Is Your Air Conditioner Making You Sick?

Most of us are extremely thankful for air conditioning – especially those who live in California where high temperatures make it a necessity and not a luxury. That being said, there is a downside to air conditioning that many people are not aware of in terms of health issues. The causes are usually simple and so too are the solutions if you know what needs to be done. These are a few of the most common of them and the fixes.

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Breathing Problems

The stuffiness you feel in your nose or the congestion in your chest may not be simply due to having the temperature set too low. It could be due to the fungi and bacteria that have collected in the air conditioner filters and are being blown around the interiors. Air conditioning units are also high moisture environments that are a breeding ground for black mold. Inhaling the bacteria, fungi or mold can cause all kinds of respiratory problems which, if not dealt with in time, could become serious.

The solution to this problem is a very simple one – ensure that the unit is cleaned regularly and air filters are changed on schedule.

Fatigue, Headaches and Feeling Low

Many people find that after spending a full day in an air conditioned environment they tend to feel more tired than normal and often have headaches or a feeling of general fatigue. Studies have shown that a common cause for this is having the temperature set too low which places an unnatural strain on the metabolism.

The fix is to turn the thermostat up a bit. If that does not help, have it checked by an expert. If it is defective, the room may over cool no matter what the setting is.

Dry Skin and Nasal Passages

The cold dry air that an air conditioner produces causes the natural oils of the skin to dry up and this leads to dry skin and soreness of the nostrils. The more time you spend in an air conditioned room the drier your skin gets.

You  can prevent this from happening by drinking lots of liquids while in an air conditioned environment and by applying moisturizer to the skin.

Colds and Coughs

Studies show that people who spend long hours in air conditioned rooms are often more prone to colds and coughs. The reason for this is not simply that the room is too cold, although that could be part of the problem. What many people do not realize is that just because an air conditioned room restricts the entry of dust and dirt, it does not completely stop it. This dirt can collect in carpets, curtains and crevices, besides collecting in the air filter units. The more time spent in a room with this hidden dust, the more you will be prone to coughs and colds and the more medication you take, the more resistant to it you will become over time.

Like any other appliance, an air conditioning system needs regular maintenance to not just keep it working smoothly and efficiently but also to ensure that the indoor climate it creates is a healthy one. Having your air conditioner regularly serviced and maintained by an air conditioning specialist is the simplest way to be sure that your air conditioning will keep you both comfortable and healthy.

Allergens air filters eliminate

There is so much your HVAC air filters do to ensure your unit is protected. In fact, they even help safeguard your health. High-efficiency HVAC filters can be a very strong line of defense for asthma and allergy sufferers, decreasing triggers by filtering out airborne contaminants to offer clean indoor air.

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Here are some of the contaminants that can cause major issues to your health, but can be kept at bay if you have strong filtration systems installed within your HVAC:

           1.Household dust:

The toxicity of the dust may vary, depending on what it is made of- anything from dirt to skin cells and pollutant particles from power stations to manufacturing facilities.

2.Dust mites

50% of asthma occurrences and 25% of allergies are a consequence of dust mites that consume dust, pollen, and skin cells, and can get inside your nose from furnishings when sleeping.

3. Lint

Lint inside your house can create a dangerous cocktail of chemicals such as, softeners, detergents, and fabric preservatives that can lead to distress and respiratory inflammation, disorders of the central nervous system, and even major diseases like cancer.

4. Bacteria

Bacteria ranging from non-pathogenic to normal to dangerous pneumonia, tuberculosis, and legionella can be found flying around in our houses. Air filters help eliminate them from coming through the HVAC.

5. Pet dander

Small and lightweight, skin cells from pets tend to remain suspended inside the air for a very long time, leading to allergies and asthma in individuals that are affected.

6. Smoke

Smoke from fires and cigarettes discharge toxic matters that can get inside the lungs, leading to a range of reactions from acute bronchitis and asthma attacks to stroke, cancer, heart attack, and death due to long-term exposure.

7. Pollen

Pollens are extremely bothersome for sufferers of allergies, and almost dangerous for those who suffer from asthma, going outside sneezing to lead to anaphylaxis in individuals who are hyper-sensitive.

8. Mold

Almost 20% of people have allergy from mold spores, but even the ones who are not affected by dangerous compounds – mycotoxins – released by certain species, suffering from respiratory issues, flu systems, fatigue and headache.

9. Virus carriers

The best way to stop the spreading of viruses through sneezes and coughs is through the right air filter.

10. Microscopic allergens

The truth is smaller the particle, bigger the chance of bloodstream and lung penetration

For those who suffer from severe asthma, allergies, or have multiple pets, higher filter efficiency can help in breathing easy, but may necessitate a blower motor boost for counteracting the airflow restriction due to filter’s tighter weave. If you wish to make the most out of your HVAC and want to keep the allergies at bay then ensure that your filters are working well. 

Don’t overload your HVAC system

The core of an HVAC system, a compressor is important to the cooling and heating of a house. Propelling coolant inside an HVAC emits heat. However, if this heat gets too strong, the system may shut down.

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Compressor Overload: What does it mean?

Thermal overload of an AC compressor is a very common cause of breakdown, and usually happens on the coldest or hottest days of the season, when the system has to work overtime. The overload is responsible for component failures 49% of the times. It is a serious and expensive problem if it progresses. Depending on the system’s age, it may result in you having to completely replace the system.

Compressor Burn Out: What causes it?

The main causes of compressor burnout is neglect by homeowners, careless maintenance and installation, including,

      

1. Dirty condenser coils.

      2. A dirty air filter.

      3. Undercharged or overcharged refrigeration system

      4.Refrigerant leaks.

      5. Acid burnout.

      6. Other heat sources situated near the condenser (hot water pipes, dryer vent).

      7. Improper airflow due to poor system location (covered by deck, weeds or bushes).

      8. Improper airflow due to debris (trash within external system components, grass                     clippings).

      9. Failure of other components (capacitor, fan motor, reversing valve, thermal expansion           valve, refrigerant lines, etc.).

     10. Corroded wires and loose connections, or inadequate electricity supply into home, leading to             high amperage / low voltage problems.

How do you prevent compressor overloads from damaging the whole system?

Never neglect homeowner maintenance.

It is important that you change the air filter after every three months. Also, make sure you clear debris around the external system, preserving 18-36 inches of clearance at all sides.

Hire a HVAC professional you can trust.

Extending the compressor’s life requires accurate installation performed by a knowledgeable professional, and routine professional maintenance that includes verification of refrigerant levels, connections, lubrication, coil cleaning, and maintenance of operation as per the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure system longevity.

Consider extra protection.

Adding a compressor overload protector can safeguard your HVAC system. Located nearby the condenser, this special sensor monitors temperatures, shutting down the compressor temporarily to prevent it from overheating. By turning your system off to let the compressor cool, can help prevent thermal overload of the AC compressor and give you an indication that your system needs repair before the problems become too costly.

In case your compressor is overheating, it is important to understand why, as just replacing components may lead to the problem repeating itself again. In case your system is experiencing increased incidence of overheating, make sure you call for help immediately. The professionals will check your system and find out what is wrong. It is a good idea to hire a service that has good reviews.

AC smells and what they mean?

Sometimes your air conditioner may emit the most unusual smells, refraining you from running the system to prevent the whole house from stinking. Here are a few common AC smells and their meaning.

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Stinky feet

When stagnant water sits inside a clogged drain pan, it can create smell similar to stinky feet. While the smell is not a health hazard it does make one very uncomfortable. Moreover, standing water can quickly cause mold growth. Begin by unclogging the drain pan and replacing the filter. It is a good idea to call a professional if you are having a hard time locating the problem.

Musty Odor

If your house begins to smell musty, this could indicate towards mildew or mold growing somewhere inside the air conditioning. This should not come as a surprise as AC units get rid of excess moisture from the air as they cool. The process of dehumidification causes the water to amass on the evaporator coils and it begins to drip inside the drain pan. In case the water does not drain away or evaporate, mold starts growing in merely 24 to 48 hours leading to the musty odor.

It is best to replace the air filter to make sure the drain pan remains empty.

Rotting Garbage

A rodent or a small bird can easily get into air ducts. If by chance the animal gets stuck inside, it may die and start decomposing. Then, whenever you turn on the AC, it will blow in the smell of rotting garbage. While the thought may make you nauseous, a dead animal is not dangerous. Still, you should undoubtedly call up a professional to remove the remains and clean up the ductwork.

Smell of Vinegar

Does the house air conditioner emit smell similar to that of vinegar? The smell may go away if you shut off the AC and may come back if you start the machine. The scenario perfectly describes a motor releasing ozone. The strong vinegar odor is harmless but if you have allergies, consider calling a professional.

Old Tobacco

Stale tobacco smoke that comes out of an AC vent is very unpleasant, but the odor simply means the air filter and condenser coil have soaked up old cigarette smoke. In case you smoke heavily, it is a good idea to schedule regular AC maintenance to prevent the residue of smoke on the coils from causing problems.

An air filter replacement and good cleaning are normally all you have to do to eliminate old tobacco smoke from the AC vents.

If you are looking for the best way to get rid of awkward smells from your AC then it is best to hire a professional HVAC maintenance provider. The provider can answer all your questions and perform the required repairs and cleaning to make your house smell better while the air conditioner is running.

How the rains affect your HVAC?

Showers can sometimes turn into a foot of floodwater that plays havoc on offices and homes. How do heavy rains affect your HVAC ? While your unit is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions with the interior components secured by the best technology. The condenser and the compressor in the outdoor unit are made of copper, aluminum, and other such metals, and are crated in such a way that they can handle heavy rains while still dehumidifying and cooling the house effectively.

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Here are a few problems that the HVAC may face:

Damage due to storms

Excessive rains with strong winds carrying debris can affect the condenser fan grille or may carry twigs, leaves, and dirt within your system. It is important to give the exterior of your unit a thorough check after every storm.

Flooding

Localized flooding can cause harm to the electronics within the air conditioning system if the waters cross fifteen inches. In case you experience such severe flooding after heavy rain, it is best to get your unit inspected professionally. Due to this reason, it is instructed to install the exterior HVAC unit in an area that is flood safe. Venting and ductwork under beam and pier houses should also be secured against flood water for making sure the operation runs safely and your family’s health remains intact.

Corrosion

Corrosion can happen inside a system that has been wrapped improperly when not in use. If you like to cover the HVAC with a cover that is commercially available, appropriate ventilation holes are necessary. Do not cover the HVAC with a garbage bag or plastic wrap. Condensation and moisture can build up and get trapped within the system, decaying rubber wire and rusting and corroding metal parts. Lack of any airing also promotes the breeding of mildew and mold, and creates an appealing nesting ground for vermin and insects.

How to protect your HVAC?

Humidity and water are a continuous force against HVAC systems, even while it does not rain. HVAC systems are well equipped to get rid of water and humidity levels in the air, but when the rains get heavy and push humidity to greater heights, the HVAC system has to work harder. A very common problem faced by homeowners is the water leakage coming from the components. One of the best ways to ensure that your HVAC works well throughout the year is to perform regular maintenance of the HVAC system. This ensures that there is enough volume within the drip pan for collection of water, and assure that the pumping system is suitable for emptying that collected water.

Flooding can be another issue. Is the exterior part of the HVAC sitting inside an area of the yard that offers no grading or drainage to get rid of the water? Is the HVAC unit installed on a roof surface which is a flat? When you look at the placement of your system with such a mindset, you can easily analyze the flood risks of the HVAC.

Benefits of Geothermal HVAC Systems

If you’re looking for an HVAC system that makes use of the earth’s energy for cooling or heating your space then investing in a geothermal system is a great idea. These HVAC machines operate by cooling and heating your house using the fairly constant temperature under the surface of the earth. When properly equipped, these systems can also supply the house with hot water for free.

Do not confuse geothermal HVAC systems with geothermal power plants. The latter generates electricity by using the earth’s core. However, a geothermal heating system uses the earth’s crust to cool and heat a home; there is no electricity generation involved.

How do they work?

Operation during winters: The pipes underground, also known as the ground loop, circulate water which in turn absorbs the natural heat of the earth and brings it to the heat pump installed indoors. This heat pump excerpts the heat from the water and distributes it within the house as warm air. Once the water’s heat is removed, the same water is re-circulated for collecting more heat.

Operation during summers: Indoor heat pumps suck the hot air from the house to get rid of the heat. This in turn leaves cool air behind to be dispersed through the vents. The heat that is removed from the house is released into the earth with the help of the ground loop. The ecologists acknowledge and regard geothermal systems as the most environmentally clean, energy efficient, and cost-effective systems available in the market.

Here are a few benefits that make these systems so lucrative to homeowners.

More energy efficient:

According to experts, almost 70 percent of the energy used by geothermal HVAC systems comes from renewable energy sources within the earth. A geothermal HVAC system which is energy-efficient is approximately seventy five percent more competent in comparison to an oil furnace, 40 percent more competent when compared to a gas furnace and 43 percent more efficient when it is operated in the cooling mode.

More economical:

While the installation cost of geothermal systems is at the higher side, the HVAC system will gradually pay for itself as it will reduce the monthly utility bills and decrease your annual cost or maintenance. In comparison to a conventional system, you will get a much higher investment return when you buy a geothermal system.

Environmentally sustainable:

Geothermal cooling and heating systems are known to be one of the safest option available in the market when you keep environmental friendliness in mind. In fact, if you install a geothermal HVAC system in your residence, you basically plant seven hundred and fifty trees or reduce pollution amounting to two running vehicles.

Moreover, a geothermal residential HVAC system does not require fossil fuels to function, which is great for the environment as it eliminates threats resulting from combustion. If you invest in a geothermal system, there is absolutely no need to worry about carbon monoxide or the dangers it poses to the safety of your family.

Why should you get an HVAC Maintenance plan?

There are plenty of benefits for your home, if you decide to get an HVAC maintenance plan. Before looking at the advantages, let us first understand what these maintenance plans are all about.

HVAC service contracts are agreements between the HVAC owner and a service provider where the owner has to pay a certain fee to get the company's continual services for the system. The most basic plans include tune ups and checkups, emphasizing the air conditioning before summer and your heating system before the winter. There are also contracts that include services for issues found at the time of checkups, while some comprise of emergency services. The fee of the plan will depend on the number of services included in the contract.

Why sign up?

Here are some of the most lucrative advantages to signing up with a reputed HVAC maintenance provider.

Get protection for your warranty:

Manufacturers of your HVAC will not honor the warranties when the machine is neglected. Most expect owners to get the system maintained twice a year - normally in the fall and spring - and this is exactly what the HVAC system maintenance plan offers. Trained and experienced technicians will visit the house and make sure the system is running smoothly. You will secure your warranty, and the technician will take care of your system.

Enhance the longevity of the HVAC system:

When hiring professionals for maintenance, your air conditioner, furnace, and other HVAC components can last longer. They lubricate and clean the system’s moving parts and check for leaks in the refrigerant and other problems. You are going to get more mileage from your investment. This will save you a lot of money.

Enjoy priority appointments:

Most HVAC service providers value their maintenance plan members so much that they send them right to the priority list when they schedule service appointments during peak seasons. If you have any emergency related to HVAC, you will get a technician to rectify the issue as soon as possible.

Priority treatments can save you discomfort and time when your heater stops working in the extremely cold weather or your air conditioner starts blowing hot air during the summer months.

Energy efficiency:

High energy bills can be a big problem. A maintenance program makes sure that the system keeps on running at optimal efficiency. You will not just spend a lot less on your energy bills, but also decrease carbon footprint. Lesser the energy consumed, more beneficial it is for the environment.

If you hire a qualified technician for inspecting your HVAC system you can identify problems when they can still be fixed easily, instead of waiting till they harm the HVAC system or become too expensive.

One of the biggest investments you can make for your house is to get a good HVAC maintenance plan from a reputed contractor. This will ensure that your expensive system works in its best capacity at all times. It will also ensure that your system remains clean from debris and dust particles, making sure your children breathe fresh air at all times.

Spring Air Conditioning Tune-Up Checklist!

Are you thoroughly enjoying the spring? Do not let the warm summer months come upon you without making sure you have the A/C serviced. Tune-ups before the season are helpful for ensuring optimum performance and decreasing potential for repair requirements.

What does a tune-up really mean?

A tune-up is a chance for a certified HVAC technician to evaluate your system professionally and ensure that all issues are corrected. The technician arrives with a tune-up checklist and starts the process with a physical inspection of the outside and inside units. It can go with few of the following treatments and tests:

1. Leaks are diagnosed and pressures tested
2. Refrigerant level is adjusted if needed, and related refrigerant leak issues are addressed
3. Any fittings that are loosened are tightened
4. Lubrication of bearings and other parts
5. Condensate pans and coils are cleaned and properly inspected
6. Thermostat is inspected
7. Ducts are inspected

If there are any issues with the system, the technician will bring them to your attention, and suggest replacements or repairs required to complete the optimization of the system.

Advantages of A/C Tune-Ups

There are numerous reasons you will need a tune-up. It is important to service the AC every spring to get the best possible performance. This can lead to:

1. Your AC unit has a longer life
2. Approximately 95 percent decrease in unforeseen repairs
3. Reduced energy bills and enhanced efficiency
4. Better quality of home air
5. Complete comfort during the summers
6. Professional recommendations about the system’s life
7. Assistance in planning for the eventual equipment upgrade

Signs that your A/C unit needs a tune-up!

Most people put off tune ups for a very long time just to avoid that extra expense. However, it is important to pay attention to certain telltale signs that something is not working correctly, planning service to evade serious damage. Some problems that you must watch out for are,

1. Poor flow of air from your air ducts – there may be a block in your coils or ducts, or filter
2. The air temperatures are not very cool – reduced refrigerant levels may cause poor cooling
3. You see a layer of ice on your system’s coils –dirty coils or decreased refrigerant levels can lead to freezing of the system coils
4. Unfamiliar sounds from the outdoor or indoor unit – the equipment may have a loose or broken part that may lead to unrepairable damage
5. The system runs continuously – the settings of the thermostat may be incorrect or the battery may be low
6. Unexplained increase in the energy bills – there could be an issue with your equipment, a proper tune-up will offer a solution

A tune-up is very helpful in addressing these problems and offers the opportunity to have an inspection for your equipment overall. In case of a system failure, make sure you call up a professional A/C repair service provider. They are the best in dealing with any sort of issue with the machine, without making things worse.

AC Maintenance and Repair Guide for House Owners

Air conditioner-related tasks should be on your list as soon as spring arrives. Before calling your house AC repair contractor, you must know that there are repair and maintenance items that most homeowners can tackle on their own!

Get your house ready for hot weather with our AC repair and maintenance guide:

A/C maintenance:

There are several benefits of regular maintenance:

1. AC maintenance enhances the performance and efficiency of your air conditioner. This reduces your energy bills while giving you a comfortable temperature indoors.
2. AC maintenance helps to lengthen the life of the system. Keep your machine working for a longer period of time while avoiding any chances of early replacement.
3. Air conditioner maintenance prevents the requirement for AC repairs. When you repair regularly you are less likely to undergo system breakdowns in summers.
4. Hire an a/c technician for performing maintenance every year. This prized service enhances performance, protects pocketbook and prevents repairs.

While it is best to contact an air conditioning technician for performing this service, there are several procedures any house owner can complete on their own for keeping the system in shape.

1. Clean the unit off. Keeping the outer a/c condenser clear and free of obstructions permits air to pass through without any trouble. This removes stress and keeps the unit working in top condition.
2. Clean indoor registers and vents. As air flows through the house, dirt and dust can stick to your registers and vents. This may not just make the house dirtier, but reduce indoor air quality.
3. Change the air filter. Filters should be changed every two months, depending on the kind of filter you use. It’s a good idea to create a regular schedule – mark filter changing dates on a calendar, and make it a point to check the calendar every month.
4. Keep any pests out. When pests get inside an HVAC machine, they can create havoc. Their leftovers and presence have a negative effect on the indoor quality of the air. Pest-proof your air conditioning components to keep critters out!

A/C repair:

Air conditioners can be complicated. If you’re not sure about how they work, it can get very difficult when issues start to occur. A professional repair technician can easily fix system problems. Irrespective of the issue, it is a good idea to run through simple A/C troubleshooting before hiring a technician.

1. Check the power – make sure to check all the switches by the condenser outside or air handler indoors. Also, examine the breaker powering the system at the electrical panel of the house.
2. Thermostat settings – if the air conditioner is blowing hot air, it could be because of the thermostat. Check to see if the thermostat has batteries and is working properly.
3. If your air conditioner begins to ice over, it will not be able to function properly. It is best to call for air conditioning repair.

If you are not confident about performing an air conditioning repair yourself, stay safe and call for professional help!

How to Prolong the Life of your HVAC System?

HVAC is always a costly investment, one every house owner should make only a few times in their lifetime. According to experts, a system lasts for approximately fifteen to twenty years, and there are numerous things that homeowners can do to increase the life of their HVAC.

Pre-season check-ups and cleaning

It is very important to get the HVAC checked and cleaned before the start of any season, normally once in the spring and once in fall. This routine helps in catching any issues before the season begins and ensures the system works smoothly. Plan maintenance check-ups and cleaning early to make sure you get hold of efficient and licensed technicians.

Checking air filters on a regular basis

Dirty or clogged air filters can reduce the air flow to your system, creating extra stress and making the HVAC work harder. This may cause damage to the blower motor. When you check the filters on a regular basis, you can avoid the build-up of dust or dirt, eventually causing less tension on the motor and extending the life of your system.

Inspecting the equipment

Inspecting the HVAC equipment regularly can help in catching small issues before they become big. While you will require a technician for inspecting the ducts for air leaks and for maintaining your equipment, there are several things you can do yourself.

Be vigilant about any equipment that is susceptible to excess wear and tear or corrosion. For heat pumps or central air conditioning systems, any parts that are outside the house should be checked visually for buildup of leaves, damage or debris.

Apart from this, every owner must regularly see if there are any leaks in the outside equipment. For instance, finding oily substance on surfaces can indicate towards a refrigerant leak.

Give a break to your system

For most homes, an HVAC system runs seven days a week. This can take a toll on the system. It is very important to give a break to your system to keep it from being overworked. Using an automated thermostat can help, because it will help you adjust the system’s temperature during the day and at times when you are not home. This way, when you get back, it will be less work for your system to get the house back to the correct temperature. Normally, a slight ‘break’ for the HVAC system will make a huge difference when it comes to the pressure on it in the long run, and will assist you in getting maximum savings possible.

There is no way to guarantee or predict the life of an HVAC system. However, with these handy tips you can keep your HVAC running efficiently and smoothly, increasing its life and helping you get the best out of the investment. Also, any time you feel that your system is not functioning properly, make sure you contact a HVAC maintenance expert immediately. The professional will be able to find and rectify the fault before it becomes a costly damage.

Pros and Cons of Underfloor Heating

We all try to reduce our utility bills while keeping our house warm. Underfloor heating is becoming one of the most popular hot air systems in terms of alternatives to traditional fireplaces and radiators. However, how do these systems really work and what are the possible advantages and disadvantages to installing one?

Underfloor heating is the type of central heating system that attains indoor climate control using radiation, conduction, and convection. The words radiant cooling and heating are commonly used for describing this approach as radiation is responsible for a big part of the consequent thermal comfort. However, this use is technically correct only when radiation constitutes more than 50% of the heat exchange between the space and the floor.

Basics of underfloor heating:

There are essentially two kinds of underfloor heating systems –dry and wet. Wet system pump hot water through pipes under the floor for creating heat while dry systems make use of electric coils below the floor to attain the warmth.

Electrical underfloor systems make use of a series of wires for heating up the floor. Wires lay on top of the insulation and work with many different flooring types. However, they do not work under carpets. Installation of electric systems is cheaper when compared to water systems.

The advantages:

One of the things that most people like about underfloor systems is that they are not visible. Unlike ugly radiators they do not take up any space or affect where furniture can be placed as they are hidden under the flooring itself. Since they spread under the entire room there are no cold and warm spots far or close to the radiator.

Underfloor heating systems also do well at low temperatures which decreases the amount of electricity required to operate them. The heating systems work in a more optimal manner than radiators.

The Problems:

There are essentially two main issues with underfloor heating systems. First is, they are very expensive to install, depending on the kind of property you are planning to install them in and the way they have been constructed. They are extremely popular among newly built properties as the designing can be fused in the house but may not work for some older property. Certain flooring types may also not work well with underfloor heating.

The other issue is that they need more time to heat a space than a radiator, so a regulator to help you in organizing the system is essential.

Whether water or electric based, underfloor heating systems are certainly a popular way to heat your home. Several newly built properties incorporate this system and houses undergoing renovation can also consider the same. Some older properties can also consider getting the system installed, bringing a lot of savings to the house owners and decreasing the carbon footprint coming with it. The radiant heat that is produced by the system decreases air circulation and humidity, which means there is a lesser chance of allergens and dust mites in the air.

Heat Pump Systems: A Guide for Home Owners

There are so many different ways to heat a house. From fireplaces to furnaces, homeowners have a range of different choices. But, which is the best one for your house? You have probably heard of a heating pump, but could you tell it apart from a boiler or a furnace?

In this blog, you will learn about heat pump systems, how they work, the kind of systems available, and the best system that will work in your house.

Air-source heating systems

This heat pump system absorbs warmth from the outside air, transferring it in the house. When the heat is moved indoors, the system causes the inside areas to feel a little warmer.

To cool the house, the heating pump draws the heat from the house, sending it to the outdoors. By getting rid of the heat, your house feels colder.

Geothermal heat pumps

Geothermal heat pumps utilize underground heating as an energy source. These systems make use of a ground loop for tapping into the natural ground heat and moving it up to the heat pump of the house, where it is moved indoors for warming up the area.

Such pumps can also pull heat from a close by water source having consistent temperatures, such as a pond or a lake. The heat is transferred into the house.

Are heat pumps right for your house?

Not every house is right for a heat pump system. In some conditions, the system may not provide the required efficiency, and some other kind of heating system may be more realistic.

Climate:

Air-source heating systems only run effectively when the outside weather conditions are above freezing. It is not a good idea to choose a heat pump when temperatures drop below thirty two degrees.

In areas where the temperatures start to reach freezing points, air-source makes excellent primary heating systems. However, you must install a backup system like a gas furnace, which can be used at times when temperatures reach freezing. A HVAC expert can install controls that shut down the heating pump automatically if temperatures drop or reach below freezing point.

Ductwork

If you plan on switching to geothermal pump from a conservative forced air cooling and heating system, you can reuse the existing ductwork of your house. In case you do not have any ductwork installed inside the house, the additional expense of getting ductwork installed may make conventional heat pump systems an expensive choice.

A mini-split ductless heat pump system pumps heat inside the house without any ductwork. Separate indoor units fixed on ceilings or walls connect to the outdoor condenser. House owners benefit hugely from the savings geothermal pumps offer and their characteristic zoned comfort control.

With the right knowledge about heat pump system, you are better equipped for making the right buying decision for a new cooling and heating system for your house. Also, make sure you hire a trustworthy contractor to perform the installation for you, for best results.