Posts Tagged ‘Wallingford’

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Springfield PA Heating Question: What Is a Variable Speed Blower on a Forced Air Heating System?

Monday, October 29th, 2012

As its name implies, a variable speed blower (or fan) can move at varying speeds. As opposed to single-speed fans, a variable speed blower can adjust its speed based on the heating or cooling needs of your home. This allows it to enjoy energy efficiencies that aren’t available to single-speed blowers. If your home needs just a small amount of heat added to it, the fan can turn on slowly to gradually adjust the temperature. Below we’ve outlined some of the benefits of having a variable speed blower in your Springfield PA heating system.

Greater Comfort

Because a different speed settings they can distribute heated air more evenly across your house. This results in increase in general comfort in your home. With the added speeds, your heating system is more precise and can regulate the airflow throughout your house.

Greater Efficiency

With more fan speeds, your heating system isn’t stopping and starting as often. The process of starting the air moving and starting the fan consumes a large amount of energy. By allowing the fan to operate longer at lower speeds, you can avoid that costly startup period. In general, variable speed systems use about 2/3rd less energy.

Cleaner Air

When the system isn’t running, the fan is constantly moving. This allows your system to circulate more air through your air filter and capture more particles. It also doesn’t allow dust or pollen to settle in your ducts which can cause irritation for people who suffer from allergies or asthma.

Quieter

Having multiple speeds allows the fan to operate at slower speeds more often. This reduced speed doesn’t create as much noise as a fan that can only run at full speed.

The experts at Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning have years of experience working with variable and single speed fans. If your home in Springfield PA doesn’t have a variable speed fan in the heating system, call us today to talk with one of our heating professionals.

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Springfield PA Heating Tip: Benefits of a Maintenance Program

Monday, October 22nd, 2012

Some people, when they hear about the maintenance programs offered by local Springfield PA heating and air conditioning contractors, think that they are not worth the money.  However, that is rarely the truth. A maintenance program potentially can save the customer quite a lot. If you have questions about our service plan, call Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning today!

Repair Savings

Most maintenance programs include annual equipment inspections. During these inspections, your heating and air conditioning technicians can detect minor repairs that if left unattended could turn into catastrophic system failures. Repairing those kinds of huge problems is typically more expensive than the cost of regular maintenance.

Energy Savings

Your system wears down over time—it’s a fact. As your heating and AC system ages, it has to work harder to heat or cool your home. Many maintenance membership programs include regular tune-up visits. Tuning up your equipment is a great way to keep it running as efficiently as possible.

Repair Discounts

Many companies offer discounts on services for customers who join their maintenance club. At Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning, we give our service club members a 20% discount on replacement air quality products and a 5% discount on heating and air conditioning replacements.

Preferred Appointments

Some HVAC companies give preferential appointment times to their service members as well. At Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning, we guarantee our appointments to our service members.

If you have questions about the maintenance plans we offer in Springfield PA area or need to schedule a service, call Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning today!

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Media Heating Guide: Benefits of Forced Air Heating

Monday, September 24th, 2012

The vast majority of Americans have forced air heating systems in their homes, but if you do not or if you are considering a change to a different type of heating system here are a few benefits to consider before you make your decision. Forced air can be a very efficient alternative in your Media home compared to some other heating system types.

Can Accommodate Other Systems

First on the list is the fact that a forced air system can immediately accommodate installation of an air conditioner, humidifier, and whole house air cleaner. These systems would otherwise be installed independently or in single-room versions. Forced air heating makes it possible to use them in conjunction with your existing air handler and with much less energy consumption.

No Water Issues

Hydronic systems and boilers require a number of water pipes that might possibly start to leak. If this happens, your home’s heating system will be out of commission and you will have a big mess on your hands. However, forced air has no such issues. Ductwork needs to be maintained, but it cannot leak when a problem occurs.

Energy Efficiency

Compared to other fuel consuming devices like gas or oil boilers, forced air heating systems are very efficient. They offer AFUE ratings of up to 98% (in gas furnaces) and can support heat pumps which are both even more efficient as they burn no fuel for heat at all. They are only available if you have a forced air heating system however.

Modern boilers and other hydronic heating systems are efficient, generally quite safe and affordable to install and maintain, so the right heating system for your home depends on your individual needs.

For more information about installing a new heating system in Media, give Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning a call!

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Glen Mills PA Heating Tips: Things to Look for When Buying a Heating System

Monday, September 17th, 2012

If the time has come to buy a new heating system for your Glen Mills PA home, there are a number of things you should consider. This is not just another upgrade – it is the heart of your HVAC system and will provide heat for your family for years to come. So, you want to ensure it is perfectly sized, has the right efficiency rating and has all of the features you’re looking for before plopping down your credit card. Here are some specific things to keep in mind:

  • Size of the Heating System – Your heating system needs to be the exact right size for your home based on the total square footage being heated, the type and state of the insulation you have and the ventilation system in your home. A heating system that’s too small won’t heat your home sufficiently, but one that’s too large it will short-cycle, costing more to operate and putting stress on the device.
  • Fuel Type – If you are having a furnace or boiler installed, what type of fuel will you use to produce heat? There are multiple options available that will affect not only the cost of installation but of future operation.
  • Efficiency Rating – Furnaces and boilers come with efficiency ratings between 80% and 98%, meaning there is a very big range to choose from. The cost will scale with the efficiency rating but you will save that much or more on your future bills.
  • Scope of the Upgrade – Are you simply replacing an existing system or are you installing an entirely new type of heating system. This is an important distinction that will affect what you select and what other upgrades may be needed.

If you keep these four things in mind and have a Glen Mills PA heating professional on hand to help you determine exactly how to match them to your home’s particular needs, you can ensure the right heating system is installed on day one. Call Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning today if you are interested in installing a new heating system in the Glen Mills PA area!

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Media Air Conditioning Question: What is Mini Split Air Conditioning?

Monday, August 6th, 2012

With so many air conditioning system types on the market it is important to understand each of them when looking into one for your specific needs.  Mini split air conditioning systems are a wonderful option for either those with smaller space to accommodate an air conditioner inside, or for those that do not want to hassle with installation of a ductwork system.  Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning is an air conditioning company in Media that has experience working with mini split air conditioners and can help you understand them a little bit more.

Mini Split Air Conditioning Systems

Mini split air conditioning systems are compact in design and do not use ductwork systems to send air into a home or small business.  Rather they have two main components which work together: an outdoor condenser and compressor cabinet and an indoor air handler.  These two units are connected by the refrigerant tubing, power line, and drainage tubes.

Mini split air conditioners are normally used where a few small rooms need to be cooled, such as in a multi-family home, apartment, and in room additions on existing homes where the central air conditioning system will not be modified.  One single condenser unit can be connected to multiple indoor air handling units, which means the system can cool multiple rooms at once.  Additionally, on each air handling unit come the controls to set temperature settings and turn individual air handling units on or off as needed.  This way unused rooms need not be cooled, wasting energy to do so.

Mini splits have a number of mounting options and can be window mounted, wall-mounted or ceiling mounted through a flush drop-ceiling, or by being suspended from the ceiling.  These options are space-savers, allowing interior space of homes to be used for other purposes.

Mini split air conditioning is a wonderful option for those who do not have a duct system in place and still want the option to air condition without the added cost of that installation.

Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning has worked with mini split air conditioning and a variety of other air conditioner types. We are proud to offer efficient AC services such as mini split installation and replacement, as well as mini split air conditioning repair and maintenance.  Contact Cool It for all your Media mini split system needs!

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Media HVAC Guide: Using Heat Pumps for Air Conditioning

Monday, July 30th, 2012

Many times when we hear the words “heat pump” we think of just that: heating an internal space.  However, heat pumps do more than just heat air: heat pumps also air condition indoor air.  As a licensed air conditioning company in Media, Cool It HVAC understands how heat pumps work and can help you see how they might work for you as well.  So when it comes to the question of how using heat pumps for air conditioning works, let us be your guide!

How Heat Pumps Air Condition Indoor Air

Heat pumps utilize only a small amount of energy which must be purchased within the process of cooling indoor air.  A heat pump creates cold air through the process of thermal energy in which air is moved from one location to another and in the process the air is cooled.

While normally heat pumps pull heat from the air (air-source heat pump) for use in heating indoor spaces the process is just revered for air conditioning.  With air conditioning purposes heat pumps pull the cold temperatures from either the air or ground.  During the air conditioning process hot air from inside is pumped outside while the cold air from outside is pumped inside.  It is one of the simplest methods of air conditioning and heating around.

There are many great qualities about heat pumps.  One is the fact that they are very energy-efficient, especially in the winter when the heating element is being utilized.  This is because they use only a fraction of the amount of purchased energy which other heating systems take to heat.  While in air conditioning mode they are still very energy-efficient but it is more comparable to what air conditioning systems offer as well.

Even so there are other distinct advantages of using heat pumps such as the fact that they are smaller in size and are generally located outside, which means they save on space indoors.  Because they provide both heating and air conditioning, that also means easier installation with one single unit, as well as less maintenance and fewer repairs since you do not have to do those things for separate air conditioner and heating units.

Use Your Heat Pump for Air Conditioning!

Cool It HVAC is a certified air conditioning company in Media that provides a wide variety of air conditioning services such as heat pump installation and replacement, as well as heat pump repair and maintenance.  Our Media AC technicians will provide you with quality workmanship which is completed in a timely manner.

 

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Springfield AC Question: What Is the Difference Between Ductless and Central Air Conditioning?

Monday, July 9th, 2012

When considering air conditioning solutions that cover the whole house, some Springfield homeowners are surprised to learn that they have options besides just traditional central air conditioning. While that is still the best option for many people, another option to consider is ductless air conditioning.

They both keep your whole home cool, so what’s the difference? Actually, there are a few, having to do with the configuration of the machinery, relative ease of installation and some other factors.

Equipment & Installation

The two types of systems are alike in that they both have indoor and outdoor units, but they differ in just how those units are arranged and what they do. Ductless systems consist of an outdoor compressor/condenser unit and several indoor air handlers. Each indoor unit is designed to cool one room or area and is controlled independently of the others. The indoor units are connected to the outdoor unit via a conduit that is filled with refrigerant. By having the individual indoor units perform the air handling, ductless systems can be installed more easily, since usually just a small hole for the conduit is all that is needed to connect the outdoor unit to the indoors.

Contrast that configuration with central AC, where the air handling is done by a central indoor unit, usually located in the basement. The cooled air is then delivered to the various rooms of the house via air ducts. Ductless systems make ductwork unnecessary.

Advantages

Each type of system has its advantages. Central air conditioning is the best choice for homes that have ductwork already in place, since that will make for the easiest installation. Also, many people like the idea of having one unit to cool the whole house instead of having to control the indoor units separately, as with ductless systems. However, central AC can be zoned if you like.

Ductless systems are generally more efficient to operate, since there is less opportunity for cooled air to be lost in the ducts. They are usually the best option for smaller homes or any homes that don’t have existing ductwork.

No matter which type of system you choose, your home will be cool and comfortable. It is largely a matter of what type of system works better for your particular situation, so there is no right or wrong solution. Call Cool It today if you have any questions about Springfield air conditioning installation!

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Media Air Conditioning Guide: Signs of AC Electrical Problems

Monday, June 25th, 2012

The trouble with electrical problems in any appliance is that they are often difficult to detect or notice until something goes really wrong. Sometimes this can even mean bringing about an unsafe situation. Learn to spot the signs of electrical problems in your Media AC system for early detection and to prevent bigger problems.

1.       Bad, Strange or Unusual Odor

A number of problems could potentially cause strange odors to emanate from your air conditioner, but the most dangerous and acute cause is an electrical problem. A faint burning smell can indicate that the insulation has melted off the internal wiring, creating an unsafe condition of exposed wires  inside your AC unit. Exposed wires can cause short circuits, fires or worse, so cut the power to the system right away and see professional repairs.

2.       Frequently Tripped Circuit Breakers or Blown Fuses

If your AC is frequently faulting out due to a tripped breaker or blown fuse, it could be trying to tell you that there is an electrical problem that needs attention. Circuit breakers are designed to trip and cut power to the appliance when the circuit is overloaded, as a fail safe mechanism to prevent unsafe operation. While an occasional trip is usually nothing to worry about – it could just be too many appliances operating at once – a frequent occurrence could be the sign of a deeper and potentially dangerous problem.

3.       Excessive Cycling On & Off

Do you hear your AC system frequently turning on and then cutting back off just a few minutes later, only to repeat the cycle again in just another few minutes? This is called excessive cycling, and it can be a sign of thermostat malfunction. If the wiring in your thermostat is faulty or malfunctioning, you will experience excessive cycling from your AC system.

4.       Air Not as Cool As it Used to Be

A noticeable decline in cooling performance can be a warning sign of myriad common AC issues, including an underlying electrical problem. One cause is a change in the line voltage, which can disrupt operation of the compressor, which makes it less able to cool the air. If you notice any appreciable drop in your system’s cooling output, call a professional to diagnose the problem.

5.       AC Won’t Power On

Sometimes, your AC simply won’t power on. This could be the result of any number of electrical problems, from a poorly wired thermostat to an overloaded circuit that keeps tripping the breaker. It could also be the wiring to the blower motor or compressor, or something different entirely. Either way, a unit that simply won’t turn on is a clear problem that should be checked out right away.

Any time you notice or suspect an electrical problem with any major home system or appliance, the smart thing to do is cut the power at the breaker box or fuse panel and call an electrician or a qualified Media air conditioning professional to fix the problem. Electricity is dangerous, and electrical work should only be performed by authorized professionals. Call Cool It Heating and Air Conditioning today if you need any air conditioning repair!

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Media Air Conditioning Tip: Things to Check on Your Broken AC Before Calling a Professional

Tuesday, May 29th, 2012

A broken air conditioner is a stressful situation, especially since you’re considering whether you need a Media AC professional to come out. No one likes spending hundreds of dollars to have a professional take a look at their system, so before you call anyone, make sure to check these problems. You may be able to fix the problem on your own without spending a dime.

 Thermostat

The thermostat is one of the most common problems you’ll have with an air conditioner.  Make sure the thermostat wasn’t knocked out of position and the sensors near your coils are in the right place. Often times, a bumped sensor or a slightly off thermostat can cause this kind of problem and as a result, you’ll be left without steady cooling.

 Check Your Filters

Another common problem that can cause issues with your air conditioner is filter clogging. While the system will continue to run with a clogged filter, there are a few issues that might pop up – it could smell funny or you might notice icing on the outside line (a major problem). If you allow the filter to get so clogged as to block the air flow from your system, you can expect a number of problems to crop up.

 Blower Belts

Check the system’s blower belt for damage like cracking, excess slack or general wear. A blower belt that isn’t properly installed or that needs to be replaced will reduce air flow which can result in ice buildup or poor air flow – it will make it harder for your system to maintain a steady temperature.

 Check the Outdoor Unit

Check to make sure nothing is blocking the outdoor unit. Clean the condenser coils and remove any debris that might have built up around the outdoor unit. Often, slowed air flow is caused by nothing more than leaves piled in front of your condenser.

If none of these problems is the culprit or if you fix them all and your system continues to struggle, it is time to call a Media air conditioning professional like Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning.

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Media HVAC Tip: Green Building Trends for New Homes

Monday, May 7th, 2012

In a society with an increasing an eye on reducing waste and creating energy-efficient spaces, it might not be as surprising to know that the green building market has been steadily increasing over the past few years, and in years to come is expected to triple from what it is now.  The variety of green building trends for new homes which are in place today are staggering and exciting, and will ultimately change the way we build homes and business facilities in Media, permanently.  According to the Earth Advantage Institute, below are the latest green building trends for new homes to watch for in the near future.

  • Urban Density:  Homeowners are opting to build in the empty space between existing homes or buildings.  These lots are desired by those who want to be closer to city-centers and hotspots.
  • Green Multi-Family Homes:  An increased interest in energy-saving building options and an increase in the number of multi-family homes being built mean an increase in green multi-family homes.
  • Energy Upgrades Drive Home Remodels:  Consumer preference has switched to remodeling in order to save energy in their upgrades.  Thus contractors have begun to offer these types of services as a standard option in remodeling projects. Some of these services including installing energy efficient air conditioners and furnaces.
  • Development and Testing of New Materials: National labs and research departments are working with construction firms in order to produce test facilities and sensor-filled buildings which track real-time energy performance of new materials and equipment.
  • Consumer-Friendly Home Energy Tracking Devices:  Sensor-based energy and water monitoring systems are being used by consumers to save money all throughout their homes and the number of companies creating these tracking devices is increasing, making them easier to come by.
  • Energy Education for Commercial Tenants:  Commercial building energy disclosure is pushing building owners to be more energy efficient, this in addition to educating tenants on ways for them to contribute to saving energy means that more commercial buildings are going green.
  • Transparency in Home Marketing:  Consumers who have instant access to information are more educated and can see through housing scams more easily. Real estate agents who are forthright and educate clients even further on the benefits of having energy efficient home features means more confidence in the green housing market.
  • More Accurate Appraisals:  With more educated consumers looking for Certified Residential Green Appraisers, the lending community is beginning to follow suit and pay attention even further to the added value and return on investment for green homes and green remodels.
  • Broader Adoption of Residential Energy Ratings for Homes:  Energy labeling systems are being put into place nationally, thus causing homeowners to be more educated regarding energy savings possibilities.  More extensive usage of residential energy ratings for homes means homeowners are undertaking more energy upgrade work.
  • Smart Grid-Compatible High-Performance Homes:  More new homes are utilizing “grid-aware” appliances which monitor and report their own usage with the ability to increase or decrease electric usage remotely, thus saving energy.

For more information about how you can upgrade your Media home’s HVAC system, give Cool It Heating & Air Conditioning a call!

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