Cold In Florida? Better Check These Things Before Turning On Your Heater!
In a hot state like Florida, some of us get excited about cranking up the heater we don’t get to use very often. However, it’s wise to hold off until you’ve made sure that your unit is clean, safe and optimally efficient. This will not only extend its life, but it will save you money, protect the environment and keep you warmer.
When it’s cold outside, a running heater in Florida is just as important as a running heater in Wisconsin. Regular maintenance by your HVAC company is a must, but there are some do-it-yourself steps you can take to get the most out of your equipment.
Check Air Supply Vents
Warm air enters your rooms through air supply vents, so they need to be thoroughly dusted or vacuumed. This is especially true of floor vents that collect dust, debris and pet hair.
Check Air Filters
Depending on the type of system you have, the air filters on the return grills should be changed either every one to three months or every six to 12 months. You may even have washable air filters.
Whatever kind you have, they shouldn’t look dark or have dust and lint clinging to them. Check to see if they need washing or replacing, especially if you know deep down in your heart that it’s been a while. When you hold them up to a light source, plenty of light should shine through.
Not only do filters keep your furnace or air handler heater clean for better performance, but they filter out dust, bacteria, and allergens before those pollutants wind up in your lungs. Everyone agrees that poor air quality in the home is a health risk. Clean filters also eliminate that unpleasant odor of burning dust.
Clean Around the Unit
Clean the entire area around the heat pump, furnace or air handler heater. Clear any obstructions. It goes without saying that chemicals and flammable materials in the vicinity need to be relocated a safe distance away. Dust the exterior of the unit.
Trim back trees or shrubs to prevent contact with heat pump outdoor units, and inspect the condenser coil. That’s the looping length of copper or aluminum that exchanges heat from the air. Excessive dirt will impact efficiency and lead to repairs down the road.
If you have an indoor system, your evaporator coils are internal and are inspected by a technician during routine maintenance.
Play It Safe
For owners of gas furnaces, the importance of having a well-functioning smoke alarm can’t be overstated. It’s time to change the batteries, cover your ears and make sure that the alarm is working properly.
If you don’t have a smoke alarm, get one. Install it today.
Along the same lines, a carbon monoxide detector could save your life. If you have one, replace the batteries. Test it before you turn on the heat.
If the reading on the device exceeds 30, turn off the heater immediately, open all the windows and call your HVAC company. Some experts advise leaving the house until a professional diagnosis and correct the problem.
Finally, make sure that your thermostat is working properly.
Maintaining a running heater in Florida may not be at the top of your priority list, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. The longer a heating system is neglected, the greater the likelihood of malfunctions that call for costly repairs.
Besides, who wants to be caught unawares in a cold snap? Check out our special fall and winter offers and Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955.
Is a heat pump or central air conditioning system the right fit for your Venice home?
It's a decision that many homeowners in Venice face when its time to replace a malfunctioning or aging heating or air conditioning system:
Should I install a heat pump or central air conditioning system and what exactly is the difference between the two, anyway?
How heat pumps and air conditioners work
First things first. What makes a heat pump a heat pump and an air conditioner an air conditioner? That can be a little complicated. Both use basically the same technology to operate, just in different ways. And that can have a big impact on the comfort level inside your home and in your wallet.
A heat pump relies on a closed loop system that circulates refrigerant so that hot air is blown inside your home during the winter and outside during the summer via what is known as a reversing valve. That means that heat pumps function as a heater during the colder months and as an air conditioner during the warmer months. Since heat pumps function to make your home comfortable all throughout the year, they can also help you keep your energy bills in check. In addition, many heat pumps operate more effectively in temperate climates as we enjoy here. They also use a multi-split ductless system to distribute air throughout your home.
Air conditioners use a closed loop system to circulate refrigerant that cools the air. The refrigerant makes it way through a compressor valve, which puts it under a lot of heat and pressure. The refrigerant then travels through a compressor coil, which siphons off the hot air to outside your home. This process changes the refrigerant into a liquid while it still remains under a great deal of pressure. The liquid is then moved through what is called an expansion valve and from there into a series of evaporator coils. As the liquid evaporates, it works to pull heat from the surrounding air and cools it. That cool air is then blown by a fan through a system of ducts into your home.
Which one is right for you?
By now you may be thinking that there's really not a lot of difference between a heat pump and a central air conditioning system - you're right.
The major differences between the two come into play when you consider how they operate in the winter. And while we who call Venice home may not need to run the heat as much during the colder months as our more northern neighbors do, it can get cold here, so consider the following advantages of heat pumps: Many models do not require additional equipment in order to heat your home, which can free up valuable living space for you, your family and friends. Heat pumps are generally more energy efficient than air conditioning systems, leaving you with more green in your wallet.
And if you are looking to live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle, heat pumps can be partnered with an energy efficient geothermal system such as solar panels and do not burn fossil fuels.
There are also advantages to a central air conditioning system, especially during the winter months. A central air conditioning system will not warm your home as a heat pump will. That means you'll probably use a separate furnace to keep you and your family warm and comfortable when its cold outside. And, furnaces do have several important advantages over heat pumps. They won't shut down when temperatures plummet like many heat pumps will nor do they require auxiliary heating like heat pumps. Furnaces are also generally cheaper to install than heat pumps and have fewer maintenance problems as well. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Are Heat Pumps More Efficient Than Air Conditioners?
Homeowners can rely on energy efficient heat pumps during the summer and the winter months. There are different kinds of heat pumps, but the fundamental concepts for the designs of the units are similar. The units can heat or cool air because there is refrigerant and also a transfer of heat. The flow of the refrigerant can be reversed inside a unit, which will cause the heat to be transferred from a different part of the unit.
Refrigerant
The refrigerant in the unit is used to cool the air that is pushed into a home by the fan on the blower motor. The pipes are insulated to control the transfer of heat as the refrigerant flows through the unit. When there is a transfer of heat, there could also be condensation because the moisture from the air could condense into a liquid. The condensation could form on the outside of the coils as the refrigerant flows through the inside of the coils.
Heat
If the flow of the refrigerant is reversed, then a different part of the unit will generate heat. The refrigerant will flow from the condenser to the evaporator, to the compressor and then back to the condenser. The increase in pressure will cause the temperature of the refrigerant to rise. The pressurized refrigerant is a source of heat. The heat pump is used to transfer the heat from a source of heat to a heat sink such as into a home. The term “heat sink” is used to refer to a destination for the heat.
Convenience
The units are convenient because a homeowner can use a heat pump as a heating system and also as a cooling system. Some homes may have two different systems such as a furnace and an air conditioning unit. An HVAC technician can inspect a home and then recommend some heating and cooling systems. If the local climate has a moderate range of temperatures, then a heat pump may be a suitable choice.
Weather Conditions
Some regions have very cold weather conditions during the winter months. A furnace can be used to effectively control the inside temperature of a home when the outside temperature is very low. In contrast, a heat pump will not be as efficient as a furnace in a very cold climate because a heat pump is only efficient within a limited range of temperatures. A furnace will provide more heat but will also generate larger expenses for monthly utility bills.
Costs
A heat pump is more energy-efficient than a typical furnace because the heat is generated from techniques for compression, which will require less electrical energy than the electrical energy for a furnace. Homeowners could use a heat pump to reduce the costs for monthly utility bills. A primary concern is ambient room temperature. The efficiency of a heat pump will decrease as the outside temperature decreases because the heat pump must generate much more heat in the colder weather conditions.
HVAC Services
Customers can consult with HVAC professionals and discuss specific concerns such as options for controlling the costs for monthly utility bills or different methods for reducing an ambient room temperature. Business managers and homeowners could use the benefits from the improvements to justify the costs for installing a new heating and cooling system. The technicians can offer suggestions for several improvements and also recommend different brands of energy efficient heat pumps.
If you are looking for a new cooling and heating system and have questions about what system is right for your home contact the AC repair experts at Mahle Cool Air today. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Energy Efficient Heat Pumps Save Money All Year
Save Money
One of the many reasons that more people are opting to use heat pumps is because they can help them save a lot of money. Heat pumps do not use as much energy as a standard HVAC system. Because they do not use as much energy, they can help cut the cost of your energy bills.
Keep in mind that you can use heat pumps during the summer and winter months. During the winter months, the heat pump will extract the heat from outside and transfer it inside. This process will reverse during the warm months. It will remove the heat from your home and then transfer it outdoors.
Therefore, you will be able to save money during the entire year if you have a heat pump. In fact, many people who have heat pumps do not use their air conditioner or heater.
Very Long Lifespan
In order to ensure that your heat pump lasts a long time, you will need to make sure that you take good care of your heat pump. You will be able to get a steady source of heat for the years to come. Heat pumps that are well-cared for can last up to 50 years. Keep in mind that a heat pump requires less maintenance than your standard HVAC system.
Safe
Heat pumps are very safe. In fact, they are safer to use than many other heating systems. A heat pump can also protect you from carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a deadly by-product of burning fuel.
Convenient
It is very easy and convenient to use a heat pump. You can decrease or increase the temperature with just a push of a button. A heat pump can also cool or heat up your home in just a few minutes. Studies have shown that people are most comfortable in a room with a temperature that ranges from 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat pump will be able to maintain the same temperature for as long as you need it to.
You will also be able to leave the heat pump on all day and not worry about having to spend a fortune on your energy bill. Additionally, you will be able to come home to a comfortable place.
Helps Keep The Air Clean
Not only can a heat pump keep your home comfortable, but it can also keep the air clean. It helps remove mildew and dust. Keep in mind that exposure to dust and mildew can exacerbate allergies and other medical conditions. A heat pump can also act a dehumidifier, which can help keep your home dry. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Why Choose A Heat Pump In A Hot State Like Florida?
Finding the right heating and cooling system for your home is an important decision. The correct system can save you money in energy costs throughout the year. Homeowners can choose from a variety of home heating and cooling systems, and many are choosing heat pumps to manage their indoor environments with lower energy costs.
What Is A Heat Pump?
A heat pump works like a refrigerator in that it uses electricity to move cool air to a warmer space and warm air to a cooler space. This action can be done because, even in seemingly cold temperatures, some heat energy is present. This heat can be moved from the outdoors into the interior of the home to provide warmer temperatures. Similarly, when the temperature outside is warm, the heat pump reverses the direction removes heat from the home, providing cooler temperatures for the interior.
Energy Efficient Heat Pumps Save Money
Heat pumps are designed for climates with moderate temperatures. Auxiliary heating can also be added in areas with more extreme temperatures. Because a heat pump moves heat instead of having to generate, it is a more efficient method of heating and cooling the home and can save significant amounts of money during the year.
Types of Heat Pumps
Different types of heat pump are available to serve different needs. Conventional heat pumps utilize the available ducts that are normally found in home construction. However, a heat pump system that can be used in ductless homes is also available. Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat between the home and the ground or a water source that is nearby. Your heating and cooling contractor can advise you on the best system for your needs.
Heat Pump Advantages
Using a heat pump to heat and warm your home results in a cleaner, quieter system that leaves no odor. Air from a heat pump system generally leaves the air moisture than conventional forced air systems, making the indoor environment more comfortable.
If you would like to save money while providing comfortable temperatures for your home’s interior, contact us for information about energy efficient heat pumps. Our company is a Bryant Factory Authorized and NATE certified contractor that prides itself on personal service and reliability.
Finding the right heating and cooling system for your home is an important decision. The correct system can save you money in energy costs throughout the year. Homeowners can choose from a variety of home heating and cooling systems, and many are choosing heat pumps to manage their indoor environments with lower energy costs.
What Is A Heat Pump?
A heat pump works like a refrigerator in that it uses electricity to move cool air to a warmer space and warm air to a cooler space. This action can be done because, even in seemingly cold temperatures, some heat energy is present. This heat can be moved from the outdoors into the interior of the home to provide warmer temperatures. Similarly, when the temperature outside is warm, the heat pump reverses the direction removes heat from the home, providing cooler temperatures for the interior.
Energy Efficient Heat Pumps Save Money
Heat pumps are designed for climates with moderate temperatures. Auxiliary heating can also be added in areas with more extreme temperatures. Because a heat pump moves heat instead of having to generate, it is a more efficient method of heating and cooling the home and can save significant amounts of money during the year.
Types of Heat Pumps
Different types of heat pump are available to serve different needs. Conventional heat pumps utilize the available ducts that are normally found in home construction. However, a heat pump system that can be used in ductless homes is also available. Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat between the home and the ground or a water source that is nearby. Your heating and cooling contractor can advise you on the best system for your needs.
Heat Pump Advantages
Using a heat pump to heat and warm your home results in a cleaner, quieter system that leaves no odor. Air from a heat pump system generally leaves the air moisture than conventional forced air systems, making the indoor environment more comfortable.
If you would like to save money while providing comfortable temperatures for your home’s interior, contact us for information about energy efficient heat pumps.
Our company is a Bryant Factory Authorized and NATE certified contractor that prides itself on personal service and reliability. If you need a new heat pump or air conditioner contact Mahle Cool Air and we are happy to help. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own air conditioning options. Stay Cool with Mahle!
Heat pumps are ideal for areas with mild winters like Venice Florida
Have you been thinking about upgrading your heating and cooling system? If so, then you may want to consider switching to a heat pump. A packaged system or air source heat pump may be a great choice for your home even if your central air conditioner needs to be replaced. Heat pumps work best in places that have mild winters.
Heat Pumps Are Versatile Types Of Equipment
A heat pump can lower the cost of cooling your home during the summer months. However, that is not the only benefit that you can reap from using a heat pump. The temperature of the air will stay consistent, which is why your home will be more comfortable. Your central air conditioner gives stop and go blasts of cold air when it is running, but you will no longer have to worry about that if you have a heat pump.
Not only can a heat pump cool your home during the summer, but it can also keep it warm during the winter. When it is used along with a packaged system that has a gas furnace or an existing furnace, it can help cut the cost of heating your home. Your furnace will be able to work less. This means that energy will be saved, and you will notice the difference in your energy bill.
How Exactly Does A Heat Pump Work?
A heat pump may seem like a very complicated device, but the way that it works is actually very simple. The system uses a refrigerant and takes the heat outside of your home and transfers it outside during the summer months. Another benefit that comes along with using a heat pump is that it removes more humidity from your home than your traditional air conditioning system.
This process can be reversed to warm the home during the winter months. All that it takes is the flip of a switch. The heat pump will draw the warm air from outside and transfer it into your home, which will help keep it warm.
If You Purchased A Heat Pump Last Year, Then You May Be Able To Save More Money
A lower electric bill is not the only way people will be able to save money by having a heat pump. Many people are not aware of this, but homeowners who purchased a heat pump may be eligible for tax credits. Keep in mind that there are certain restrictions that apply. For example, the heat pump must be installed in one's primary residence.
The seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER, rating of the heat pump also determines whether a person is eligible for a tax credit. If you have an air-source heat pump, then it must have a SEER rating of at least 15. The energy efficiency rating, or EER, should be at least 12. Additionally, the heating seasonal performance factor, or HSPF, must be at least 8.5.
The requirements are different if you have a packaged system. The SEER rating must be at least 14. The EER rating must be 12 or greater, and the HSPF must be 8.5.
If you are interested in getting a heat pump for your home, then you should speak with professional technicians. They will be happy to help you find the heat pump that is right for your home. Call or Text us today for more details (941) 203-7955 and don't forget to check out our specials, financing, and rent-to-own options.