pump will pay for itself over time and produce far better results.

Robinair produces vacuum pumps with lower cfm ratings and they may be fine for your particular application. All of the Robinair vacuum pumps are 2 stage and built to the industry's highest standards. But if your operating a automotive service shop or maintain a varied fleet of cars and trucks, the Robinair 15600 should have you covered for most air conditioning systems.

Window Mounted Fans Vs Air Conditioning Units

These days, air conditioning units have become commonplace in households because of their ability to provide cool air. This is particularly useful during summer when the heat can become very uncomfortable. With just a push of a button, cool air will quickly fill the space creating a cool, refreshing environment. The problem with air conditioning units is that they consumes a lot of electricity which means your electric bill will significantly increase if it is used constantly. With many people feeling the financial impact of the last half decade, many have chosen to invest rather in cost effective and economical electric fans.

If you want fresh air coming in your room without having to open your window, a window mounted fan should be your option.

What is a window fan?

Window fans are those made to perfectly fit your window frames. Just like any other forms of electric fans, it is used to circulate air, but with the advantage of taking cooler air from outside in the process making the cooling process quicker and more effective. There are also dual window fans that you can pick. This type of fan looks like two electric fans placed side by side joined by a common frame. You can make use of this when your window is longer than the usual size.

Misconceptions

One of the main reasons why a lot of us avoid using fans is because we think that it will ruin the look of our rooms. We often imagine these items as large and unattractive appliance just like an old basement window fan. Contrary to what you may think, fans have actually evolved in line with the needs of people. Modern fans have sleek and sophisticated looks that can match well to any furniture style in any areas of your home.

Modern fans are now available in various sizes and colors so you can choose the perfect color to match your furniture or ornaments. They are also less noisy compared to the older versions as a result of the modern mechanisms used to draw the air through the machines. You won織t have to worry, any longer, about putting up the volume on your TV or radio every time you switch on your fan.

If you are planning to buy a window fan, make sure that you get the exact measurement of your window frame to prevent any problems with the installation. Also consider the size of the fan, the bigger the fan the cooler the room will be.

Using a fan in your home is very practical since it is a cost effective and efficient means of getting cool and fresh air. It is not only less expensive but is also an earth friendly alternative compared to using air conditioning units.

How to Power Flush Central Heating

Power flushing works by removing the build up of sludge, limescale and corrosive deposits that accumulate in a central heating system naturally over time, these build up due to the constant flow of water through the system, causing rusting.

A power flushing machine is connected to the central heating at a convenient point for you (usually at the tails of a radiator), which pumps water through the system at high velocity, dislodging the build up of unwanted materials. To prevent damage to the system, the water is pumped through at low pressure. Cleaning chemicals are added to the water to improve effectiveness; how these work, is by eating away at the unwanted materials, which then flow out to a filter attached to the power flushing machine. Once the all of the unwanted materials have been cleared out, clean water, with no cleaning chemicals, is pumped through, until only clean pH neutral water is left in the system.

How long it takes to flush the system out will depend on the size and condition of the system, but it is usually between 4 and 8 hours.

Bleeding a radiator as the easiest way to check if the central heating needs to be flushed out. Dirty or cloudy water indicates the build up of unwanted materials and a power flush is recommended.

If you are experiencing any problems such as strange boiler noises, the boiler or radiators becoming slow to warm up, radiator cold spots or fluctuating hot water temperature, there is likely to be a build up of unwanted materials in the system. Also, if your central heating is 10 or more years old and has not been flushed out before, a lot of unwanted materials will have built up over this time, so a power flush is recommended.

If a new boiler is being fitted to an existing central heating system, a power flush of the existing system first is essential. This is because of how new boilers are designed to improve efficiency; new boilers have much narrower passageways then older models, this means they are more susceptible to the problems caused by the build up of unwanted materials. A new boilers warranty may be invalid if the existing system was not flushed out prior to its installation.

A power flush can save you money is by preventing problems with a central heating system, reducing the likelihood of a breakdown, which could cost a lot to repair. The system will be running to its top level of efficiency having been flushed out, reducing both carbon emissions and your energy bills.

Only a Gas Safe registered heating engineer should power flush gas central heating systems. How you can be sure is to ask to see an engineer's Gas Safe registration card before they begin.

Cooling Your Sunroom With Air-Conditioning

Air-conditioning provides comfort:

Comfort level in the sunroom is increased with the installation of an air-conditioner. Different people adopt different methods of maintaining a comfortable environment in the sunroom. Some methods are more expensive than the others, but whatever you adopt, it is for keeping the sunroom comfortable and cool at all times. Some people prefer to have the air-conditioner on even in the winter season, so it becomes essential to install one, anyways.

Enjoy the warmth of the sun too:

By installing air-conditioning at the same time you can enjoy the warmth of the sun all through the year. Options of installing air-conditioning are many. Some prefer central air-conditioning, where the compressor, coils etc. are fixed at a location outside the house, while the equipment responsible for cooling is kept indoors. Hot air from inside the house is routed out of the house through the connecting ducts that help in cooling the entire house.

Some homes have the sunroom attached to them. In such cases it becomes easier to have the air conditioning system extended from the home into the sunroom by using an additional ducting system to connect both the rooms. The sunroom thus receives the same amount of cooling along with the rest of the rooms in the house. The provision of a combination of a valve and a thermostat helps in maintaining different temperature in different rooms, depending on the rate of temperature you require in each room.

It should be ensured that the centralized air-conditioning system is able to handle any excess load due to the provision made for the sunroom. Instead of making separate arrangements for the sunroom it is always better to eliminate any extra ducting work for the sunroom. And moreover if the sunroom is not too big you can also have the mini split units which don't occupy too much space in the sunroom. They can easily be mounted on any of the sunroom walls and they occupy less space too.

Factors Affecting Heat Pump Pricing

Buying an efficient and cost-effective device these days is very important and while you are determined that you will invest in a good heating and cooling device you might also be wondering whether you are looking at heat pump pricing that is reasonable and affordable.

Most consumers would opt to have the best deal for the money that they are going to spend.

When looking into heat pump pricing, there are certain factors that you must look at. Here's a rundown of these factors that might influence the price of the unit you are planning to purchase.

• Size of the unit - for this type of device, a larger unit will usually cost more thane than smaller ones. Units that do not have any attachments would also cost less than units that would require several add-ons to work efficiently.
  
  


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  General design and space to be occupied - the more complex the nature and features of a particular unit, the likely that you will have to spend more. The larger the space that you need to install the unit would also mean that you will have to allot additional money. In addition, additional pipes and wirings will be needed to make the unit operational.
  
  


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  Installation - this factor is sure to influence the overall heat pump pricing. The more complex the unit the higher the need for a professional to install it. This is in great contrast to simple units wherein you can just do the installation on your own. You just have to read the manual and you will have a unit operational in a couple of minutes. Unfortunately, for larger units, this cannot be done without any professional help. So this means that you really have to include in your calculation the professional fee for the technician and the additional add-ons such as wiring, pipes and digging fees for geothermal units.
  
  


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  Location of the unit - this also influences the amount to be allotted by the future owner. This is very true for units that are larger and more complex and those that require underground pipes for its operation. The more difficult it is to bury the pipes, the likely that the cost will also rise.

Many factors can influence heat pump pricing. Always do your research before you buy.

Window Air Conditioners

Window air conditioners are great ways to air condition your home without having to install an expensive central air conditioning unit. These appliances are easy to install and can be taken in and out at your own convenience if you so wish. Additionally, these units are not as hard on your wallet as other air conditioning units can be.

Finding the perfect size unit for your home, apartment or office is crucial before purchasing your window air conditioners. Many people tend to buy larger units thinking they will be more efficient in cooling your designated area however, they do not rid the warmer air of the humidity. The smaller units are not efficient enough and tend to cause your electricity bill to go up. With that said, you must know the area in which you are trying to cool before purchasing your next air conditioner.

These window air conditioners are great additions because you can uninstall and install them as you wish. If you do not tend to need air conditioning year round, you can place these appliances in your windows whenever you may need. However, if you wish to have a more permanent fixture, then you can also purchase permanent window air units.

Another great thing to know about your conditioner before purchasing would be how efficient they are compared to other units. There are many units that come with a certain EER or energy efficiency ratio. The main thing to know about this number is the higher, the better!

Obviously there are numerous other factors to keep in mind before purchasing your window air conditioners. It is advised to do as much research on a unit before purchasing.

Portable Air Conditioners - What's a BTU and Why Do I Care?

People have a strong need to simplify things, especially when it comes to long technical terms. Simplification often involves the use of acronyms or abbreviations. Such is the case with air conditioning. Those in the business throw out terms like BTU's and EER like everyone knows what they mean. But that's not the case. The purpose of this article is to help the reader understand what a BTU is, and what it means to them when choosing a portable air conditioner.

BTU is short for British Thermal Unit, defined as the amount of heat necessary to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit at one atmosphere of pressure. So it's a measurement of energy, specifically heat. So what does that have to do with air conditioning? Well, it's really a misnomer, since what it refers to is the power of an ac unit, which requires a time reference. So with air condition we really mean BTU's per hour, but everyone just shortens it to "BTU," and it refers to the ability of an air conditioner to change the temperature of air.

The higher the BTU rating, the greater the ability to change air temperature. So a 12,000 BTU unit will be able to cool more air than a 10,000 BTU unit in the same amount of time. Now we're getting somewhere. How much more? The ability to cool air is fairly linear with changing BTU (other factors come into play), but that's not the only consideration. Manufacturers of portable air conditioners often have a chart showing what size room a given btu rating should be able to cool adequately. But remember, they didn't test this in your home! Things like sun exposure, obstructions to air circulation, how cool you want the room, outside temperature, insulation, duct length, and whether or not you are supplementing central air, all come into play. Here's the next potentially confusing thing. Rooms are measured in square feet, which is really the size of the floor only. But rooms are three dimensional, they have height too. Air conditioners don't cool the floor, they cool the air, which occupies the entire room. The volume of a room depends also on the ceiling height.

So what is this all about? OK, finally I'll get to "what it means to you." Let's say you have ten foot ceilings in your home, and you have a 289 square foot (17 x 17) room that is too warm. By the charts, a 10000 BTU unit would be recommended for 300 square feet. But that's for standard eight foot ceilings. With ten foot ceilings, the volume of air is 20% higher, meaning the volume is equivalent to a 346 square foot room with eight foot ceilings. So a unit designed for 350 feet will probably be a better choice to cool your room efficiently, i.e. 11,000 BTU instead of 10,000.

Now that is a useful tidbit! The "other factors" mentioned above should also be considered when determining how many btu's to get. Basically, it's not a bad idea to upsize the unit a little over the size charts if you can afford it. I've seen many arguments both ways on this, but in my opinion, upsizing should allow the unit to cool more quickly, allowing it to run less. It also gives the option of using it in a larger room if needed