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7 Ways to Save Money on Your Air Conditioning Bill This Summer

Nothing feels worse than feeling like you’re living in a pressure cooker. Except maybe that bill that comes at the end of the month. The cost of cooling a home in the middle of summer is astronomical. Especially in some of the hottest areas of the country where cooling costs are easily a few hundred dollars per month.

Luckily, there are a few ways to save money on air conditioning by helping your air conditioner to run better, which will save you a little cash throughout the summer.

These low-cost (or no-cost) tips keep you cool, and save you money, as you beat the heat this summer.

1. Seal Windows and Doors

Most homeowners are losing precious cold air conditioning through unsealed windows and doors. An easy way to check for this is to go outside and run your hand along doors and windows to check for leaking cold air. If you notice a draft, make sure windows and doors are completely shut and freshly caulked around the edges.

Solar screens, window films, and mesh window screens are other options to save money on air conditioning by blocking up to 70 percent of solar energy before it gets into the house. As long as you keep your windows securely closed, these additions can make a big difference.

2. Proper Thermostat Placement

If your thermostat is placed on an exterior wall or near a window, it can register an incorrect reading and prematurely kick on your air conditioner more frequently. You’ll need an HVAC contractor to reposition your thermostat, but it might be worth the call to save money on air conditioning every year. This could also be a great time to upgrade to a smart thermostat which can help you regulate your temperature more carefully.

3. What Temperature Should I Set My Air Conditioner in the Summer?

Before you head out for dinner or on vacation, turn off your air conditioner or turn the temperature up a few degrees. The smaller the difference between the outdoor and indoor temperature, the more money you will save on air conditioning.

You can save 10 percent a year on your air conditioning bills by setting your thermostat just 10 to 15 degrees higher for eight hours each day, according to the Energy Office. The US Department of Energy recommends aiming for an indoor temperature of 78 degrees F when you’re not at home. Having a programmable thermostat, you can control from your phone makes this a lot easier to control your setting while you’re away and still ensure your home is comfortable when you arrive.

My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Indianapolis, IN, Fort Wayne, IN, Jeffersonville, IN, Louisville, KY, and Lexington, KY. Find a local contractor for your next HVAC project!

4. Avoid Adding More Heat

Try to avoid activities that generate a lot of heat, such as cooking on the stovetop and using the dishwasher or clothes dryer. Instead, cook outside, hang clothes on a line, wash dishes by hand, anything you can do to reduce heat can save money on air conditioning by reducing the overall temperature of the home naturally.

5. Utilize What You Already Have

There are lots of ways to use alternative methods to cool your space. Go old school and turn on fans, close curtains, and blinds. While turning on a fan won’t cool your whole home, it can help your air conditioner to work more efficiently. Ceiling fans can make a huge difference in circulating the air to keep things cool. If you have a basement, chill out there during scorching hot days.

6. Plant Trees Around Your Home

OK, this one might not help next month’s bills, but it will make a huge difference over time. If you can reduce the amount of sunlight that comes through your windows you can also reduce the need to crank up the air conditioning. Using trees or shrubs to shade your home can increase your air conditioner’s efficiency by up to 10 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. In the meantime, you can use blackout curtains in west- or east-facing windows to save money on your air conditioning bill.

7. Keep Up with Repairs and Maintenance

Even if you have the most advanced HVAC system, it won’t save money on air conditioning bills if you don’t care for your equipment. Dirty filters can quickly block airflow and make units work harder to cool your home. Simply cleaning and/or replacing filters once per month can lower your energy consumption by 5% to 15%. Also, be sure that floor registers aren’t blocked with dust—or furniture. The outdoor AC units should also be clear of dirt, leaves, branches, and grass. Make sure indoor and outdoor units are free and clear to give your system the freedom it needs to perform at its best.

Stay Cool

During the hot days of spring and summer, you want to do everything you can to keep your home cool without breaking the bank. Try a few of these tips for 2-3 months and see what a difference they can make. Simple and inexpensive actions can create maximum savings throughout the year.

If you find that these tips are not saving you money on your air conditioning bill, then the best option is to call a professional HVAC contractor to come out and take a look. Find a licensed local HVAC contractor near you to help keep you cool this summer.

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My Trusted Contractor 950 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40206 502-540-0316 https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/map/ https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/info/

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A Homeowner’s Guide to Air Conditioner Repairs

On a southern summer day, your central AC unit is your lifeline. To prevent your home from becoming too warm and toasty, it’s important to be aware of the most common air conditioner repairs to keep you and your family comfortable when the temperatures start to rise.

Common AC Repairs for Homeowners

Many of the common air conditioner repairs among Kentucky and Indiana homeowners stem from these symptoms:

The unit won’t turn on at all or will only hum with no fan function.

Odd and loud noises or vibration while running.

Blowing weak air or warm air.

Condensation or leakage around the base unit.

Most common air conditioner problems can be repaired easily to keep your home and family comfortable, and save you money, too!

If Your AC Unit Isn’t Cooling Properly

It doesn’t take long for your living room to feel like a sauna when your central AC unit isn’t cooling properly. If you notice that your AC unit is running, and the temperature is still rising, it’s important to check the refrigerant, sensor, thermostat, drainage, and/or filter.

Refrigerant

Refrigerant, most often referred to as Freon, is a strong chemical that is responsible for cooling down warm air before helping your HVAC system direct cool air into your home. Sometimes, your system can develop a leak from improper installation, poor maintenance, or faulty refrigerant charging. You want to address these types of leaks immediately because refrigerant can be hazardous to humans, pets, and the environment. If you notice a leak in your system, it’s best to call a professional because of the hazardous nature of the fluid.

Sensor Problems

Most central air conditioners feature some type of temperature sensor. This measures the temperature of the air coming into the evaporator coil to keep your home at the desired temperature. If the sensor is knocked out of position, the air conditioner can’t tell how hot or cool the room is. This can cause it to either cycle constantly and overwork, shut down completely, or behave erratically.

Thermostat Issues

The thermostat is a small box in the middle of your living space that allows you to set the desired temperature of your home. The thermostat detects the temperature of the room and compares it to the desired temperature setting. If the room is too warm or too cold, the thermostat requests heat or air from the central AC unit, depending on the season. If the thermostat is not reading temperature correctly, it causes a communication breakdown and your AC unit won’t respond.

Drainage Problems

The humidity of Kentucky means that your air conditioner has to work extra hard. As the demand on the air conditioner increases, so does the demand on your condensate system. As warm air passes over the evaporator coil, it is cooled and in turn, creates condensation. Throughout the day, it drips, and is collected in a pan and drained from the air conditioning unit. However, if you have a drainage problem, it can cause the unit to shut down. Drain problems can also cause health problems for your family, or damage to your home, and should be addressed quickly.

Dirty Filter

This is the number one cause of common air conditioner repairs. It’s also the easiest to repair. All central AC units have some type of filter. The filter is responsible to keep the air in your home clean. Over time, it becomes dirty and clogged, requiring your system to work harder than it should. Just like replacing your car filters to protect the engine, a clean HVAC air filter protects your furnace system from becoming damaged and, ultimately, failing entirely.

If Your AC Unit Isn’t Turning On…

Most air conditioners are designed to offer cool air throughout your home for 10-20 years. However, if your air conditioner won’t turn on in the middle of summer, that feeling of dread sets in almost immediately. While some common air conditioner repair problems must be handled by a professional, there are several things you can do to identify and solve common air conditioner repairs on your own.

Electric Control Failure

Problems with the wiring in your unit or the wiring that runs from your unit to an outlet are one of the leading causes of air conditioner breakdowns. First, check the breaker in your power box and check nearby outlets to ensure it’s an AC problem and not an electrical problem. Remember that it is always necessary to cut power off to your unit before inspecting it for wiring-related problems. If your central unit won’t turn on at all, and the electricity in the home is working, you may have a faulty motor. This doesn’t mean you need to replace your entire system. A motor replacement is a fairly common repair that can be done by any HVAC professional.

Thermostat

A faulty thermostat may be the culprit if your unit is not turning on at all. This is an easy situation to diagnose. If you suspect that your thermostat is bad, simply try turning the AC on from the main unit itself. If the central unit will turn on manually, you are likely suffering from a thermostat problem. This can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat unit and reestablishing a strong connection.

If Your AC Unit Is Experiencing Limited Airflow

You can tell the unit is turning on, you can tell it’s producing cold air, but it’s still not cooling your space? This is probably due to limited airflow. Limited airflow is usually caused by a duct issue or a dirty filter.

Ductwork Problems

If you have weak AC airflow in only one or two rooms in your home, it’s probably a ductwork problem. Dampers are essentially valves in your ducts. If they get closed, or partially closed, you may experience weak airflow. To check your dampers, go into your utility room and look for your central HVAC plenum. This is a big, plain, metal box on or near your unit. You should see a bunch of ducts coming out of it, all with levers. These are the dampers to your system. They should all be in the ON position. If they are not, that’s an indication of a closed damper. Simply flip the lever and it should open the duct and produce increased airflow.

Leaking air ducts are another common cause of weak AC airflow. To check for a leaky duct, shine a flashlight in one of your vents and see if you can see any light coming through. If you can, call an HVAC contractor to come out and seal them up, as duct sealing will improve your air conditioner airflow.

Dirty Filters

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of changing your air filter. The purpose of the filters is to catch this dust and debris so you’re not breathing it in every day. This dust and debris builds up and slows down airflow. No matter how clean you keep your house, it’s so important to change your filters every month. Otherwise, they will become so clogged that air is simply not going to be able to get through at all.

Average Costs of Repairs

The average cost of common air conditioner repairs depends a lot on your existing equipment, the type of repair, and parts needed. Some fixes are quick and easy and can be completed in a couple of hours with minimal cost. In other cases, components may need to be replaced and replacement parts may need to be ordered, which increases the overall cost.

On average, the costs for common air conditioner repairs run homeowners about $300. Common AC costs for central cooling system repairs include:

Replace condensate drain tube – About $20

Replace condensate drain pump – $240 to $450

Replace drain pans – $250 to $575

Flush drain line – $75 to $250

Recharge refrigerant – $250 to $750

Repair refrigerant leak – $200 to $1,500

Replace compressor – $1,900

Repair outdoor fan motor – $200 to $650

Replace breakers, relays, or fuses – $75 to $290

Replace condenser coil – $1,900 to $2,900

Keep in mind that in addition to the cost estimates above, most HVAC contractors charge a service fee or diagnostic that covers time and labor. This is usually $50-$100 for most air conditioner repairs. If your repair is after hours, on a weekend, or on a holiday, you may expect increased fees.

AC Unit Emergencies

If your central AC unit seems to be working great and is all-of-the-sudden making loud noises, or producing funny smells, it’s important to check the unit immediately. Some symptoms may be a simple fix, while others can be potentially dangerous to your home and family.

Loud Noises

If you hear your AC unit screeching, turn it off immediately. This is typically either from a loose fan belt (which is an easy fix), or a high-pressure compressor (which is a more serious problem). Either way, a high-pitched screeching sound needs the attention of a professional. Other loud noises could be a banging sound, hissing noise, or constant loud humming. All of these are abnormal and indicate that something is wrong on the inside of the system. It is not advised to try and repair noise problems on your own. You should always contact an expert in order to have repairs fixed properly, safely, and professionally.

Odor

If you smell something burning, shut off your air conditioner. Any type of funny smell, especially burning, is most likely the sign of an electrical problem. If you have a gas-powered system, be aware of the “rotten egg” smell, which can be a sign of a gas leak. Any foul smell from your unit should be taken seriously and handled by a professional immediately.

Loss of Airflow

A sudden loss of air flow can be an indicator of something more serious. If you’ve checked your ductwork and filters as discussed above, and you can’t find any apparent thermostat or electrical cause for the loss of power, it could be something more extensive. It’s best to turn off the unit completely and call an AC professional right away.

If you suspect any of these AC emergencies in your unit, it’s best to call a professional as soon as possible. These are not situations that are DIY friendly. Keep your home and family safe and away from the hazard until it can be repaired by a professional.

Working With an HVAC Pro

Solving air conditioner repairs quickly is absolutely essential, especially in warm spring and summer months. At My Trusted Contractor, we focus on providing for the central air conditioning needs for both residential and commercial customers throughout Kentucky and Indiana.

How do you know if you need a quick fix to an AC unit that won’t start or repair a serious leakage repair? Give us a call. We can help with both common air conditioner repairs and emergency repairs, day or night. Your comfort is our top priority. Find a local HVAC contractor near you today!

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My Trusted Contractor 950 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40206 502-540-0316 https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/map/ https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/info/

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What Is a SEER Rating? Air Conditioner Efficiency Explained

Maintaining a balanced home comfort level is more complex than just hitting a few buttons on your thermostat. When it comes to making investments to improve the quality of your living space, it can be hard to balance your budget while trying to be energy efficient, all at the same time.

With summertime surfacing for the states of Kentucky and Indiana, homeowners are gearing up to make sure their AC units are in proper working order. Summers in this region of the country mean both heat and humidity, and it’s critical to be prepared. It’s important to make sure your AC unit is ready to run smoothly, all summer long.

Understanding your AC system and its SEER rating is a great place to start.

What Does SEER Stand For?

SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency ratio”. A SEER rating is determined by your AC unit’s average performance, or the amount of cooling it puts out per the units of energy it uses to do so. It’s important to remember that these ratings are not constant values, and should be viewed as maximum ratings of efficiency instead.

Put simply, the less energy used, the higher the SEER rating. The higher the rating, the greater the efficiency of your AC unit.

The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners begins at 13 SEER, and can reach up to 24 SEER. Understanding your system’s rating can be broken down further for better understanding:

Basic SEER 13-15: These are usually single-stage AC units. In order to be efficient, they must run on their highest setting most of the time. This means that they are probably louder than others, and may create “cold spots” in your home. It’s still a basic air conditioner, but it simply doesn’t perform to the level of a higher ranked model.

Better SEER 16-19: These models are designed to run at 65 percent capacity. This means they aren’t working quite as hard to create the same results. They are often quieter and use less energy. They cool the home evenly and are effective dehumidifiers too.

Best SEER 20-24: The best performing units are sometimes referred to as variable-capacity central air conditioning. These units can function automatically between 25 percent and 100 percent capacity to create the results you want. They are the quietest, most efficient, and best at creating a balanced temperature in your home.

Often, for AC units of higher ratings, homeowners can seek out a return on the investment put into buying a more expensive unit. Depending on the particular unit, homeowners can be eligible to receive tax credits and manufacturer rebates when purchasing a new air conditioning system.

Locating Your SEER Rating

Understanding your SEER rating is the first step in making sure you are choosing the most energy efficient unit for your budget and your home. Now that you know what it is, the next question you may be asking is “Well, where do I find it?”

We’re glad you asked.

There are a few different ways to locate your SEER rating. The easiest way is to check your condenser unit, located outside of your home. Many newer models of just about any brand of air conditioning unit will have a large, yellow sticker, labeled “Energy Guide”, on the side that will clearly state your unit’s SEER rating, along with a few other bits of information about your unit.

If your system’s yellow sticker is no longer legible due to age, weather, or other factors, try taking a peek at your air handler. Normally, your air handler is located somewhere inside your home, most commonly found in attics or garages. The air handler should also have a sticker full of information, including the SEER rating of your unit.

If all else fails, if you are able to track down the make, model, and serial number of your air conditioner, you can always contact the manufacturer for additional information about your SEER rating. Better yet, you can locate a local, certified dealer of your specific manufacturer’s products, and give them a call.

To see if My Trusted Contractor and our HVAC techs can help you with your SEER rating, simply locate the HVAC contractor nearest you, and give them a call today.

How To Calculate Your SEER Rating

If you’re not threatened by the idea of plugging some numbers into an equation, you can calculate your SEER rating all on your own. All you need is the right information. Follow our simple, five step solution guide, and you’ll have your SEER rating in no time.

Step 1:

SEER ratings are measured in BTUs (British thermal units) per watt-hour of electrical energy used in a cooling season. To find your air conditioner’s BTUs, check your system��s manual, or your Energy Guide sticker we discussed earlier.

Step 2:

While you’re scanning your manual or Energy Guide sticker, also make a note of the watts per hour for your air conditioner. This number will be used later during the calculation process.

Step 3:

Once you’ve gathered your systems BTUs and number of watts per hour, it’s time to start doing the math. First, we’ll calculate for the total amount of BTUs used during a typical cooling season.

Roughly, during the late spring and summer months (May – August), there are about 125 days, or 1,000 hours.

You’ll need to multiply the number of BTUs (the number you gathered in step 1) by 1,000 in order to get the number of BTUs your system has used during the cooling season.

Step 4:

Calculate the number of watts per hour used by multiplying the number you found in step 2 by 1,000. This will give you the grand total of watts per hour used over the entire cooling season.

Step 5:

Finally, divide the total number of BTUs (the result of step 3) by the total number of watts per hour consumed (the result of step 4) to determine your SEER rating.

Knowing how to calculate SEER ratings and understanding the relationship between these numbers and energy usage can help your home stay cool, your family be more energy efficient, all while snagging savings on your monthly electric bills.

Why Your SEER Rating Makes a Difference

Let’s cut right to the chase. Will purchasing or upgrading to a system with a 17 SEER rating save you more money than a 14 SEER rating AC unit would?

Well, if we’re being honest, the answer is no, probably not. While you would see some savings between the two systems, not including what you could also earn on tax credits or rebates, it’s important to remember that the technology that goes into producing AC units with higher SEER ratings also increases their cost.

The difference? And why we believe you should invest in a system with higher SEER ratings anyway? Because of the increased comfort level for your home and family, you’ll see as a result.

Higher performing equipment results in better temperature control and regulated comfort levels. The features that come with higher quality air conditioning units, and in turn, higher SEER ratings, are not working as hard, or starting and stopping as often.

One other important component to consider is that AC units with higher SEER ratings are made with higher quality in mind, meaning they don’t need major AC repairs, replacements, saving you the cost of maintenance when compared to a system with a lower SEER rating.

Partner With A Professional

If SEER ratings and all things air conditioning related are outside your realm, or you just want a second opinion, it’s always a safe bet to contact an industry expert.

When it comes to your AC unit and your efforts in being more energy efficient, the trusted professionals at My Trusted Contractor are here to help. All of our contractors are trained, vetted, and licensed, to guarantee our customers receive the most professional and qualified service available. Connect with a contractor in your area today for more information!

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My Trusted Contractor 950 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40206 502-540-0316 https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/map/ https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/info/

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How to Choose the Right Type of AC Unit for Your Home

According to the U.S Department of Energy, homeowners across the country spend $11 billion dollars per year to power their AC. That’s a lot of money spent on cool air throughout the year. When it’s time to replace your air conditioning system, it can be an overwhelming situation.

Your AC unit represents a large investment into your home and budget, so you definitely want to get your money’s worth. But how do you know which one is right for your home? Evaluating your AC unit size, high-efficiency features, home requirements, quality, cost, and all of the other features of any air conditioning system is enough to make your head spin. We are here to make it simple and easy to help you make the best choice for your family, home, and wallet.

Types of AC Units

There are six different types of air conditioners that are each designed for a different space/reason. These six types of AC units are the basic central AC, ductless, window unit, portable unit, hybrid, and geothermal.

Central Air Conditioners

A central air conditioner combines the evaporator, condenser, and compressor in a single unit that is placed on a roof or a concrete slab near the foundation. From the unit, ducts running through the exterior wall or roof draw air from inside the house and return cooled air indoors. This type of air conditioner can also be combined with a set of heating coils or a natural gas furnace inside the building.

Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioners

This is a good choice for houses that do not have ductwork. The ductless, mini-split systems combine an outdoor compressor and condenser with one or more indoor air-handling units. These units are mounted on the wall with blowers attached. Tubing connects the indoor and outdoor units and circulates refrigerant between them.

Each room in your home will have a separate unit that cools just that room, similar to a window unit. These can be installed without tearing up walls, and allow the temperature to be controlled independently in each room. They can be more energy efficient, but are more expensive if you’re cooling an entire house.

Window Units

These are the most common types of AC units for single rooms. All of the components are enclosed in a single box with a single thermostat gauge that is fitted in a slot made in the wall or window sill where the unit sits.

Portable Units

This is similar to a window system, but it can be moved from room to room. It’s self-contained and freestanding on the floor so you can move it from room to room or apartment to apartment. It only uses an outlet to power on and a window to funnel out the exhaust air.

Hybrid Air Conditioner

Hybrid type of AC unit systems alternate between burning fossil fuels and using electricity to save money and energy while running your system. In the summer, the heat pump works as it normally does, pulling heat from your home and distributing it outdoors. In the winter, your hybrid heat pump system works in reverse, pulling heat from the outside environment and distributing it into your home.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling

As a newer method of heating and cooling, geothermal technology is able to extract the heat from below the ground and transfer it into your home. A geothermal coil is installed deep in the ground and can be used to heat and cool your home. In the winter, heat is extracted from the Earth; in the summer, heat is extracted from your home and distributed back into the ground. This is very sustainable, energy efficient, and provides a longer lifespan than other options.

What Type of Unit is Best for My Home?

Once you know what types of AC units are available, it’s time to decide which one is best for your home. This depends on your budget, square footage, SEER ratings, warranties, and features.

Budget:

$: The cheapest option is a window or portable AC unit that cools a single room. Of course, this is also the least effective option. It’ll cool the space similar to a good room fan, but won’t do much more.

$$: A ductless system can be cost effective if you’re only cooling a few rooms. If you do a whole home on a ductless system, it can add up costs very quickly.

$$$: A central air conditioning unit is more expensive, but also more effective and will last longer than the portable or window options.

$$$$: The most expensive option is a geothermal unit, but it could last you nearly the rest of your life.

Home Square Footage:

This should be your first consideration when choosing types of AC units. You will need an air conditioner that has the output capacity to cool the entire home it is intended for. The central air conditioners that are installed in your home range from 1.5-ton to 5-ton units.

A 1,600-square-foot home will generally require a 3-ton air conditioning unit. Anything over 5-tons is generally considered a light commercial HVAC unit. If your house requires an AC unit of this size, you’ll need to install multiple AC units in tandem.

SEER Ratings:

When comparing central air conditioners, one term you’ll see repeatedly is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER rating. The SEER rating is a measure of how much energy the air conditioner uses to cool a home. Central air conditioners range from 13 to 24 SEER. Experts recommend that people who live in hot and humid climates choose an air conditioner with a SEER of at least 15. They also note that if you have an older system with a SEER of 10, upgrading to a SEER 15 model could cut your air-conditioner utility costs significantly.

Warranties:

Good HVAC manufacturers stand behind their products and most systems are designed to last for 20 years or longer. While it is important to consider warranties that have the longest terms, it’s also important to look at what that warranty covers. Units with lifetime warranties may not cover the cost of labor, or may only cover labor-related expenses during the first year. Some warranties may have various timeframes for different parts or components, so it’s important to ask details about what the warranty does and does not cover.

Energy Saving Features

Air conditioners have been cooling homes for decades, but only recently have they become significantly more efficient. There are a few energy-saving features that are important to look for:

Variable speed motors: This feature maximizes the efficiency of airflow because they are able to operate at multiple different speeds depending on the needs of your system at any given time.

Automatic fan delay switch: This allows the air handler to run for a brief amount of time after each cooling cycle in order to make use of any remaining cool air by pushing it into your home’s living spaces. This way, it’s not left sitting in the system.

Thermal expansion valves: When more cooling is required, the valve increases the flow of refrigerant. When less cooling is required, the valve restricts the flow of refrigerant. This allows your air conditioner to minimize energy consumption while still keeping your home comfortable.

Two-stage cooling: Some air conditioners that have compressors with two different cooling outputs (high and low). This way, on milder days, the low setting is used and allows your air conditioner to consume less energy. On hotter days, the high setting is used in order to keep up with your home’s demands. It allows you to be more in control of your home’s settings and your monthly costs.

Protect Your Unit

If you have anything more than a window or portable unit, your air conditioning unit will likely be a big investment. Protecting it is a critical part of maintaining your unit for years to come. The best way to protect your unit is to follow three critical steps:

Buy the best unit for your space

Have it professionally installed

Give your system the regular maintenance it needs to perform at its best.

For help with any of these areas, give My Trusted Contractor a call. We specialize in helping you make the best decision for your home and family, while protecting your investment and providing you with a comfortable space all year long. We also strive to partner you with a professional, local HVAC contractor in your area. For all your HVAC needs, you can count on us.

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My Trusted Contractor 950 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40206 502-540-0316 https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/map/ https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/info/

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A Beginner’s Guide to Air Conditioning

Picture this: It’s a hot, summer day, and you’ve been outside running around with the kids in the backyard. The sun is shining, and the humidity has got you wanting one thing. That one thing, is a blast of cold air as soon as you walk inside. Thanks to Willis Carrier, that was made possible.

Central air conditioning has been improving the quality of our lives for many years now. The first modern electrical air conditioning unit was invented in Buffalo, New York, in 1902.

Air conditioning, formally put, is a system for conditioning the humidity, ventilation, and temperature in a building or vehicle, typically to maintain a cool atmosphere in warm conditions.

We all know that air conditioning has been helping us keep our cool, but in all reality, there’s a little bit more to it than that.

The Six Types of Air Conditioning Units

We all are familiar with that nice big breath of cool, fresh air that hits us when we come inside from being out in the heat. Air conditioning units are complex and there are multiple types of AC units that can function in your home.

Knowing the difference between the different types of AC units can help homeowners in both, Kentucky and Indiana, make more informed decisions about the types of AC units and which one is right for their home. If you’re looking to replace your system, upgrade to a new unit, or are buying for the first time, being informed of all the different options will help you make the best decision.

Central Air Conditioning:

Central air conditioning is the most common type of cooling system, as it is preferable in larger homes across the United States, especially in Kentucky and Indiana. Due to its ability to cool larger areas efficiently, these units are among the most popular and widely used. Installing a system of this kind requires a lot of planning and prep-work, as sizing is crucial to the proper functionality of the system.

Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioners:

Ductless, mini-split AC units are more commonly found in different parts of a home. Similar to central air conditioning, these systems have outdoor compressors and indoor handling units. Ductless, mini-split systems can have up to four different handling units, all of which are connected to the outside unit, to make cooling individual rooms throughout your home a much more simple task. Ductless systems are a great solution to rooms that are added onto a house, as well.

Window Air Conditioners:

As old fashioned as it may sound, window air conditioners are still found in many homes throughout Kentucky and Indiana. This specific type of AC unit functions to cool a room by pulling in the warm air, and blowing the cool air back into the room. These units are normally found in smaller living spaces, as they are more efficient in the cooling efforts of a single room, and not a whole house.

Portable Air Conditioners:

Portable air conditioners are becoming more popular, as they are considered the next generation of window units. Portable AC units take air from the room and cool it, and then direct it back into the same room. The unit then vents any warm air outside from an exhaust hose that is installed in the window. Although these systems are also designed to cool only one room, they are easy to install, versatile, and one of the more affordable options.

Hybrid Air Conditioning:

An interesting method of cooling, hybrid systems are actually heat pumps with diverse functionality. Hybrid systems alternate between burning fossil fuels and using electricity to run. This type of system chooses between the two energy sources in order to save both money and energy.

Geothermal Heating and Cooling:

Geothermal technology has quickly become a popular method of heating and cooling, due to its sustainability, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. Since the ground temperature remains a consistent 55 degrees year round, despite the temperature of the atmosphere, geothermal technology is able to extract the heat from below the surface of the ground and transfer it into your home. Coils are installed deep into the ground, as a method of transferring the energy into your home for the purposes of heating and cooling.

Parts and Pieces of Your AC System

To most homeowners, knowing your AC unit is working properly during the warmer months of the year is a priority. However, keeping your home comfort level at a temperature that’s just right for you and your family requires a lot of behind the scenes work.

There are several unique components that make up a standard air conditioner. The biggest job of your AC unit is to cool your home, but each part of your system works in conjunction to perform other tasks, too. These other tasks include monitoring and regulating air temperature via your thermostat, removing airborne particles, and controlling the humidity levels within your home.

There are seven major parts and pieces that make up your AC unit:

Evaporator: This is where cooling coils remove heat and humidity from the air, using refrigerant.

Blower: A blower circulates air over the evaporator and dispenses the chilled air.

Condenser: Hot coils release the collected heat into the outside air.

Compressor: This is a pump that moves the refrigerant between the evaporator and the condenser to chill the indoor air.

Fan: A fan blows air over the condenser, for the purpose of dissipating the heat outside.

Filter: The filter of your AC unit is used to remove particles from the air that will be pushed into your home.

Thermostat: Most homeowners think of the thermostat as a separate piece of equipment, but in all actuality, the thermostat is one of the most important components of your AC unit. The thermostat allows homeowners to have total control over the regulation of the amount of cool air that is distributed throughout your home.

What Is a SEER Rating?

SEER ratings and your AC system go hand in hand. Think of it this way: You wouldn’t buy a car if the make and model had bad reviews or low ratings, would you? Your air conditioning unit and its SEER rating are just like that.

SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. Simply put, a SEER rating is a measurement of an air conditioner’s cooling capacity compared to its power input over a cooling season. These are seen as maximum ratings, rather than constant values.

In other words, the higher the rating, the greater the efficiency of your air conditioning unit.

SEER ratings can fall anywhere between 13 SEER and 24 SEER. Often, homeowners are faced with the issue of investing more money into a higher quality, more efficient system. However, don’t forget to check manufacturer’s rebates and local tax credits for your Kentucky or Indiana city, as these can bring down the cost of a higher rating SEER system.

Protect Your Air Conditioner With a Professional

Part of making sure your AC unit stays in proper working order is simply just taking care of it with regular maintenance checkups. You simply cannot afford to wait until something goes wrong. Routine maintenance of your system and its components, and any air conditioner repairs performed by an HVAC professional are the most fulfilling ways to ensure the longevity of your system.

Inspired by homeowners just like you, My Trusted Contractor is here to provide you with a local, trusted HVAC professional to take care of your AC system. Stay cool all summer long with the help of our expert technicians. For more information about air conditioning, or to find a contractor in your area, simply contact us today.

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From the Experts: An In-depth Look into Your HVAC System

Next to perhaps running water, your HVAC system is the most important asset to your home. Americans spend over $11 billion per year on the monthly costs to heat and cool their homes. That represents a significant investment in keeping your home and family comfortable throughout the year.

Your HVAC system protects your home and everything inside from moisture, heat exposure, and frigid temperatures. Understanding your HVAC system and how to care for it can extend the life of your unit and save you on monthly costs.

How Long Do HVAC Units Last?

Take a look at your shoes. For some people, shoes are easily replaced, lost, or broken at least once a year. Others are wearing the same carefully cared for Vans from high school. The same can be said for your HVAC system.

Most systems come fresh from the manufacturer made to last 10-20 years. The rest is up to you. One of the most common myths of HVAC is that a system can last at least 10 years longer than manufacturers indicate. Pushing your system too far can cause bigger problems in your home.

There are several different factors that go into projecting how long a system should last. Nick Rohan, CEO of RESSAC Climate Control Technologies in California said, “It varies based on run-time hours per day, proximity to corrosive contaminants, how well the equipment has been maintained, whether any major repairs or retrofits have been made, and whether the equipment services mission-critical spaces and can’t afford to break,” he said. “Based on these variables, we see a lifetime range of 10-30 years with 20 years being the average.”

Air conditioners are typically the first to go out because they are outside and exposed to the elements. Furnaces last longer, but whether you’ll need to replace it at 8 years or still be running strong at year 23 depends on the climate it’s used in, your living habits, and your HVAC maintenanceroutine.

Tom Beaulieu, president of Bay Area Services Inc. said, “As a consumer and professional, I expect furnaces to last 20 years…My definition of ‘end of life’ for any appliance is when the unit has been in operation for more than two-thirds of its expected life and needs repairs that exceed 25 percent of the full replacement cost.”

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Heating and Cooling System

If you’re wondering whether or not it’s time to replace your HVAC system, chances are the answer is yes. In some cases, a good maintenance checkup or a small repair may be sufficient, but there are some clear signs that will help determine if your system needs a complete replacement.

It is near the end of its average life expectancy. The Department of Energy recommends homeowners replace their HVAC system every 10 to 15 years. While today’s AC units are durable, the major components will begin to deteriorate over time and with heavy use.

A repair cost is more than half the price of a new system. If your AC is out and you’re wondering whether to repair or replace, it mostly comes down to numbers. If your repair will cost 50% or more of the new system cost, AND its upward 10 years old, it’s time to replace.

Your energy bill keeps increasing, but your rate remains the same. Your utility bills will fluctuate during the year, but if you notice your bills are increasing consistently, it could be a problem. This is usually because your system is starting to deteriorate and is working harder to maintain the same temperature, causing an increase in utility bills.

You have trouble keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. Even if you keep your thermostat the same, you may start to notice your air conditioning is having a harder time keeping up. This is a sign that it is no longer powerful enough to get the job done and it may be time to replace.

Reduce Air Quality. Part of the responsibility of an AC system is to provide proper ventilation throughout the home. If you notice more dust, dander, dirt, mold, mildew or humidity, your AC isn’t doing its job.

Weird smells. Any time you notice an odor from your ventilation system, you want to have it checked by an HVAC contractor as soon as possible. This can be a serious situation, or it could be nothing more than built-up dust burning off. Either way, weird smells are a sure indicator that something isn’t right.

Odd sounds like grinding or squealing. Most HVAC systems are pretty quiet. You may hear a fan turn on, but nothing more than that and certainly not any grinding, screeching or banging. Any unusual sounds are a sure sign that your system needs attention ASAP.

Just because your HVAC system is not working at 100% capacity, doesn’t mean it’s automatically time for a replacement. It could be a simple HVAC repair.

Common Repairs

It is always a good idea to investigate your heating and cooling problems with a professional. This can help you avoid any problems that might cause your air conditioner to malfunction and save some money. Many of the common problems are not DIY HVAC repairs, but should be handled by a professional HVAC technician. Here are a few of the most common problems areas to check:

Malfunctioning Thermostat: This is one of the easiest and simple fixes. If your thermostat isn’t showing anything you need to invest in a few AAA’s and you’ll be good to go. Dead batteries are more common than you think and should be the first line of defense with any AC issue.

Tripped circuit breaker: Check your breaker box next. Chances are, one of them connects to your HVAC system. Reset that and then try the system again. Make sure the breaker isn’t being overloaded with other things. If it trips frequently, you might want to call an HVAC professional.

Blown fuse or transformer: This is similar to a dead battery in your car. You’ll need to have it replaced before the machine is going to work, but it’s much cheaper than a whole new HVAC (or a new car). Unless you’ve got special training, it’s best to call an HVAC professional at this point.

Dirty coils: If the air coming out of your vents isn’t as “cool” as you’d like, it could be due to dirty coils. This is generally due to a lack of maintenance. If they get really dirty, they can’t remove heat properly and circulate hot air.

Clogged air filter: Chances are you’ve heard this one before. Too many people aren’t changing their air filters, and it causes big problems for the system. When the filter is clogged the system can just freeze up and stop working entirely.

Damaged Components: Check the actual unit itself to make sure it hasn’t been damaged. Landscapers, children, a falling limb, several things can damage an outdoor system. No HVAC system is impenetrable.

If you’re unsure what’s causing your HVAC problems, hire a licensed HVAC contractor to evaluate the problem and provide an honest solution.

Benefits of Replacing Dated Units

Although replacing your entire system with a new HVAC installation may seem like an overwhelming and stressful endeavor, it can actually be one of the greatest changes for your home. Replacing old units is safer, easier, and often cheaper than running them into the ground.

Saves you money on your energy bill – You want to make sure your system is performing at its most efficient level, you also want to save money. This is the two-fer of a new HVAC system. It saves you money in utility costs, while keeping you comfortable.

More comfort – Today’s HVAC systems can provide more even temperatures throughout your home than older systems. You can precisely adjust temperatures for rooms throughout your home, times of day, days of the week, etc.

Reduced noise – Newer HVAC systems are almost silent. They have high-tech sound absorbing materials to keep their motor and running noises to a minimum. No more turning up the TV every time the AC fan kicks on.

More “green” options; More energy efficient – New high-efficiency HVAC systems use about a third less fuel as compared to older models. So, not only are you saving money in the long run, but you are also reducing your carbon footprint and producing less waste.

Wider variety of add-ons; programmable thermostats, humidifiers, etc. – Thermostats have come a long way in recent years. Today, you can program the thermostat to remain at a temperature that limits energy consumption while you’re at work. Then turn it on while you’re sitting in traffic. You can shut it off while on vacation, and have the house comfortable by the time you land. All you have to do is pull out your smartphone to adjust anytime, anywhere.

Higher resale value – If you are planning to sell your home anytime soon, it’s worth replacing your system. You’ll be able to recoup part of the costs in resale, and chances are your buyers will ask you to replace it anyway.

Tax credit – In some areas, you can get a serious tax credit for disposing of old, inefficient systems and replacing them with high-efficiency options. This is definitely worth looking into to see if you can actually get paid to install a new HVAC.

More extended warranties – With today’s units, you don’t have to worry about it going out next year and replacing it again. Most manufacturers will offer extended warranties that give you peace of mind moving forward.

Different Types of HVAC Systems

Long gone are the days of using fire or an open window to heat and cool your home. Today, there are several different options when it comes to keeping your home comfortable. Each system has a specific purpose so you can find the one that suits your home or business.

Split System

This is the most common system. It is made up of an outdoor unit containing the condenser and compressor, and an indoor unit containing the evaporator coil and blower connected to a furnace. If you need a furnace, but not AC this is the most efficient and cheapest system.

Hybrid Heat Pump System

In this system, there is a heat pump powered by electricity and used in conjunction with a furnace. The heat pump is the primary source of heating and cooling, but when the temperature drops below a certain temperature, the furnace kicks in to produce heat. This is great when you need an AC, but it doesn’t dip below 40 degrees very often.

Ductless System

This does not use ductwork to heat or cool a home. Instead, individual units are placed in specific rooms that are connected to an outdoor unit with small tubes that carry the refrigerant. This can be a great option if you only need to cool one or two rooms.

Packaged System

A packaged HVAC system contains the compressor, condenser, and evaporator all in one unit, often located on a roof or near the foundation of the building or home. This is a great option for homes that do not have the required space for separate components like in a split system.

Each of these systems is great for their intended purposes but are not all intended for every situation. For expert advice on which type of system is best for your Indiana or Kentucky home, use our selector to find local, licensed HVAC contractors in your area.

How much does a new heating and air conditioning system cost?

Any homeowner knows that a new HVAC system will hurt their wallet, but it is a necessary expense to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. For an entirely new system, which includes air conditioner, furnace, and ductwork the average price ranges from $6,000 to $8,000. This can increase based on where you live, the size of your house, brand, contractor installation fees, and level of efficiency of the system.

While the price is high, it’s important to understand the factors that make up that cost. It could help lessen the blow a bit.

Size: Bigger is more expensive, but doesn’t always mean it’s better. If you purchase a unit that is too big for your space, you’ll overpay on your utility costs each month. You want to choose the correct size based on your square footage and climate.

Quality: There are luxury brands and budget brands, each brand offers something slightly different. The best HVAC brands will last 18-25 years and come with a more comprehensive warranty. Budget brands may only last 10 years or so, but the overall cost is lower.

Performance: HVAC units are measured with a “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating” or a SEER rating. This score determines whether they outperform other models by the same manufacturer. A SEER score of 13-15 is the lowest performing whereas scores of 20-24 are the top performers.

Efficiency: This is a combination of choosing the right size and the right unit for your climate. Efficiency is measured in BTUs and is usually determined by the climate you live in. If you live in a hotter climate, you need a system with a higher BTU (22-30).

Your Comfort is our Priority

Don’t let your HVAC system stress you out. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether it’s time to replace your system, or simply make a fix to keep running it. You can easily make this determination by diagnosing the problem and running the numbers. Sometimes replacing your system will bring hidden benefits you had not even considered. If it is time to replace, determine the best type, size, and features of your new system and don’t forget to check for tax incentives as well.

If an HVAC repair or HVAC system replacement is in your future, find a professional, local, licensed HVAC contractor to keep your home comfortable all year round.

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How to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Can you tell how clean your air is just by breathing it? Probably not. Your indoor air quality (IAQ) can affect your quality of life without you even knowing it. We can’t simply hold our breath and wait for better air to come along, and it’s impossible to breathe only some parts of the air around us. That’s why the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) keeps a close eye on the air in an effort to keep us healthy. The EPA tracks and calculates five major air pollutants:

Ground Level Ozone

Particle Pollution/Matter

Carbon Monoxide

Sulfur Dioxide

Nitrogen Dioxide

Each of these areas is measured on a daily basis. Ground level ozone and airborne particles are the two that post the most threat to human health. Every day, an air quality report is generated to inform the public. The air quality index (AQI) is the index for measuring and reporting air quality. The higher the AQI value, the more polluted the air is. Anything below 100 is considered satisfactory, anything above 100 can be problematic.

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AQI and the EPA: Our HVAC Experts Break it Down

There are six main levels of air quality according to the EPA:

“Good” AQI is 0 to 50.

“Moderate” AQI is 51 to 100. Air quality is acceptable; however, there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people, like those with respiratory problems.

“Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” AQI is 101 to 150. Although the general public is not likely to be affected, older adults and young children are at a greater risk from the presence of particles in the air.

“Unhealthy” AQI is 151 to 200. Everyone, regardless of age, may begin to experience some adverse health effects, and sensitive groups may experience more serious effects.

“Very Unhealthy” AQI is 201 to 300. This would trigger a government-issued health alert, signifying that everyone may experience more serious health effects.

“Hazardous” AQI is greater than 300. This would trigger health warning emergency conditions. The entire population is more than likely to be affected.

The AQI measures how clean or polluted the air you breathe is. There’s not much we can do about the polluted air outside our homes, but learning how to improve your indoor air quality can make a huge difference for your home and family.

Home Air Quality

Just like pollution and irritants outside can harm us, our indoor air quality is just as important. Perhaps more so, if you tend to spend more time indoors than out. Health effects from pollutants and dust in your indoor air can cause immediate problems like headaches, fatigue, concentration problems, skin rashes, and eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation. They may also cause long-term problems like asthma and even some life-threatening heart and lung diseases. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) claims that inadequate HVAC maintenance is a major cause of poor indoor air quality.

Calculate Your Indoor Air Quality

Air enters your home in several ways. When you open a door or a window, air will make its way in. It also enters, seemingly unnoticed, through cracks and drafts. The air intake system in your HVAC system will also bring outdoor air inside.

The pollution outside can affect your indoor air quality, but it can also be affected by radon, carbon monoxide, bacteria, mold, and other indoor health hazards. It’s worth getting your air quality checked, especially if you or your children are in a high-risk group.

Your indoor air quality is measured with a tool called a VOC sensor. This measures organic compounds and can pick up even small levels of pollutants, chemicals, ketones and more. Because of the equipment required, this is usually done by a professional with the facilities to detect a wide range of pollutants. For more information on how to calculate the air inside your home, connect with the professionals at Green HVAC today.

How to Improve Air Quality in Your Home

Once you know more about your indoor air quality, you can take steps to improve it. There are three main strategies to improve indoor air quality:

Source Control: The most effective way is to simply eliminate the source of pollution. This may include removing asbestos, mold, gas stoves, or other sources of common problems.

Improved Ventilation: You can decrease the concentration of pollutants by increasing the ventilation in your home. This means using your HVAC system effectively, along with additional use of fans, opening doors, and windows, etc. All of this can make a big difference in helping to circulate and ventilate the air inside your home.

Air Cleaners: There are several types of air cleaners on the market that are manufactured to clean the particles in the air. From a table-top model to a whole-house system, they can be effective but are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Finding what works best for your home and your family is critical when deciding to purchase an air cleaning system.

Indoor Air Quality and Your HVAC System

One of the best ways to ensure your own air quality is at its best is to have your HVAC system examined regularly. Your HVAC is responsible for the air quality and comfort of your home and those inside it. Maintaining your system on a regular basis offers an improved environment for you and your family. If it’s been more than six months since your last HVAC maintenance appointment, let the experts at Green HVAC go to work for you. We can help to clean and clear out your system in order to provide you and your family with a nice, deep (and clean) breath of fresh air.

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16 HVAC Tips for Summer & Winter

Are you stuck in a sticky, sweltering hot summer or a bitter, freezing cold winter? Your HVAC system needs to work its best in all types of weather, all year long to keep you and your family comfortable. Preventative maintenance and routine upkeep ensure that your system is ready to go when the worst of both types of weather strike. However, there are things you can do to help beat the heat in the summer and stay warm during the winter months, without the extra use of your HVAC system.

Winter HVAC Tips for Staying Toasty Warm

Warm yourself first: It’s easier to change your body temperature than it is a room’s temperature. Use a pair of warm house slippers to keep your feet cozy. This helps to regulate the rest of your body temperature. Layer clothing by adding on a comfortable sweater or cardigan.

Turn on a fan: It sounds counterproductive, but it’s not. Even in the winter, you can turn on a fan to circulate the air inside the room. Moving warm air around means the room stays warmer longer, and so do you.

Rotate your ceiling fan circulation: Take a closer look at your ceiling fans. If they are running counterclockwise, they are pulling air up. Because warm air rises, this leaves the room cooler. In the winter, turn them so they run clockwise and push warm air back down.

Prevent drafts: Use door stops, additional window insulation and anything else you can use to help keep the cold air out. Since your pool noodles aren’t being used in the winter anyway, you can use them inside your home, as they can make great draft blockers.

Program your thermostat: Make your system work on your own schedule. Let it be colder while you’re away and warm up only when you’re actually in the house. If you have a smart thermostat you can actually program it from your smartphone.

Get Cooking: Your oven and stove can heat up the entire house, so make some cookies and homemade cocoa and enjoy the chilly weather.

Summer HVAC Tips to Beat the Heat

Dress Carefully: Swap out the fuzzy woolies for cotton and lighter fabrics and materials to wear or sleep in around your home.

Use Fans: Fans don’t actually cool the air, but they do circulate the air around you, which can make you feel cool.

Create a breeze: Did you know you can create your own breeze? Use two fans and create a cross breeze between them.

Open windows at night: Check the weather forecast, and if it’s going to dip below 60 or so, open the windows and give the AC a break.

Drink: Staying hydrated is a huge step of taking care of your body and keeping yourself cool all day long during the summer months.

Unplug devices: Small appliances and electronics give off heat; save energy and reduce heat by unplugging things you aren’t using.

Close the blinds: A significant portion of unwanted heat comes from windows. Curtains, blinds, shades, and drapes can make a huge difference in maintaining a cool indoor temperature.

Ice Fan Hack: Fill a mixing bowl with ice and put it in front of a large fan. The air whips off the ice and gives off a nice chilly breeze.

Turn around the ceiling fans: Make sure your ceiling fans are running counterclockwise, this pulls warm air up and leaves the room cooler.

Cook Outside: Fire up that grill and do as much of your hot cooking outside as possible. Keep the kitchen cooled off by limiting the use of the oven and stove.

While it may be tempting to crank up the AC or turn up the heat, this can leave you with sticker shock when you see your monthly bill. Instead, try these tips and tricks to stay comfortable, without overworking your system and squeezing your budget. For more information and ideas, connect with Collins Heating and Air today.

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Why You Shouldn’t Try DIY HVAC Repairs

Creating that delicate balance between heating elements, cooling fans, advanced equipment, optimum airflow, and motor mechanics takes more than a DIY video from YouTube. You may be able to change your own oil, paint a bedroom, or install a ceiling fan, but that doesn’t mean you’re qualified to take on a DIY HVAC replacement. Attempting to save a little money at first can end up in costly consequences later. Professional experience and training play a major key in safely and successfully installing and repairing your HVAC equipment. Because the equipment is more involved, advanced, and complicated than ever before, HVAC installation and repairs should always be left to the professionals. If you have a system that needs fixing, connect with Scott Miller Heating and Air today.

Licensed HVAC Contractors: Qualifications and Skills

Becoming an expert in residential central air systems often takes years of training. In many locations, HVAC contractors must pass a professional licensing exam and complete specific requirements in order to become certified to work as an HVAC contractor. Once they are certified, contractors must continue to receive additional training as new products and technologies are introduced. Because they are constantly learning and participating in training, this allows them to keep up with new technology and techniques. Using a qualified professional means that they show up ready to solve problems in more ways than one. No YouTube video can give you the years of expertise it takes to diagnose current problems, predict future ones, and look for the hidden issues that are less than obvious.

What is HVAC?

Even if you understand basic concepts, HVAC is more complicated than it seems. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is just the beginning of what HVAC actually entails. Your HVAC system affects the health of your entire environment. It also affects your utility bills, temperature, and humidity, which makes a difference to your interior furnishings like paintings, instruments, furniture, and flooring.

Heating-In addition to heating your home, warm air affects humidity, vapor pressure, building material durability, and emission rates. What if you have too much heat? Or not enough? Can you alter the design of your system to get the right heat in the right spaces?

Ventilation-Ventilation keeps the air fresh, but also conditions and filters the air between indoor and outdoor air. Do you live near common air pollutants? Do you know how to deal with them? What about radon? Are you prepared to manage that as well?

Air Conditioning-We all know that the AC keeps us cool, but it also decontaminates, deodorizes, dehumidifies, and changes the condition of the air itself. Do you need dehumidification? Do you know how much or what kind? What about electrostatic charges?

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Routine HVAC Maintenance: What You Can Do

There are a few things you can, and should, be doing to take care of your own system. Being a responsible homeowner doesn’t mean you have to do everything yourself, but there are a few items you can put on your own to-do list.

Air Filters: This is the easiest things on the list. Check the filter periodically, about once a month, and change it as necessary. If you have pets, or excessive dust, or open windows often, you may have to check and change it more often as well.

Clean Ducts and Registers: Keeping your system clean and tidy will help it run as smooth as possible. Cleaning your air ducts reduces the amount of dust in your home, and helps your home and the air inside stay cleaner. A regular vacuum or Shop Vac can remove a lot of this gunk without the need for professional equipment.

Check Drains: Check the drains around your system to ensure they aren’t clogged by algae and mold. You can pour a mixture of water and bleach into your drain once a year if you have issues with algae and mold growth.

Find a Break: In between seasons of extreme temperatures, find ways to give your system a break. Use a fan or put on a sweater to stay comfortable, and let your system take a break at the same time.

Sometimes, it’s what you don’t pay for that will end up costing you more in the long run. A DIY HVAC job may feel more beneficial for your wallet, but only for the short term. Over time, every DIY attempt can add discomfort and stress to your life. Even if you find a temporary fix while trying to replace or repair something, it can cause more significant problems down the road. When it comes to your HVAC system, leave it to the experts. Chances are, it’s less expensive than you think, and it’s always going to be worth it. If you have more questions about the do’s and don’ts of HVAC, talk to a professional at Scott Miller Heating and Air today. The post Why You Shouldn’t Try DIY HVAC Repairs appeared first on MyTrustedContractor.com

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11 Common Myths vs HVAC Facts

Whether it’s the dog days of summer or a long winter’s night, you want to get the most out of your HVAC system all year long. Over the years, air conditioning myths and heating and cooling “tricks” and tips from less-than-reputable sources have infiltrated homes everywhere. Most of these tricks are ineffective at best, and sometimes even harmful. HVAC is a hard niche to understand unless you’re heavily involved in it and know the system inside and out. That’s where we come in. These are some of the most common myths you’ve probably heard before, but A.A.S.M. Heating and Cooling has the truth you need to know.

The Truth Behind Common HVAC Myths

Myth #1: Air filters don’t need to be changed on a regular basis, so I can change it myself when needed… The Truth: This one is only half false. Yes, you can change the air filter yourself, but they definitely need attention on a regular basis. The dirtier they get, the less efficiently they run. Myth #2: Moving the thermostat all the way up or down cools or heats a building faster… The Truth: Does an elevator come quicker if you push the button more than once? No, and the same concept applies to your thermostat. It isn’t a magic wand, and it doesn’t work harder or faster if you raise or lower it. The thermostat is nothing more than a regulator that instructs your system when to turn on and off based on the temperature you want the room to maintain. Myth #3: Closing vents in rooms can save you more money… The Truth: Actually, closing vents doesn’t save you money and can eventually cause problems in your system. When you close vents, it throws off your system’s balance and re-routes the airflow in your home. This potentially leads to other issues caused by pressure buildup in the ducts of your system. Myth #4: Routine maintenance is not necessary… The Truth: Routing maintenance for your HVAC system is the same as a standard oil change for your car. Not only is it necessary, but it’s critical when it comes to making sure your system works like it’s supposed to, regardless of the weather outside. While repairs aren’t always needed, routine maintenance ensures little problems don’t turn into big ones. Myth #5: The bigger, the better… The Truth: Bigger systems tend to cycle on and off more, which costs more and makes your system work harder, which in turn, shortens its lifespan. Some homeowners think a bigger system will work better, but sometimes working harder isn’t necessarily working smarter.

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Myth #6: An energy efficient unit will reduce my bills… The Truth: It could, but that’s not all that matters. Even the most energy efficient model won’t help reduce bills in a drafty house if the system isn’t being cared for properly. The truth is, you and your system both have to be efficient in the effort to lower utility bills. Myth #7: Leaving the unit on is cheaper than turning it off… The Truth: Many people believe that if you go out of town or are gone all day, it’s cheaper to set your thermostat high (or low depending on the season) rather than just turning it off. The truth is, having your unit cycle on/off doesn’t cost extra. It will always save more energy and money to just turn it off completely if you’re not using it. Myth #8: If I’m hot, I’ll just use a fan… The Truth: A fan is not an air conditioner. Fans are designed to circulate air, not to cool it. It can cool you off by moving air across your skin, but it will not actually lower the temperature of the room, even if you leave it on all day long. Myth #9: My system doesn’t require maintenance… The Truth: It doesn’t matter how fancy or how expensive your system is, it still needs regular maintenance. Even a Lexus needs an oil change. The healthiest of people still visit their doctor regularly for check-ups. Your HVAC system works the same way. Routine maintenance measures are more simple and more cost-efficient to conduct and carry out, rather than waiting for something to go wrong and fix it all at once. Myth #10: Keeping the temperature the same is more efficient… The Truth: Keeping the same temperature all day long can be a risky move resulting in sky-high energy bills. The goal is to use the least amount of energy possible. Less energy is used when the difference between the inside and outdoor temperature is small, so it is a good idea to set your home’s temperature as close to the outdoor temperature as possible when you’re not home. A programmable thermostat allows you to change the temperature to achieve the best balance between efficiency and comfort. Myth #11: Thermostat location doesn’t matter… The Truth: If your thermostat is in direct sunlight, or near a vent, it will probably shut down your system too early. The thermostat should be placed in an area that is easy to access, but not near a vent or window. Your HVAC system is there to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor air quality. Get the most effective use and fewer breakdowns by caring for your system the same way you care for your cars, home furnishings, or even your own health. Regular check-ups and ongoing maintenance increase longevity and ensure your family will be comfortable all year long. To ensure your system is working its best, talk with a pro at A.A.S.M. Heating and Cooling today.

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mytrustedcontractor · 5 years

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11 Tips to Lower Your Energy Bill

You should never have to choose between staying warm or saving money. Your HVAC system accounts for as much as 50 percent of your total energy bill. That can add up to big bucks over the course of the entire year. Being smart with your HVAC system turns into being smart with your money. You can reduce your HVAC energy bills in simple ways with these HVAC energy saving tips.

HVAC Energy Saving Tips

Energy Audit: Invest the time and money into having an energy audit done on your home or business to see where your energy is being wasted and how to increase the overall efficiency of your HVAC system.

Routine Maintenance: If your system has to work harder due to dust, buildup, dirty filters, or clogged drains, it uses more energy and costs you more money. Routing maintenance ensures your system runs at optimum efficiency.

Program Your Thermostat: Operate your HVAC system at optimum and stable temperatures to create the most efficient system. Program your system’s schedule around your own to create a timely and effective way to manage your system’s usage.

Seal: Sealing your home from drafts can make a huge difference in your energy bills. All this takes is finding smart and safe ways to eliminate areas where hot air is escaping and cold air is finding its way inside.

Insulate: Add more insulation where/when you can. Insulating the attic is a great place to start.

Keep Out the Heat: In the summertime, use blinds and shades to keep direct sunlight and extra heat out of your home. This means you’re helping your air conditioner never work harder than it has to.

Turn Off Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans don’t cool the air, they only circulate it and make you feel cooler. Use them when you’re home to keep things comfortable, but turn them off when you leave the house.

Run Appliances at Night: Things like your dishwasher and washing machine produce heat. If you run them at night after the temperature outside drops, your air conditioner doesn’t have to work so hard to keep things cool inside your home.

Change Your Air Filters: Check them every month and replace them every 30-90 days to prevent dirt build-up and causing your system to be overworked.

Use Space Heaters: Especially if you’re only using one area of your home in the winter, consider a space heater instead of heating your entire home.

Upgrade: If you don’t currently have an energy efficient HVAC system, or your system is over 10 years old, it might be worth upgrading. The EPA estimates energy efficient systems can pay for themselves in a short period of time.

New HVAC Systems: Getting Return on Your Investment

The best way to lower your HVAC electricity consumption and reduce your monthly bills is to replace an old unit with a new energy efficient model. Old units are power suckers and they can cost you hundreds more each month. The more modern systems pay for themselves quickly and continue to save homeowners money in the long run; the monthly drain on electricity, even in the summer, can be dramatic. New units are Energy Star certified for conservation, which means they will reduce your electricity usage considerably. For more information on Energy Star certified systems, talk to a professional today.

Load Calculations: This is the first step in deciding what system is right for your home. Load calculations make sure you’re buying the right size system. A system that is too small is forced to work overtime, while a system that is too big will cost you more and increase your maintenance cost.

Ratings: All energy-efficient models have a Seasonal HVAC Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). This rating computes the energy efficiency of the equipment based on a seasonal average. The U.S. Department of Energy requires a minimum SEER of 13 for all new systems in the northern U.S. Even increasing your rating from a 10 to a 13 can make a huge difference in your bills. The latest systems have ratings between 20-28, these units can slash your energy consumption by as much as 30 percent.

Smart Thermostats: These can be installed with or without an entirely new energy efficient HVAC system. A smart thermostat contains sensors that control the heating and cooling systems in your home. You have a myriad of options at your fingertips that aren’t available with a standard thermostat. For instance, you can program temperatures for different times of the day when you’re at home or away. You also have the ability to adjust temperatures from your smartphone. You can be across town for lunch and still take care of your thermostat at home.

Energy efficient HVAC systems are designed to promote comfort and save you money, all at the same time. Now you can maintain different heating and cooling needs within your home without worrying about what your monthly bill is going to look like. Regardless of the system you have, or the upgrades you make, maintaining your system with routine maintenance is the key to getting what you pay for and ensuring your system is providing the most efficient comfort levels possible. Connect with DL Haines Co. HVAC today and let us give you the tools to save you money.

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mytrustedcontractor · 5 years

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How to Hire an HVAC Contractor

It’s the middle of January and your furnace just died. While the family is huddled around the fireplace, you quickly Google “HVAC contractor”, call the first one in the list, and hope that it works out. We’ve all been there, and most of us are happy to hire the first repairman that is available in case of emergency, but that’s not always the best choice. If you need to make a major or costly upgrade to your home's furnace, air conditioning or air ducts, it's time to choose an HVAC contractor who you can count on. Ventilation has become a technology of its own. With more advanced heating and cooling systems than ever before, you need the right contractor to install, repair, and maintain it. With offers and deals from every handyman around the corner, it can be difficult and overwhelming to choose the right one. My Trusted Contractor has taken the guesswork out of it and given you everything you need to know about how to choose and hire an contractor that will work for you and get the job done right.

Hiring Your HVAC Contractor

Research: With so many different options, finding the right contractor for the job can quickly become overwhelming. Start by doing research in your area to see what, and who, is available. Chances are, you’ll find some big companies, a few mom and pops, and maybe a contractor who owns his own business. Ask Questions: Once you have a list of possible HVAC contractors to consider, give them a call and ask a few key questions that can tell you a lot about their company, themselves, and raise any red flags.

License, bond, and insurance. Start by ensuring the company and the technician are both licensed by the state and carry the appropriate insurance. Most states mandate the education, exams, and job experience required to be licensed as an HVAC contractor. Any professional that works in your home should carry liability insurance to protect you and your home in case of damage or injury.

References. This one is important, and unfortunately, often skipped over. Any local HVAC contractor should have a list of recent customers you can contact to verify their performance, work, and customer service. Asking for a list of references is the first part, while actually calling them is the second. This can give you valuable insight you may not find with online reviews.

Brands. Ask a potential contractor what brand of equipment they carry, and what brands they service. This gives you the opportunity to research those brands, and also find a contractor that uses brands you may prefer or already be familiar with.

Estimates. If you are looking for a new installation or replacement, the cost is likely going to be a pretty important factor. Any time you’re going to sink a significant investment into your home, it’s worth it to get at least three estimates.

Tax credits. Ask about any incentives, credits, rebates, or tax benefits available. This tells you two important things. Even if you choose not to take advantage of these possibilities, it shows how educated the contractor is about current incentives.

Payment options. You definitely don’t want any surprises when it comes to paying the bill. Ask about whether they accept a payment plan, how much is expected up front, and what types of payment options they take.

The contract. Ask for a sample of their service contract. A sample allows you to read it thoroughly without the pressure of signing anything.

Pay attention. While asking these questions and talking with the company or contractor themselves, pay attention and read between the lines. Don’t only listen to what they’re telling you, but how they are providing information. How do they react to your questions? Are they patient and willing to explain things thoroughly? This can give you valuable insight into their customer service side.

Finding a company and technician you can trust means you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you don’t have to do it yourself, which can often result in further damage and more expenses down the road. You can partner with us and let us help pair you with the right contractor for the job. Simply let us find a contractor for you today.

Why is Hiring a Heating & Cooling Expert Important?

Chances are you may have a family member or friend who is convinced they can fix it themselves, but that doesn’t necessarily make them a qualified choice. A quality heating and air conditioning technician and/or company establishes a relationship with you and brings system expertise to offer pinpoint solutions to your problems. They have the resources available to deal with any current issues as well as predict and prevent future issues. Often, even the best DIY attempts can result in more damage and more money spent. Your HVAC system is one of the most complex systems in your home or business; hiring an HVAC contractor that is well trained to replace, install, and deal with different problems is essential. You probably wouldn’t attempt to replace your own roof or install a new electrical line. Finding a heating contractor is equally essential and plays a crucial role in your home’s comfort, air quality, and safety. Connect with a contractor today to ensure your system is running its best. The post How to Hire an HVAC Contractor appeared first on Mytrustedcontractor.com My Trusted Contractor 950 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40206 502-540-0316 https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/map/ https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/info/

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mytrustedcontractor · 5 years

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Home Energy Audits: What You Need to Know

How much do you know about your home? I’m not talking about your address or where things are in the kitchen, I’m talking about what really goes on inside your home. Chances are, we assume everything is working fine. Until it’s not.

What is an Energy Audit?

A home energy audit is one of the best ways to truly see how your home is functioning and what you can do to make it better. Energy audits assess how much energy your home or business consumes and helps to evaluate what measures you can take to make your home/business more energy efficient.

In a recent article in the Washington Post, Ely Jacobsohn, who manages the Home Performance with Energy Star program at the U.S. Department of Energy said, “Audits are important for homeowners because they provide solutions based on proven building science. They find the root cause of problems, rather than just treating symptoms.”

By finding the root cause of problems, you can make a big difference in how efficient your home is. What if you opened your next power bill and it had dropped by more than 50%?

Understanding what is sucking up energy and then learning how to fix it can make a huge difference in your monthly bills. Energy efficiency upgrades identified by a home energy audit can save you between 5 and 30 percent on monthly energy bills. This can potentially save significant amounts of money for your family over time.

How Does a Home Energy Audit Work?

A home energy audit is a two-part process that can be done by any professional energy auditor. Sometimes, an HVAC contractor can also perform an audit, but often times it is a professional auditor through the local energy department who performs the service. If your HVAC contractor cannot perform the audit, they can recommend you to someone who can. You can also find a professional auditor through the Building Performance Institute, the Residential Energy Services Network or on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star website.

Part 1: Assessment

The first part of a home energy audit is the assessment. This is where the auditor will begin by analyzing your energy bills and completing a visual, health, and safety inspection. Sometimes they may use special equipment to detect sources of energy loss. This may include things like an infrared camera, combustion analyzer, blower door, manometer, draft gauge, and moisture meter. Often, their expertise and experience can notice and detect problems right away. Because they know what to look for, they may see problems that are often overlooked or go undetected.

Part 2: Analysis

The second part of the audit is done by specialized computer software that analyzes the specific data gathered by the auditor. After the audit is complete, and the data is processed, a report is generated that provides results, recommendations, and lists possible other issues if any were found. This analysis is the most valuable part of an energy audit. It provides a comprehensive report that shows which energy efficient upgrades are best for your home/business and your wallet.

Part 3: Your Score

Choose an auditor who provides a home energy score at the end of the audit. This score rates the efficiency of your house based on its age, size, and heating, cooling and water systems. The score ranges from one to 10, with 10 indicating lowest energy use. It estimates how much energy your house will use in a year given the size of your family and the weather in the area. This gives you a clear measurement of where your home is and what you can do to improve.

Still have questions about how it works? No problem. Get connected with a local contractor and speak to a professional today.

Home Energy Audits and Your HVAC System

Home energy audits examine every component within the HVAC system. It helps determine what parts of your system are working overtime, and which parts could use an update. An HVAC energy audit is the best way to determine how much energy your system uses. It also pinpoints where and when the energy consumption directly stems from. Where and when is the energy the heaviest and the lightest? What areas and equipment cause the most energy loss? What are the ages, types, and conditions of the system components? And most importantly, does the system pose a health risk to you or your family?

Periodic audits should be a part of any preventative maintenance program. While it’s probably unnecessary to conduct an audit every year, it can be especially helpful every few years. In many states, you might even be eligible for rebates or low-cost energy efficient solutions and renovations.

Energy Audits and Your Future

A home energy audit can also be essential if you’re moving into a new home, building a new home, or if you live in an older home before efficient systems were common. A big, old historical home can be a beautiful investment, but it can also be a drafty energy sucker.

Once your audit is complete, you can learn how you use energy, where it’s being wasted, and what measures to take to prioritize your consumption, your equipment, and your budget. Furthermore, if you choose to make energy audits part of your annual maintenance plan, you can compare year to year reports, all while adjusting to keep your home/business as comfortable as possible, all year long. For more information about setting up an energy audit, let us find a contractor for you today.

The post Home Energy Audits: What You Need to Know appeared first on Mytrustedcontractor.com

My Trusted Contractor 950 E. Main Street Louisville, KY 40206 502-540-0316 https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/map/ https://www.mytrustedcontractor.com/info/

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mytrustedcontractor · 6 years

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12 Home Improvement Ideas for Beginning DIYers

Are you interested in trying out some home improvement ideas, but don’t know where to begin? If so, rest assured that you’re not alone; we all start down the path to DIY expertise by learning the basics. Here are a dozen starter projects to build your skills and boost your confidence, whether you’re a first time homeowner or a renter looking to improve your living space. These projects vary in complexity, but all of them are suitable projects for beginners who are willing to jump in, get their hands dirty, and have some fun.

Cabinet Pulls Replacing cabinet pulls or knobs is a quick way to give your kitchen a mini facelift without breaking the bank. This Family Handyman home improvement article is an especially good walk through, loaded with tips and tricks that are often learned only after making a mess of a cabinet door. Why it’s a great starter project: Replacing cabinet pulls can be as simple as unscrewing the old and attaching the new. But there’s often some issue that pops up at one point or another. Whether it’s using washers or negotiation with a pull that’s rusted onto a screw, there’s bound to be a headache that you can tackle. And without worrying about doing irreparable damage or blowing a big budget.

What it gives you an excuse to buy: If you don’t already own a cordless drill, this is a great project to pick up this essential piece of the DIY toolkit.

Replace a Torn Window Screen Whether it’s from a fallen branch, a pair of over-eager paws, or simple wear and tear, sooner or later most window screens will require a repair. And it’s possible to patch a small tear, but you can also replace an entire screen. This is a great beginner DIY home improvement that will help keep insects out of your home and make your windows or screen doors more attractive. Why it’s a great starter project: Removing the window screen will help familiarize you with the mechanics of your windows. And this will come in handy down the road, when it’s time to do some maintenance on the windows themselves.

What it gives you an excuse to buy: The materials for this repair are inexpensive and will last for more than one window, which means you’ll have them on hand the next time a screen is damaged. A roll of replacement screening and the rubber spline that holds it in place are easily obtained. And a spline roller makes the replacement quick and easy. It’s possible to secure the spline without using a roller. Often times a flat screwdriver or old credit card can pop the spline into place. But the spline roller makes things go smoother and decreases the risk of damaging the spline during installation. And a spline roller lasts forever!

Read More: 12 Home Improvement Ideas for Beginning DIYers

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