HVAC Insights & More
Your HVAC unit works hard to keep your home comfortable, but did you know that it can also suffer from sun damage? The sun’s UV rays can cause significant wear and tear to your HVAC system, leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement. Below is a break down of some of the effects of sun damage on your HVAC unit and tips for protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays. UV rays can cause a variety of problems for your HVAC unit, including: Fading and cracking of exterior components: Exposure to the sun's harsh UV rays can gradually deteriorate the paint finish, causing it to fade over time, while also promoting the breakdown of plastic components like brackets, gaskets, and hoses. The prolonged heat exposure can compromise the integrity of wiring, causing it to fray and potentially disrupt the system's functionality, making it not only less appealing aesthetically but also compromising its overall efficiency and performance. Reduced efficiency: When your HVAC unit is constantly exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months, it must work tirelessly to cool your home. This increased workload not only puts more strain on the system but also leads to a spike in energy consumption, ultimately resulting in higher utility bills for you. Overheating: If your HVAC unit is consistently exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time, especially during the hotter months of the year, it can overheat, leading to potential compressor failure and the need for potentially costly AC repair services. Furthermore, this prolonged exposure to sunlight not only increases the risk of overheating but also forces your unit to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home or business, potentially driving up energy costs as well. Ways to Prevent Sun Damage to Your HVAC Unit: Shade your HVAC unit: One of the most effective strategies to shield your HVAC unit from the harmful effects of sun exposure is to ensure that it is shaded from direct sunlight. Research has demonstrated that even a mere few hours of direct sunlight can result in a noticeable uptick of at least 10% in your monthly energy expenses. When contemplating the installation of an HVAC system, it is prudent to seek out a site that is naturally sheltered from direct sunlight to allow your unit to operate with optimal efficiency. In the event that a shaded area is not readily available, a good alternative is to plant trees or shrubs that can provide the necessary shading. Just make sure you leave sufficient space for routine repair and maintenance tasks to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your HVAC system. Place your thermostat away from direct sunlight: Proper placement of the thermostat is essential for optimal temperature control in your home. It's important to avoid direct sunlight, as exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to inaccurate readings. This could result in your HVAC unit working harder than needed to maintain a comfortable climate. To ensure precise temperature measurement and efficient operation, the thermostat should be centrally situated in a room, away from any sources of heat or drafts, such as open windows. By positioning it effectively, the thermostat can relay the correct temperature information to the outdoor unit, allowing it to effectively regulate the indoor climate throughout the seasons, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter. Schedule regular repair and maintenance: Regular repair and maintenance are essential steps to minimize the impact of sun damage on your HVAC unit and extend its longevity. By scheduling routine inspections with a skilled technician, you not only ensure that potential issues are detected early but also prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs. These maintenance tasks may range from clearing debris around the unit to meticulously cleaning off dust accumulation. The technician may even inspect the unit for any faulty wires or components that might hinder its performance. This approach to HVAC care is crucial to promoting efficiency and reliability in your system. If you’re in need of HVAC services, including installation or maintenance of your HVAC units, contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment. Our team of experienced technicians can help you protect your HVAC unit from sun damage and keep it running smoothly for years to come. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today for all your HVAC needs!
If you’re in the market for a new air conditioner or heat pump, you may have heard the term SEER thrown around. But what is it, and why is it important to consider when choosing an HVAC system? In this article, we’ll break down what SEER is, how it’s calculated, and why a higher SEER rating can benefit you in the long run. What is SEER? SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and it’s a measure of how efficiently an air conditioner or heat pump can cool your home over the course of a typical cooling season. The SEER rating takes into account a variety of factors, including climate zones, part-load efficiency, standby mode energy consumption, and varying load requirements. Essentially, the higher the SEER rating, the less energy your system will use to cool your home. Why is SEER important? SEER is important for a few reasons. First and foremost, a higher SEER rating means lower energy costs. Since air conditioning and heating can account for a significant portion of your energy bill, investing in a higher SEER rated unit can save you money on your utility bills in the long run. Additionally, a higher SEER rating can provide greater comfort. More efficient units can cool your home more effectively, providing more consistent and even temperatures throughout your home. This can be especially important in areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity. What SEER rating should I look for? The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners and heat pumps varies depending on where you live. In the North, the minimum SEER is 14, while in the South, it’s typically 15. However, it’s worth noting that higher SEER ratings can provide greater energy savings and comfort. Baseline efficiency is typically between 13-16 SEER, mid-efficiency units range from 16-18 SEER, and high-efficiency units are typically 20+ SEER. Investing in a higher SEER rated unit may require a larger upfront cost, but the long-term benefits can outweigh the initial investment. Not only will you save money on your energy bills, but you’ll also enjoy greater comfort and a more efficient system overall. SEER is an important factor to consider when choosing an air conditioner or heat pump. By investing in a higher SEER rated unit, you can save money on your energy bills and enjoy greater comfort in your home. If you’re in need of HVAC services, including installation, repair, or maintenance of air conditioners or heat pumps, contact B. Dumont Heating and Air today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
When it comes to maintaining a comfortable living space, air quality is often overlooked. Poor air quality can lead to health issues and discomfort, but there are steps you can take to improve it. Why Air Quality Matters Air quality can have a significant impact on your health and well-being. Poor air quality can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. It can also cause discomfort, such as headaches and fatigue. One of the main contributors to poor air quality is inadequate ventilation. When air circulates poorly in your home, pollutants can build up and cause problems. This is why it’s important to maintain a clean HVAC unit and ensure proper ventilation. What You Can Do to Improve Air Quality There are several steps you can take to improve air quality in your home. Here are a few simple things you can do: 1. Change air filters regularly: Air filters are designed to trap pollutants and keep them from circulating in your home. However, if they become clogged, they can no longer do their job effectively. Be sure to change your air filters regularly to keep them working properly. 2. Use cooking vents : Cooking can release pollutants into the air, like smoke, grease, and odors. To prevent these pollutants from building up in your home, be sure to use cooking vents when you cook. 3. Keep rugs and carpets cleaned: Rugs and carpets can trap pollutants, such as dust and pet dander. Be sure to vacuum them regularly to prevent pollutants from building up. 4. Schedule HVAC maintenance: Regular maintenance from an HVAC company can help ensure your HVAC system is functioning properly and circulating clean air throughout your home. At B. Dumont Heating and Air, we understand the importance of air quality in your home. That’s why we offer a range of HVAC services to help maintain a healthy living space. If you need help improving the air quality in your home, contact our team today to schedule maintenance for your central air system. We’re here to help you breathe easy
Are you considering a new heating and cooling system for your home or business? Have you heard about heat pumps? Heat pumps are a versatile and efficient option for HVAC services that can save you money on your energy bills while keeping you comfortable all year round. In this article, we will explain what heat pumps are, how they work, and why they are becoming more popular among homeowners and businesses. What are Heat Pumps? Heat pumps are a type of HVAC system that can both heat and cool your indoor space. They work by transferring heat from one location to another, rather than generating heat like traditional HVAC systems. This makes them more energy-efficient and cost-effective in the long run. How do Heat Pumps Work? Heat pumps work by using a refrigerant to absorb heat from the outside air or ground and transfer it indoors. During the winter, the heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it indoors to warm up your home or business. During the summer, the process is reversed, and the heat pump extracts heat from the indoor air and transfers it outside to cool your space. What are the Different Types of Heat Pumps? Heat pumps can be classified into three primary types: air-to-air, mini-splits, and geothermal. Air-to-air heat pumps are the most commonly used type and they extract heat from the outside air to heat indoor spaces. Mini-splits are ideal for small spaces and do not require ductwork installation. Geothermal heat pumps are the most energy-efficient option and absorb heat from the ground to heat indoor spaces. Why are Heat Pumps Popular? Heat pumps are becoming more popular for several reasons. First, they are more energy-efficient than traditional HVAC systems, which can save you money on your energy bills. Second, they are versatile and can both heat and cool your indoor space. Finally, they are environmentally friendly and produce less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional HVAC systems. If you are considering a heat pump for your home or business, contact us for more information or to schedule an installation or maintenance. Our team of HVAC experts can help you find the perfect heat pump for your needs and ensure that it is installed and maintained correctly for optimal performance. Don't wait, make the switch to a heat pump today and start enjoying all-year-round comfort and savings on your energy bills.
As the weather warms up, it's essential to switch your HVAC thermostat from heat to AC to keep your home comfortable. However, it's important to know the best time to make the switch to avoid switching back and forth between heat and AC, which can increase your energy bills and cause wear and tear on your HVAC system. Wait for Warm Days One of the most significant factors to consider when making the switch is the outside temperature. It's best to wait for a stretch of 7-10 warm days before making the switch to ensure that the warmer weather is here to stay and that you won't have to turn your heat back on until winter. This will also prevent extra energy usage and wear and tear on your HVAC system. Change the Air Filter It's essential to change your air filter regularly, you can learn more about when to do so here , especially before switching to air conditioning. During the warmer months, the air filter catches more allergens and pollen that could be harmful if left unfiltered. A dirty air filter can also reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and increase your energy bills. Make sure to replace your air filter before making the switch to ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently and keeps your home's air clean. Choose One Temperature Constantly changing the temperature setting can make your HVAC system less cost-effective. It's best to choose one temperature that you and your household will be comfortable in and leave the thermostat set on it. This will keep your home comfortable while avoiding extra energy usage and wear and tear on your HVAC system. Schedule an Inspection It's important to schedule HVAC unit inspections at least twice a year. One inspection should be scheduled in the spring when the temperature shifts from cooler to warmer. A professional inspection ensures that your HVAC system is working correctly and efficiently, preventing unexpected breakdowns and extending the lifespan of your system. Contact B. Dumont Heating and Air to schedule your HVAC unit inspection and to ensure your HVAC system is working correctly to keep you and your family comfortable indoors this season.
Keeping up with regular maintenance is a great way to save money when it comes to your HVAC unit. Not only will it keep your HVAC system running efficiently, but it will help prevent you from spending hundreds to thousands of dollars in repairs. Here are a few things you can do to keep your HVAC system in good condition. 1. Schedule Professional Preventative Maintenance It is recommended that two preventative maintenance inspections should be scheduled every year when the seasons change from warm weather to cold, and vice versa. This prevents breakdowns caused specifically by temperature shifts. 2. Change Air Filters Regularly The filters in your HVAC unit catch particles in the air like dust and dirt so they are not spread throughout your home. Keeping your air filters changed out improves the air quality in your home and helps your HVAC system work more efficiently. You can read more about when to change out your air filters here . 3. Remember to Visually Inspect Your HVAC System When you change out your air filter, it is good practice to take a quick glance at your system and make sure nothing looks out of the ordinary. If your system doesn’t seem to be running properly, make sure to schedule an inspection to prevent further damage to your HVAC system. 4. Eliminate Around Both the Indoor and Outdoor HVAC units Clutter around your unit can negatively affect its efficiency. Make sure any leaves, branches, or other debris are removed from any outdoor unit. Also, make sure that any clutter is kept away from the indoor unit to prevent excessive dust collection. This can cause your air filter to fill up faster and prevent your system from working as effectively as it should. 5. Replace Your Thermostat Batteries Thermostat maintenance often gets overlooked, remember to change out your batteries regularly to maintain your thermostat’s performance. 6. Replace Your System The average lifespan of an HVAC unit is anywhere from 15 to 25 years. If your unit is reaching the end of those 15 to 25 years, you might consider replacing the HVAC system. Compared to an older system, a new HVAC system would be more energy efficient saving you energy and money every month. Although having a new system installed is not the cheapest maintenance option, in the long run, it can be very beneficial to your home’s energy efficiency. Keeping up with your HVAC System Maintenance can save you extra hassle and money. Contact B. Dumont Heating and Air today to schedule an inspection to make sure your system is running properly! https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/hvac/hvac-maintenance-tips/
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/programmable-thermostats https://learn.compactappliance.com/programmable-thermostats/
According to the NFPA “Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. Fire departments responded to an estimated average of 44,210 fires involving heating equipment per year from 2016-2020, accounting for 13% of all reported home fires during this time, and these fires resulted in annual losses of 480 civilian deaths.” It is crucial to note that almost half of all home heating equipment-related fires occur between December and January. Portable space heaters are one of the most convenient ways to heat a room, but they are also responsible for causing the majority of damage in most heating equipment fires. To prevent heating equipment-related fires in your home, there are several preventative measures you can take: Keep all flammable objects at least three feet away from portable space heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and other heating equipment. Never leave space heaters unattended or turn them on while you sleep. Do not plug home heating equipment into an extension cord. Do not use your stove or oven to heat your home or dry clothes. Always place portable heating equipment on a level surface, avoiding high or unlevel surfaces to prevent tipping over. Never use any home heating equipment with a damaged cord. Install and maintain carbon monoxide and fire alarms. Call a qualified service provider to conduct annual inspections and maintenance on your home heating systems.
It's important to take care of your HVAC system in order to keep it running well. One way to maintain your system is by regularly changing the air filter. A clean air filter not only helps your system run more smoothly but also more efficiently. How often you should change your air filter depends on several factors, including the filter type, the size of your home, how often you use your HVAC system, whether you have pets or allergies, and seasonal conditions. Type of Filter There are two types of air filters: fiberglass and pleated. Fiberglass filters are cheaper but need to be changed every 30 days and are not as effective at capturing dust and other particles. Pleated filters are more expensive but are better at capturing particles and can last up to 90 days. Most filters come with guidelines on how frequently they should be replaced. Home Type The size of your home and how often you use your HVAC system are also important factors. Larger homes require more air filtration than smaller homes, and homes that use their HVAC system year-round will need more frequent air filter changes than vacation homes that only use their system a few times a year. Pet Pets can also affect your air filter. They release hair and dander into the air and bring in additional dirt, pollen, and other particles from outside. If you have pets, it's a good idea to check your filters every 1 to 2 months and replace them when they're dirty. Allergies If you or your family suffers from allergies, it's important to check your air filters regularly and change them every 30-50 days to prevent them from becoming clogged and exacerbating your allergy symptoms. Seasons Seasonal conditions also play a role. During the spring and fall, your HVAC system typically runs less frequently than during the rest of the year, so your filter won't become as dirty as quickly. However, during the summer and winter, your system runs more frequently, causing your filter to collect more dust and other contaminants. If your home experiences these seasonal conditions, you won't need to change your air filter as often during the spring and fall. It's important to note that allergens are typically higher during these seasons, so not running your HVAC system could ultimately worsen your allergies since the particles won't be trapped in the filters. An option to prevent this would be to keep your fan on during these times so the air in your home continues to be filtered and the air quality improves. If you choose to keep the fan on, you'll need to maintain your air filters as you normally would throughout the year. In conclusion, the frequency of air filter replacements depends on the type of filter you use and the lifestyle of those in your home. Follow the guidelines of the filters you purchase and use your best judgment to determine when to change out the air filters in your home.