Month: March 2022

Property Managers: HVAC Preventive Maintenance Plans Prevent Headaches

You may be wondering what we mean when we say that HVAC preventive maintenance plans prevent headaches. Is that metaphorical headaches in the form of HVAC problems, or literal pounding pain in your head? In this case, the answer is BOTH. When you are a residence manager or property manager, stress is a way of … Continued

The post Property Managers: HVAC Preventive Maintenance Plans Prevent Headaches appeared first on Arista.

HVAC Maintenance Checklist

HVAC systems consume the most considerable amount of energy in commercial buildings and facilities. By developing and implementing a regular maintenance plan for your HVAC systems, you can stay on top of routine maintenance needs and fix issues before they become more significant problems that can positively impact your bottom line.

Use this HVAC Maintenance Checklist to ensure your heating and cooling systems continue to run as efficiently as possible for as long as possible.

  1. Lower Energy Costs

You can ensure that your HVAC system operates at maximum efficiency by performing preventive maintenance. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, energy bills can be reduced by up to 30%.

  1. Fewer Equipment Repairs

Maintaining your system extends its life, which reduces your need to spend money on an HVAC installation in the near future.

  1. Extended Equipment Lifespan

Commercial HVAC systems can last up to 20 years by providing proper preventive maintenance.

  1. Reduced Operating Costs

Keeping commercial HVAC systems in good working order can reduce operating costs by 40%. Your company’s overall costs will decrease with fewer HVAC repairs and fewer equipment breakdowns. That keeps customers happy and employees on track.

  1. Increased Indoor Air Quality

Airborne pollutants indoors may be two to five times higher (in extreme cases, more than 100 times higher) than those outdoors, according to the EPA.

Download your copy of our HVAC Maintenance Checklist

  • Develop a Maintenance Schedule
    • Having a consistent schedule and sticking to it can give you a good idea of data and the condition of your systems over time.
  • Follow the Prescribed Lock Out/Tag Out Procedure and use proper PPE
    • Safety first. Always.
  • Perform a Visual Inspection
    • Visually inspecting and noting issues like excessive wear, rust, dirt buildups, etc., can be an excellent predictor of future maintenance needs.
  • Note all System Information
    • If using gauges, note operating pressures. Consider using an app that can read multiple data points to identify where potential issues may lie.
  • Replace Air Filters
    • Make sure to match air filters to your system specifications. Using incorrect filters can cause excessive pressures and reduce your indoor air quality.
  • Check Condition of Belts and Pulleys
    • Visually inspect belts and pulleys. Lubricate pulleys only if recommended by manufacturers.
  • Clean Condenser and Evaporator Coils
    • Dirty condenser and evaporator coils will reduce the system’s efficiency and cause it to run longer, reducing the system’s life. Consider using a system designed explicitly for coil cleaning. See a selection of coil cleaning systems here.
  • Clean and Check Drainage Lines
    • Condensate lines are vital pieces of healthy HVAC systems. Blockages can cause severe damage to buildings and property. Consider cleaning and treating with a biocide to limit biological growth.
  • Check Electrical Connections
    • Check and test electrical connections to ensure they are within tolerance and specifications.
  • Check Operation of Thermostats and Other Controls
    • Check the operation, and replace batteries if applicable. Consider upgrading thermostats to “smart” versions that allow building owners to adjust the environment when the areas are not in use.
  • Check for Adequate Air Flow
    • Generally, this can be a quick check, but using a tool like a manometer can help you get precise measurements and make adjustments to airflow for comfort.

Get Your Cleaning Air Conditioner (HVAC) Coils Checklist

Find a Pro Guide to Cleaning HVAC Condenser and Evaporator Coils here.

Discover 9 Tips To Controlling Legionella in Your Cooling Towers

Learn more about our HVAC Maintenance Solutions. Click here.

This post appeared first on Goodway.com

Try These DIY Natural Cleaning Products

Want to Shift Away from Using Harsh Chemicals in Your Home?

Have you ever cleaned your house and found your hands were sore, red, and irritated afterward? Unfortunately, many common cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to your health. These chemicals can be absorbed through your skin, and if you clean every day like most of us do, you could be exposing yourself to harsh chemicals.

But there is an alternative to using chemical cleaning products. Why not create your own DIY natural cleaning products? It’s easier than you think – let’s show you how to make homemade products for your next spring cleaning session.

Toilet Bowl and Drain Clearing the Natural Way

A homemade bathroom cleaner can do wonders to keep your commode looking clean and smelling fresh. Plus, it’s an easy way to ditch the potentially noxious chemicals in commercial cleaners.

Catvinegar

This DIY natural toilet bowl cleaner not only smells great, but it kills germs and disinfects surfaces. The key ingredients for this recipe are baking soda and essential oils – tea tree oil, lavender oil, and lemon oil. Just add vinegar to the mixture after it’s applied to the toilet bowl because its reaction with baking soda is what truly does a deep clean.

You only need a few ingredients for this recipe:

  • 2 cups of white vinegar (20%)
  • 1/2 cup of baking soda
  • A teaspoon of tea tree oil (or other essential oil)
  • A wooden spoon and a glass bowl
  • Airtight container

Directions:

  1. Mix together the baking soda and the essential oils using a wooden spoon and glass bowl. Spread it around the toilet bowl and place a tablespoon of the mixture in the bottom of the bowl.
  2. Take half a cup of vinegar and pour it into the toilet bowl, making sure you also run it around the side of the bowl.
  3. The baking powder and vinegar will start to fizz. Scrub the sides of the bowl to get rid of stains.
  4. Leave the toilet mix for 15 minutes before flushing.

Diy Natural Cleaning Products Can Get Your Toilet Nice And Bright.

You can also use this mix for drain clearing, but it’s best to call in the experts for heavily clogged drains and sewer systems.

Clean Your Kitchen with DIY Natural Cleaning Products

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is a versatile product that has been used as a natural cleaner for years. It absorbs odors, breaks down grease, cleans surfaces, and more, making it an ideal staple to have in your kitchen.

Simply mix baking soda with water to form a paste and use it to scrub away stains on sinks, counters, and other surfaces. You can also add baking soda to a spray bottle filled with water to clean your refrigerator or microwave. For more stubborn stains on pots and pans, sprinkle baking soda over them and pour hot water into the pan before scrubbing away the stain.

Enjoy Looking out of Gleaming Glass

Nothing makes a room look brighter than clean windows and mirrors. Sunlight and clean surfaces go together like peanut butter and jelly.

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly window cleaning solution, this recipe will get the job done without exposing your family to harsh chemicals.

Windowclean

Here’s our favorite natural window cleaning solution:

  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup white or cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol 70% concentration
  • 1 to 2 drops of orange essential oil for smell (optional)

After you’ve prepared your solution, pop it into a spray bottle. Spray it on the glass (or directly onto a cloth or paper towel) and wipe your glass clean.

Try to clean windows at the beginning or end of the day. Cleaning windows at noon, or when the temperature is very high, will lead to quick drying streaks.

Get Rid of Mold and Mildew Without Chemicals

Mold and mildew love to grow in damp, warm places, such as bathrooms, attics, and basements. Luckily, this natural mixture will get rid of mild mold and mildew problems without harsh chemicals.

What you’ll need:

  • 2 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons tea-tree oil
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 24-ounce spray bottle

Even A Simple Diy Mold Cleaner Is Safe And Effective.
Mix the water and tea tree oil and add to the spray bottle. Spray the solution over the mold and leave overnight. Mix baking soda with some of the solution and form a paste. Spread this over the mold and scrub away with a toothbrush.

Try This Natural Multi-Purpose Cleaning Solution

To make an all-purpose cleaner, pour 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1/2 cup of water into a spray bottle. If you want a scented cleaner, stir in 20 drops of your favorite essential oil, or add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Just remember not to use vinegar or lemon juice on granite or marble countertops — the acid can eat away at the finish.

Also, don’t forget to contact the experts at Service Champions for all your drain clearing and HVAC maintenance needs.

How Do I Know It’s Time to Replace My Heat Pump in Spring Hill, FL?

The summers being what they are in Spring Hill, FL, you can’t go without air conditioning. The time will come, though, when you’ll need to say goodbye to your current system and replace it. Before the heat pump runs its 15- or 20-year course, you’ll notice signs that it needs replacing; below are three such signs.

Air Not As Cool as Before

Maybe your heat pump runs just as it has always done, yet it never reaches the temperature you’ve set your thermostat to. There’s no reason to stay stuck with a system that won’t cool your home: that is, unless maintenance can solve the issue and extend your system’s life span for a little longer.

The System Breaks Down

You shouldn’t be surprised when your heat pump has the occasional hiccup in performance. Even if you must get a repair and go without cool air for a couple of hours, this won’t provide a good enough reason to replace the system.

Consider replacement, though, if the system breaks down over and over and you’re replacing one component after another. Besides being necessary, it’ll save you money in the long run.

You’re Paying Too Much

You have a good idea of how much your energy bill should be during the seasons when your heat pump comes into play. If the bills start to rise above that level, in spite of there being no change to your cooling schedule, then you’ll want a professional to assess your system to determine if it’s time for a new installation.

Serving Homeowners Since 1993

If you live in Spring Hill and think it’s time for an air conditioning installation, contact Senica Air Conditioning today. Our family-owned and -operated company has been around for three decades, and we’ll address your needs with equal parts professionalism and warm customer care.

Image provided by iStock

This post appeared first on Senicaair.com

When To Consider Getting a New AC Unit

AC-inspection

The weather is going to really start to heat up soon. While keeping the windows open to let in a breeze may be a viable option right now, it won’t be a good idea for much longer. Soon you’ll be relying heavily on your air conditioner. But is your system going to be able to perform the way you need it to?

While an older air conditioner may still be able to provide some comfort to your home, it won’t offer nearly the same advantages as an updated system. This is why, when your system meets certain criteria, it is a good idea to select a new AC and schedule an AC installation in South Miami, FL.

What are the criteria? Read on to find out and see if you should reach out to us about replacing your air conditioner.

When To Upgrade Your Air Conditioner

Has the time come for an AC upgrade? If you meet any of the following criteria, we’d encourage you to at least start preparing to get a new system sooner than later.

Your air conditioner is between 10-15+ years old

Age can be a big defining factor for your air conditioner. An AC that is only a few years old is likely able to still be repaired if it has started to act up. However, if you know that your system is over 10 years old, you should prepare for getting an upgrade in the near future. In the case of an AC that is 15+, we’d suggest booking a replacement ASAP. Even if your AC still functions, a system of this age won’t have the efficiency or effectiveness that a newer unit might.

Your AC uses an outdated refrigerant type

Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner. However, even refrigerant changes over the years. An air conditioner that still uses a refrigerant type that is no longer being produced will be egregiously expensive or impossible to “recharge” (refill) if it springs a refrigerant leak. Talk to a technician about your refrigerant type and see if you would benefit from an upgrade.

The system needs repairs each year, or even more frequently

Repairs are inevitable but they shouldn’t be frequent. If your air conditioner has begun to require repairs on a yearly basis, or even more often than that, it means your system is on its way out. Even the best expert won’t be able to help an AC that is on its last leg–but they can help you get a new system in place before your old one stops functioning entirely.

Repairs have become far too expensive.

Another big indicator that your AC is on its way out is when its repairs become far too pricey. A good way to tell if this is the case is to see if the price of a repair could pay for half or more of the price of a new system. If yes, then you need a new air conditioner.

Need help getting a new air conditioner into your home? Whether you are sticking with the current type of system you have or you are thinking of trying a different one, you need a professional to help you.

Contact Air On Demand to schedule your AC installation today.

The post When To Consider Getting a New AC Unit first appeared on Air On Demand.

This post appeared first on AironDemand.com

Best whole home humidifiers

At HVAC.com, our writers create solutions that put you in control of your HVAC system. Our product reviews and recommendations are researched and backed by real buyers and industry experts, not dictated by our partners.

Constant dry air can affect your skin and respiratory health. A whole home humidifier offers a number of benefits, like relieving the discomfort of a dry throat and alleviating cracks to your wood furniture or floors.

While the benefits of humidifiers for home are plenty, you need to know which one is built to meet your needs at your budget. Following, we will review the best whole home humidifiers on the market, focused on their unique pros and cons.

Best whole home humidifiers

For arid climates

aprilaire best whole home humidifier

Aprilaire 800

  • Easy maintenance
  • Multiple output levels
  • Humidifies 6,200 sq. ft.

For healthy air

aprilaire best whole home humidifier

Aprilaire 700

  • Indoor/outdoor humidity monitoring
  • Works with furnace
  • Humidifies 4,200 sq. ft.

Most affordable

honeywell best whole home humidifier

Honeywell H280

  • Simple installation
  • Water-efficient
  • Humidifies 4,000 sq. ft.

What is a whole home humidifier?

When you need a humidifier for the whole house, you need a unit with more reach than a portable humidifier. Complete home humidifying systems are integrated into your heating system and ductwork. The humidifier will release a set amount of moisture, which travels through the ductwork and into the rooms of your home.

Unlike portable humidifiers, there’s no tank to refill on home humidifiers. Plus, each room in the house benefits from a consistent, healthy indoor humidity level.

Below are our top three picks for the best whole house humidifier.

Need expert help choosing a whole home humidifier?

Best whole home humidifiers

Selecting the best whole home humidifier for your family depends on a variety of factors. From the size of your space to the desired moisture output level, selecting the ideal unit will create a comfortable environment that allows you to breathe easy.

Aprilaire 800 Steam Humidifier

The APRILAIRE 800 is a steam humidifier capable of delivering balanced humidity across areas up to 6,200 sq ft, making it the best whole home humidifier for large houses and other spaces. Customize the humidity level in your home with this unit’s six output levels that can disperse between 11.5 to 34.6 gallons of moisture into the air per day.

The Aprilaire 800 Steam Humidifier is truly a set-it-and-forget-it unit, as it operates automatically for perfectly balanced humidity levels. This unit snagged the top spot for humidifying the whole house thanks to its minimal maintenance of CHANGING THE STEAM CANISTER, which typically needs to be done only once a year.

Buy on Amazon

aprilaire best whole home humidifier

Honeywell H280 By-pass Humidifier

The HONEYWELL H280 BY-PASS HUMIDIFIER offers easier installation than most whole home humidifiers with fewer wire and ductwork connections. The unit is powerful enough to offer a consistent humidity level for homes up to 4,000 sq ft.

We like that this unit comes with a one-year warranty and the maintenance only requires yearly replacement of the humidifier pad and cleaning out any mineral deposits (more frequently if your home has hard water).

Buy online

honeywell best whole home humidifier

Aprilaire 700 Power Humidifier

The APRILAIRE 700 POWER HUMIDIFIER is a fan-powered whole-home humidifier that is installed with your HVAC system. The unit can operate independently or with your furnace, delivering an 18 gallon per-day output that effectively humidifies homes up to 4,200 sq ft.

Our favorite feature is the dual sensors that monitor and respond to the outdoor temperature and your home’s indoor relative humidity to deliver optimum humidity.

Buy on Amazon

aprilaire best whole home humidifier

Ideal indoor humidity level

The ideal indoor humidity level falls between 30-50%, according to the EPA. While you want relief from your dry indoor air, you don’t want to add too much moisture to the environment. A humidity level above 55% can often feel sticky and hot. Plus, the added moisture can support mold and mildew growth, so keeping your home in the recommended indoor humidity level window keeps your family comfortable and your home and furniture in good condition. The best indoor humidity level for your home can also be skewed based on different climates.

A HYGROMETER is the simplest way to measure your indoor humidity level. The small device is relatively inexpensive and makes it easy for you to determine if your home needs more or less moisture in the air.

A home humidifier is not a device you want to rely on in place of medical recommendations from your doctor. Never swap a good device for necessary quality treatment.

As helpful as a humidifier is, it does need upkeep (even if it’s minimal). Your humidifier is not a self-cleaning device. READ THE DIRECTIONS THOROUGHLY and, depending on the model you purchase, clean or change the filter as recommended.

Which is the best whole home humidifier for me?

Determine the best whole home humidifier based on your family’s needs. For homes in extremely dry climates, a humidifier for the whole house will make a significant impact.

Explore more benefits of maintaining a healthy indoor humidity level with our HUMIDIFIER FACT SHEET.

Need help finding a new whole-home humidifier?

This post appeared first on HVAC.com

4 Reasons Why Your Heat Pump is Short Cycling in College Station, TX

Aside from wasting energy, having a heat pump turn on and off frequently can also cause damage to the components in your unit that regulate temperature. Read on to learn why your heat pump in College Station, TX, home is short cycling.

1. Leaky Refrigerant

If the refrigerant level in your HVAC system is low, then the unit will work harder to reach your desired temperature. The extra work for the system will cause it to turn on and off frequently. This is why it’s important to have your system checked regularly for leaks.

2. Your Thermostat is Set Incorrectly

When your HVAC system is turning on and off frequently, it’s important to verify the settings on your thermostat. Doing so will ensure that it operates properly with your HVAC system. If you’re unsure what setting to change, or if the settings aren’t matching what your systemis doing, consulting a professional technician may be a good idea.

3. Dirty or Obstructed Air Filters

Dirty air filters may be a cause of your heat pump short cycling. If the sensor cannot get a proper reading on the temperature, it will activate and deactivate frequently until it has corrected the temperature.

4. Oversized Heat Pump System

If the system you have is too large for your home, it may be short cycling. In this instance, you’ll need to contact an HVAC contractor to determine if the size of your current unit is appropriate for your house.

If your heat pump is short cycling frequently in your home, then you need to contact experts who can quickly determine the cause of your problem.. At Davis Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc., we provide heat pump repair and installation services throughout all of College Station, TX, so contact us today for prompt service.

Image provided by iStock

Why is My Boiler Pressure Dropping?

Keeping an eye on your home’s many appliances and pieces of equipment to ensure they’re working properly is part of the job as a homeowner. As you note the various functions of your home, you may occasionally notice your boiler pressure dropping slowly, or your boiler losing pressure fast

While this is not always a big issue, it might indicate a problem. If your boiler pressure drops when hot water is running or if you notice the boiler pressure dropping more than usual throughout the day and not returning to normal, a repair is likely needed.

Read on to learn more about boiler pressure drops and how to handle them. Keep in mind that you should never attempt any repairs you are not skilled or qualified to handle — always work with a professional for your boiler repairs and maintenance plans.

Is it Normal for Boiler Pressure to Drop?

If you notice your boiler pressure dropping, don’t assume the worst right away. Changes in boiler pressure happen all day long and boiler pressure drops occur very naturally.

Over time and through use, a boiler is likely to lose some water or pressure and require topping off from time to time to help keep the pressure regulated.

That being said, it’s important to pay attention to your boiler pressure. Is the boiler pressure dropping slowly, or is the boiler losing pressure fast? Is the boiler continually losing pressure or does it fluctuate throughout the day, going up and down?

If you’re unsure of the answers, pay careful attention to your boiler’s pressure gauge for a while and make notes of the pressure changes from time to time.

You can easily identify if the boiler has lost or gained pressure by looking at the pressure gauge. When switched off, the pressure gauge should be at about one bar (in the green zone). When it’s operating, the pressure will increase, but it should drop back down to normal. If it seems your boiler pressure is dropping a lot and not going back up, you may have a problem with your machine.

Why is My Boiler Pressure Dropping Slowly?

As mentioned above, boilers drop in pressure and gain pressure throughout the day. If you notice your boiler pressure dropping slowly, don’t panic. Pay attention and see if the pressure goes back up and if the boiler operates normally, heating water when necessary. If the pressure continues to drop, then you probably have a problem with your boiler.

The most common reason builders drop in pressure are these:

  • Water or air released from the radiator when bleeding it.
  • A leak (either a leak in the boiler system, radiator valves, piping, or from a water-using appliance).

What to Do About Boiler Pressure Dropping Slowly

Identifying the source of the problem is the first step to resolving your boiler pressure dropping. Check your system for any leaks, signs of water damage, or pools of water on the floor. Continue checking your home piping, radiators, and any appliances that use the hot water from the boiler for signs of leaks or water damage.

If you can’t find anything but still have an issue, then it’s likely there is water or air being released from your radiators or piping.

As your boiler gets used, or if you have an old system, then you may be dealing with some decay. The system of pipes and radiators connected to your home’s boiler system is capable of corroding, loosening, or otherwise failing over time. This eventually leads to water or air escaping. This will decrease the boiler pressure as more and more water is replaced with air in the system, causing your boiler pressure to drop slowly over time.

To help keep you and your home safe, never attempt to fix a leak or air pressure issue with your boiler on your own. Contact John C. Flood to properly investigate your boiler pressure dropping, locate the source of the problem, and get it repaired. We can get your boiler back in shape in no time.

Why is My Boiler Losing Pressure Fast?

If your boiler is losing pressure fast, that doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem… unless, as mentioned above, the pressure doesn’t return to normal. If your boiler pressure drops when hot water is running rather than increases, you likely have a serious issue in need of repair. In most cases when you notice a fast drop in water pressure, you have a leak that requires attention.

What to Do About Boiler Losing Pressure Fast

If your boiler is losing pressure quickly, you’ll need to get the issue addressed as soon as possible. Fast pressure drops from your boiler could mean there is a leak somewhere in your home which means you could be dealing with serious water damage.

Calling a professional right away to investigate the issue can prevent severe damages from stacking up and save you from more costly repairs.

Can I Re-Pressurize My Boiler?

While you should never attempt to complete a boiler repair on your own without the necessary experience, you should know how to handle an emergency with your boiler.

Many boilers are easy enough to re-pressurize on your own, which can save you a professional maintenance visit.  Check your boiler manual to see if you can re-pressurize your unit on your own. If so, then follow the directions for your specific unit carefully. 

Note that re-pressurizing a boiler when you already have a leak in the system is only going to cause more issues for your home and plumbing.

You should only re-pressurize a boiler if you can be sure there is no leak. Adding more pressure to a situation where there is a leak present means you’ll intensify the leak. 

If you’re unsure how to respond to your boiler pressure dropping, contact our experienced team at John C. Flood to help you manage the issue. 

Fix Boiler Pressure Issues Today

If you notice your boiler pressure dropping and it doesn’t seem to be going back up as it should, contact John C. Flood to investigate. We can find out if your boiler is performing normally or if there’s a leak in the system. 

Ignoring boiler pressure problems will only lead to them worsening, potentially causing more damage to your home and plumbing. Take care of the problem now and schedule a service visit today.

The post Why is My Boiler Pressure Dropping? appeared first on John C. Flood.

York air handler reviews

A quality air handler keeps your indoor air feeling cozy with quiet, efficient operation. The durably-built York air handler could be your next comfort investment. 

The economy brand’s catalog of air handlers ranges from entry-level to premium models. This guide explores York air handler model numbers, specifications, and more.

heat pump vs. gas furnace for warmth

Are York air handlers good?

York residential air handlers are good, but not the best in the industry. While the air handlers are well-made and built with durable materials, they are somewhat expensive for an economy brand.

A York air handler is the indoor component of a central heating system. The indoor air handler connects to an outdoor air conditioner or heat pump via ductwork. Most York air handlers are compatible with non-York outdoor units.

The air handler unit variety offers a little something for everyone. With basic, middle-of-the-road, and advanced blower motors, you’re all but guaranteed to find a compatible model.

York air handler parts are high-quality. Insulated cabinets and corrosion-resistant drain pans come standard in every model. Plus, every model has a four-way or multi-position orientation for flexibility in setup.  

York air handlers: what to know before you buy

Depending on the model, York air handlers range in levels of energy efficiency. Other features, like the all-aluminum coil, stay consistent across the board. Learn more about York’s reputation and warranty options below. 

Brand reputation

York stands out for great customer service. In order to get the best experience from the equipment and the York customer support team, rely on a York Certified Comfort Expert (CCE) Contractor to install your air handler.

A certified York installer will understand the unique installation and maintenance requirements for the equipment. It’s also possible that if a certified HVAC tech doesn’t install your air handler, the manufacturer may void the warranty.

A poorly installed air handler can reduce your HVAC system’s energy efficiency and make it more likely to break down. Plus, there’s no remedy for a poor installation beyond replacing the unit.

To avoid this issue, we recommend going with a York Certified Comfort Specialist in your area. York verifies that these contractors know the ins and outs of the brand and have ample experience installing and repairing their models.

Book with an HVAC specialist in my area now.

MaxAlloy coil

Every York air handler has an all-aluminum evaporator coil. York calls this proprietary coil MaxAlloy. All-aluminum coils are becoming the industry standard, as they don’t degrade as quickly as mixed-metal coils.

The MaxAlloy coil is designed to resist corrosion. With a design that keeps bacteria and mold at bay, the coil outlasts the elements.

Warranty

All York air handlers are backed with a 10-year parts Limited Registered Warranty. To claim the warranty, register your air handler on the York website within 90 days of installation. 

Forget to register in time? You still have coverage. The York Base Limited Warranty covers five years of parts protection.

York dealers offer Optional Extended Warranties for an additional cost. Qualified units are eligible for labor coverage and longer parts coverage.

Blower motor speeds

York’s blower motor technology is on par with competitors. Most York air handlers are built with electronically commutated motors (ECM). ECMs are more efficient than fixed-speed (PSC) motors, as they can operate at multiple capacity levels for better energy efficiency.

The only York model with a PSC motor is the entry-level AP. We recommend going with an ECM motor if possible, as the increased energy efficiency should lower your utility bills over time.

Air handler sizes

Every York air handler has multiple size options. Air handler sizing is measured in tonnage.

Tonnage is not the weight of the air handler itself. Tonnage is the capacity of the air handler unit, or its cooling output.

York air handlers range in output from 1.5 to 5 tons. A local York dealer can help you determine what size air handler you need. It varies, depending on the capacity of your outdoor unit and the climate where you live.

York air handler specs

York has four full-sized air handler models which mount in your attic or basement. The ME and MVC series are blower motors for compact spaces.

The chart below offers each York air handler model number, the type of motor technology, and the available sizes.

York Air Handler Model  Blower Motor Type Capacity (tons) Compatible with Communicating Systems?
AP PSC (multi-speed) 1.5 – 5 No
AE ECM (five-speed) 1.5 – 5 No
AVC ECM (variable-speed) 1.5 – 5 No
AVV ECM (variable-speed) 2 – 5 Yes
ME ECM (five-speed) 1.5 – 5 No
MVC ECM (variable-speed) 1.5 – 5 Yes

AP fixed speed multi position air handler

The AP is the most basic York air handler. It boasts a durable, high-quality design that should withstand years of everyday use. 

However, this model has the slowest and loudest motor in the York catalog. If budget allows, we recommend upgrading to a mid-level model for better energy efficiency. 

AE multi speed, multi position air handler

The ECM motor on the AE air handler takes it up a notch from the basic AP model. With better energy efficiency, you may notice lower utility bills over time. 

For the best blend of efficiency and affordability, opt for the AE. However, the variable-speed motors on the AVC and AVV offer lower volumes and better performance.

AVC high efficiency variable speed air handler

The York AVC air handler has a great motor that adjusts its speed for even and consistent temperature control. This model is the second most advanced model, just below the communicating AVV. 

Though the AVC is somewhat pricey, the low operating volume and efficient operation make it a good option. If you don’t have a communicating AC or heat pump, but still want a premium motor, the AVC is your best bet.

Schedule an HVAC inspection with a local pro.

AVV communicating, constant CFM air handler

The AVV is best-in-class. This York modular air handler pairs with the Hx3 communicating thermostat for elevated comfort control. Set up to eight customizable temperature and humidity zones in your home. 

This model pairs with two-stage and variable-stage York Affinity heat pumps and air conditioners. You shouldn’t hear the AVV at work, as the motor is quiet and ultra-efficient.

ME modular multi speed air handler

The ME is a blower motor designed for compact spaces, where a full-sized air handler is too big. It pairs with a coil to become a two-piece air handler, helping it accommodate small spaces. 

This entry-level model pairs with non-communicating air conditioners and heat pumps. With a five-speed ECM motor, it offers solid energy efficiency for the price.

MVC constant CFM, modular air handler

Few brands offer a compact model for communicating systems. If you need to pack big technology into a smaller space, the MVC has the balance you may be looking for. 

This York blower motor pairs with a coil and a York communicating heat pump. You can also pair the MVC with conventional systems, but the ME is the more cost-effective option if you aren’t looking to bundle.  

York air handler price

The installed cost of an air handler is $2,600 to $5,600, according to HomeAdvisor. York air handlers are in the low-to-middle range of this national average. 

York air handlers aren’t quite as expensive as models from Trane, Lennox, or Carrier. However, they tend to be pricier than other economy brands like Goodman.

The size of your air handler contributes to the total cost. A 5-ton York air handler will be more expensive than a 2-ton model. Other factors, like local labor costs, play a role in the installed price.

Where to find York air handler manuals

The York website offers an air handler maintenance guide. The customer service line can answer questions about specific units or refer you to a Certified Comfort Specialist. 

Speak with an HVAC technician about system repair or replacement.

York air handlers vs. the competition

York air handlers are not the most prestigious, but they are popular and well-made. York tops some competitors by offering multiple communicating models, but they fall short in terms of reliability.

See how York air handlers compare to top HVAC brands like Goodman, Trane, and Rheem.

York air handler vs. Goodman air handler

In terms of unit durability, York wins out. Some Goodman air handlers still use mixed-metal coils and are not as well-insulated.

Better insulation also makes York air handlers less noisy than Goodman models. However, York units are likely to cost more.

Goodman stands out for its low unit cost, but York units boast better quality. We suggest going with York unless value is your top priority, in which case, Goodman is the better choice.

York air handler vs. Trane air handler

York lacks the brand prestige from a top name like Trane. Both brands build air handlers with durable, high-quality materials.

York and Trane air handlerwarranties each offer 10 years of coverage with registration. However, Trane units are generally more energy efficient than York, and because of rigorous field testing, Trane units are more durable.

Between the two, Trane has a longer-lasting and stronger reputation. Unless budget is your driving factor, we recommend Trane air handlers.

York air handler vs. Rheem air handler

York and Rheem air handlers are comparable in price. Rheem has higher consumer ratings for reliability, and they don’t need maintenance as often as Yorks. 

The Rheem product lineup is massive, almost to a fault. If York doesn’t have an option that works for you, Rheem offers every combination of blower motor speed and coil type.

Buying a York air handler

York makes durable air handlers, with a variety of options that run the gamut in size and performance. It’s a jack-of-all-trades brand that we recommend, so long as you have a Certified Comfort Specialist do the installation.

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