Flooding and Your HVAC Equipment in Southwest Florida
People who live in flood zones in Southwest Florida have to think about more than simply weathering storms. Many people board up windows and place sandbags around their homes in an effort to keep floodwaters from encroaching and damaging their property. In addition to their personal property inside of their homes, homeowners who live in flood zones also have to worry about their HVAC units.
These units may become damaged in floods and need to be replaced. People should also be aware that many areas in the region have recently been rezoned as flood zones, making it important for people to move their HVAC systems above the design flood elevation to protect them in case a flood occurs.
How floods can damage HVAC units
While it is true that some HVAC components that are made out of steel or copper are made to withstand all types of water, the units may not be able to withstand flooding HVAC events that can happen in hurricanes and other natural events. Flooding HVAC systems can cause electrical components to short out in electric HVAC systems. The lowest electrical component is normally the component that will short out first in systems that are placed at or near the ground level. Gas units may not withstand floods at all. Most of these units have their gas burners and heat exchange located at the very base of them, which are what floodwaters can damage.
Protect HVAC units by moving them
Waterfront HVAC systems must be placed at elevations that are greater than the design flood elevation for the area in which the homes are located. It is common for homes in some flood zone regions of Florida to have their systems placed at heights of 18 feet or higher. If you live in an area that has recently been rezoned as a flood zone, it is important for you to relocate your existing HVAC system to a higher elevation. This may take work to reroute the electrical wiring and the ductwork since all of it must be placed above the design flood elevation level. In addition to moving your HVAC system to a higher level such as your attic, there are a couple of other methods that you might be able to use if moving the system is not feasible.
Building a wall
If your home simply doesn't have enough room to relocate your waterfront HVAC unit, you might be able to protect it from flood waters by building a wall to enclose it. An experienced contractor can design a walled enclosure for your HVAC unit that can protect it from floodwaters. Its height will depend on the 100-year flood level of the area in which you live, and it should be built with an access point and enough room inside for regular service and maintenance to be performed.
When you should move your HVAC
HVAC units are expensive, and waiting until they have already been damaged by a flood is not a good idea. You should instead move your HVAC unit before a flood happens. Since moving it will take substantial work in relocating the wiring, drainage pipes and ductwork, it might be a smart idea to relocate your HVAC unit at the same time that you purchase a new system. Buying a new HVAC system can also help you to save money on your utility bills if your existing system is an older model because of the greater energy efficiency ratings of modern HVAC systems.
Get help from the experts at Mahle Cool Air & Heating
The best time to prepare for flooding is before it occurs. In addition to making certain that you understand what your flood insurance will cover, you should also try to minimize your potential losses through planning. It is a good idea to get help from the professionals at Mahle Cool Air & Heating to relocate your existing HVAC unit or to locate a new unit in a manner that can help it to withstand floods.
To learn more, contact us today to speak with one of our HVAC professionals. Call or Text (941) 203-7955
How Air Purifiers Can Help Improve Indoor Air Quality for Your Florida Home
If you are looking for a way to improve the air quality in your Florida home but don't know what solutions will help, you are likely wondering where to turn for answers. Enhancing your air's quality provides you with a range of excellent benefits you will not want to miss.
But doing so is not always easy unless you have a proven plan at the top of your mind. The right air filter from a reputable HVAC company can do wonders for the air in your home and allow you to reach your goals without much trouble, and you will soon discover the advantages you can get by using the right one for your home and situation. The outcome you achieve will make you smile because it lets you know you have made the smart move.
Control Dust
Dust in the air is a common problem people want to solve when they buy air filters for their homes. Some dust particles are large enough for you to see, but others are so small that they are invisible. Your body can handle small amounts of dust without any problems if you are in good shape and take care of yourself.
If you are sick or encounter large concentrations of dust in the air, the problem is a little more serious and can cause several symptoms you want to avoid. Sneezing, coughing and eye irritation are just a few of the issues dust can cause if nobody does something to stop it. Contacting a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning company to get air purifiers is a great solution that will handle the threat and give you peace of mind.
Reduce Allergies
Those who suffer from seasonal allergies go to great lengths to get the problem under control so that they can manage the symptoms. They often take over-the-counter medicines and visit their doctors with hopes of ending their allergies and combating the symptoms for good. Allergies can range from minor to severe depending on you and your environment.
A reputable HVAC company can come to your home and install filters that will reduce or eliminate pollen and other things in the air that contribute to your allergies. Breathing easy is what you will do once you take action and install high-quality filters in your home. Your allergies will then become a thing of the past, and you will be pleased with the results.
Remove Household Odors
Many people struggle with a range of household odors but don't know how to address the problem so that they can contain it. They often spray air fresheners to do the trick and remove the odors, but that option only covers the smell. An air filter, on the other hand, will remove the particles that cause the odor from the air to prevent you from inhaling them. Even though household odors can remain after you clean the source if you are not careful, a good air filter will do the job right.
Eliminate Harmful Chemicals
Harmful chemicals can build up in the air and cause you to experience problems before you notice the red flags. If you spill chemicals or cleaners in your home, they can leave harmful traces in the air that will affect your health over time.
Also, some pesticides that companies spray in towns and neighborhoods can get into your home and do damage unless you take steps to stop it. Put air filters in your home if you want to keep yourself and your family out of harm's way.
Reduce Mold Spores
Many people have mold in and around their homes but are not aware of it, and the mold can grow and become even worse as a result. You could check your home for mold but still miss a few spots even if you are careful, leaving harmful spores behind. Having mold in your home can cause symptoms similar to allergies, but those who have allergic reactions can face even worse health risks. Contain stubborn mold spores and put your worries to rest with the right air filters for your needs.
Final Thoughts
If you are not happy with the air quality in your home and want to do something about it, you are at the perfect place. Our team can come to your location and install some of the top air filters on the market.
We offer a range of fantastic options from some of the top HVAC companies in the nation, including Bryant. Our dedication to quality and commitment to making each client happy is the foundation of our long-term success. Many people turn to us when they need to improve their air quality, and you will see why if you give us a chance. Our team is standing by the phone to take your call and meet your needs
Call or Text (941) 203-7955.
Keep Your Air Conditioning Bills Down By Shading Your Air Conditioner
If you want to save money on your air-conditioning bill but don't know where you should start, you could be wondering what steps will help you reach your goal. Most people don't realize the location and condition of their outdoor unit plays a role in how much they pay for energy each month.
Shading your unit from the sun's hot summer rays is a great way to keep more money in your pocket. You will learn why shading your air-conditioning system makes a difference and get a few ideas on how to move forward.
Why Cooling Your Outdoor Unit Matters
Take a look at how your air-conditioning unit works when you want an idea of how shading it can help you save money. In simple terms, your unit sucks in air from the environment and cools it before blowing the air into your home. Allowing your unit to heat up forces it to work much harder to do its job properly, and your bill will go up as a result. Keeping your air-conditioning unit cool reduces the amount of work required to cool your home. The savings will then speak for themselves.
Plant Trees and Shrubs
Planting trees and shrubs around your yard is a great way to protect your air conditioning system from the hot sun during the summer months. You can get the best possible results by choosing trees that match the look and style of your home and environment. Consider how big the trees will grow so that you don't plant them in a dangerous spot. Planting trees in your yard can also shade your windows from the sun, and you will take your savings to a whole new level.
Install an Awning
Not everyone wants to plant trees in their yard, and some are even unable to do so for a range of reasons. No matter the reason, you can opt to install an awning over your unit to keep it as cool as possible when the temperature peaks. Choose between a standard and retractable awning depending on your needs and goals. Since they leave the awning in place more often than not, most people use a standard awning.
You don't want to buy an awning and find that it won’t fit in your yard. Before you spend any money, measure the amount of space you have around your air-conditioning unit. Also, pay attention to the sun to discover the angle from which it hits your unit most of the time.
Place a Tent Around Your Unit
If you don't want to spend money on trees or an awning, you are not out of options yet. You can go to the store and buy a tent to place around your air-conditioning unit when your goal is to reduce your energy bill. Don't make a final decision until you know what size is right for your situation, and you won't face unneeded complications along the way. If you live in an area with heavy rain or wind, stabilize your tent to prevent it from blowing away or falling apart when you least expect it.
Consider Moving Your Unit
You might not have any viable options when it comes to shading your air conditioner from the sun, but you don't need to give up yet. You can move it when everything else fails to do the trick. People sometimes want to move their unit without getting help from an expert, but you don't want to follow in their footsteps. Unless you are a trained professional, you could make critical mistakes and damage something without realizing what has happened. Always contact a team of experts when you need to relocate.
Final Thoughts
Shading your air conditioner is a great way to protect yourself from unreasonable energy bills over the summer. You might think doing so won't make much of a difference over the long run, but you must try it for yourself to see the impact it can have. To get an accurate number, compare your energy bill after you make the change to before you installed the shade. Those who have already done so report an average savings of $200 per year. The steps you take to save money matter and add up over the years, and you will be thrilled when you discover how much you can lower your power bill. For further assistance, call or text us at (941) 203-7955.
Common Summer Air Conditioning Problems In Southwest Florida
When summer arrives and the hot Florida sun raises the air temperature, you turn on your air conditioner to improve your comfort and that of anyone else who lives in your home. If you have recently noticed problems with your air conditioner and don't want to face the summer heat alone, taking action is vital. Learning about the most common issues people encounter is a step in the right direction.
You will know what to expect and what to do about it after arming yourself with a few tips. You will also discover how a team of professionals can give you a hand, save you money and keep your air conditioner working well all summer. The team at Mahle Cool Air consists of caring and passionate individuals who strive to meet your needs each step of the way, giving you peace of mind. No matter the problem you have encountered, we will make it a thing of the past.
Refrigerant Leaks
An air conditioner that is leaking refrigerant could be the problem you are facing. Major leaks are noticeable when you know the red flags for which to look, but small leaks are often hard to detect. If your air conditioner generates air flow throughout your vents but does not provide cold air, low refrigerant could be to blame.
Some people don't understand the issue and try to refill the coolant as a result. Doing so is a temporary solution that will work for a short period, but the problem will resurface in no time. If you want to move forward and achieve peace of mind, having a trained expert check your unit for signs of leaks or damage is an excellent step in the right direction.
Clogged Air Filter
Located in the air duct or blower compartment, your air filter plays a vital role in the quality of your indoor air. Its job is to filter dust and other particles from the air before it circulates throughout your home. What most people don't realize is that air filters can only do their job for a limited time before they get clogged and need to be cleaned or replaced. A clogged air filter stops the cold air from entering your home, and the temperature of your house will go up as a result.
Damaged Thermostat
While you can face any one of the many air conditioning problems, some are more likely to occur than others. Some issues you encounter will require costly repair fees or service charges that can hurt your budget. Other issues, though, are much cheaper. If you are lucky, a broken thermostat could be to blame for the issues you have been facing. If the temperature of your home stays the same no matter the settings you use, you could have faulty wiring.
You might think trying to fix it without help is a good move that will save you money, but that path is not wise. Unless you have experience in this area, working with a professional is the only safe bet. A caring professional can come to your home and review your thermostat for the signs of trouble. Fixing a few wires or replacing the thermostat could be the solution for which you have been searching.
Damaged Fan
When you turn on your air conditioner to enjoy the benefits that it provides and don't get the desired result, you might want to check your outdoor unit. You will often find that a broken or damaged fan is stopping you from cooling your home to the desired temperature. Old units can experience this problem for many reasons, but new models are not immune to the threat.
A damaged motor is sometimes at fault when your fan won't turn on or spin fast enough to push cold air into your home. In other cases, you might discover that a shorted wire is the source of your trouble. Running your air conditioner when the fan is not fully operational can cause other problems you won't always expect. Disable your unit and call an expert if you notice this problem, and you will be glad you did.
Being Proactive
If you are like other people who want to survive the Florida heat, you accidentally wait too long to inspect and maintain your air conditioner. No matter the problem at hand, spotting it in the early stages is the key to avoiding unneeded complications.
You should have an expert inspect your unit once in the fall and again in the spring of each year if you would like to enjoy the best possible results. This process brings issues to your attention before they have time to get worse than they already are, and your budget will thank you. If your mission is to get the most from your air conditioner and to keep it in great shape for years to come, opting for routine maintenance will do the trick.
Getting Started
If you are currently facing air conditioner problems or would like to prevent them from occurring in the first place, we are here to help. The kind, caring staff at Mahle Cool Air will come to the rescue and provide assistance when you need it the most. Our family-owned business operates locally and cares about each member of the community, and that is why we operate with transparency and integrity at all times, treating our clients like family. If you are ready to get started, you can pick up your phone and give us a call right away.
Keeping It Cool in New Additions
As families change and grow, so does the size of the home. Building a new addition in Florida means creating more square footage that must be cooled in the year-round heat. Any new addition onto a home may mean that the central cooling unit needs to be upgraded; all additions require a professional diagnosis of the system as a whole. A homeowner must understand if a new system is necessary, how the different options work, how to choose the right system, and how to keep cooling bills low in the sometimes brutal Florida sun.
When Is a New System Necessary?
Only a professional can assess if a new system will be necessary to cover the added square footage. This is why a basic energy audit is essential as part of the addition plans. The audit will include cooling for the current home, and an estimation for the addition, so be prepared to share addition plans with the cooling professional. The estimation will help determine if the current cooling system will be able to handle the new space, or if a new system will need to be installed. This information will also help determine the size and construction of the addition, as the cost of cooling the area will have an effect on how much can be built. If the audit determines that a new HVAC system is necessary, that cost must be added into the overall cost of the home modification. Either the system will need to be replaced, or a ductless mini-split system, or other smaller type of system, will need to be installed.
Considering the Options
If the existing cooling system just won’t cut it with the new rooms, there are some options to consider. The range of A/C systems includes zoned, room, central, and evaporative cooler, all which effectively cool an area when maintained properly. The zoned unit, also known as the ductless mini-split, will provide cooling without ductwork, and is mounted on a wall. Many Floridians choose this option as it is among the most cost efficient to install. A room unit provides spot cooling, and is mounted in a window or comes through a portable unit. The central unit relies on duct systems to move the air throughout the whole home. This is one of the most expensive installs, but the most convenient and energy efficient. The evaporative cooler pulls outdoor air into the space, cooling your home through evaporation methods. This is also known as a swamp cooler. The right option is the one that fits into the budget, cools the new area, and remains efficient. Some homeowners choose a new cooling system for the addition alone to avoid changing the structure of the home with ductwork.
Other Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right System
Budget is often a deciding factor in choosing a system to cool an addition. However, it’s important to consider the amount of money saved over time with the right cooling system. After the addition is completed, the existing system will begin to work harder to cool more space. This will increase bills and wear down the unit faster. This long-term money loss is exactly why the cost of cooling the addition must be figured into the overall budget for the project. The existing cooling system must also be considered in more than its current effectiveness. Are the residents of the home happy with the current system? Does it keep the home as comfortable as desired? Will it be as effective in the new rooms? An addition to the home is a great opportunity to add ductwork throughout the new walls and to consider or update the current A/C system.
Tips in Lowering Overall Cooling Costs
As space is going through changes, consider the following tips to help reduce the cooling cost over the long term and continue cooling your home for years:
- Use a programmable thermostat.
- Use ceiling fans to help move air.
- Take this opportunity to add extra insulation to attics and air ducts. Seal any cracks in the home.
- Use an outdoor grill during Florida’s hottest days. Avoiding indoor appliances will help the A/C do its job.
- Cover windows with energy-efficient material. This will let in light while blocking solar rays.
- Use the fans in the kitchen and bathroom to help remove humidity from the home.
These tips will keep the A/C unit working longer, and will reduce energy bills. The new rooms will be as cool and comfortable as the rest of the home.
Determining the specifics of an air unit is easier with a professional consultation. The type of unit, ways to increase efficiency, and the real cost of cooling the addition will be determined during an estimation. Contact Mahle Cool Air in Venice to begin the consultation process for your new addition. Call or Text (941) 203-7955
The Role of Humidity on Heating and Cooling in the Home
The excessive Florida heat, combined with humidity. makes us feel hotter, and also has a significant impact on A/C systems. However, many people don’t know that humidity also affects heating systems.
The humidity inside a home matters, because it directly contributes to the home’s comfort level. The HVAC systems of today have begun to include tools to help control humidity, including checking levels and adjusting with humidifiers or dehumidifiers, as needed. Understanding how humidity affects the indoors, and why it needs to be controlled, is the beginning step toward lowering energy bills while maintaining a comfortable home.
Humidity and Air Conditioning
As mentioned, humidity affects how well the A/C unit cools the home. The cooling unit works by taking moisture and heat out of the air. This means that higher humidity levels make the unit work much harder. The unit must have an adequate cooling capacity to handle both the heat and the humidity. There are a few ways to know if the humidity is simply too high for the unit to handle.
- Clammy, sticky feeling. If your skin feels sweaty and clammy indoors, the humidity may be too high.
- Windows fog over. This is due to the vaporized water droplets in a humid home.
- A strange smell. A musty, old attic type of smell signals excessive humidity. This is because the home is constantly damp.
A strong A/C system will take moisture out of the air and help reduce humidity levels. However, there are hot summer days when the unit will not be able to handle the excessive moisture levels. Humidity will cancel the cooling process of the unit, and the home will feel warmer. The unit will continue to run but there will be little to no benefit from it. The home is not being cooled effectively, and money is being tossed out the window.
This is why many people may purchase a larger A/C unit, believing it will be more effective in home cooling. That larger unit will not necessarily be more effective. If the overall capacity is larger than the home needs, it won’t handle the excessive moisture effectively. The humidity level inside the home will stay high. Those larger air conditioners won’t run as often, and won’t be able to take enough moisture out of the air. It is essential to buy a unit that is suited for your home size.
Beating The Heat in the Air
The best way to combat humidity year round is to make sure a dehumidifier is installed on the HVAC system. The moisture will be pulled out of the air before it enters the home. A dehumidifier that is paired with an air conditioning unit allows you to control dehumidifying levels and temperature from a central gauge inside the home.
When the humidity level is controlled in the summertime, the air conditioning unit works better. The home feels cooler and is far more inviting in the Florida summer heat. Additionally, you’ll stop throwing away money and the energy bill will be a little lighter. All other issues, such as musty smells, foggy windows or clammy skin should also disappear.
Humidity and Heating
Wintertime brings low humidity levels, which might seem like a relief. However, the lower humidity actually causes problems for heating systems. As humidity levels drop, the home feels colder than its actual indoor temperature. As with the A/C unit, the heater starts to work harder, but the home still does not feel warmer. You’ll turn up the heat looking for relief that will never come because there is not enough moisture available to warm up the air around you.
The ideal setting for a thermostat is between 72 and 75 degrees. This range is most effect for cost and comfort. However, this range stops working when the humidity level is below 50%. The apparent temperature, which is how a home feels, will be lowered below this percentage.
The best way to combat this issue is with a humidifier in the wintertime. Similar to the dehumidifying device, this device can be attached to the HVAC system. It will add moisture to the dry winter air before it comes into the home. Relative humidity will be kept higher than 50%, making the home feel warmer. As in the summer, the end result is a lower energy bill. The system can be monitored from a central gauge inside the home, so heating and humidity levels can be adjusted simultaneously.
Keeping the humidity inside the home balanced is the secret to reducing energy bills and maintaining a comfortable home. Many people do not realize that a simple adjustment to the HVAC system will reduce year-round energy bills and create a comfortable living environment. Further, the system can be fully controlled from inside the home through every season. One simple adjustment will improve the overall function of the home and provide a place to escape the fickle, sometimes harsh Florida weather. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955.
Mahle Cool Air Sponsors Sarasota Boys & Girls Club Golf Tournament Benefit
HVAC Company Mahle Cool Air & Heating has once again supported the Sarasota County Boys & Girls Club by Sponsoring The Archie Griffin Celebrity Golf Classic
SARASOTA COUNTY May 2018 - For the fifth year in a row, Mahle Cool Air & Heating has been a sponsor of the Archie Griffin Celebrity Golf Classic at The Concession Golf Club, benefitting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County.
Held to raise funds and awareness of the Sarasota County Boys & Girls Club, the event brought together local business leaders with organization planners and celebrity athletes.
Hosted at The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton Florida, the charitable golf tournament drew multiple celebrity athletes including Eddie George, a Heisman Trophy winner and form running back for the Tennessee Titans and most recently star on Broadway with the musical “Chicago”, former Cincinnati Bengals great Isaac Curtis and two-time Heisman trophy winner and charity tournament sponsor Archie Griffin.
A long-time organization helping to support youth in reaching their full potential, the Sarasota County Boys and Girls Club has been providing daily programs and services to thousands of young people for over 46 years.
Denny Mahle, owner, and operator of Mahle Cool Air & Heating in Venice had this to say about the event, “The Archie Griffin Golf Tournament is one of our favorite events to sponsor. They have been doing a phenomenal job in supporting the Boys & Girls Club in our area. Boys and Girls Club operates 5 locations in our area, and programs that help kids grow and develop into productive, caring, responsible citizens. We always have a great time at the tournament and meeting all the people who are helping to improve our community. Mahle Cool Air is proud to support the Boys and Girls Club and we look forward to doing so again!”
About Mahle Cool Air & Heating:
Mahle Cool Air and Heating is a family owned and operated HVAC company in Venice, Florida. Mahle Cool Air is a Bryant Factory Authorized dealer with technicians with over 28 years of experience. All of Mahle’s technicians are NATE Certified and specialize in residential AC repair, new unit installation and maintenance plans for residents in Sarasota and Charlotte Counties including, Sarasota, Venice, North Port, and Englewood. Mahle Cool Air and Heating strives for great customer service, competitive prices, and offers a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee.
For more information visit our website at https://www.MahleAirConditioning.com/.
Mahle Cool Air & Heating
850 Commerce Dr.
Venice, FL 34292
How to Make Your Central Air Conditioner More Efficient
If you are like others, you are preparing for the hot and sunny weather of summer. Most people spend a lot of money to keep their homes cool and comfortable, and a lot of them could save tons of money by following a few simple tips.
If you want to achieve a cool temperature in your home no matter the weather, properly maintaining your central cooling unit will do wonders for your monthly utility bills. Some of the advice you read might not seem like it will do much, but each step works together to provide you with outstanding results. You will keep the summer heat at bay without breaking your budget in the process, and the outcome will please you.
Clean Your Condenser Unit
Looking at your condenser unit is a good place from which to start when your mission is to control your cooling bill. Located outside your home, the job of the condenser unit is to transfer the hot air from your house to the outside world, but you might have let a lot of time pass since you cleaned it. Dirt and grime that collect on the unit make your air conditioner work much harder to keep your home cool and your energy bill will go up as a result. Before you do anything with your condenser unit, turn the power off so that you don't run into trouble.
Keep Your Indoor Vents Clean and Clear
Most people never think about the condition of the vents in their home, but they are throwing money away without realizing it. Having clean and clear vents is essential if you want your air conditioning unit to work at its best, saving you money over the long run. Ensure that no desks, boxes or other objects are blocking the outside of your vents. Over time, dust builds up inside your vents and reduces the efficiency of your unit. Unscrew all of your vents and look inside them with a flashlight to see how much dirt is present, and you might need to grab a vacuum cleaner to get rid of the mess. This process can take some time to complete, but the money you will save is worth it.
Adjust Your Thermostat
If you have cleaned your vents and condenser unit and are still not happy with your energy consumption, you might think you are out of luck, but you are not. Consider increasing the temperature of your thermostat by a few degrees, and the difference will surprise you. While you won't notice much of a change in the temperature of your home, altering your thermostat by 4 or 5 degrees can lower your energy bill more than you might think. Even if you are feeling skeptical, give it a shot to see if it helps, and you won't be disappointed.
Get a Smart Thermostat
If you are serious about lowering your cooling bill as much as possible, invest in a smart thermostat. These devices let you set a timer to turn your central air on and off depending on when you will be home. For example, you can program it to turn off while you are working and to turn back on before you return. You will always come home to a cool house, but you will also save a lot of money on your energy bill.
Call a Professional
With a little determination and a proven plan, you can go far when it comes to lowering your energy bill during the summer. Although taking steps to maintain your unit is a smart move, it won't always be enough. For the best results, you must contact a team of professionals to inspect your central air unit and make any needed air conditioning repairs. The increased efficiency of your air conditioner will more than pay for the cost of the company you hire, making it an investment with unbeatable returns. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955.
Get Your Air Conditioner Ready For Florida Summer Temps
As summertime approaches in Florida, homeowners from Sarasota to Venice to Englewood and every city and town in between begin looking for ways to prepare for the increased, humid temperatures. Preparing the air conditioning unit for the weather ahead is the best way to keep energy consumption (and costs) down and maintain comfort throughout the home.
To prepare your air conditioning unit for the summertime weather, first ensure that you understand how the unit works.
Three components make up the A/C unit. This is the condenser, blower unit, and the ductwork. Each of the three components serves an important function in the overall operation of the air conditioning unit.
Ductwork: Metallic, flexible tubes that run through the home are known as the ductwork. The tubes route cold air into the house and remove the hot air. Leaking ductwork is a common problem with this component, though it is safe to say there is a problem if you notice more dust in the home than usual. The leaking ductwork causes an even more serious problem, however, and that is air leakage. Any space between the wall that is leaking is also causing the cooled air to blow between. This causes difficulty cooling the house. Springtime is the perfect time to inspect and/or clean the ductwork to improve AC performance and efficiency.
Condenser: The condenser is the unit sitting outside the home. The refrigerant is added to the condenser, which controls temperatures inside the home. The refrigeration works to absorb heat after the air flows over the evaporator coils. A pressure change causes the refrigerant to turn into a gas that resumes liquefied state when it is cooled again.
Blower Unit: The blower unit helps change the liquid into a gas as the refrigerant enters this space and travels into the coil. This unit draws the warm air into the return ducts while the air conditioning unit pushes the air over the coils into the house to keep it cool. The refrigerant goes back into the condenser and converts back to liquid state after completion of this process.
How to Prepare Your Air Conditioner for Summer
Professional repair serviceman or DIY homeowner removing a dirty air filter on a house air conditioner so he can replace it with a new clean one.
Air Handler Filter Change
Dust, pollen, and other debris are collected inside of the filter. If the filter becomes filled, it performs the opposite job and begins blowing the collected items back outside the unit. The result is decreased comfort, increased energy costs, and an unhealthy environment inside the home. Dirty filters also damage the unit, decreasing its longevity and durability. It is one of the most important components of the A/C unit. Monthly filter changes ensure these issues do not become your own.
Keep the Condenser Unit Free of Debris
Debris and trash can accumulate around the condenser unit outside the home. This causes improper air circulation that damages the A/C unit and its components. Ensure that no debris or trash is allowed around the outdoor unit. Additionally, use these tips to prevent issues with the outdoor unit:
- Use a garden hose to wash the dirt away from the unit
- Trim grass around the unit, keeping it at a short length
- Keep bushes away from the unit
- Do not allow tree branches to overhang on the unit
- Do not place other items on or near the unit
Clean the Condensate Drain
There is a thin piece of PVC pipe situated close to the condenser unit. You'll notice water dripping from this unit. This is normal, though the moisture build-up can attract algae that clog the line; condensation is the result. This may cause water to enter the home, triggering the cooling equipment to shut-off.
It is simple and necessary to clean the drain. Just remove the end of the drain and use a wet/dry vac to remove the slide and water accumulated in the drain. Replace the end when finished.
Check Refrigerant Levels
There are two copper lines running to the condenser unit. Find the larger of the two lines. Sometimes there is insulation around this line. If the line doesn't sweat during A/C cycling or the line is warm after the unit is running, coolant is needed.
Level the Condenser Unit
Check to ensure that the condenser unit is level using a level. Gravel or a small board can help fill any uneven spaces.
A/C Maintenance Inspection
Finally, call a professional A/C repair company Mahle Cool Air & Heat for an annual maintenance inspection. Air conditioning maintenance prolongs the lifetime of the HVAC unit while reducing discomforts and need for repairs. Reduced wear-and-tear is another benefit of this annual inspection. A/C pros thoroughly inspect the unit, looking for signs of damage or breakdown. Those issues are then immediately repaired, reducing headache and hassle. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955.
The Future Technologies Of Air Conditioning And HVAC Systems
As often as certain innovations like predictive text make people want to pull their hair out when its prediction isn't so accurate, innovate technology undeniably improves and simplifies our lives for the better.
Homeowners in Venice, Florida and around the world have some more innovation to look forward to when it comes to HVAC technology making life more comfortable, simple, and efficient. While some of these are still in the design phase, others are ready for you to apply to your home today. Let's explore some:
Ice-Powered Air Conditioning
Avid campers who've set a fan over an open ice cooler probably already know the premise behind the ice-powered AC unit.
The ice-powered AC takes the premise of that old camping trick to a new dimension as a possible way to heat and cool entire buildings. The technology still has a quite a long road ahead before it can apply sole, long-term, consistent cooling capabilities, but the initial test results of the Ice Bear by a Cali-based company are quite promising.
The Ice Bear system freezes water in a tank, which is an overnight process. The next day, the system uses this frozen water to help cool a building. Testing thus far in commercial buildings have shown about six hours worth of cooling time before the building's traditional commercial unit kicked in to maintain the desired temp.
Bottom line: It's a promising application still working out design flaws and limited capabilities.
Thermally Driven Air Conditioning
This design has already been implemented in several foreign settings, but it's not yet something widely available through mass production.
Chromasun, an Aussie company, has been successful at producing these thermally driven air conditioning units. They're hailed as a low-cost alternative to their traditional electrical counterparts.
Solar energy is the premise behind the design. When solar energy isn't available or depleted, then natural gas component kicks in and takes over to power the unit.
Double-chiller designs eliminate the need for electricity completely and have the most cooling power of all the thermally-driven designs thus far.
Bottom line: These are highly effective and efficient systems, but finding them may be an issue. It will likely be years before the technology becomes widespread and mass-produced in the U.S. and before installers and HVAC technicians become proficient with the technology.
Movement-Activated Air Conditioning
Have you noticed a trend? Air conditioner systems leave a lot of room for innovation and evolution.
So far, you've seen engineers taking the mechanics of the AC apart to improve it. But, what about just making the existing mechanics as efficient as possible by changing the design, or rather how the design is applied?
That's exactly what MIT engineer students did with the movement-activated air conditioning unit.
This design features aluminum rods being hung from the building's ceiling. Each rod is lined with sensors that communicate with the AC unit. Movement within the building activates the sensors to signal to the AC unit that people are present and it needs to turn itself on; when people aren't present, then the unit knows it can stay off because it's not needed.
Simple, smart right? Makes you wonder why it's just now being thought about as a way for homeowners and businesses to reduce energy and electric bills.
Bottom line: It's an ingenious application that's likely to be one of many future ways to reduce energy costs through need-only design capabilities.
3-D Printed Air Conditioners
No need for foil hats and beta ray guns just yet. The idea of 3-D printed AC units may seem more sci-fi than reality, but the fact is that it's an idea being toyed with more and more as 3-D printing has become more advanced in an array of real-world applications.
Emerging Objects is a company that's already successfully used 3-D printing to create a brick that draws moisture from a moderate temp area to cool it.
Bottom line: 3-D printed air conditioners are just a novel idea at the moment. To say this application may hit stores tomorrow, would be akin to someone having promised a smartphone after the first "bag" mobile phone hit. The technology still has a long, long road ahead before it reaches application for AC units.
On-Demand Hot Water Recirculator
A Rhode Island company has successfully designed a pump that's "on command" in working with a building's water lines.
What does this do? It saves water. When activated, it basically allows cool water to be circulated back to the water heater. It's an engineering solution to the amount of water being needlessly wasted. As the average home waits for water to be warmed, it wastes around 12,000 gallons per year.
Bottom line: From efficiency washing machines and dishwashers, we've seen such eco-friendly measures gain the public's seal of approval and the U.S. government incentivizing such measures. The AC recirculating technology is just the next logical eco-friendly step to make future homes as waste not, want not as possible.
Sensor-Enhanced Ventilation
We first saw the Ecovent debut at technology expos in 2015, and many viewed it as the star tech of the show. The premise is sensor-enhanced ventilation.
The Ecovent replaces the traditional wall, floor and ceiling vents with sensor-driven vents capable of monitoring facets like air quality, temperature, and air pressure.
Users connect their smartphones to the Ecovent system via an app to monitor the above features and enable precise temp control on a room-by-room level. So, instead of simply being able to remotely control your unit coming on and off, you can exactly control which areas within the home or building you want to be cooled or heated and which you don't.
Bottom line: This is the type of controlled, comprehensive heating and cooling remote capabilities that consumers want. The Ecovent is already on the market for public consumption.
Computer Heating Capabilities
Laptop users that utilize their laptops for its namesake, that is put it in their laps, have likely felt just how hot they can get after just a couple hours of usage. Why waste energy you're already creating? What if that energy via heat could be harnessed?
Founder of Project Exergy, Lawrence Orsini, has been looking into just that as he is testing how efficiently computers generate heat and how that heat could be applied to power a heating system for the home.
Bottom line: It's the same basic idea here as power generated from water or power generated from riding a bike. The difference is in the potential power and the amount of the source. Big bodies of water, for example, produce big amounts of energy, making it relatively easy to harness and apply that power. It's yet to be determined what exactly can be done with the comparatively minuscule amount of heat from a computer. The verdict is still out as to whether or not this idea has a practical application.
Dual-Fuel Heat Pumps
By using two fuel sources, which are usually an electric heat pump and a gas furnace, the idea is that these heat pumps provide a maximum comfort level with more efficiency. Gas heat is used at low temps to maximize energy. Electricity is used when temps are 36 and above.
Bottom line: These are already on the market. Dual-fuel pumps are more costly to install than a traditional pump system. However, those costs are recouped in energy costs within the first few years of using the system.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
A geothermal heat pump is another option to lower energy costs. These pumps utilize energy from the earth. An underground pipe absorbs the earth's natural heat and delivers it to the home for heating purposes. Likewise, when the home needs to be cooled, the pump extracts warmth from the home. Of note, geothermal heat pumps can also provide hot water to the home, which further reduces your energy costs.
Bottom line: These pumps have been available since the early 1940s. Yet, their innovative roles have mostly been overlooked due to their higher upfront costs. Today, more consumers are realizing that the upfront investment is worth the long-term energy costs savings.
Fully Automated Homes
American architect firm Specht Harpman built a full-functioning automated home that they dubbed as the ZeroHouse. It comfortably houses up to four adults. Fully automated means that the home is self-sustaining and functions independently of any outside sources of energy. Yep, no electric bill here. Everything from waste disposal to water is automated.
Bottom line: While gathering all the necessary minds, supplies, materials, and funds to build a fully-automated home isn't something widely available to the average Joe just yet, the technological advancements finding their way into the mainstream market and the various disciplines becoming more attune to societies desire for eco-friendly solutions is promising to a wider availability of such total eco concepts.
Smart Homes
While you await your fully automated home...
You can always make your home as smart as possible.
Everyday items, from our transportation and appliances to our entertainment and phones, are getting smarter to provide function without sacrifice to the environment and our finances. Technology is also affording us comfort, efficiency, and simplicity through connectivity.
A simple push of a button on your mobile device or laptop can remotely control anything from the lighting, HVAC, security, surveillance, to entertainment. And, many of these applications work congruently to provide you with a comprehensive approach to manage your home while you're away from it.
Bottom line: These innovations exist all around consumers, but it's the delivery and service industry who've often been slow on the uptake. As HVAC engineers and designers, for example, have been churning out innovative products for decades, the retailers and service industry have predominantly stuck with only knowing and promoting conventional options. Today, there's a higher consumer demand for these innovative products that make life easier, more efficient, and more comfortable. And, the delivery and service industry are finally following suit to meet that demand.
In closing, you've seen that some HVAC technology ideas are still on the drawing table, some are working out kinks, some haven't yet caught a footing for mass market production and consumption, and some are just awaiting you to contact a professional to install it.
If you're interested in learning more about any of these high-tech HVAC systems or other future HVAC technology applications coming to the Venice, Florida area, then call Mahle Cool Air & Heating today. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955.