Archive for the ‘Heating and Cooling’ Category

 

Types of Air Conditioner Filters: Electrostatic

Friday, August 2nd, 2013

Types of Air Conditioner Filters: Electrostatic - Heating and Cooling

Air conditioning systems are indispensable pieces of equipment in most houses, especially during summertime. If you’re considering changing your AC unit or installing a new one, you need to pay attention to the filters, as the effectiveness of your device depends on them to a large extent. As you probably know, conventional AC units require periodic filter replacement to work properly.

What If You Wouldn’t Have to Change Air Conditioner Filters Repeatedly?

There are types of air conditioner filters, such as electrostatic, for instance, that make this possible. Of the many types of filters, the electrostatic filters are increasingly popular due to their features and benefits.

How Do Electrostatic Filters Work?

The fibers used in the air filter are designed in such a way as to generate a static charge when air comes through them. Electrostatic air filters work like a magnet, attracting the particles in the air due to the negative-positive polarity between the fibers in the filter and the elements they come into contact with.

Why These Types of Air Conditioner Filters Are a Better Option

1. You don’t need to replace them. Electrostatic filters don’t need to be replaced. Although initial installation costs may be higher, periodic replacement of filters won’t be required.

2. They are environmentally friendly. With electrostatic filters you don’t have to buy new filters from time to time and throw away the old ones. This reduces waste and is better for the environment.

3. You can have clearer air in your house. Unlike conventional air filters, such as the fiberglass ones, electrostatic filters can absorb very small particles. People suffering from asthma or those prone to allergies are more sensitive to dust-laden environments. Electrostatic filters keep the air clean and fresh.

4. They are cost-effective. Electrostatic filters prevent dust from accumulating in the components of your air conditioning unit. A cleaner system lasts longer and is more efficient, which means that you will spend less money on repairs.

Need HVAC Help?

By checking and cleaning your AC unit regularly, you prevent potential and unexpected breakdowns while ensuring that you breathe fresh and clean air. This way, you protect both your investment and your health. TalkLocal can save you the trouble of finding a qualified HVAC professional in your area. All you need to do is log on to our website and ask for help. It’s free.

Types of Air Conditioner Filters: Electronic

Thursday, August 1st, 2013

Types of Air Conditioner Filters: Electronic - Heating and Cooling

To maintain clean air in your house, the filters of your air conditioning unit need to be replaced or cleaned periodically. Over time, filters get clogged and lose their ability to absorb dust and other particles, including bacteria, which fill the air. If the filters don’t work properly, they fail to stop the dust and other potentially harmful particles from being re-circulated into the air. So instead of helping and maintaining a clean atmosphere inside your house, dirty filters can cause various health issues.

How Can You Maintain Clean Air in Your Home?

Of all the types of air conditioner filters, electronic filters are considered to provide enhanced indoor air quality. They can increase the performance of your air-conditioning system by pre-filtering the contaminants and allergens in your house.

How Do They Work?

Innovative technology has brought new types of air conditioner filters. Electronic filters are designed to follow the latest standard in the industry. What’s the principle behind this equipment? Simply put, electronic filters act as a pre-filter, which traps dust and dirt particles in the air. The particles that manage to escape from the pre-filter get an electric charge and are then captured by the plates of the electronic filter. This way, most micro particles in the air are absorbed by the filter, and the air is cleaned.

How Many Types of Electronic Filters Are There?

There are two types of electronic filters: one is the charged media filter, and the other is the electrostatic precipitator. The former uses electrically charged fibers to isolate the unwanted particles in the air, while the latter collects dust and pollutants with the help of charged plates. The filter called electrostatic precipitator is more efficient because it has a higher voltage.

Looking for Help?

TalkLocal can save you time and energy by connecting you with a qualified professional. Just visit our website and let us know what you need. Our service is accessible and free.

Types of Air Conditioner Filters: HEPA

Wednesday, July 31st, 2013

Types of Air Conditioner Filters: HEPA - Heating and Cooling

Air conditioning units are important pieces of equipment in a home that ensure your comfort. Their efficacy depends to a large extent on the type of filter incorporated in the device, as filters keep the air you breathe free of dust and micro particles. However, to make sure your air conditioning system works properly, you need to change filters regularly. There are many types of air conditioner filters on the market, and HEPA is one of them.

What Is HEPA?

HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate absorbing” or “high-efficiency particulate arresting.” High-quality HEPA filters are based on a technology that aims to absorb very small particles floating in the air that normally remain undetectable to our eyes.

How Do You Know What Types of Air Conditioner Filters to Choose?

Some types of air conditioning filters are more effective than others. HEPA filters are known for their efficiency, and they are designed to comply with a specific standard. More specifically, HEPA filters should have the ability to absorb particles present in the air with a diameter as small as 0.3 microns. The HEPA standard states that to be included among the types of air conditioner filters, filters need to be able to retain 99.7% of micro particles. HEPA filters can clean pollutants in the air, such as pollen and allergens that you are unaware of, but which are dangerous for your health.

Is it Worth Investing in These Sophisticated Types of Air Conditioner Filters?

The expected efficacy of HEPA filters is reflected in their price tag. This means that they can be costly. Whether the investment is worthwhile or not is an individual decision. One thing is certain: your health and that of your family are influenced by the air you breathe day by day. That is why it is advisable to change your air conditioning filters once in a while.

Need AC Help?

Need a hand for some heating and cooling maintenance jobs? TalkLocal can help you find a local qualified professional. Our service is simple and free. We narrow down your options so you can make the final call, and then we connect you with the professionals directly.

HVAC System Types: Duct-Free Split System

Sunday, June 30th, 2013

HVAC System Types: Duct-Free Split System - Heating and Cooling

There are many different HVAC system types — you don’t have to have central air in order to properly keep your home or office at the right temperature. For instance, duct-free split systems are an avenue that many people have used in order to control the climate in their living space.

These HVAC system types consist of an inside component and an outside component. Just as the name suggests, no ducts are required to deliver heat or cool air.

Why Would You Want A Duct-Free Split System?

Installing an HVAC system which requires ducts can be a mammoth undertaking. It can also come with a hefty price tag. Some living quarters make it impossible to even install an HVAC system with ducts. These people often turn to a duct-free split system.

They are also perfect for home additions where you do not want to put up with the hassle of extending ducts and installing them in the new room.

Where Do You Install A Duct-Free Split System?

These HVAC systems can be installed either in a wall or on the ceiling. Wherever they are installed, half of the system must be housed inside while the other half is outdoors.

When they are mounted on a wall, duct-free split systems are usually placed higher up. This mimics the feeling of ducts, as ducts are normally stationed near the ceiling. Plus, heat rises and cooler air sinks. Letting the cool air fall into a room can adjust the climate efficiently.

Who Can Install This, And Other HVAC System Types?

Installing an HVAC system is not a do-it-yourself project. Sure, you could install a window unit, but a more extensive system requires the help of a qualified heating and cooling professional. You can find one through TalkLocal.

Countless satisfied users have been connected with service professionals in their area using our quick and free service.

HVAC System Types: Hybrid Heat Split System

Saturday, June 29th, 2013

HVAC System Types: Hybrid Heat Split System - Heating and Cooling

It is important to keep your home or office at a comfortable temperature. When the cold weather of winter hits, you need to scour the HVAC system types to find one that can not only warm your home, but to do so efficiently. The last thing you want are bloated energy bills at the end of the month.

Many residents turn to a hybrid heat split system in this case. By design, this type of HVAC system is incredibly efficient and will save as much energy as possible.

Why Are These The Most Efficient Of HVAC System Types?

Hybrid heat split systems are designed with both an electric heat pump and furnace which operates on fossil fuel.

The system will gauge your heating needs and choose between the heat pump and furnace to provide the heat — whichever is more efficient. With the option of producing electrical heat, this can help save money, especially in the face of skyrocketing prices for fossil fuels.

How Does A Hybrid Heat Split System Work?

Like you will sometimes do in your car, the heat pump of a hybrid heat split system will draw heat from the outside air and pump it into a home. Even when it does not feel warm outside, there is still warmth in the air that can be extracted with the pump.

However, when the pump can’t draw heat from the air, that’s when the furnace kicks in and serves as a source for heat. The fossil fuels burn and the heat that is generated is fed into the home.

Does It Only Work In The Winter?

No! In fact, when it gets hot out, the pump can be used to extract warm air from inside the home and displace it outdoors, thus, cooling the home.

Find Heating And Cooling Professionals In Your Area

Don’t spend a ton of time searching for heating and cooling professionals. Just visit TalkLocal. We do all the work for you. We will find you proper help and connect them with you on the phone. You can take it from there.

HVAC System Types: Packaged System

Friday, June 28th, 2013

HVAC System Types: Packaged System - Heating and Cooling

If you want to keep your home feeling cool during the summer, and warm during the winter, choose the Cadillac of HVAC system types. A packaged system is what many consider to be a central air conditioning system. While installing a packaged system can be quite pricey, it often pays off by not only keeping your home at a favorable temperature, but also doing so in an efficient manner.

Let’s take a look at the packaged system and how it stacks up against other HVAC system types.

How Is A Packaged System Set Up

The brains of the packaged system are contained in one large unit that is stationed outside the home. Many opt to put this large machine on a concrete slab so that it doesn’t sink into the grass or dirt.

This unit contains heating and cooling components — both electric and gas-powered for optimal efficiency. The heat and cool air are delivered into the home through ducts. Inside the home, return air ducts deliver air back out.

Save On Space

Unlike other HVAC system types, you can spare all the space inside your home because the unit sits outside. Other types of units will take up space on your wall or in your window.

Very Efficient

Because most of these packaged systems have gas-powered and electric components, they operate efficiently and keep your energy bill at a minimum. When the electrical heat pump can extract heat from the air outside, it will. This won’t require any gas consumption on your system’s behalf.

Need Help Finding The Right HVAC System?

Get advice and installation help from a heating and cooling professional in your area. If you don’t know where to start your search, start it at TalkLocal. We will track down quality help in your own backyard and connect them with you in a matter of minutes. No waiting!

HVAC System Types: Split System

Thursday, June 27th, 2013

HVAC System Types: Split System - Heating and Cooling

It is safe to say that everyone wants to keep their home or office cool during the brutal heat of the summer. Unfortunately, not everyone has the budget or skill to install a full-scale air conditioning system to achieve those cooler temperatures.

This is why a split system is one of the popular HVAC system types.

What Is A Split System?

Most of you probably can picture what a window air conditioning unit looks like. That is one form of a split system HVAC system.

Similar to some other HVAC system types, this consists of inside and outside units — thus the name. The part that rests outside the home or office contains the compressor and other elements of the system, while the inside has a blower and cooling coils to discharge the cold air.

How Are Split Systems Used?

These do not always have to be installed in a window. Many people open up a space in a wall so that the split system can be installed. They can be installed essentially anywhere as long as the unit can be both inside and outside at the same time.

Benefits Of Split Systems

          – Easier and cheaper to install than central air

          – Ducts are not required, so you won’t have to tear your home or office apart

          – Energy bills are still reasonable

Disadvantages Of Split Systems

– Do not cool as well

– Can be noisy

– Can only cool smaller rooms efficiently

Maybe split systems are not the greatest of HVAC system types, but they will certainly do the job for those who need some cooling off on a budget.

Need Help Installing One?

Contact a heating and cooling professional for all your needs. They know how to properly install any type of system. You can narrow your search down to three quality choices by using Seva Call. We’ll connect you directly with the right professionals, and our service is fast and free.

How To Save Energy With Home Improvements: HVAC

Friday, June 21st, 2013

How To Save Energy With Home Improvements: HVAC - Heating and Cooling

The newest trend in home ownership is to save as much energy as possible. Saving energy is not only good for the environment, it is good for your budget, as well. One of the many ways homeowners are looking into how to save energy with home improvements is through updating their HVAC systems.

The following are some benefits of updating your systems and things to watch out for.

 Why Update?

If you’re searching for how to save energy with home improvements, updating your HVAC system will certainly do this. The average homeowner spends $1,000 per year on heating and cooling. This makes up about half of your total energy bill.

Energy efficient systems can save you up to 30 percent on your heating and cooling bill. In addition to helping your budget, energy-efficient systems help protect the environment. It’s simple, really; the less energy you need, the less you use, and the less that is produced from nonrenewable energy sources.

Energy Star

Walk through any home improvement store and you are bound to see these light blue and white star logos all over, but what do they mean?

These special stickers denote that the product has met, or exceeded, the rigorous requirements of the United States Environmental Protection Agency for energy efficiency. You can trust that an Energy Star-rated air conditioning unit will really do what it claims to do because it is regulated by the government.

However, it is important to make sure that both your cooling AND heating systems are updated. Often, your furnace will provide the blower that forces the cold air from your air conditioner into your home. If your furnace and blower are not energy-efficient, your system won’t perform as efficiently as its rating.

Hire A Professional And Let The Savings Begin

Updating your systems on your own can be tricky. It is best to leave the physical work to  a professional. Let TalkLocal find a qualified professional in your area. Our service is free and incredibly easy. We track down three qualified professionals right away, and you make the final choice.

How To Stay Cool In The Summer Heat: Air Conditioning

Monday, June 17th, 2013

How To Stay Cool In The Summer Heat: Air Conditioning - Heating and Cooling

If you are trying to figure out how to stay cool in the summer heat, air conditioning may seem like a no-brainer. After all, machines that condition air for better living have been around since China’s Han Dynasty. Air conditioning is easy to use; it keeps the temperature down and it feels fantastic when it hits you after coming in from the sweltering heat outside.

Air conditioning lets you choose exactly how cool (or downright chilly) you want your home to be. Whether a window unit or central air, air conditioning is how to stay cool in the summer heat. A few weeks later though … the electric bill comes. That’s when you might wonder what the heck you were thinking.

Energy Efficient Air Conditioning

Energy Star-certified air conditioners use an average of 10 percent less energy than their non-energy-conscious counterparts. Overall, these energy-conserving air conditioners are purported to save about $50 over the lifetime of the unit.

In addition to using less electricity while running, many low-energy air conditioning units have timers which allow for running only when needed. If you’re the sort who likes it nice and cool when you get home from work, a timer can allow you to start running your unit an hour before you get home rather than all day long. That’s when the savings really start to pile up.

Consider Your Room Or Home

Knowing how to stay cool in the summer heat can depend on the size and shape of your room, as well as the placement of your air conditioning unit. Window units can be helped along with an oscillating fan or even a ceiling fan.

Getting air circulating around your home can make a big difference in temperature and humidity, allowing you to run your air conditioner less. An energy-saving air conditioner, properly placed and running only when appropriate, can save money and keep your family cool this summer.

Heating And Cooling Help Made Accessible

TalkLocal is an incredible resource for when you need help with your home’s heating or cooling system. Instead of searching the phonebook for help, you can submit a request for service. We will have three local professionals give you a call. You get to decide who will be best for the job. It saves you both time and money.

Gas Heat vs. Oil Heat

Tuesday, June 11th, 2013

Gas Heat vs. Oil Heat - Heating and Cooling

When it comes to choosing how you will heat your home, there are many things to consider. You can pick from some of the more traditional methods, or even explore some of the more nontraditional ones.

Everyone is different and has different preferences and opinions about the type of fuel that should be used to heat a home. If you are trying to make a decision between gas heat vs. oil heat, consider these points.

Oil Heat

Gas Heat

The choice between gas heat vs. oil heat can be a hard one. Regardless of which one you choose, make sure the heater is checked often and is safe to operate in your home. If you think you may have a gas or oil leak, leave your home as soon as possible and contact the fuel company and 911. Gas leaks can be toxic and oil leaks could cause a fire.

Always Contact Professionals To Fix Problems

Heating and cooling issues are not really do-it-yourself projects. That is why it is so important to connect with a local company or professional to tend to your needs. By using TalkLocal, we eliminate most of the search process for you. We will connect you with three different companies and you can select the best one for the job. It’s easy, effective, and free.