Month: April 2020

Heat pumps are a great addition to your Spring Hill, Florida home. That’s because these systems provide year-round comfort, and help lower energy costs. All you have to do is ensure your system is properly maintained. Here’s how heat pump maintenance can help increase your indoor comfort, avoid costly repairs, and improve your system’s efficiency.

Increase Indoor Comfort

Checking and changing your HVAC filters often is an essential task for your heat pump to do its job. We recommend checking your HVAC filters monthly and changing them at least once every quarter. The filter captures dust and dirt, holding it in the filter so it isn’t continually circulated throughout your home. This is one way that your heat pump helps to keep your indoor air clean and healthy. Failing to check and change the filter when it’s dirty can cause your filter to get clogged which prevents your system from circulating air efficiently. A dirty filter also causes your heat pump to work harder, shortening its lifespan and costing more in energy because it’s working harder and longer than it needs to.

Avoid Costly Repairs

Costly heat pump repair is something any homeowner would like to avoid, and professional maintenance can help you do so. During a heat pump maintenance visit, your expert technician will inspect, calibrate and clean every component of your system.

A comprehensive maintenance check can also help small issues with your system that might be going unnoticed, but could potentially turn into bigger problems and even complete system breakdowns – a Summer nightmare for any Florida resident.

Improve Your System’s Efficiency

Maintenance will ensure every component in your system is in top-notch condition to guarantee efficient heating and cooling for your home. Nevertheless, there are simple tasks that homeowners can perform that will also help improve your system’s efficiency. For example, you can check the condensate line and make sure it’s dripping. If it isn’t dripping when your AC is on, your AC could very well stop working, and a technician would need to clear the line and check to make sure everything else is working.

For more information about how heat pump maintenance can benefit you, check out Senica’s maintenance agreements or call us for more info.

This post appeared first on Senicaair.com

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a key factor in indoor environmental health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American spends 93% of their life indoors. This time could be at work, at home, or anywhere in between. With that much time indoors people are susceptible to the effects of indoor air pollution. This is a wide definition that can run from airborne dust and allergens to bacterial problems, to VOC’s or chemicals in the air. Groups that typically are most in danger of poor IAQ are the young, the elderly, and the chronically ill suffering from respiratory or heart disease, but with that much stuff in the air, are any of us safe?. To improve indoor air, most HVAC  systems, when properly sized and maintained, are set up to avert illness by eliminating airborne microbial contaminants, mostly through effective filtering. When there is inadequate ventilation, improper humidity, and exposure to contaminant sources in a building, the health of the IAQ is compromised. As a business and facility building owner or manager, working to achieve a healthy building for occupants is essential.

As it relates to the current pandemic crisis, many are questioning what role HVAC systems and good IAQ have in our overall health. We can only look to the scientific community for answers. 

Epidemiological studies have shown that buildings previously occupied by individuals infected or colonized with MRSA, VRE, or Acinetobacter baumannii are at a significant risk of acquiring these organisms from previously contaminated environmental sites. (Dancer et al. 2006, Boyce et al. 1997, Huang et al. 2006, Denton et al. 2005)

Building factors or pollution in buildings that are most frequently associated with respiratory health effects include:

• Presence of moisture, water damage, and microbiological pollutants.
• Animal and other biological allergens
• Combustion byproducts such as nitrogen dioxide.
• Moisture or dirt in HVAC systems.
• Low ventilation rates.
• Formaldehyde.
• Chemicals in cleaning products.
• Outdoor pollutants or vehicle exhaust.

IAQ in your building

According to OSHA, when you have poor indoor air quality inside your home it can cause headaches, fatigue, concentration problems, skin rashes, and eye, nose, throat, lung irritation, and chronic health problems such as asthma. EPA states that your indoor air is likely 2 to 5 times more polluted than the air outside. To keep indoor air quality inside a building in top shape, is it important to control the building’s humidity. The EPA recommends a range of 30-50% humidity in your space. Bacteria and viruses thrive and circulate through poorly maintained building ventilation systems, as with Legionnaires’ disease. Damp, humid air can increase the survival rate of viruses indoors. While keeping humidity down helps slow the process of mold, proper ventilation helps keep the air floor uncontaminated. Using a system with filters can help remove biological contaminants. When air is stagnant air disease is more likely to spread.  The EPA has created a Building Air Quality Guide: A Guide for Building Owners and Facility Managers. 

With all the uncertainty of the current climate, it is important to take care of the things you can control, like your indoor air quality. Clean, maintained HVAC systems will help prevent the spread of many environmental health issues. To keep HVAC Systems healthy regular maintenance is essential. 

A good place to start to achieve a healthy environment at work and home is ASHRAE’s article on Good IAQ Practices. 

Next Steps:

Check your basic skills on duct and ventilation system cleaning

Read: Better HVAC IAQ with Copper?

Get some tips and tricks to cleaning ducts and ventilation systems

This post appeared first on Goodway.com

Service Champions technician Frank was in a Huntington Beach home for a tune-up at the home of a WWII & Korean War veteran.

Frank noticed a lot of DVDs around the living room and started talking to the man about all the DVDs he had.

“Yes, I like movies but I’m having trouble with my DVD player,” the veteran said. “The remote isn’t talking to the receiver.”

“Well, let’s take a look at it and see if we can get it working,” Frank said.

After testing around a bit, both men realized the remote batteries were the problem – they showed evidence of corrosion.

Franks replaced the batteries with some fresh ones, then wiped down the DVD player so the sensor was clean. And just like that – everything worked like a charm.

“Oh, that makes a big difference!” the veteran said, happily.

“Yeah, it just needed a stronger signal.” Frank said.

To finish things up Frank helped him re-organize his DVD collection of classic Western movies, including a lot of John Wayne films like The Searchers, Rio Grande, and Rainbow Valley.

Thanks Frank for serving a veteran who served our country – that’s another Good Deed For Free!

We know you have questions and concerns about the COVID-19 virus and operating/ maintaining your HVAC system. In this article, we’ll share the most accurate and up-to-date information available to help you make decisions.

The fact is, the COVID-19 crisis has developed so quickly that there has not yet been sufficient time for scientific studies to prove definitively whether the virus can be (or is likely to be) transmitted through an HVAC system. Much of the evidence that does exist is based on what is known about similar viruses.

Here’s a summary of what we can tell you with confidence at this time:

Let’s start with the good news: To date there is no conclusive proof that COVID-19 has been transmitted through a ducted HVAC system. The virus is transmitted primarily through direct contact with an infected person and to a lesser extent by touching a contaminated surface.

Experts say that airborne transmission of COVID-19 is theoretically possible, due to the ability of small droplets of virus particles to stay airborne for a period of hours under some conditions. It is presumed that some particles may stay airborne long enough to enter an air distribution system. However, experts believe that the risk of transmission this way is small.

There are mitigation tactics that can help to further reduce the possibility of your HVAC system becoming contaminated with the COVID-19 virus. It’s important to realize that these tactics must be part of a more comprehensive plan that includes preventing the primary means of COVID-19 transmission: person-to-person contact and contact with contaminated surfaces.

None of the mitigation tactics are foolproof. And some have significant disadvantages.

Here are answers to some of the specific questions we are hearing, as well as details about the protocols Arista is following to help keep everyone safe.

Can the virus be transmitted through HVAC ducts?

As we mentioned above, there is no definitive scientific conclusion yet as to the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission through air distribution systems.

That said, there are some potential mitigation strategies that you may be reading about. For example:

• Using higher efficiency filters to trap virus particles.
• Installing UV light technology or ionization-based air cleaners to destroy virus particles.
• Increasing humidity levels to deactivate airborne particles.
• Increasing ventilation to dilute virus particles.
• Sanitizing air conditioning components before seasonal start up.

We’ll discuss each of these possibilities below.

Should we install higher efficiency filters to prevent spread of the virus?

High efficiency HVAC filters can capture small particles (such as viruses), and remove them from the airflow in your space. That’s why some are considering adding higher efficiency HVAC filters since they may reduce risk of COVID-19 transmission. But they can’t eliminate the risk entirely.

The problem is, the COVID-19 virus is so tiny. It’s possible that some particles may pass through even the highest efficiency filters.

It’s important to consider the operational impacts of using higher efficiency filters to your air conditioning system:

• Higher efficiency filters are more dense and don’t allow as much air to penetrate. That leads to decreased air flow through your system. If you were already struggling with a system that wasn’t performing well, it’s likely your system will have even more trouble cooling your space.
• Your system will also run longer as it struggles to achieve the set temperature, which uses more electricity and creates wear and tear on fans and other parts.
• High efficiency filters trap more dust and debris and must be changed more frequently.

Another possible limitation is the setup of your system: it must be able to accommodate the size of the higher efficiency filters. The filters won’t help without proper installation.

Also, the cost of high efficiency filters can potentially be three times the cost, or more.

According to the National Air Filtration Association (NAFA): “In order for filters to have any impact on infectious disease transmission, transmission has to occur through the airborne route, filters have to be properly installed and maintained in appropriate systems to treat recirculated air, and filters have to be appropriately designed for the building in which they are used. More importantly, in most buildings and in most situations, filters may be considerably less effective than other infection control measures including social distancing, isolation of known cases, and hand-washing.”

Bottom line: if you’re thinking about adding high efficiency filters, call us to discuss your situation.

Does UV technology kill the COVID-19 virus?

UV systems use ultraviolet (UV-C) light to kill and deactivate microbes, including viruses, that may penetrate filters and get into HVAC systems. There are different types, including upper air and surface-cleaning UV disinfection systems.

According to ASHRAE (as reported in ACHRnews): “the germicidal wavelength can kill 90 percent of all microorganisms living on HVAC air ducts and evaporator coils, depending on wavelength intensity and length of exposure.”

However, it’s important to know that although this technology has been shown to be effective in killing other types of coronaviruses, it has not yet been proven to be effective on COVID-19.

Bottom line: You’ll need to weigh the cost of installing HVAC UV products versus the possible benefit, which is not guaranteed.

Should we consider other indoor air cleaning technologies, such as ionizers?

We have had customers ask about installing air cleaning products that use ionized hydrogen peroxide to destroy microbes in the air that passes through a ducted HVAC system. These small units can be placed within your air distribution system just past the filters, to destroy any particles that manage to penetrate your filters.

There is some evidence that ionizers can destroy coronavirus particles, so it may be an option worth considering if your system can accommodate the equipment.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in ionization technology, give us a call to find out if it may offer some benefit for your system.

How do humidity and ventilation affect COVID-19?

Recent research has shown that increasing indoor humidity levels can help to deactivate the virus.

During the winter months when our spaces are closed up and heated, humidity levels tend to drop to extremely low levels (between 20 and 40 percent). Unfortunately, those are the ideal conditions for the COVID-19 virus to thrive and remain viable for longer periods.

According to the research, adding moisture to the air may damage the outer membrane of the virus, and also make “droplets” less likely to linger in the air. Increased humidity has the added benefit of moisturizing our mucous membranes, which increases your body’s ability to fight the virus.

That said, it’s important to avoid adding too much humidity to a space, because that can cause damage to furnishings and finishes (especially woodwork and fine art).

Humidification technology can boost humidity in your space to optimum levels. Be sure to consult with an HVAC expert to determine the optimum level for your space.

ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) also recommends increasing ventilation (adding more outside air) to dilute any particles that may be present. Here in New York City, that’s not always easily done if you can’t just open a window. However, there are HVAC solutions that can add more outside air to your space.

Bottom line: It’s smart to have your indoor air quality evaluated and consider humidification and added ventilation. Arista can help with that.

Should my HVAC equipment be cleaned and sanitized?

Some of our customers are asking us to clean and sanitize system components prior to starting up their air conditioning systems.

We can’t be sure if any COVID-19 particles have remained viable in your system during the lockdown. Yet even beyond eliminating virus particles, there is certainly a benefit to cleaning condenser coils (which is normally done during a PM visit) and possibly your ductwork and other system components. Cleaning your system makes it operate more efficiently, consume less power, and keeps parts in good condition.

If you want additional peace of mind (especially if there have been confirmed cases of the virus in your space), Arista will be offering an HVAC deep clean and sanitization of evaporator coils, ductwork, and other system components where virus particles might be present.

For commercial systems, the ideal time to do this work is BEFORE you bring your employees back to work in your place of business and turn on the air conditioning system. However, you’ll need to make sure access to your space and equipment is available.

Keep in mind that sanitization of system components is a one-time cleaning, and does not provide any long term protection against future exposure to the virus.

Sanitizing your equipment and air distribution system offers reliable benefits. If you’re interested in deep clean and sanitization of evaporator coils and ductwork, ask about that when you request your AC preventative maintenance appointment.

What health and safety protocols do Arista technicians follow when servicing HVAC and Refrigeration equipment?

Staying home if not feeling well. Arista technicians are very conscientious about protecting the health and safety of our clients, as well as their co-workers. They are urged to stay home when not feeling well. Arista promotes quarantining when determined necessary.

Wearing masks. Arista provides masks to every technician to protect both our clients’ spaces and the well-being of our team.

Wearing protective glasses. Glasses are provided to every Arista technician to both protect our clients space and the well-being of our team

Wearing gloves. Wearing disposable gloves (and changing them between jobs) is an important tactic to reduce contact with the virus on surfaces. The CDC recommends, “Wear disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Gloves should be discarded after each cleaning.” After completing each job, Arista technicians are taught to remove their gloves, dispose of them safely, and then wash their hands.

Wearing booties. Every Arista technician is equipped with booties to prevent bringing dirt and debris into our clients’ spaces.

Disinfecting areas in contact with our personnel. After working in your space, Arista technicians clean all surfaces they come into contact with, such as HVAC access and controls, with disinfectant.

Safely disposing of filters. While COVID-19 is smaller than most filters can stop, it makes sense that some virus particles might stick on the fibers as they travel through the filter. Therefore, Arista technicians place used filters in plastic bags and throw them away in your outside trash receptacles.

The post COVID-19 & Your HVAC System: Your Questions Answered appeared first on Arista.

Determining when you need to schedule a service like an air conditioning repair in Palmetto Bay or a replacement is going to be important to maintaining your home comfort. This is because catching the signs of trouble ahead of time reduces the risk that you’ll spend hours or days during a busy season waiting for a technician to have the availability to come by.

Spring may not always feel like spring in our part of the country, but that doesn’t mean it is any less of a chance to make sure we are keeping our AC systems in tip-top shape…or preparing to replace the ones that aren’t. The only hindrance to this is going to be making sure you are scheduling the correct service for your unit. Knowing the indicators for which service needs your AC has will go a long way in keeping you cool on sweltering spring and summer days.

Do You Need AC Repairs?

We are going to start with the signs that should tell you when you need air conditioning repairs because the sooner you identify these the less chance that you will need a replacement sooner than later.

• Energy use: An air conditioner that is struggling to do its job despite a repair need is going to require more energy to get the job done. If you notice that your energy bills are rising even though you are doing everything possible to keep them reasonable it is likely your AC needs to be fixed.
• Cooling power: Your cooling system is supposed to help you stay cool on the many hot days we experience in Palmetto Bay. When your unit seems to be doing this less and less, don’t ignore it–call for repairs ASAP.
• Noises and smells: Both heat pumps and central AC systems should run without much noise and no smells. If you are hearing loud, concerning sounds, or notice strange smells coming from your vents or your air handlers, you should reach out for repairs.

Is It Time for an AC Replacement?

So, now that we have touched on what the signs are that your system might need repairs, let’s check on what it looks like when you need a full replacement. Don’t ignore any of the following warning signs:

• Advanced age: Air conditioners are built to last between 10 to 15 years. If your system has aged up to or beyond that 15-year mark and is still operating, that is great but you will want to look into getting a replacement soon.
• Increasing repairs: Even well-maintained systems will need repairs but that doesn’t mean they should be too frequent or egregiously expensive. If you need more than one repair a year and the price tag has become far too much, it may be time to just opt for a new unit.
• Refrigerant type: If you have an AC system that uses R-22, you will need to consider a replacement due to the phaseout of this refrigerant type.

We pride ourselves on being prompt but even the best on our team can’t be in two places at once. Avoid having to wait by scheduling your AC services before your system suffers a breakdown during the busy season.

Contact Air On Demand to get started today.

This post appeared first on AironDemand.com

Main Causes for A/C Switching On & Off

If your central air conditioning keeps turning on and off sporadically, this is a problem that shouldn’t be ignored. Although it is a common issue known as short cycling, we are nearing the dreaded high-temperature months in Arizona, so it is critical to prepare. Being comfortable during Phoenix’s summer months can be easily achieved with a proper look at your outdoor and indoor air conditioning units. Below are popular causes of why an HVAC unit will turn on and off repeatedly. However, at the end of the day, you’ll want to have an air conditioning repair specialist take a look at your system as a whole.

Let’s review some of the reasons why your central air conditioner turns on and off repeatedly so you or a trained technician can address the issue successfully.

1. Location of Your Thermostat

Your thermostat may be located in an impractical spot. Because your thermostat sends “on” and “off” signals to the unit based on the surrounding temperature, you cannot have it located near a supply air vent or warm sunny window. It will cause the unit to turn on and off more frequently because the thermostat will be confused about the actual temperature in your home.

2. Refrigerant Problems

The refrigerant, or Freon, levels in your system may be too low. This coolant is crucial for absorbing heat and cooling air, so when there is not enough of it, the compressor pressure levels become unstable, causing it to turn on and off repeatedly. This can cause severe damage to your unit, so if you notice a refrigerant leak, this should be serviced right away.

3. Cooling System is Too Big

The AC system in your home may be larger than needed. Seems odd, but if an AC system is too big for a home, it simply cools down the entire house quickly, therefore shutting off shortly after turning on. This may seem like a good thing, but unfortunately, it can increase your electricity bill and the chances of a breakdown. A simple assessment by a skilled technician can help determine if the size of your AC unit is a problem.

4. Airflow Restrictions

You may have a dirty air filter problem. When the air filter restricts airflow, the evaporator coil can become frozen, causing the unit to turn on and off. As a reminder, air filters should be replaced at least once a month. You may do this more often if you are constantly running your air in the summer.

What to Do if A/C Won’t Stay On

If fixing air conditioning issues just isn’t your thing, we are happy to help get your system working in the best condition possible. Avoiding problems until it’s too late can end up costing you way more than the initial maintenance fees. We pride ourselves on top-notch AC repair and HVAC repair services, so we are ready to handle any issue that should arise. Contact our team at Howard Air to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled HVAC contractors.

This post appeared first on Howardair.com