Is Your HVAC System Efficient?

September 28th, 2014 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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Efficient HVAC systems save commercial and residential property owners money thru reduced operational costs.  Saving money is extremely important to both business owners and homeowners alike in today’s economic environment.  The best way to determine the efficiency of any system is to perform a thorough energy efficiency analysis, which will examine energy consumption, energy costs and identify any potential cost savings opportunities.  The goal of the analysis is to make specific recommendations to improve system performance, while minimizing costs and maximizing comfort. 

Typically an energy efficiency analysis will consist of a physical examination of the existing HVAC system, as well as a quantitative analysis of the system.  During the physical examination, the technician will examine the individual components of the system, while performing an inventory of the system.  The condition of the individual components will be noted, as well as any existing safety hazards.  The system’s air distribution and temperature systems will be checks as well.  In some cases, an indoor air quality test may also be performed.  

As one would expect, the quantitative analysis on the system is all about the numbers and data.  Past historical data showing the ownership and operating costs of the HVAC system are examined to determine the total cost of ownership.  An analysis of energy consumption will also be performed to determine how much energy is being consumed.   Based upon the physical inspection of the system, as well as the quantitative analysis of the data, a written report is provided to the property owner with specific recommendations, estimated costs for improvements, as well as an implementation plan for the proposed improvements.

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Alternatives to Traditional HVAC Systems

September 28th, 2014 Posted in Ductless Mini-Split Systems
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Split system air conditioning systems using a compressor / condenser unit and an indoor unit are one of the most cost effective means to cool any commercial or residential space.  Traditionally with these systems, cool air is distributed into the areas being cooled thru strategically located ductwork.  Now it is possible to air condition spaces easier and cheaper by using a ductless mini-split system, which completely eliminates the need for any ductwork.  This results in lower costs! 

This system has a small inside unit, which is located on an interior face of a perimeter wall, with the compressor / condensing unit being located in the same area on the exterior of the home.  The outdoor unit is either mounted on the floor or mounted on the wall, with all connections of refrigerant lines, condensation drains and power feeds between the indoor and outdoor units being made thru a single hole approximately 3” in diameter.  These systems come in a variety of sizes with the systems being made by a variety of international companies, including LG and Mitsubishi.  These types of systems are very popular in Asia, where it is hot year around. 

There are a number of advantages to using these units including the ability to eliminate bulkheads required to conceal ductwork.  In addition, they are economical to operate, easy to install and give the property owner the ability to regulate the temperature of each room without the need to create expensive air conditioning zones with zone dampers.  Maintenance is straightforward with a periodic cleaning of the filters being required.

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Why Do I Need A Dehumidifier?

September 28th, 2014 Posted in Dehumidifiers
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Basements are not only the only place in the home where excessive levels of humidity can exist.  Often excessive humidity exists throughout the home and should be removed, as it can be a health hazard to the home’s occupants.  In addition, it can cause damage to the home and contents of the home as well.  

There are a number of visible clues for which may mean the presence of excessive humidity including dampness on the home’s walls and ceilings, musty odors throughout the home, condensation on the insides of windows, flare ups of allergies and the presence of mold and mildew in the bathrooms.  While these visual clues are effective, the best way to determine the humidity levels is to measure the humidity level with a hygrometer. 

If excessive humidity exists, the best solution is to add a whole house dehumidifier, which will maintain the humidity at a constant level.  The key is to remove the excessive humidity, while maintaining enough moisture to make the home comfortable and keeping wood joints from gapping.  While air conditioning units reduce the humidity in the home, a whole house humidifier works even when the air conditioning is not being used. 

Whole house dehumidifiers are preferred over portable dehumidifiers due to their ability to provide whole house coverage, while portable units only provide localized coverage.  In addition, portable dehumidifiers require the units to be plugged into existing outlets, as well as a periodic emptying of the water collected in the pan.  A whole house unit is a part of the HVAC system and all of the moisture collected during dehumidification is piped out of the home.

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How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

September 28th, 2014 Posted in HVAC Accessories
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Indoor air quality is extremely important to the health of the occupants of any commercial or residential building, especially those with respiratory issues, such as asthma and allergies.  Pollen, mold, dust, fumes from building materials and animal dander are all some of the items, which can negatively impact indoor air quality.  There are a number of means to improve indoor air quality including filters, humidifiers and properly introducing outside air into the ventilation system. 

Filters work by trapping the unhealthy materials in a filter media as the air passes thru the filter.  Available filters include a variety of HEPA filters, as well as electronic air cleaners.  In order to function properly, the filters must be replaced or cleaned on a regular basis.  Properly used humidifiers will improve air quality by introducing moisture into the air, which makes the air less dry and easier to breathe.  The downside to humidifiers is that the possibility of introducing mold into the air if the wrong type of humidifier is used or the humidifier is not kept clean.  The introduction of outside air into the building is an excellent means to improve indoor air quality, as the HVAC is conditioning fresh air and is basically continuously changing out the air in the commercial or residential structure. 

While each system is effective, the best way to determine how to improve indoor air quality is to have the indoor air quality tested.  Once the items negatively impacting the quality of the air are identified, the best solution or combination of solutions can be implemented to improve the quality of the air.  In some cases filters may be the answer, while in other cases, filters, humidifiers and outside air may be the best solution.

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Do I Need A Commercial HVAC Maintenance Plan?

September 28th, 2014 Posted in Commercial HVAC Service & Repair
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Commercial HVAC maintenance plans, which focus on preventative maintenance programs, are excellent investments that provide a large return on investment for commercial and industrial property owners.  Not only do they reduce downtime for unscheduled breakdowns, but they also reduce capitol expenditures on equipment, reduce repair costs and provide reduced energy costs as well.  These services plans are available on all commercial HVAC systems including split systems, boilers and chilled water systems typically found in commercial offices, heavy industrial facilities, hospitals, medical centers, government facilities, restaurants, data centers, retail establishments, schools and other institutional facilities. 

The heart of these preventative maintenance programs is regularly scheduled maintenance and inspection services, where the equipment is cleaned, lubricated, tested, adjusted and thoroughly inspected.  The preventative maintenance allows the technician performing the services to make sure that the system is performing as designed and is working at peak efficiency.  The inspection process allows the technician to identify small items that could impact the system, before they become bigger issues.  Depending if repair services were included in the plan, the technician would then make the necessary repairs.  If the repairs were not included in the plans, the technician would provide a written estimate on the costs of the recommended repairs. 

Another benefit of these plans is the ability to establish a ongoing relationship with a commercial HVAC company so when an emergency happens, they are only a phone call away, even on the hottest day of the year when their phone is ringing off the hook!

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