Aren’t all air filters the same?

   So, it's that time of the month again. You find yourself searching through what seems to be an endless choice of air filters. You know what size you need and yet you cant seem to decipher all the other information that makes one “better” than the other. What is it one must do to find THE perfect air filter?!

   Fortunately thats where we step in. Here at Dynamic Heating and Cooling LLC. we have taken the time to aquire the knowledge and know how to get you, the customer, the proper air filter for your home! Come along with us as we explore the different filters and what that means for the health of your home!

     The question of the day! What filter is best? “I know what size I need, but what is MERV? 30,60,90 day filters? whats best???” Truth be told there isn't a definitive answer for this… There are so many variables it would be comparable to googleing “what oil is best for my car?” A better question, or questions, relate to the health of the home. Who has allergies? How severe are those allergies? What kind of filter(s) are you currently using? The questions are important because it is widely known that your home has air thats far more polluted(up to 100x) than outdoor air. The pollution and particulate matter can exacerbate allergies, and illness within the home. A medical study published on pubmed.gov outlines how allergy symptoms decreased in the home with better particulate filtration, and another by the Indian Lung Society published on nih.gov showing the correlation of air pollution(indoor and outdoor) and the effects on the cardiovascular system. Which brings us to the discussion of MERV rating. 

  So what is it? Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, MERV for short, was established by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) in 1987. The rating essentially  outlines the minimum performance(particle size) that can be effectively captured by the filter. Ranging from MERV 1-16 in order of least to best filtration, the MERV rating lets us know how small of a particle we can capture. So that settles it! Buy a MERV 16 and call it a day right? Mmmm… not so much. You see as we get better filtration we trade air flow. A filter that flows maximum air will do a poor job of filtering, while a filter that catches the smallest of particulate makes your system work harder. See not so cut and dry. Luckily, we can get the best of both worlds. 

   Which brings us to 4 inch media cabinets! They allow for us to flow more air while not having to sacrifice filtration. We can get that MERV 16 filter that can capture particles of less than 1.0 Micron(really. really. small) while minimizing the impact to performance of the system. But how is this possible? Simple. It all comes down to surface area. The best way to describe it would be to imagine you have 1) 1sqft piece of filter media. In that piece of media there are 1,000,000 tiny holes for air to pass through. If we want to flow more air through we need more holes. We are limited by the frame size of 12″ x 12″(in this example) so we look at pleated filters. By simply upgrading to a 1″ pleated filter we double that surface area to 2sqft. A 2″ pleated filter gets you 4sqft, and a 4” pleated gets you 8sqft. We now have 8,000,000 holes for the air to pass through all while trapping dirt that we cant even see with our eyes and we didn't have to sacrifice the performance of our system to do so.

   So what do you do if you don't have a 4″ air filter? No worries. This is one of the most common and easiest system upgrades to perform. One of our highly trained HVAC technicians can come to your home and evaluate your system and make recommendations on what filtration system is best for your home and family. Something as simple as upgrading your air filtration system can makes for a cleaner healthier home.

Our next article we will dive deeper into the world of filtration with HEPA filtration. What is it, and do you need it? 

What’s The Deal With Commercial Air Purifiers?

You've heard of air conditioners, humidifiers, and vaporizers. Have you heard of air purifiers? On average, we spend about 90% of our time indoors. A lot of that has to do with our time at work. Do you work in a hospital, office, factory, restaurant or any other work setting? Depending on the ventilation, the number of people, the presence of animals and types of machinery, you may be exposed to lots of dust, smoke and/or chemical odors. This is why air purifiers are important.

An air purifier is a machine that assists in getting rid of air pollutants.

From reducing asthma and allergy triggers to preventing contamination of deadly substances, air purifiers can be beneficial in any commercial and residential environments including schools, hospitals, offices, and businesses. Read more at Jen Reviews…

Picture the Ghostbusters and the gadget they used to suck up and get rid of ghosts, thus keeping their town safe. An air purifier is your version of that gadget in your commercial building.

Air purifiers don't only protect your clients' and employees' health. They can also cause an increase in the output of your team. It's a kind of secondary benefit.

Increased productivity

Fewer health problems among your workforce means fewer sick days and increased productivity. Workers, vendors and customers or patients will generally feel more energetic and healthy in an environment with clean indoor air. All of these factors means better business and an improved bottom line.

Who can benefit: Any business looking to provide healthy air quality and improve its bottom line. Read more at Pure n Natural…

Supposedly the late Michael Jackson slept in an oxygen-filled compartment to obtain health benefits. While your business' budget may not allow for such extravagance for every employee, an air purifier can be the next best thing to increase productivity.

If you now have a better understanding of air purifiers and are warming up to the idea of having them installed in your commercial or industrial building, there are a few things to look for when shopping for a top-quality air purifier.

It is important that you should find one that has the capacity to purify the size of the room you intend to use it in, so you should be sure to consider factors such as, performance, noise, ease of use, cost, and whether or not an air purifier has been submitted for testing and its ratings certified by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. Read more at LifeHack…

A couple of things to look into as well are the grade of HEPA filtration in the purifier and the capacity of carbon filters used. Knock offs don't apply only to luxury purses and shoes, but also in the air purifier industry. So do your research.

Armed with this information about commercial air purifiers; what they are, what they're good for and how to choose one, you may want to consider investing in one or more for your commercial use. Call the experts at Dynamic Heating and Cooling for more insight and recommendations.

The 3Cs To Keep In Mind Before Winter

We're at the final lap of September which means that “Winter is coming” is more than a Game Of Thrones reference. Winter is actually coming. While you've been doing everything possible to keep your commercial HVAC system running like a dream in the summer to keep your clients, employees and yourself cool, what about when you need to keep warm? Remember the 3Cs: Change, Check and Clean.

Change

No matter the season, it's important to change your air filters pretty regularly. When it's cold though, there are fewer chances of open windows and doors, so the added negative of dirty filters can cause poor air quality and increase chances of respiratory issues.

In fact, air conditioning filters should be changed every month no matter how often (or how little) you run the system. The fan causes air to move throughout your business, regardless of whether the AC is on or not. Moving air eventually becomes dirty air, so replacing the filter each month is always a good idea. Read more at Pilot Online…

So get professional HVAC technicians like the ones at Dynamic Heating and Cooling to inspect and change out your filters regularly, and especially now, before the cold season officially begins.

Check

The next “C” stands for “Check” as in, check your thermostat. Different factors from outdoor cool temperatures to the types of machinery working to the number of people in a building, affect your indoor warming needs. This warming is controlled by a thermostat.

Your thermostat regulates more than just your heating and cooling — it also regulates your comfort and your budget. Outdated thermostats can keep you too hot or too cold, which is simply uncomfortable and can actually cause some health problems in the long term. Read more at Business Insider…

So before your heating gets to running almost constantly, take the time to check and possibly update your thermostats. There are those that are manual, others that are controlled from one location, and still, others that are “SMART” and turn off or on based on ambient temperatures.

Clean

The final “C” represents the word “clean.” It's vital to have regular commercial HVAC cleaning done, like for the condenser coils. As it gets colder, you may notice your energy costs going up as a result of heating your building. Not cleaning certain parts of your heating system can increase energy costs even more.

According to the Airguard Research and Technical Center, a “moderately dirty” coil increases electricity use 39 percent for a 3-ton and 47 percent for a 5-ton system. A product manager for Nu-Calgon noted in a trade magazine article that, “Dirty condenser coils increase power costs. When the coil becomes fouled with dirt and grime, it cannot provide adequate or designed heat transfer. The soil’s insulating effect causes higher discharge pressure. The higher discharge pressure increases amp draw and run time of the compressor, at the same time reducing capacity. Equipment operating with dirty coils may use as much as 37% more energy than equipment with clean coils.” Read more at Contracting Business…

This is the best time to get a good HVAC cleaning for hygienic reasons and cost considerations as well.

So remember the 3Cs as we go into lower temperature seasons. Like the writer said,

“…maintenance makes sense from an economic (lower utility bills), environmental (less powerplant emissions), comfort (restored capacity), and convenience (fewer breakdowns) perspective.” (Contracting Business)

Call Dynamic Heating and Cooling for expert commercial HVAC maintenance services today!

3 Signs Your Air Conditioner Has Mold

The thought of mold conjures up images of dark fuzzy patches and people in biological suits wearing latex gloves. While mold in your AC unit may not be as scary, it can still have detrimental effects on your body by contributing to serious respiratory illnesses. So it's important to be able to tell if you're dealing with a mold problem in your AC system.

Our olfactory sense can link certain smells to memories from decades ago. So it's no wonder it serves to warn you against mold too.

Mold is a common issue in building interiors with poor humidity control, and the US Environmental Protection Agency recommends professional remediation when a mold patch exceeds 10 square feet. Mold is detrimental for indoor air quality, producing an unpleasant musty odor and causing allergic reactions. Read more at R&R Mag…

So if you notice a musty, wet, stale or rotten smell in your house or particular rooms, especially when your AC unit is running, that's a sign you may have mold.

Our body protects us in many ways. If you have a wound, it uses its clotting factors to make sure you don't bleed out. If you eat something that's disagreeable with your body, it ejects it through diarrhea or vomiting. In the same fashion, another sign you may have mold in your HVAC system is if your body or your pet's body reacts, displaying certain symptoms.

“Without proper care and maintenance, mold can actually grow on the inside which has the potential to lead to health problems like wheezing, congestion and throat irritation,” said Consumer Reports Home Editor Paul Hope. Read more at ABC7NY…

Other indications are headaches, nausea and itchy eyes. So if you notice you or your pet showing symptoms similar to those in allergy and congestion medicine commercials, you may have mold in your unit.

The final and most worrisome but sure sign of mold in your AC unit is the actual sight of it. Appearances can be deceiving, but not when it comes to mold. If you see it, you have it.

Inspect the unit to determine the extent of the problem. Unplug the unit, remove the front grille cover (most snap off but some are held in place by screws), and then pull out the filter beneath the grill. Grab a flashlight and inspect the inside of the unit for the signs of mold growth, which may appear as streaks or clusters of brown, black, or greenish stains, some of which may appear fuzzy. Mildew, a common type of mold, produces powdery gray or white stains. Read more at Bob Vila…

You can use this description of how mold and mildew look, but can also search online for images to be sure. If you spot these fungi in your system, you're more on the ‘infestation’ side of a mold problem and need professional help immediately.

The team at Dynamic Heating and Cooling are experts at tackling mold in HVAC systems and will give you fast, top-quality service. So don't wait for a mold problem to worsen. As soon as you suspect your AC unit may have mold or mildew, give us a call!

3 Ways To Make Your Commercial HVAC System More Energy Efficient

With the fast development taking place in Africa and Asia, people's apathy and others' continued disbelief in global warming, it's no wonder climate change is only getting worse. As a business owner or manager of a commercial establishment with an HVAC or refrigeration system, it's helpful on your bottom line and for generations to come to look into ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

Update your thermostats

The first way is by updating your thermostats. Manual or remote-controlled thermostats which are managed by human beings are quickly becoming a thing of the past.

Thanks to Internet-connected sensors, cloud computing and predictive analytics like that used by Motili, HVAC management systems can now continually adjust temperatures and humidity levels across different areas of a home based on real-time and historical data. By connecting HVAC to the Internet of Things, the optimization can slash energy usage by 20 percent. Read more at Motili…

20% is a big reduction in energy use. You update your phone every several months, so take a look at your commercial HVAC's thermostats this season and upgrade as needed.

Take advantage of solar energy

Another way to make your system more energy-efficient involves using solar energy. A recent invention called the Therm X introduces a solar thermal collector into the original HVAC system. The collector uses solar energy instead of electricity to power the compressor – a part of the HVAC unit that helps in cooling.

One client saw in excess of a 50 percent reduction in cooling costs since the system was installed.

“Over the period of a year, on a system running 24 hours a day, it would save between 35 and 40 percent reduction on an average system,” Crabtree said. “When the sun’s in the sky … during the day, we can see savings in excess of 60 percent.

“To me, because I’m a commercial guy, it’s the cost savings,” he said. “Obviously, there are other benefits, like the switch to green applications, the fact that this means the system is producing significantly less CO2 into the atmosphere, [and requiring less] production of energy to run the system in the first place. And it’s essentially maintenance-free. It’s just not rocket science. It’s a very simple technology to install.” Read more at ACHR News…

The energy and cost benefits are clear. The fact that it doesn't need a lot of maintenance is the cherry on top. So consider incorporating solar energy into your HVAC system.

Invest in a new energy-efficient unit

Finally, increasing the energy efficiency of your HVAC system may require a complete overhaul. Replacing your current unit with high-efficiency systems reduces costs to cool and energy use.

Since 44 percent of the energy generated for commercial buildings is used for HVAC and refrigeration, it makes sense to consider upgrading to high-efficiency HVAC equipment. [1] For example, replacing an older rooftop unit with an EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 6.2 with a modern 13 EER unit can result in annual cooling cost savings up to 52 percent. [2] These substantial savings can help offset other escalating budgetary expenses without compromising occupant comfort. Read more at Therma…

In updating your HVAC system with more energy-efficient units, you're going green and in most cases can even get tax credits or breaks.

So whether you're taking baby steps or leaping right into a complete energy-efficient upgrade, I take my hat off to you. Reach out to us at Dynamic Heating and Cooling; we’ll give you more info and walk you through your energy-efficient HVAC upgrade. Call us today!

The ABCs of Air Handling Units

Air handling units are often confused with air conditioning units, but they are not the same. If you are responsible for overseeing your commercial property’s HVAC, it helps to have a basic understanding of this unit.

The air conditioning unit is made up of different components and one of them is the air handling unit.

Air handling units’ condition and distribute air within a building. They take fresh ambient air from outside, clean it, heat it or cool it, maybe humidify it and then force it through some ductwork around to the designed areas within a building. Most units will have an additional duct run to then pull the used dirty air out of the rooms, back to the AHU, where a fan will discharge it back to atmosphere. Some of this return air might be recirculated back into the fresh air supply to save energy… Read full post at The Engineering Mindset…

In addition to working with your AC unit, an AHU can be paired with a heat pump to help with warming. So it’s clear that the AHU is important in the process of cooling or heating your building and keeping your clients and employees comfortable.

There are different types of air handling units based on the size of your HVAC unit, its location and what it can handle.

These small, terminal-type AHUs are referred to as fan coil units (FCUs) or blower coil units (BCUs), based on size and capacity. They generally have simple controls and serve a single zone within a building such as a loading dock or maybe a stairwell in a larger building. Although not universal, typical load capabilities for FCUs are 200 to 1200 cfm while BCUs might range from 400 to 3,000 cfm.

Slightly larger AHUs selected for outdoor use, located on grade outside or on the roof, are usually referred to as packaged units or rooftop units (RTUs), respectively. In addition to the components noted above, these units will typically have control dampers and serve larger areas or multiple zones within a building. The HVAC load capabilities of these units generally range from a few thousand cfm to tens of thousands. Read full post at CSE Mag…

You’ve probably noticed the rooftop units more than the other types of air handling units but many commercial properties use a combination tailor-made to suit their needs.

Now that we have some knowledge of what air handling units are and the types, it’s important to learn how to keep them operating well for a long time.

An airhandler maintenance technician will be able to perform the following:

Dismantle the air handler unit – Before beginning maintenance, the technician will make sure the A/C unit is turned off outside and the electrical panel at the air handler. Any coolant within the refrigerant lines will be retracted to avoid spills. Next, the refrigerant lines, condensation drain, the fan system and the air handler itself will be removed.

Clean the air handler unit – The air handler can then be cleaned with a vacuum and by using an antibacterial/antimicrobial solution. The technician will use a hose to rinse off the coils and then repeat the steps to the fan system.

Rebuild the air handler unit – To put the air handler backtogether, a new insulated duct board will be cut to size and securedwith aluminum tape and plastic rib. Each seam can be further sealedwith a coat of mastic adhesive cement. Afterward, the technicianwill replace and reattach the fan system, refrigerant lines and thecondensation drain.

Give the finishing touches – Make sure your filter is changedat least once a year—more if you have pets and/or your family is prone to seasonal allergies. Read more at American Standard Air…

So when it’s time for your annual HVAC maintenance, make sure the HVAC technician has not overlooked the air handler unit.

For professional HVAC maintenance services, call Dynamic Heating and Cooling today and speak to an expert HVAC contractor.

My AC Is Leaking – Should I Be Worried?,

Air conditioning units work by pulling in warm air and passing it over refrigerant-cooled tubing or coils, before sending it back out to cool a room and its occupants. As the warm air is cooled, droplets form on the coils or tubes due to condensation.

A small amount of this fluid showing up is expected, especially during warmer seasons such as this one. However, excessive dripping is most likely a sign of a leak. An air conditioner leak can release a gas which when inhaled can cause headaches, nausea and sometimes difficulty breathing. Moreover, your AC leaking can be a sign of damage to certain parts of your AC unit.

Air filters trap debris, dust, and dirt from the air. This protects you by allowing you to breathe clean air and also protects your AC unit.

Air Filter: A dirty or clogged air filter may also cause your AC to leak. If you haven't replaced your filter in a while, this is a good place to start. A dirty filter prevents your air conditioner from working properly, causing ice to form on the coils which will drip and create a leak. Read more at Claim Pro…

It's advisable to change your filter every 30 days especially during the months when your AC is working harder. It's not only better for your health and pocket (less energy wasted) it will also prevent AC leaks.

Another reason your AC could be leaking is that the drain pan that catches condensation may be broken.

That the large pan below the cold coil (called the condensate pan) is not rotted and full of holes, and leaking water into the house. Note, that in most cases, replacing the pan below the coil is usually not something a homeowner can tackle. A leaking pan is almost always better repaired by a licensed air conditioning heating ventilation contractor (HVAC). Read more at Popular Mechanics…

If you see a puddle of water on your floor or under your air conditioner unit, call the experts at Dynamic Heating and Cooling to check whether the drain pan is damaged. If it is, we can discuss replacing it quickly and affordably.

The condensate pump removes water produced during cooling from your AC unit and pumps it out via pipe, in most cases, to an outside drain.

It’s not likely that you’ll need to replace your pump too often. However, you’ll know when your condensate pump is not working. Over time, your condensate pump’s motor may start to fail, or the switch which turns the pump on and off may become worn due to accumulating dirt and debris. The most obvious sign that you need a replacement is when your condensate pump is leaking. You’ll notice small puddles of water on the floor or surface areas near the specific appliance.  Read more at Consumer Mentor…

Logically, if the system meant to pump out water is not pumping correctly or at all, water will accumulate, appearing as leaks.

An AC leak can be due to a minor issue such as a clogged filter or a major one like a damaged condensate pump. To protect your family and appliance investment, don’t put off taking care of any AC leak. Reach out to us to speak to an HVAC specialist in Culpeper VA. We at Dynamic Heating and Cooling are happy to help you identify the cause of your AC leak and fix it promptly.

Save Energy And Money With Commercial Radiant Heating,

Are you usually ahead-of-the-curve? Were you on Twitter before it was popular? Did you buy a Prius back when it was the only “green” car out there? Then perhaps radiant heating isn't new to you. If it is new to you, or you just need a refresher course, let's dive in.

Have you ever woken up from your cozy bed to answer the call of nature then got a jolting shock from the frozen tiled bathroom floor? It makes it that much harder to fall back asleep, doesn't it? Radiant heating has solved this issue.

Radiant heating systems supply heat directly to the floor or to panels in the wall or ceiling of a house. The systems depend largely on radiant heat transfer — the delivery of heat directly from the hot surface to the people and objects in the room via infrared radiation. Radiant heating is the effect you feel when you can feel the warmth of a hot stovetop element from across the room. When radiant heating is located in the floor, it is often called radiant floor heating or simply floor heating. Read more at Energy…

Radiant heating systems come in three types: electric, air-heated and hydronic. Radiant heating works very well in big open spaces like retail warehouses or buildings with high ceilings and huge windows. It's best to use this kind of heating when constructing a brand new commercial edifice. But advancements like radiant tubing mats reduce the time spent on setup. This makes it suitable for an already-constructed property.

The saying goes “if it ain't broke don't fix it.” Forced air conditioning and heating systems have been in use for decades. So why invest in radiant heating?

Radiant Heating Is More Energy Efficient

According to a study by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers and Kansas State University, radiant heating is at least 25 percent more efficient than traditional heating systems. This energy savings can result in substantial monetary savings during the height of the winter. Once again, the vast majority of this energy savings is a result of the fact that radiant heating systems do not rely on ductwork and therefore do not lose energy transferring heated air to the desired location. Read more at Footbridge Media…

Now you no longer have to deal with the loss of heat through ductwork systems or doors. This is especially beneficial if your business has loading doors or there are constantly opening and closing doors. Radiant heating also makes occupants feel warmer at lower air temperatures. Further, thermostats are set lower, promoting energy-savings.

So, more energy savings is a perk of radiant heating and this translates to dollar savings as well.

Fewer allergies but more heat

There is almost no heat loss in radiant heating, which makes it cost effective too. All the heat generated by the system will warm up your home, unlike convective heating systems. Also, as the heat does not move via the ductwork, so radiant floor heating does not let allergens into your home, thus improving your home’s air quality. So the overall health in your home has the potential to improve. Read more at Green Diary…

Anyone who's suffered from allergies and has had to have a constant supply of Zyrtec on hand understands this health benefit. Have you heard people say they're “allergic to work” because as soon as they get there they start sneezing? Chances are, it's the HVAC system blowing dust and particles that cause them to sneeze. Radiant heating promotes air quality and it doesn’t make a lot of noise when running.

Wow! Radiant heating can make your commercial property more peaceful, healthy, energy-efficient and cheaper to maintain. With these energy and social benefits, it's clear to see why more and more people are opting to go radiant! Ready to make the switch? Call Dynamic Heating and Cooling today for expert advice on how to get started.

Is Your Commercial HVAC System In Good Hands?,

Are you the project manager of an apartment complex or in charge of a large complex such as a hospital or school? If so, then it’s your job to guarantee the comfort of those using the building or structure. Keeping a large building hot or cold is crucial and if done inefficiently, can lead to loss of money, clients and even employment. How can you make sure your commercial HVAC system is getting the best service?

First, look at your current contractor company and see if they indeed “talk the talk” and “walk the walk.” Do they take responsibility and avoid passing the buck? How are they with communication? Are they prompt and do they work with integrity?

Don’t take the small things for granted and manage your reputation with a straightforward rule: hold fast to your core values. Read more at Bangert Inc…

You ought to get top-notch care at all times. Find out if there's an account manager who oversees your specific HVAC needs. That way, you are assured of few if any interruptions in service and it's clear what exactly is being worked on, for how long, etc. There should also be followed up with up-to-date proof of finished service.

Does your commercial HVAC company have their ear to the ground in terms of the latest Innovations? Are they using appropriate software during any repairs, replacement or maintenance activities?

By predefining the procedures, software allows testing to go faster. The technician no longer needs to rack their brain to remember all the possible tests. The tests are clear and diagnostic accuracy increases because of it. Improved diagnostics help technicians match appropriate repairs based on the measurements they input into the software, instead of guessing. Read more at HVAC Today…

It's always best to work smart instead of working hard. When HVAC techs use software to locate any issues and record steps taken to fix them, they can save time and money. That way, a record of the state of your HVAC system is available in real-time. This prevents a technician having to come back if an issue was overlooked due to human error. In addition to electronic record-keeping, electronic payment methods are convenient and quick.

Depending on the size of your building, you may get to a point where you are on a first-name basis with the personnel from your HVAC company. Retention of employees is a good sign your HVAC company is doing something right.

Bagley believes that company culture has a lot to do with attracting and retaining employees. He noted that companies can be successful by having a highly collaborative environment, fostering constant communication, and being dedicated to the ongoing training of their technical workforce. Read more at ACHR News…

If you notice there is a high technician turnover rate, that’s a red flag. Professional HVAC companies take time and money to train their employees and keep them up-to-date on changes in their field. Doing this and taking care of their needs such as providing good insurance, fair hours and a pleasant work atmosphere, almost always translates to long term loyal employees. This is also an indicator of how they'll treat you as facility maintenance or project manager.

In short, partnering with an HVAC company that has excellent communication skills, is reliable, stays on top of current innovations and retains their technicians, is a good sign your commercial HVAC system is in the best care. Our folks at Dynamic Heating and Cooling look forward to proving this to you. Contact us today.

Why Is Your House Not As Cool As Before?,

Bad chi, outdated furniture, grown-up kids… While these may be reasons your house isn't as fashionable or may not have “good vibes”, let's look at the other definition of cool. Why is your house warmer than usual? As summer is progressing, you may have noticed some rooms in your house aren't as cool as you would expect. Maybe you've cleaned the vents and lowered the thermostat, but you're still not comfortable. There are different reasons why this may be.

How your AC unit was installed is crucial. Did the HVAC company install the correct amount of ducts and drops to maximize airflow? Were the ducts sealed properly? Was the AC unit placed in an area clear of vegetation and mostly sheltered to avoid getting rusty prematurely?

Our customers are entitled to expect HVAC professionals to make appropriate recommendations for systems that will deliver expected comforts and perform within the operating cost as advertised. Read more at Snipsmag…

As stated above, you as the customer are entitled to a great HVAC system that performs well and offers comfort. If your house isn't being cooled as well as before, get a trained technician to inspect the installation of your AC unit and repair or replace any ductwork.

With a properly installed AC unit, you should be cool as a cucumber. However, to keep it this way, remember that prevention is better than cure, and cheaper too. Having your unit maintained periodically will keep your system running like clockwork and help catch potential major problems early, saving you money too.

Ongoing System Maintenance

As far as ongoing maintenance, periodically check your exterior unit and make sure it’s clear and clean.  And remember to change your HVAC filters regularly. A clogged filter will make your whole system work harder.  And a harder working system means a shorter lifespan. Read more at Fix This Build That…

During your maintenance checks, clearing your unit and changing your HVAC filters can make a dramatic difference in your air quality. You'll experience cleaner and stronger air, and maintain the longevity of your unit.

Cleaning your HVAC unit is an overlooked but necessary chore. You can handle some of the cleaning yourself, but other portions require professional help.

Change or Clean Air Filters

It’s the job of air filters to remove pollution from the air in your house. But sometimes these helpful devices need to be cleaned. Cleaning or replacing your air filter every 30 days can cut the energy your air conditioning unit uses by up to 15 percent. Read more at Refrigeration School…

Cleaning your air filter and clearing the drainage line are jobs you can do. However, when it comes to cleaning your ductwork, contact a trained technician. He or she can advise on whether you should get contact cleaning or invest in negative air pressure duct cleaning.

Now that you've cleaned and maintained your AC unit and made sure it's installed properly you should be as happy as a clam in your comfortable, well-conditioned house. Dynamic Heating and Cooling has friendly and qualified technicians who are ready to help you move from being horribly hot to comfortably cool. Call us on 540-272-9476 to get your house cool again.

A Guide To Commercial HVAC Maintenance,

Commercial heating and cooling requirements vary from location to location and will depend on the local climate and the working environment that requires the HVAC system. Here are a few things to consider when it comes to keeping your commercial HVAC system in tip-top condition.

How old is the system?

An older system is more than likely going to need more maintenance than a newer one. With the introduction of smart HVAC systems, technology is really assisting with telling us when it's time for a little HVAC – TLC.  Older models are less likely to let us know when they need some help until they start to show signs of not being happy, which could result in costly maintenance and repair fees.

Are the air filters clean?

Your commercial HVAC System will also clean and filter the air, but over time, as with anything they can collect dust, dirt and debris.  Depending on the size and model of your system, this may be something that can be fixed by a member of staff. However, it's worth getting the help of your local HVAC contractor to make sure the job is done properly if you have any doubts as to how to clean the filters correctly.

Is the thermostat in good condition?

If the thermostat isn't in good condition then chances are the system won't be working efficiently. This is possibly the only part of your system that will come into contact with other people on a regular basis (if you don't have a programmable thermostat) and quite often is the source of an inexpensive repair. Keep the thermostat in good condition and run regular diagnostics if your particular model has those features, to check all is working correctly.

Have the refrigerant levels been checked?

Refrigerant is vital in keeping the air cool. If your unit is blowing out warm air then the refrigerant level may be too low. Low levels can also mean that your commercial HVAC system is having to work even harder than it needs to and as a result, you'll see a rise in your heating and cooling bills.

When was it last serviced?

Do you know when it was last serviced? You'll be surprised how this important information is unknown, so make sure you keep a record of any maintenance and service you have carried out on your system so that you can identify when it might be time to call on the professionals to give your heating and cooling system a thorough check.

These are a few of the checks you should consider when it comes to your commercial HVAC maintenance. If you would like to speak with us to find out more, then contact us and one of our helpful team will be happy to assist.

Keeping Up With Current Trends In Commercial HVAC Systems,

Technology is constantly changing, and as time moves forward, these changes happen faster. The commercial HVAC industry is no exception. Not only is it important to keep on top of the technology side of things, but regulations also change frequently and consumer requirements are of prime importance.

What are the current trends in commercial HVAC systems?

The main priorities to consider when it comes to commercial HVAC systems are energy consumption, cost and how the environment is impacted by the constant demand for heating and cooling systems. The following trends take these priorities into consideration so that when it comes to heating or cooling your premises, efficiency, cost and an environmentally friendly approach are top of the list.

Smart HVAC Systems

Most of us will be looking at implementing smart technology into our homes if we've not already done so and taken the technology leap. Commercial property owners are taking the same approach and looking at commercial systems that work with wireless technology. They can utilize a smart system to help regulate efficient use as sensors that are implemented into the system help to determine the requirements of the premises. They work in harmony with the requirements of the building, meaning that they can detect trends in use. They can also identify if an area is being cooled or heated unnecessarily.   These clever systems can carry out their own diagnostic checks too which can raise an alert if the system needs servicing or maintenance.

Green Buildings

With an emphasis on the environment, green buildings are designed with energy efficiency in mind (together with a number of other features). You can find out more about green buildings in the following article.

What is Green Building?

A ‘green’ building is a building that, in its design, construction or operation, reduces or eliminates negative impacts, and can create positive impacts, on our climate and natural environment. Green buildings preserve precious natural resources and improve our quality of life.

The HVAC system of a commercial building is responsible for a large amount of energy usage, so it's important that the system implemented is on-trend, with heating, ventilation and air conditioning that compliments the purpose of the building.

If you would like to discuss your commercial HVAC requirements, then contact us today for more information.

Residential HVAC: Standard Split Systems,

In our previous post about conventional HVAC systems,  we gave a brief introduction to the terms you may hear when it comes to the most common types of residential HVAC system.  This week we thought we would delve a little deeper into the first of the four common systems to give you some further insight.

Standard split systems

The standard split system is considered to be the most popular when it comes to residential HVAC systems. It's made up of two components. One inside your property and one outside. These components can be split to meet your needs for your particular climate.

Furnace and air conditioner component

It uses refrigerant as the heat exchange fluid thorough copper lines, which means that a copper evaporator coil that is installed inside the furnace cabinet does lots of the hard work.  The furnace is commonly a gas furnace and they can range in efficiency, which means this type of system is versatile to meet the demands of your location climate. 

Air handler and heat pump

If you live in a location where freezing temperatures are pretty rare then this could be the ideal HVAC system. They don't have an air conditioner to do the cooling work and a furnace to get the heat going. Instead, the system uses a heat pump to do both jobs. A heat pump is clever because it can work in reverse! It's almost identical to an air conditioner, but if the weather turns chilly the air handler within the unit can be reversed and used in place of a furnace

Furnace and heat pump

If you live where the climate is very cold, then this option might be recommended. It has two sources of heat. When the weather is chilly (or moderately cold) then the heat pump will provide the heat source. If its getting to freezing then the system will kick in the furnace to give it that extra warmth.

We hope this has given you a little more of an insight into just one of the most common residential HVAC systems. In our next post we'll be looking at ductless split systems and then to follow we'll also share with you more information about packaged systems and geothermal systems.

If you would like to speak to an HVAC contractor in Culpeper, VA about your own system requirements, then why not contact us for more information.

FAQs About Conventional HVAC Systems,

We'll answer an obvious question first, that most of you will know the answer to, but just for the sake of clarity… What does HVAC actually stand for? Well, HVAC is short for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.  It's what keeps you warm in the winter months and cool in the summer. It can be anything from your residential unit at home to a large commercial unit in apartment blocks and industrial locations. We've answered the obvious, but what about some more frequently asked questions?

What is the most common type of residential HVAC system?

We won't go into great detail here, that's for another blog post, as there's a lot of information to be shared. However, just to introduce you to the terms you may hear, there are four common types of HVAC System. Standard split systems, ductless split systems, packaged systems and geothermal systems.

When should you replace your HVAC system?

If your system is approaching or more than 10 years old, then it might be time to invest in a new one. Other signs that point to a new system would be higher than usual energy bills, lots of strange noises or excessive repairs.

How often should you change your filters?

This really depends on your usage, so the frequency to change your filters could be anything from one to three months. Make sure you regularly check your filters. If they are looking blocked and full of debris then it's time for a change. Pet owners may find that they need maintenance for their HVAC system more often than those without four-legged friends.

When should you give your HVAC system a professional service?

Your HVAC needs some professional TLC, which is why you should turn to your local HVAC companies for their expertise. The best time to get your system serviced is before you need to use each element of the system. So for the summer, springtime is a perfect time to give your HVAC system a spring clean. Then as the temperatures start to fall, later into the year you'll want to get your system ready for the cooler months so you can turn up the heat.

There are many more questions to answer when it comes to your HVAC, which is why we are here to answer them for you. If you need any help or advice then contact us, we would love to hear from you!

Why Is Your AC Blowing Warm Air?,

The warmer months are here, which means we rely on our AC units to keep us cool. So that we can enjoy a comfortable and healthy living space for our family. But hold on… for some reason your AC is blowing out warm air! Here are a few reasons why this might be happening and what you can do to rectify the problem, and get back to comfortable temperatures in your home.

Have you checked the obvious?

Okay, so this might be something obvious you've overlooked, but could your thermostat actually be set to ‘heat' mode? It's just worth checking to rule it out. You'd be surprised how often this can happen.  It could've been messed around with by your kids or accidentally knocked, so it's worth just having a look.

When was the last time you checked your filters?

If your filters are blocked then they are going to reduce air flow. Your AC unit does actually need warm air to flow over the coil component within the unit so that it functions correctly. The filters are there to … you guessed it… filter the dust and dirt particles in the air and if it's blocked, it simply can't do its job. The warm air needed can't enter into the system which means the coil component can't remove heat, resulting in it being blown back out into your living space.

Have you maintained your outside unit?

Over the winter months, lots of debris can build up in your outside unit, which will of course impact on the function of the unit. Make sure you regularly maintain the unit. You might also want to check that the outside unit is still receiving the electricity supply. Check the circuit breaker or fuse panel, because one unit cannot work without the other.

When was the last time you had your HVAC system serviced?

It's always worth investing in taking care of something that takes care of you. Your HVAC system is probably one of the most important pieces of equipment you can have to keep you healthy and comfortable, so it's important that it gets some well deserved TLC. In addition to checking the thermostat, filters and the outside unit, get your unit serviced.

If you would like to find out more about the services we offer, or even if you could just do with some friendly advice then feel free to contact us or check out our useful information on our Facebook page. Ask us questions! What helps you could help others in ensuring a comfortable and healthy living environment.

How To Find The Right HVAC Contractor For Your Home,

Repairs or replacement of your HVAC system can be expensive, which is why it's important to do a little homework before you enlist a contractor to do the job. Here are a few things to consider when you're searching for HVAC repair in Culpeper, VA (or anywhere else for that matter).

Referrals

Word of mouth tends to be the best way to find the right contractor for the job. Your friends or family may have already had this type of work done and will be able to refer you to the contractor they used, (providing of course that they had a good experience with them). So ask around, it may save you a lot of searching if a personal recommendation can be given.

Is the contractor insured?

One of the vital things to check when doing your homework, is whether the contractor is insured. Accidents can happen, so you want to make sure your home is protected from any damage should things go wrong.

Do they have the required Contractors License?

You can ask the question when making enquiries. If you're not sure on the type of license that should be held then it's worth getting in touch with a local government representative who will be able to hep you. The contractor may also have information on their website as to the licenses and certificates they hold so you could also check there.

Check out their reviews on social media

Social media can be your friend or your enemy, and for businesses it can be both. People will often turn to social media to share their good or their bad experiences. At least this way, you will get an initial idea as to the reputation of the contractor. However, be open minded. If in doubt or you have any concerns, speak to the contractor candidate directly.

Does the contractor carry out a free inspection before providing an estimate?

You want an idea of how much it's going to cost you. You also want to know whether it's just a simple repair or you need a full replacement. Most contractors will offer a free obligation quotation and assess the system, so it's worth having those at the top of your list of candidates.

Price comparison

Don't always go with the first price you are given. You want to get 2 to 3 estimates so that you can compare prices before you make a decision.

If you would like to speak with us about your HVAC system needs, you can contact us or visit our live chat, where one of our representatives will be only too happy to help.

Is Your HVAC System Costing Too Much Money?,

How old is your HVAC system? Do you even know? Surprisingly there are many people that an unaware just how many years their HVAC system has been giving them comfortable heating and cooling. Could it be time to look at a replacement or upgrade? Here are a few signs that it’s time to upgrade your home heating unit.

Noisy

Is your HVAC system making loud noises? It could mean that part or part(s) of it are about the give up the ghost. At this point, you want to get your unit serviced professionally so that it can be diagnosed whether a repair or replacement is required.

Rising Bills

Another bill arrives and this time it's even higher than before. That could be because your heating and cooling system just isn't working efficiently anymore. It's a big decision to replace your unit, so you will want to seek expert advice in the first instant. Replacing an inefficient unit may cost up front, but it will save you money in the long run.

Ongoing repairs

Is your local HVAC company visiting your property too often to assess problems and make repairs? All these visits will add up and cost you money, so this may also be a sign that your system needs replacing.

It's over 10 years old

Can't remember when your system was installed? Then it's more than likely to be over 10 years ago. If you have an old unit, then repairs may prove more costly due to parts being more expensive and more difficult to obtain.  A modern heating and cooling system is going to be far more efficient than an older one, so you can pretty much cut your bills in half.

These are just a few things to consider when deciding on whether it's time to install a new HVAC system.

It's worth talking to a professional, so why not contact us for some friendly advice. We will be more than happy to help assess your heating and cooling needs.