Author Archives: Mission Critical Comfort Solutions

A natural gas heating system is more efficient than an electric heating system, so, if your home is set up for natural gas, that is the better option to choose. With that decided, you now need to choose between the three primary types of heating systems that will be the best for your home. Those three types are: 

Furnace

A furnace heating system is the most efficient, especially when powered by natural gas. A furnace heats the air with a heat exchanger and pushes it through a duct system with a blower motor. 

Not only is this the most efficient, but it is also the most affordable. The cost of a new natural gas furnace can range $2,000 up to $7,000. The biggest downside to a gas furnace is the noise level. Heating system maintenance is a little more detailed than electric choices when considering the pilot light.

Heat Pump

A heat pump system is an all-in-one system housing both air conditioning and heating, which makes it an efficient system in its own way. These take the hot air from inside your home and using refrigerant, removes the heat. Then it returns the cooled air back into your home. The heater portion works in reverse and takes the cold air from inside your home, heats it up, and then returns it to your home. 

This is an excellent air filtration system along with the heating and cooling and is quieter than the furnace heating system. However, they are on the expensive side with an average cost starting as low as $5,600 but can cost as much as $20,000. With three different varieties to choose from, you can fit your budget and needs between the air-source, geothermal, or split-duct style. Heating system maintenance is simple with the air filter changes being the biggest concern.

Boiler

Boilers are considered an old-school heating system, but they are still around, heating water up in a tank, then pumps that heated water through pipes into individual radiators. 

They are available in natural gas, the more efficient choice, or electric, the least common choice. They take up a lot of space and can cost around $10,000. When it comes to heating system maintenance, these are more finicky, and repairs are expensive.

What is the average heating system lifespan?

A gas furnace has an average life expectancy between 15 and 20 years. With proper heating system maintenance, you could get over 20 years of life expectancy. And for an electric heating system, maintenance on a regular basis could give you up to 30 years of life expectancy. 

How much to install a new heating system?

Homeowners in colder climates, like the far northeast, need a heating system that will function at any temperature. Fortunately, here in the Bonaire, Georgia area, the winters are typically not that harsh. This enables homeowners to choose a heating system that is budget-friendly as well as one that matches the power set up in the home, i.e., electric or gas. 

The average cost across the country for the heating system itself and the installation can range from $4,900 up to $10,000. This depends on which type of system you choose, the size of the home, and how much ductwork, if any, is needed. 

So – what heating system do I have?

If you’re not sure whether your heating system is electric or gas, check the front of the heating unit; you may have to open a small door. If there is a small window on the front, check through it for a blue flame, and then you have a gas-powered heating system. If there is no window, you have an electric heating system. You can also check the breaker box and if there is a circuit labeled “furnace” or “heater” you have an electric heater.

Why is my heating system not working?

If your heating system has quit working or the heating system keeps turning on and off, there could be several issues. A common issue is poor heating system maintenance, which is usually when the air filter hasn’t been changed every 30 days. Change the air filter, hit the reset button on the furnace and see if that helped. 

If not, check the thermostat and make sure it is on “heat” and “auto”. If the system is on “cool” or “off”, it isn’t going to come on. If the thermostat is programmable, try replacing the batteries and if the thermostat is older than 10 years, replace the entire thermostat. 

Other possible issues could be any of these three things: 

The Blower Capacitor

This is like a big battery that starts the furnace once the thermostat sends a message. If this component goes out, you’re not going to get any heat. With an annual heating system maintenance, this component is checked by the technician and replaced when there is indication it is about to fail.

The Refrigerant

This pertains to a home with a heat pump system. If the refrigerant level gets too low, the compressor will overheat, and the system quits working. An annual heating system maintenance with a professional service will include a refrigerant check which can keep this from happening. 

Faulty Ductwork

A heating system maintenance will include inspecting the duct work and would find ahead of time if it were broken, detached, or poorly designed and installed. Any of these things will keep the heat from dispersing through your home, even causing it to keep cycling off and on because the warmed air isn’t getting distributed correctly causing the thermostat to start and stop. 

Can a heating system cause a fire?

Absolutely, which is a tremendous part of what makes heating system maintenance so important! Over one in six home fires are caused by the heating system according to The National Fire Protection Association. That is second only to home fires started from cooking. While space heaters are the biggest cause and fireplaces right behind them, even a furnace can catch fire if the heating system maintenance is overlooked for too long. 

Can a heating system make you sick?

The heating system in your home is there to keep you comfortable. But if the heating system maintenance is ignored, it isn’t working efficiently and can cause any of the following issues: 

Recycling Particles 

Today, new homes are well-sealed and existing homes are sealed up to keep cold or hot air from leaking in or out. This is an energy bill-saving factor, but it also keeps fresh air from circulating throughout the home too. The air in our homes today has dust, pet dander, bacteria, and mold spores that are recycled and circulated continuously in our well-sealed homes. The investment of a quality air filter or an air filtration system will reduce the exposure to these things and make us healthier. 

Humidity Problems

Even the best working, best home heating system maintenance schedule will make a home extremely dry in the winter. This won’t make us sick, but it will cause the eyes, nose, skin, and throat to be irritated and uncomfortable. 

Carbon Monoxide 

Natural gas-powered heating systems that aren’t properly vented and working correctly can emit toxic carbon monoxide. This can cause various illnesses including confusion and muscle aches, and with longtime exposure, death. 

If you’re not sure why your heating system is noisy or your heating system smells like burning, then you definitely need to call a professional heating service. They can inspect the issues you’re having and make any heating repair that is needed. Or, if they determine that there isn’t any heating repair available to get you fixed up, they can advise you on the replacement unit you need. 

For now, let’s discuss those two common complaints homeowners have.

What is making my heating system noisy? 

Most of a central heating system’s components are metal, and metal contracts and expands as it cools and heats. So, that noise you’re hearing doesn’t necessarily mean you need to call for heater repair. However, you don’t want to assume it is normal and ignore it either, especially if you’ve never heard a noise coming from it before. Here are a few things to check out when you have a noisy heater system: 

• GURGLING: This is typical of a boiler-type heating system and is usually caused by the pipes or radiator having air trapped inside them. This is easily fixed by bleeding the air from the pipes, and there are many videos available online that will give you step-by-step instructions on doing this. 
• NOISY PIPES: Common in colder weather are pipes freezing and not letting the water circulate. If it is the condensation pipe that is frozen, pour warm water (though not boiling) over it to help thaw it out. Once it thaws, restart the boiler.
• TAPPING NOISE: A tapping sound can be a limescale build-up in the pipes and radiator. A non-acidic cleaner will flush that limescale out while the system is turned off. 
• HUMMING SOUND: A humming sound is often the heating element and the immersion not properly functioning. The first thing to do is check that the thermostat is working and then check the central heat pump. It may need the speed slowed down. 
• KNOCKING SOUNDS: As the water heats up in the system and begins to flow through the pipes, the pipes will expand, and then as they cool down, they contract. If the room around the pipes isn’t sufficient, it will cause a knocking sound. You can check the pipes and move them as needed to make some room. 

Why does my heating system smell like it’s burning? 

This is a common complaint with the first cold snap of the season. Every heating system, whether it is an electric heater, a furnace, or a heat pump, will accumulate dust and assorted particles while dormant for the summer. When you first turn on your system, you’ll smell that dust and the particles burning off. 

This should be short-lived though and over with after a few hours, or perhaps a day at the longest. If you’re still smelling a burning odor after that, call for heating repair service just to make sure it isn’t something worse. With a heating system annual service contract, these are things that are caught during the inspection and cleaning, eliminating this worry. 

My heating system will not turn off – why?

There are three possible reasons why your heating system isn’t turning off. Follow these three suggestions and if it still won’t turn off, schedule a professional heating repair service: 

• Thermostat: A thermostat can go bad without any warning and can often be repaired. However, if it is an older thermostat, it may be easier to replace it with a newer programmable unit. From a broken heating sensor or switch to faulty wiring, there are several possible issues with a thermostat that can keep a heater from turning off. 
• Primary Controller: If the thermostat is working, check within the heating unit next. It may be the primary controller though, at this point, you should schedule professional heating repair service. 
• Water System: For a home heater or radiator, the heat may not be turning off because of a problem with the water check valve. If this is defective, then water keeps circulating and the heat keeps heating. This heating repair is better done by a professional than a homeowner, but you can check for the issue yourself. 

Can you repair heating elements?

Not usually, as replacement is the only heating repair possible when the element is the problem. If you have determined your heating isn’t working because of the heating element, call a heating repair service for an estimate. Questions to ask yourself so you can be prepared for that call include “What heating system do I have?” With that information, they can give you a rough estimate of the cost to replace the element.

How do you know when to replace a heating system?

• The Age of the Heating System- A heating system that is 15 to 20 years old is in the range where replacement is cheaper than most heating repairs. 

• Energy Bills Increasing – Yes, our energy bills will increase every year. However, a heating system that isn’t running as efficiently as possible, even after heating repairs, should be replaced. 

• Excessive Dirt, Dust, Rust, Soot – If you are noticing more dander, dirt, dust, rust, or soot in your home and around the heating system, and you’ve changed the air filter every 30 days, it is time to replace the system. 

• Humidity Problems – Humidity is a common issue during the winter for everyone, especially in homes with wood flooring. If the air seems exceptionally dry, it may be that the heating system has reached its life expectancy. A heating repair service call for inspection and cleaning can confirm this for you. 

• Uneven Heating – If the rooms within your home are not heating evenly, or maybe one or two aren’t heating at all, it is likely time for a new heating system. You can have the air ducts cleaned and inspected first, and that may fix the problem, even having a heating repair with cleaning and inspection first is worth the cost before getting a new system. 

• Unusually Noisy – A heating system that is making louder than normal sounds or one that develops a buzz, hum, or rattle is probably experiencing a problem like internal cracks and leaks. Replacing the unit is the best thing to do in this situation. 

• Visible Cracks and Rust – If you have noticed cracks or rust developing around or inside the heating system, it needs to be replaced sooner than later. 

• Frequent Repairs – Are you having to get heating repairs every winter – perhaps two or three times a year? At this point, your heating repair technician should have already recommended a replacement. If they have, listen to them because this old unit is costing you more money than a new unit will at the end of the day. 

How do I find a leak in my air duct?

There are holes, tears, and poor connections in an average home’s air duct system. You would be hard-pressed to find a home, other than a brand new build or one with a brand new HVAC system, that didn’t have one or all of these issues. That is because up to 30% of the air circulating in your home is wasted. If you’re thinking, “not in my home”, then pause and tell us if you have noticed any of the following:

• Cooling and heating are uneven 
• Energy usage is the same, but bills are higher
• Rooms are dustier than normal and stuffy 
• Some of the air ductwork is in an enclosed area 
• Some of the air ductwork is kinked or twisted
• You can hear air escaping from the ductwork

If you think your home air duct sealing is in need of attention, here is how you identify the problem:

• Inspect the entire air duct system for connection gaps, holes, kinks, tears, or twists. Don’t forget the attic and crawl spaces.
• If you know for sure you have heard air leaking or that there is a kink somewhere, make note of it and then check the rest of the system. 
• Take stock of what you find; taking cell phone pictures is always a good backup. 

Another thing you could do is hire a professional service that will provide home air duct cleaning service. This will include air duct cleaning and sealing and come with a warranty. 

What do you use to seal ductwork?

Now that you have found some gaps, holes, or tears, how do you fix them? Well, there are a couple of different methods for home air duct sealing: 

• Duct Sealing Tape

What kind of tape do you use for ductwork? Yes, there is HVAC duct sealing tape – you may have heard it referred to as aluminum foil tape. It comes in a large roll and is found in most hardware stores and home improvement stores. This is the easiest and neatest way to get your home air duct sealing done. However, it isn’t known for longevity or performance. If your air ducts are dirty or oily, this tape won’t stick well. Try a butyl tape instead, but never use everyday duct tape because of fire ratings. 

• Mastic Duct Sealant

Mastic air duct sealant tape is a gooey substance that hardens after it is applied to the air ducts. Because this is a water-based sealant, it will clean up easier and hold up longer. It can be applied with a paintbrush or caulking gun. Note that it is intended for outdoor use, and not the air ducts inside your attic. 

• Aeroseal Duct Sealant

Mastic air duct sealant is not the easiest to use when the leak is behind a wall. For those hard to reach areas, there is aerosol duct sealant. This uses patented technology for pressurizing, identifying, and home air duct sealing every single leak within the air duct system. 

How long does duct sealant take to dry?

Read and follow the instructions that come with the sealant for the best results. Mastic will need to be allowed to dry and cure for 48 to 72 hours before turning the air back on. 

How do I stop condensation in my air ducts?

Purchasing a dehumidifier will minimize the condensation. Make sure all air ducts are unblocked and nothing is restricting airflow. Keep the air filter changed every 30 days and the air returns cleaned once a month. 

Shutdown the Computers

Today, everyone in the family may have a computer, and those are the biggest energy users, especially if you still have desktop style computers. You know those cool looking screen savers? They aren’t help your energy costs, so turn off computer monitors when not in use and especially at night. If you have laptops, turn them off when not in use.  

The Right Lighting

As you replace burned out lightbulbs, replace them with LED bulbs. Because they use one-fourth the energy of the standard lightbulb, they are more  energy efficient, and they last longer. 

Eliminate the Power Vampires

There are devices that even when they are turned off, they are still drawing energy. Those devices include the microwave, printers, scanners, and televisions. Even cell phone chargers are pulling energy when they aren’t plugged into a phone. You can tell what is using electricity by touch – if it’s warm, it’s using electricity. 

Go With Power Strips

One way to kill the power vampires is plug things into a power strip. Then you can turn off those vampires with one switch. 

Turn The Lights Off

Yes, this can be the summer energy vampire because kids don’t seem to grasp what leaving lights on can do to the energy bills. You can find videos online that explain it in simple terms. Sneak a video in the next family movie night. Set an example too!  Make sure you’re turning off lights when you leave a room. Actions speak louder than words. 

Lock Box the Thermostat

Yes, we’re talking about like they have in restaurants and probably at your office. To have an energy efficient air conditioner system, purchase a clear acrylic lock box and place it over the thermostat. Nobody but mom and dad can adjust the thermostat. If you have a smart thermostat, make sure you have a password on the system that your kids don’t have so they can’t use their smart phone to lower the thermostat. 

What are 7 ways that you can reduce your own personal consumption of energy?

Electrical energy costs, and yet every month, we’re still in shock when we open that electricity bill. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has found that Americans are spending more than $4,000 a year on our electricity and other utilities every year. Here, we have 8 energy efficient tips for your home that are easy and painless, and along with our earlier mentioned tips, can save you money: 

• The Thermostat: The Department of Energy recommends turning the thermostat down in the winter and up in the summer. Their suggested setting is 68 in the winter and 78 in the summer. Then again, you could install a programmable thermostat that will adjust that temperature up or down in time for you to get home and be comfortable,  making energy efficient air conditioner and heater.  
• Ceiling Fans: For some reason, all these home remodeling shows are getting rid of ceiling fans, and that is a huge mistake when it comes to having energy efficient air conditioners. The DOE and their Energy Star program have found that by having a ceiling fan blowing counter-clockwise during the summer, it pulls the hot air up and away from you. Reverse that spin in the winter and push the warm air down where you need it. 
• Your Appliances: As you replace your appliances, go with an Energy Star certified replacement. From washers & dryers to refrigerators & freezers, the dishwashers and more, that Energy Star label is your friend when it comes to energy efficiency, including energy efficient air conditioners. 
• Conserve Water: As you replace faucets and other water using fixtures in your home, replace them with low-flow style. This includes all the faucets, the shower, and the tub. When you’re washing dishes or brushing your teeth, don’t leave water running.   Every drop and stream  of water you can save not only saves you money but contributes conserving a valuable resource.
• Seal and Insulate: A home that is well-insulated will give you the best energy efficient air conditioner and heating system. Check the attic and if you see the floor of the attic, you need more insulation. 
• The Filters: Keep a routine of changing or cleaning the filter of your HVAC or window units. An energy efficient air conditioner can’t do its job with a dirty filter. Don’t forget to empty the clothes dryer filter after each laundry load too. Small things add up and make a big difference.
• Keep Doors Closed: Don’t stand in front of the frig with the door open for more than 30 seconds and teach the kids the same. When you’re not using your fireplace, keep the damper closed and during the hot part of the day, close the blinds and curtains. 
• The Surroundings: By strategically placing trees around your home, you’ll help that energy efficient air conditioner and heating system. A large deciduous tree planted in the right place will reduce your cooling expense by one-fourth. During the winter, trees on the north side of your home will give you a windbreak from those northerners. 

At what temperature AC consumes less power?

During the winter, if you have your thermostat set at 72 degrees normally, gradually lower it to 68 degrees. Just those 5 degrees difference can save you as much as 3% on your energy bill. The same is true with making an energy efficient air conditioner but go up gradually 5 degrees to a warmer setting.

Is it cheaper to run your AC all day?

In general, yes, it is cheaper to leave your air conditioner on all day during the hottest part of the summer. What is not cheaper or efficient is leave it on full blast. This will not only use more electricity but wear your air conditioner out faster too. 

These are each an energy efficient air conditioner unit, some using the heat pump method. Each of these will have their usage cost expectations that you should take into consideration. Call 478-960-5825 today for your energy efficient hvac installation in Bonaire and Warner Robins, GA.

Indoor Air Quality Monitor

This device monitors the indoor door air quality of your home or office. This is the easiest way to do this, and you’ll have consistent monitoring to keep tabs on the improvements you make. 

Mold Air Test 

Mold is a common pollutant in homes, and we don’t always realize we have any. With this device, you’ll find out is you do have any then you can set out to find where its coming from and take care of the problem causing it.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, yet it will kill you quickly if you’re exposed to any large amount for any period of time. This device will tell you if you have any and then you can find where its coming from and take care of the problem. If you have any gas powered appliances like cook stove, clothes dryer, or heating, your home is at a high risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Radon Tester

Radon is also colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it completely undetectable like carbon monoxide. This built detection device alert you to any radon exposure in your home so you can get it sealed off. It is usually coming from the foundation through cracks in the floor and hoovers there. 

How can I test the air quality in my house for mold?

In addition to the mold air test device we listed above, another method you can with household products. Because mold spores can be everywhere, and if your home has a musty odor, there is probably damp organic surfaces that are growing colonies of mold. 

Use your HVAC air filter or ductwork for mold growth testing with the following steps: 

• With a rinse solution, dampen a sterile sponge and wipe a one area of the air filter or the supply duct vent.
• Put the sponge in a clean container and pour the rinse solution over it.
• Shake that rinse container then pour the contents in a cup.
• The test kit you purchased with the rinse solution will have a chart that you can compare the solution color you poured out. The chart will tell you if there is mold inside the air filter or duct work, which means there is mold in the air of your home. 

What are the symptoms of bad air quality in the home?

If you’re concerned about the health and well-being of your family, checking the indoor air quality is a great place to start. Indoor air quality problems can result from building materials and furnishing reacting to each other, activities taking place inside, and the climate. Some symptoms that are commonly reported by anyone bothered by the indoor air quality are:  

• Dryness and irritation: eyes, nose, skin, and throat
• Fatigue and Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Allergies and hypersensitivity
• Sinus congestion issues
• Coughs, sneezing
• Dizziness, nausea

Poor air indoor quality doesn’t affect people right away. They be at work or home for a few hours before they notice these issues. Then when they leave, those symptoms improved. These same symptoms are also associated with the common cold, the flu, and COVID which makes indoor air quality testing even more important. 

How can I naturally purify the air in my home?

Here, we offer six ways you can purify the air in your home naturally: 

1. Salt Crystal Lamp – A Himalayan pink salt lamp will purify the air in your home naturally by pulling toxins out of the environment and neutralizing them. 
2. Beeswax Candles – Beeswax candles ionize the air and neutralize toxic compounds and contaminants, improving the indoor air quality with a slow burn.  
3. Houseplants – the relation between indoor air quality and plants has been known for decades! 
4. Activated Charcoal – Activated charcoal can help purify the indoor air quality with its absorptive and odorless properties while eliminating toxins too. 
5. Proper ventilation – Opening the windows will likely let pollution in along with “fresh” air, so have trickle vents installed instead. They improve the indoor air quality by purifying and recycling the indoor air. Turn on the bath and kitchen exhaust fans periodically to pull indoor pollutants out. 
6.  Essential Oils – Cinnamon, clove, lemon, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and tea tree essential oil flavors kill bacteria, fungi, mold and viruses, all which can lower the indoor air quality of your home. 

Following the recommendations and steps we covered, you will gain several indoor air quality benefits like: 

• Reduce allergens and pollutants.
• Breathe and sleep easier.
• Odors eliminated. 
• Improve HVAC efficiency.

Need help with your indoor air quality in Bonaire and Warner Robins, GA? Call 478-960-5825 today for expert service.

The Size – Because a residential HVAC system doesn’t need to cool, heat, or ventilate as big of an area, it is smaller than a commercial HVAC system. The components of commercial HVAC systems are different in regard to the blower motor, compressor, condenser fan, damper, evaporator, and thermostat. This is because typically, the size of areas between residential and commercial are dramatically different, a commercial HVAC system has to service larger areas. 

The Placement – Your residential HVAC system has a component placed just outside of your home. A commercial HVAC system is situated on the rooftop or in swamp coolers. Why? 

• A commercial HVAC system is installed on the roof for space-saving. 
• A commercial HVAC system on the roof minimizes noise pollution inside the building.
• Repairs or replacement of commercial HVAC on the roof doesn’t interrupt activities and business proceedings inside the building.   

The Complexity – A residential structure and commercial structure vary in shapes and sizes, so a commercial HVAC system needs to adapt to the structure it is servicing. For a commercial HVAC system, it needs to be adaptable to how the structure is used and the activities inside and may take more electrical power to ease exhaust.

The Drainage – A residential HVAC system is servicing a smaller area, thus has less drainage than a commercial HVAC system. A residential HVAC unit will have one drain pan, whereas a commercial HVAC system has multiple pans and pipes. 

The Mechanism –  A commercial HVAC system is modular and a residential HVAC system is standalone. Because the commercial HVAC system is modular, the parts are installed together for ease of maintenance and upgrade. A residential HVAC system is installed both inside and outside, eliminating the ability to expand or modify the system. 

The Equipment – Commercial HVAC systems are very intensive, requiring them to be customized for effective cooling and heating.  In a residential setting, the variance of the humidity and temperature is minimal compared to a commercial structure and the commercial HVAC system is designed to meet the varying needs of the structure shape and size. Additionally, commercial HVAC filters are different than residential filters and require trained technicians to clean or replace the filters in a commercial HVAC system. 

The Maintenance Cost  – As you can imagine, there is more maintenance for a commercial  HVAC system compared to the residential system. They are more complex, larger, and the mechanism is different. The technicians for a commercial HVAC go through different training than a residential HVAC technician. HVAC technicians can be trained for both residential and commercial HVAC equipment, but most are specialized and focused on one or the other. 

How does a commercial HVAC system work?

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) all work together to create the comfort for the occupants of a commercial structure. For the heating, as the system is engaged, the system’s burners  create combustion gases, and they travel to a heat exchanger. Then the air blows over the heat exchanger, and warm air is dispersed through the ductwork throughout the building.

The ventilation of the commercial HVAC system allows fresh air to enter the building and pulls out any contaminated air. When there isn’t adequate ventilation, the indoor air becomes stale and odors accumulate and linger, allowing a high growth rate of mildew, mold, and other harmful byproducts that are created during the combustion process. 

 The air conditioning part of a commercial HVAC unit utilizes the refrigeration process to cool the air and removes the heat.  This process lowers the air temperature and maintains and appropriate humidity level with an air-cooled or water-cooled system.

What are the different types of commercial HVAC systems?

Commercial HVAC systems come in three main categories with countless ways they can be configured. Which category and why configuration all depend on the individual building requirements and any unique circumstances. The three categories are: 

• A Commercial HVAC Single-Split System: For small commercial properties, this is an affordable and  popular option. It allows individualized cooling and heating per room and large areas. They all work together for a complete environment comfort control. 
• A Commercial HVAC Multi-Split System: The same principles as the single-split system, but the multi-split system can have up to nine indoor units all connected to a single unit located outdoors. Ideal for a larger office space, a healthcare facility, and retail stores. The compressor has variable speeds that rely on inverter technology.  Built-in sensors help conserve energy by detecting small fluctuation in temperatures so that adjustments can be made when needed. 
• A Commercial HVAC VRF or VRV System: A VRF (variable refrigerant flow) or VRV (variable refrigerant volume) system utilizes a heat pump that provides either cooling or heating, a great system for a large open area. Or a Heat recovery system that simultaneously provides cooling and heating, great for a commercial structure with multiple rooms. 

How do you size a commercial HVAC system?

First things first, when determining the size of commercial HVAC system, remember a BTU is the amount of energy required to adjust one pound of water temperature by 1 degree Fahrenheit. Thus, 12,000 BTUs equals one ton. There are four main factors to determine the right commercial HVAC equipment:

• The Application: Grocery store, office space, restaurant, retail, etc.  
• The Building Type: A multi-story structure or a warehouse. 
• The Square Footage: How much space will need to be cooled and heated.  
• The Type of HVAC Equipment: Electric or gas equipment, air cooled, water cooled, etc. 

In addition to those factors, add these into your equation in determining the size of commercial HVAC system too: 

• What are the interior and exterior walls are made of?
• What type of insulation is between the walls, what is the R-Value? 
• What type of flooring is in the structure?
• What type of windows are in place?
• What type of roofing material is on the structure?
• What is the occupancy level of the building?
• What types of electronics, lights, and what kind of lighting is in place?
• Are there plants in the building? 

The actual calculation is an involved process and is labor intensive that has always been done by hand. Today, there are programs designed specifically for the HVAC industry to determine the load calculation. 

Maybe house you move into has an HVAC system already, aren’t they all energy efficient? Absolutely not!  Any HVAC system more than 10 years old is not going to be as energy efficient as an HVAC system today. So, what is HVAC efficiency? 

The energy use of an HVAC system is measured by SEER (Seasonal HVAC Energy Efficiency Rating) which computes the cooling equipment of the HVAC system energy efficiency on an average. An energy efficient HVAC system should get you no less that a SEER rating of 10 to 13 units. There are HVAC units on the market today with a Seer rating of 20 to 28 units. 

What is the most energy efficient HVAC system?

The most energy efficient HVAC system for cooling and heating your home that you can purchase today is a Geothermal heat pump. You want an HVAC system that will keep your home and family comfortable but keep the energy expenses low.  A geo-thermal heat pump can do that for cooling and heating needs. 

A Geothermal heat pump has a EER (Energy Efficiency Rating) between 12 and 45, the higher he number, the more efficient. Little maintenance is required, a plus for homeowners, and have a life expectancy of fifty years. A Geothermal heat pump uses the ground around your home to cool and heat your home, making it one of the most enviro-friendly methods of cooling and heating. 

If a geothermal heat pump pulls heat from the ground to heat your home, how does it cool your home?  The heat pump will remove the heat from the air around your home, transfers it a fluid that circulates into the ground.  The temperature of the ground is 55F, and the heat will dissipate from the fluid to the ground, the results is cold air coming into your home as the result of the heat being removed from the air that is circulating, sending the heat back into the ground. 

Is high efficiency HVAC worth it?

The older your HVAC system is, the less efficient it is, so with a new energy efficient HVAC system, the more you’ll save each month in energy cost and the longer the HVAC system will last.   The other factor in getting an energy efficient HVAC system installed, and this may be as important as the energy savings, is your home’s overall comfort.  

How can I improve my HVAC efficiency?

Yes!  Here, we’re going to offer you six tips on how to make an HVAC system efficient and keep your home comfortable.

• Annual professional maintenance.
  Your HVAC system will be more efficient and perform better with regular professional maintenance. In the spring, schedule an air conditioning tune-up and in the fall, schedule a tune- up for the heating. This will minimize the chance of having any performance problems on the hottest day of summer or the coldest night of the winter, and anywhere in between! 
• Regularly change the filter.
  This is your responsibility as a homeowner! To have the best energy efficient HVAC system possible, change the HVAC filter regularly, a recommendation is every 30 days. This is a simple maintenance task, but the most important to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and minimize any breakdowns. Every 30 days change the filter, even if it doesn’t look dirty. 
• Install a programmable thermostat.
  A programmable thermostat, can lessen the cooling and heating demands on your HVAC system, and in exchange, you get an energy efficient HVAC system that will save you as much as 15% on your cooling and heating costs. 
• Ductwork inspection.
  You may be surprised what is living in your air duct system. Dander, dust, and more, including critters and insects. These air pollutants in the duct system are pulled through your HVAC system and blow out into your home. Every five years have your air duct inspected by a professional. They will any debris, make repairs if needed so that the air blowing into your home’s air is cleaner and healthier. 
• Energy audit.
  Getting a home energy audit isn’t as scary as an IRS audit, and in fact, it will help you save money by finding where your home is losing energy. A professional home audit will include an evaluation of your HVAC equipment, attic insulation and ventilation, and the doors and windows. 
• Time to Upgrade.
  After the energy audit, you may want to consider getting your HVAC system upgraded with an energy efficient HVAC system. Yes, this will be a costly investment, but it will also improve your energy cost, while it improves the air quality and comfort in your home.     

What is the most efficient heating system for a home?

Just as with the cooling of your home, a Geothermal Heat pump is one of the most energy efficient ways to heat your home too. A geo pump will pull the heat from the ground and circulate it into your home. You’re using a source of heat that is constantly recreating itself and not putting anything into the environment. 

How often should you have your furnace serviced?

Professionally, a gas furnace need to have annual service at the very minimum.  Recommendation is for twice a year, once before winter and again the end of winter. A quarterly maintenance program will follow a heating maintenance checklist designed by the manufacturer of your furnace. This is a good idea when the furnace is 12 to 15 years old. 

The purpose of professional maintenance is for any issues to be discovered before they become a problem and leave you without heat. The benefits of a professional with a heating maintenance checklist are: 

• Prevent Unexpected Costs: Whenever a professional follows their heating maintenance checklist, they often find little issues that can aren’t causing a problem now but will in time.  This is proactive and keeps your home warm in the winter, protects your budget and wallet, and is safer for your home. 
• Energy Efficiency:  When a professional has performed their heating maintenance checklist, they will do the cleaning and oiling that keeps your furnace working efficiently so that it is giving you the best service without costing a fortune each month. 
• Extended Life:  If you have a combined HVAC system, keeping up with the heating maintenance checklist and the air conditioning checklist will assure that your HVAC system will have a long healthy lifespan, giving you years of comfort. 

How often should you clean your central heating system?

The system itself, for your homeowner heating maintenance checklist, as we have mentioned already, should be professional serviced no less than once a year, twice a year is recommended.  As the homeowner, you should change or clean the filter every 30 days and if your home as several animals or live in a dusty area, you may need to do that every 2 weeks. 

For the air ducts, when you start seeing dust collecting as soon as you’ve dusted, it is time to get the air ducts cleaned.  If you don’t have problem with dust accumulating quickly, you should schedule a professional duct leaning every three years. 

How do you service a heating system?

As a homeowner, it is important that you know how do you maintain a central heating system in order for it to work efficiently without costing you a fortune. A professional heating maintenance checklist should include the following: 

• Replace the Air Filter
• Check the Thermostat
• Switch High and Low Wall Returns according to the weather
• Inspect Blower Motor and Wheel
• Lubricate Motor and All Moving Parts 
• Inspect Electrical Wiring
• Inspect Heat Exchanger
• Clean Burners and Check for Drafts
• Check Air Flow and Capacitors
• Check Temperature Difference

Cost savings are always an important issue when it comes to installing an air conditioning system. One distinct advantage ductless systems have over central air conditioning is increased energy efficiency. These units have a SEER rating of 14 or more, and many older central units have a rating of six or less. SEER measures a system’s ability to cool efficiently during a typical cooling season, and the higher the rating, the greater the energy efficiency. What this means for consumers is that ductless systems use less energy to operate, so they will save you money on utility expenses in the long term.

If you are interested in installing energy-efficient ductless air conditioners in Bonaire and Warner Robins, GA, you can always rely on the professionals at Mission Critical Comfort Solutions. We offer a wide range of heating and cooling solutions for both residential and commercial customers. Find out how we can help keep you comfortable by calling 478-960-5825.

How many ductless units do I need?

Duct air conditioners cool in zones. This means you only cool the rooms that you want to cool. Depending on the size of your home, however, this also means you’ll have to install more than one air handler—the inside unit—in your home, which often means added upfront costs, one of the main disadvantages of this type of system. Most outside condenser units in a ductless system, however, can fit up to eight air handlers. As a rule of thumb, depending on the size of your home, you’ll probably need one air handler per room. Also, the larger the rooms, the larger the air handler needs to be.  

How many square feet can a ductless air conditioner cool?

When you’re installing a ductless air conditioner, the square footage of your property is the key to what size air handler you’ll need to cool each zone. At a minimum, to cool a 150-200 square foot home, you’ll need a 6,000 BTU unit. The larger the space, the larger the unit you’ll need to cool it. For a 400-450 square foot space, for instance, you would need a unit with 10,000 BTU output, while spaces of up to 1,500 square feet require 24,000 BTU.

Can I install ductless AC myself?

Ductless air conditioners require an outside condenser unit and one or more air handlers inside, depending on whether they are single-zone, double-zone, or multizone units. The more air handlers needed, the more complex the installation. While you can install the units themselves with little trouble, professionals are required to install the refrigerant line. The line has to be cut and charged to complete the installation. Some DIY units, however, already have the refrigerant charged and no professional is required for installation.

Does ductless AC add value to home?

While having any cooling system in your home is valuable, many homebuyers view central cooling systems to have the most value because these systems cool the whole home from one centralized unit. However, ductless air conditioners are also highly valued because they are more energy-efficient than central cooling. Either system, though, adds more value to homes than a wall unit does.

Do ductless air conditioners also heat?

Installed on their own, ductless air conditioners are unable to simultaneously serve as heaters. But, if you install a mini-split with a heat pump, then you’ll be able to heat your home. The reversing valve is the key component in this case because it redirects refrigerant flow depending on the season.

Are ductless air conditioners noisy?

Along with being energy efficient, people like ductless air conditioners because they produce almost no noise. The decibel rating is about 25, equivalent to the sound of rustling leaves.

How to clean ductless air conditioner

Like all air conditioners, ductless systems need to be cleaned and maintained regularly so they continue to run efficiently. When cleaning a ductless system, you’ll need to clean both the outdoor and indoor units.

Cleaning the outdoor unit

• Clear twigs, grass, and other debris away from the unit.
• Use a damp cloth and soap and water to clean the outdoor cabinet. Use a dry cloth to dry it.
• Scrub and wash the fan cage or grill by first spraying it with water and using a brush to scrub away excess dirt and grime.
• Use a damp soapy cloth to clean the fan blades, then rinse and dry with a dry cloth.
• Remove dirt from the interior unit with a dry cloth or vacuum.
• Wash off any mold growing on the condensate pan with soap or bleach solution and then rinse it.
• Remove debris or objects that might block water from the drain hose and wash the hose with soap and water.

Cleaning the indoor unit

• Wipe the outside of the air handler with a damp cloth and dry it immediately with a dry cloth.
• Remove the air filters and clean them either with a dry cloth or soap and water.
• Wipe dirt away from the evaporator coils with a dry cloth or use a coil cleaner.

• Energy Efficient, Lower Energy Bills: Keeping your HVAC maintenance up will keep it running at the highest level of efficiency. When it is running at its best, it uses less energy, which means you’re paying for less energy.
• Healthier Air: With proper HVAC maintenance, your home will be cooler in the summer, warmer in the winter, and the air quality will be cleaner, making the air you breathe healthier. 
• Long Lifespan: Routine HVAC maintenance will keep your HVAC unit healthier and give it a longer lifespan. Today, they are given a lifespan of 10 years or more with proper maintenance. 
• Fewer Emergency Repairs: By keeping your HVAC maintenance up-to-date, you’ll have fewer, maybe no, emergency repair bills. 
• Manufacturer Warranty: A manufacturer warranty will be honored when you have proof that you have kept the maintenance up-to-date. After the HVAC system warranty has expired, the practice of HVAC maintenance will also be beneficial for any replacement parts your system may need, and the service warranty will be intact as well. 

What is HVAC maintenance?

As a homeowner, your part of HVAC maintenance is preventive and proactive. You’re doing things like changing the filter every 30 days, cleaning the coils. As long as you create an HVAC maintenance checklist and follow it monthly, bi-annually, and annually, you’ll be doing all you can to keep your HVAC system in good condition. These steps include having the system inspected professionally and tuned up twice a year.

What is included in HVAC tune up?

Most common HVAC inspection and tune-up will include: 

• Condenser Coil Cleaning
• Calibrating the Thermostat
• Checking Refrigerant Levels
• Checking Refrigerant Leaks
• Examine and Tighten Electrical Parts
• Analyze Blower Belt and Motor Operation 

How long does HVAC maintenance take?

A professional HVAC maintenance process takes approximately two hours maximum, depending on the HVAC unit. It isn’t an all-day thing, but it is worth your time as part of the investment to your HVAC system and your home. 

How often should you have HVAC maintenance?

The HVAC system in your home should be checked and inspected no less than once a year, twice a year is recommended with one the spring before the summer heat and again in the fall before winter cold. If your HVAC system is a heat pump, definitely twice a year is needed. 

When it comes down to it, as a homeowner, comparing the hassles of HVAC maintenance vs HVAC repair cost, the time to perform HVAC maintenance is well worth the savings. This simple checklist of preventive maintenance is doable and manageable. Doing the preventive maintenance steps that we’ve discussed should not be a replacement for hiring a professional HVAC company no less than once a year to inspect and perform professional maintenance on the HVAC system each fall and spring. They will inspect all the mechanisms and wiring for both parts of the HVAC system air conditioner and furnace. Dial 478-960-5825 today for your HVAC maintenance in Bonaire and Warner Robins, GA.