Tag: HVAC

Home Services

Choosing the Right HVAC System for Your Home

Tilly Leon

A home’s HVAC system does more than keep you comfortable. It also helps control humidity and removes odors. Choosing the right system depends on the climate where you live and your goals for energy efficiency.

Routine maintenance helps keep your system running at peak efficiency. This includes changing the filter regularly. Contact HVAC Lexington KY now!

During the winter, heating systems keep people cozy and comfortable. They also have the additional benefit of improving indoor air quality. In fact, indoor air quality is a critical component of a healthy environment. Poor air quality can lead to everything from mild symptoms like headaches and trouble sleeping to more serious health issues. HVAC systems directly influence indoor air quality and, as such, it’s important to understand how they work and how they can affect your home.

The core of any HVAC system is its filtration and ventilation components. These pull fresh air in from outside, filter out pollutants and excess moisture, and then circulate it throughout a home or commercial building. They can also remove stale air, expelling it out through vents and replacing it with fresh, conditioned air.

Once the air is clean and at the right temperature, it’s distributed via an air handler or ductwork, depending on the type of system in use. Ductless systems are another option, especially for homes that can’t accommodate ductwork or want more control over their air distribution.

A programmable thermostat controls when and how the HVAC system operates. It signals the other components of the system when it’s time to heat up or cool down. Once that happens, the system works to meet its goal. Thermostats can be programmed to run at different times of the day or to adjust according to a homeowner’s schedule.

Most people associate HVAC with air conditioning, which is a necessary service during warmer months. However, there are many other services that an HVAC system can provide. It can help regulate indoor temperatures, improve indoor air quality, and protect sensitive equipment like data centers.

An HVAC professional can advise on the best system for your needs, including options for energy efficiency, indoor air quality and disaster preparedness. They can also provide routine maintenance to keep the system running smoothly and efficiently. This includes changing the air filter, cleaning ducts, and checking for leaks. With regular maintenance and an investment in a high-efficiency HVAC system, you can be sure to enjoy optimum comfort and peace of mind in your home or business.

Cooling

Cooling HVAC systems keep indoor temperatures comfortable and stable throughout the summer, and this is a crucial component of human comfort. Air conditioning units, such as central ACs, window ACs, and ductless mini-splits, work to cool the air and remove excess humidity. These units are typically powered by electricity, and they use refrigerant to absorb and transport heat. They also include fans to circulate cooled air and a thermostat to manage temperature settings.

Besides heating and cooling, HVAC systems can also help maintain acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ). IAQ is the level of pollutants in an environment, including tobacco smoke, cleaning chemicals, and mold. Poor IAQ can cause irritation and lead to health problems, such as allergies and asthma. HVAC systems can contribute to good IAQ by keeping pollutants and contaminants away from indoor spaces, and this includes addressing problems such as dirty air filters and leaky ductwork.

To prevent pollutants from entering your home, HVAC systems usually have a filter that traps dust, dirt, and other contaminates and then expels them outdoors through exhaust outlets. These filters are often recommended to be changed every 90 days. HVAC systems that also offer ventilation functions, such as energy recovery ventilators, can boost your IAQ by ensuring that the air you breathe is fresh and clean.

Depending on your climate and your home, there are many HVAC options to choose from. For example, if you have short, hot summers and your home doesn’t have ductwork, a ductless mini-split system would be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you have a large house and need central AC, a traditional system is your best bet.

Ventilation

In order to create an acceptable indoor environment with regards to air quality, ventilation systems have the task of transporting outside air into buildings and distributing it within. The main reason for this is to dilute contaminants that have been generated inside buildings, and to keep them at levels that do not negatively affect the health of people. The aim is to do this with minimal energy consumption, but it is also important to achieve a good air distribution pattern and ensure that no pollutants are transported from one room to another.

Ventilation can be done either naturally or mechanically. Natural ventilation relies on gaps and cracks in the building structure as well as opening and closing of doors to bring in fresh air. However, modern construction is creating buildings that are much more tightly sealed which makes mechanical ventilation a vital part of the HVAC system in homes and commercial spaces.

In mechanical ventilation, the outdoor air is brought into the HVAC system through air returns and ducts that are connected to an air handling unit. The air is then conditioned, and then distributed through the building with the help of blower fans. The system also includes air filters to remove particles from the incoming air before it is conditioned. The conditioned air is then vented out through vents and registers in walls, floors and ceilings.

The term HVAC can be a little confusing because it encompasses so many different products and features that are designed to optimize your home’s comfort and improve its indoor air quality. These include heating and cooling equipment like furnaces, air conditioners and heat pumps as well as ductwork, thermostats and other home comfort controls. It also includes indoor air quality (IAQ) products like air cleaners, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and filtration systems that are designed to remove allergy-aggravating contaminants from your home’s air. The technology behind these systems is complex, but the benefits can be significant for homeowners and businesses. The right system can be the key to a comfortable, healthy and productive workplace or living space.

Indoor Air Quality

Studies have shown that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Despite this fact, many buildings are not properly ventilated and are often full of a variety of pollutants. Some of these pollutants may be harmful to human health. Some symptoms of poor indoor air quality include a musty smell, dry or itchy skin, nasal and sinus irritation, asthma and fatigue. Others can cause more serious ailments, such as bronchitis, emphysema and even lung cancer.

Some of the most common sources of pollutants in buildings and apartments include environmental tobacco smoke; asbestos from insulating and fire-retardant building materials; lead paint; formaldehyde from pressed wood products; cleaning chemicals, activities and equipment; mold and mildew from wet or water-damaged surfaces; and pesticides. Many of these sources can be eliminated or controlled through source control, increased ventilation and the use of air cleaning devices.

In addition, many pollutants can be reduced by limiting the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals are a significant source of indoor air pollution. A number of government and voluntary programs exist to regulate or limit VOC emissions from building and furnishing materials.

Ventilation is one of the most important factors influencing indoor air quality. A low air exchange rate allows virus particles and other pollutants to build up and contribute to health problems. Several techniques can be used to increase ventilation rates, including opening windows and using exhaust fans when cooking or bathing.

A building’s location and weather conditions also affect indoor air quality. Pollen, humidity, and forest fires all contribute to bad indoor air quality, especially in hot climates or during the summer when these conditions are most prevalent.

The air quality of a home can be significantly improved by the use of a HVAC system that is properly sized and operated. In addition, a number of home furnishings and other products are available that can reduce allergens and other contaminants that contribute to poor indoor air quality.

In some cases, an apartment resident can correct a problem by removing a source of pollution, changing an activity or opening a window to increase ventilation; in other cases, the only option is to encourage building management to follow guidance in EPA and NIOSH’s Building Air Quality: A Guide for Building Owners and Managers.

HVAC

Why Furnace Repair Is Worth the Investment

Jessica Gill

Furnace Repair is a costly endeavor, but often worth the investment to ensure you and your family stay comfortable. Choosing the right contractor can significantly minimize costs by ensuring repairs are done correctly and protecting warranty coverage.

Furnace Repair

Unusual noises like banging, whining or rattling are common indicators that something is wrong with your furnace. A skilled technician can pinpoint the issue and perform furnace repair quickly to restore heat to your home.

A furnace’s ignition system controls the combustion process that warms up your home. If your furnace’s ignition system isn’t functioning correctly, you might notice that your home doesn’t heat as it should. This is a sign that the gas ignition system needs repairs or replacement. While some minor issues can be resolved by homeowners, complex problems should always be repaired by a professional.

In some cases, your ignition system might need replacement because the igniter is cracked or broken. Located below your furnace’s access cover, the igniter is responsible for heating the fuel and starting the combustion process. Inspect the igniter to see if it has a yellow tint or shows any signs of wear. If you notice a yellow tint or any other problems with the igniter, turn off your furnace and call a professional.

If you have a newer furnace that uses an electronic ignition system, it may be difficult to diagnose this issue without the help of a technician. However, if your older furnace still has a standing pilot light, it is possible that the pilot light has gone out or that the ignitor switch has stopped working.

If your ignitor switch isn’t working, you won’t be able to get your furnace to produce heat even though your thermostat settings are correct. In addition, a malfunctioning ignitor switch can increase the amount of wear and tear on your furnace. An experienced HVAC technician can inspect your ignitor switch to see if it’s malfunctioning or needs replacing. They can also clean it if it is dirty.

Short Cycling

If your furnace turns on and off frequently without ever reaching the temperature set by your thermostat, your system is short cycling. This condition disrupts your comfort and increases energy bills while also placing extra stress on the system. Fortunately, there are many potential solutions to this problem.

One common cause of short cycles is a dirty air filter. When the filter becomes clogged, it restricts airflow to the heat exchanger and causes it to overheat. The furnace’s built-in safety devices then shut the system down to prevent damage. Changing the air filter or replacing it entirely can help fix this issue.

Another potential cause of short cycling is a faulty thermostat or battery. Old or weak batteries interfere with the thermostat’s ability to correctly read your home’s temperatures, which can affect cycle length. Changing the batteries or relocating the thermostat to a cooler area can often remedy this issue.

A clogged flue or vent pipe can also trigger the system to shut down. The flue is designed to release hazardous gasses, so if it becomes blocked by debris such as a bird’s nest or dead vermin, the system will overheat and shut down as a precautionary measure.

If the above troubleshooting steps fail to help, it’s time to call a professional. An HVAC technician will have the tools, skills and knowledge needed to diagnose the issue and repair it promptly. They can also assess your current system to determine if it’s the right size for your home’s heating requirements. Getting a new, properly-sized furnace can help you avoid costly repairs and short cycling in the future. Contact us to learn more about our furnace installation services today.

Insufficient Airflow

When your furnace kicks on, it should be blowing plenty of warm air throughout the house. If you’re noticing weak airflow, it may be time for a heating repair.

A few simple tasks can help improve weak airflow in your furnace. Start by inspecting vents for obstructions, checking for closed dampers, and evaluating ductwork insulation. These basic maintenance steps can make a big difference in the performance of your system.

Changing air filters regularly is another important way to enhance your system’s performance and efficiency. Make sure to use a filter that fits your system, and replace it whenever it’s clogged with dust and debris.

If your furnace is producing excessive amounts of smoke or a burning smell, it’s time for an inspection and cleaning by a professional HVAC technician. In these cases, the underlying problem can be complex and require specialized expertise.

One of the most common reasons for poor airflow in a furnace is blocked flue pipes. These pipes transport dangerous combustion fumes out of the home, but if something blocks them from exiting, it can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, a fire, and serious health consequences.

Maintaining proper ventilation during a furnace repair is essential to ensure the safety and comfort of the homeowner and anyone else in the vicinity. Ventilation standards outline criteria for vent sizing, clearance distances from combustible materials, and other factors that promote safe working conditions in confined spaces like a furnace room.

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

Carbon monoxide, known as the silent killer, can be produced by furnaces or other gas appliances that aren’t operating properly. It’s a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can cause a wide range of symptoms in humans. It builds up in the body and displaces oxygen, causing poisoning that can be fatal.

The best way to prevent carbon monoxide leaks is to install carbon monoxide detectors and keep them regularly tested. It’s also essential to have your furnace and any other gas-powered appliances checked by a professional on an annual basis. During a regular tune-up, the technician will replace the air filter and lubricate the motor to help avoid carbon monoxide leaks.

Other ways to prevent carbon monoxide leaks is by making sure that your flue pipes and chimney are in good condition. Over time, these components can corrode or become blocked with soot and other debris. During routine inspections, the technician can make sure that they’re clear and free from damage or obstructions.

Lastly, never use generators or portable fuel-burning appliances inside your home. They should always be used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. If you or anyone in your household develops any of the signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical attention immediately. Pregnant women should be especially careful, as carbon monoxide can attach to fetal hemoglobin at a level 10% to 15% higher than it does in the mother.

A carbon monoxide detector will sound if the CO levels get too high, helping you take action before the problem gets worse. By following these tips, you can greatly reduce your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from your furnace this winter.

Electrical Issues

As with any electrical system, a furnace’s electrical connections can become faulty over time. This can affect the system’s ability to function, as well as pose safety risks to homeowners. This is a type of problem that should be handled by a professional, as the proper handling of wires requires knowledge and skill.

One of the most common issues related to furnace electrical components is a faulty capacitor. Capacitors store and release electrical energy to help start the motor that drives your furnace’s blower fan. When a capacitor wears out, it may stop working and lead to motor failure.

A bad fuse is another electrical issue that can negatively impact your furnace. Fuse problems typically stem from a lack of maintenance, which leads to the accumulation of dust and grime on fuse terminals that prevent them from connecting properly. Using a fuse with the wrong capacity is also a culprit. Trained technicians can quickly diagnose a faulty fuse and recommend a replacement.

Other electrical issues include problems with the thermostat’s wiring and the control board. A faulty thermostat can lead to unreliable temperature controls, while wires with loose ends can cause short circuits that shut down the entire unit.

Before you tackle any DIY furnace repair, be sure to turn off the power supply to the system. This will eliminate the risk of accidental contact with live wires and minimize your exposure to electric shock. It’s also a good idea to wear non-conductive work gloves and use insulated tools whenever possible. A voltage tester is also a helpful tool to have on hand, as it allows you to test whether an electrical component has an active current without touching it.