To benefit from AC replacement, you must find the right AC unit for your home. It’s important to consult with an air conditioning service contractor. Whether your existing system is reaching the end of its life or is outdated, you have an opportunity to find a more energy-efficient system. However, ignoring important details or making a mistake can have costly consequences.
Finding the right AC unit requires knowing the size of the model you need. We’ll look at numerous factors related to air conditioner sizing and other variables to discuss with your HVAC contractor.
Square footage isn’t the only size variable to consider when selecting an AC unit. Nonetheless, the square footage of individual rooms and your entire home is usually the first place to start. The larger your home, the more cooling capacity you need. Miscalculating capacity can mean getting too much or too little cool air and spending more on energy.
Ceiling heights aren’t included in square footage, but if your home has higher ceiling heights than average, it will require more power to be properly cooled. Ceiling height also influences air circulation. You’ll need a higher-capacity unit to counteract the accumulation of rising warmer air. Irregular airflow patterns caused by sloped or vaulted ceilings must also be considered.
It may seem less obvious, but windows have a big impact on an AC unit’s efficiency. If you have a lot of south- and west-facing windows, more sunlight causes higher heat gain, requiring a stronger AC. Other window-related AC sizing factors include:
Insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics can affect AC efficiency. Each insulating material has an R-value; the higher the number, the greater a material’s thermal resistance (ability to prevent heat transfer). Replacing old materials or filling in poorly insulated gaps or spots with high R-value insulation can reduce energy consumption.
The climate conditions in your area determine how much cooling you need. A smaller air conditioner won’t perform well in soaring summer temperatures, and if your region sees cooler summers, a larger system may not be cost-effective. Nonetheless, you must consider the temperature range throughout the year, along with typical humidity levels.
The capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The larger your home, the more BTUs you’ll need, but the requirements vary. For example, a well-insulated, shaded room generally needs 25 to 30 BTUs per square foot, but rooms with average insulation and moderate sun exposure may need 30 to 35 BTUs per square foot. However, a brightly lit room with poor insulation can require 35 to 40 BTUs per square foot.
Therefore, capacity requirements can vary significantly. Other factors that influence BTU requirements include the number of occupants, lighting fixtures, and the presence of heat-generating appliances. For a novice, working all these variables in a calculation can be overwhelming.
An HVAC professional has an easier way to perform a load calculation and find the right AC for your home. They may use formulas to input specific numbers. Or, they can use load calculation software tools that further streamline the process. This means load calculations can take less time, but this doesn’t minimize their importance at all.
Every air conditioning unit has an efficiency rating on its label. You can use this to compare units and predict how a system will operate under standard conditions. Energy efficiency ratings include:
Sizing, efficiency, and other factors are heavily considered. It’s also important to consider the best type of unit. If you have a small home or a smaller room to cool, a window unit is an option. Central air conditioning systems are often used to cool entire homes; they use ducts to distribute air throughout the space.
However, a split unit is better suited for cooling a smaller space or individual room. More advanced solutions include heat pumps (provide both heating and cooling) that are even more efficient. Another option is a mini-split; it allows you to zone your home for different levels of heating or cooling in different locations.
An AC unit must fit in the available space. If you have a small home, you may have fewer options. Also, consider the HVAC equipment you have. Does it match the AC unit you want to install? Will the new AC and your ductwork be compatible? If your ducts aren’t the appropriate length and diameter, issues with air velocity and pressure drop can affect performance and efficiency. To avoid persistent issues, you may want to consider replacing your entire HVAC system.
In our years of serving homeowners in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, our licensed AC technicians have installed high-efficiency cooling systems tailored to each client’s needs. We use the highest-quality products and brands and guarantee the highest quality of work. During AC replacement, our team advises you on the ideal model for your home and will remove your old unit, install the new system, and test it. To schedule air conditioning installation in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today.
It’s no secret that furnace maintenance can save you money. An annual tune-up can improve efficiency and avoid major repairs and early replacement. But it’s not the only way to care for your furnace. Many DIY furnace maintenance steps are effective. We’ll look at simple ways you can maintain your heating system throughout the year and some more advanced tasks to take on if you’re comfortable.
The air filter traps contaminants such as dust and pollen to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and strain your furnace. The filter should be replaced every three months or whenever it’s dirty or clogged. When changing it, note the filter’s length, width, and depth (it’s usually printed on the side of the filter) or measure it, as you’ll need to install a filter of the same size.
The filter slot should be where the return air duct connects to the furnace. This is usually on the side near the bottom. Open the door or panel covering the filter and remove the old one. When inserting the new filter, make sure the arrows on it point toward the furnace.
If you have an oil furnace, the oil filter prevents impurities from blocking the oil burner nozzle. A clogged nozzle can cause a misfire. The system will then shut down. Replacing the oil filter requires closing the oil valve, removing the dirty filter, and disposing of it in compliance with your area’s hazardous waste regulations. Then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing a new oil filter.
Dirt and dust on your furnace can get inside and make it inefficient. Cleaning outer surfaces is simple. You can use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clean the metal case. Clean the area around the unit too.
There also shouldn’t be any clutter nearby, which can inhibit airflow or make it hazardous to work around your furnace. Remove boxes, tools, or toys. In addition, vacuum floor registers and then remove them to vacuum out duct connection points as well. This can improve efficiency and indoor air quality.
Air registers throughout your home tend to collect dust, lint, pet hair, and other debris. If a register is clogged, it can restrict airflow, similar to a blocked filter. Therefore, the furnace will work harder to maintain the set temperature, so maintenance isn’t limited to the unit itself or its immediate surroundings. All registers should be removed and cleaned with a high-power vacuum.
The flue connects the furnace to its exhaust system. Remove any debris blocking it and look for cracks or other signs of damage. Any issues can cause harmful gases to leak into your home, including deadly carbon monoxide. Dirt or debris can be removed from the flue pipe by removing the access panel and using a brush or vacuum with an attachment. Reattach the panel when you’re done.
Inspect the outside of the flue pipe. If there are small holes, they can be patched temporarily with foil tape. But if there are larger areas of damage or corrosion, call a professional to repair or replace the flue.
The condensate lines of a high-efficiency furnace remove excess moisture. If they get clogged, water can back up and cause a leak. The condensate line is usually connected to a floor drain or external outlet near the furnace. To clean it, disconnect the line from both ends and flush out debris using either a gentle stream of water or a vacuum hose. If the line is clogged with mineral deposits, clear it with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.
Only access the inside of the furnace if you’re comfortable doing so. The inner workings are quite sensitive. They are also prone to getting dirty. With the furnace’s power and gas supply off, remove the access panel and locate the flame sensor near the burner assembly. Remove the sensor gently and clean any debris with a soft cloth or fine-grit sandpaper. Then reinsert the sensor and make sure it’s secure.
Next, remove dust or dirt from the pilot light with a small brush or compressed air. Depending on your furnace model, the pilot assembly may have to be removed for cleaning. Also, clean the ignitor, which is a critical combustion component, and check for cracks or other signs of damage. Check the wiring connections for signs of corrosion or looseness as well.
Our technicians are experienced in maintaining, installing, and repairing many types of heating systems. You can save money by properly caring for your furnace throughout the year. We also recommend scheduling maintenance in the fall so the unit runs smoothly all winter. Our comprehensive maintenance services help avoid major repairs and breakdowns and extend your furnace’s operating life. To schedule maintenance or other heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (415) 223-5615 today.
Cleaning a furnace requires time and effort and is not a simple undertaking. Therefore, you should consider hiring a professional furnace cleaner at least once a year. It can be part of your annual heating maintenance visit. Other than changing the filter, which is simple, you should rely on a trained technician for more complex furnace and heating services.
Furnace maintenance keeps your heating unit running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It can prevent big repairs and give your furnace a few more years of life. A thorough furnace cleaning has many benefits. We’ll now look at why you need a professional to help keep your furnace clean:
Don’t wait for a professional furnace cleaner to change the air filter. Your furnace has either a disposable or cleanable filter. The product manual should identify the type, recommended size, and location. Disposable filters are pleated or non-pleated and come in Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings of 1 to 16 (for most homes, a MERV 6-12 filter is sufficient).
Regular furnace tune-ups and cleanings help your heating unit run more efficiently and improve safety and reliability. We specialize in maintaining gas, oil, and electric furnaces. For professional furnace maintenance in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area or anywhere in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-5096 today.
Faulty AC coils can cause serious problems, so schedule AC repair as soon as you notice something is wrong. Evaporator and condenser coils transport refrigerant so an HVAC system can collect and dissipate heat. It won’t do so effectively if the coils are damaged. Fortunately, the effects are noticeable, so you should know when to call a local AC contractor.
The evaporator and condenser coils are connected by coolant lines, which bring refrigerant to and from the condenser. A fan in the condenser unit dissipates heat from the refrigerant in the lines. The compressor then pumps the coolant back to the evaporator, where coils absorb heat and a blower pushes cool air into ducts. The coolant returns to the condenser to dissipate heat once again.
The most common effects of faulty AC coils in your home include:
Check the AC coils often to reduce the risk of damage. Dust, hair, grime, and dirt can build up on them over time. The longer you wait, the harder the buildup is to remove. Use an AC coil cleaner or hose off outdoor coils to prevent damage, or call a contractor for help. If the coils freeze, have them check for a leak or airflow issue and, if necessary, correct it.
Use an AC coil cleaner that’s labeled for use with your type of system. The user manual or your AC installer may recommend certain products. You can also use a mix of water and mild dish detergent, and even add a little distilled white vinegar, for effective cleaning.
Coils may be sealed or repaired if the damage is limited to a small area. However, a leak is often caused by eroded metal and corrosion. If part of the coil is corroded, other areas are likely affected. An HVAC contractor will generally recommend replacing it, which can be less expensive than a repair and recharge.
We provide high-quality AC repair services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a faulty AC coil or any other problem, our skilled professionals find the most cost-effective, permanent solution. They promptly evaluate the effects of any problem so it can be quickly diagnosed and repaired. Our team also provides high-quality AC installation and maintenance. To learn more or schedule air conditioning services from experienced AC contractors near you, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.
A furnace install requires lots of considerations. Relying on guesswork can result in wasting money and having a heating system that doesn’t meet your needs. A furnace is an investment that can improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency for many years. Therefore, you need the help of an experienced heating contractor. But even before you hire furnace installers near you in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA, here are eight things to consider:
Repairing a furnace can save you money if the unit isn’t that old, hasn’t been serviced much, and the repair bill is less than half the cost of a new unit. If your furnace has reached the 15- to 20-year mark, consider replacing it. Are you looking for a higher-efficiency model and to save on your heating bills? Then, replacing your furnace can help you achieve your goals.
Since efficiency ranks high in importance, you want to consider the energy-efficiency rating of any new furnace you buy. It is determined by a product’s annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. Today’s mid-efficiency units have an AFUE of 80% or higher, but a high-efficiency furnace can have an AFUE rating of as high as 98.5%. Generally, the higher a unit’s efficiency, the more it costs upfront, but the more you can save on long-term energy costs.
Also, you can save with tax credits and rebate programs for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades.
A furnace’s size can refer to its physical dimensions (the unit must fit in the available space). However, it generally refers to the unit’s heating capacity. The required capacity depends on your home’s square footage, but a professional will include other variables in a heat load calculation.
An undersized furnace won’t provide enough heat and will run longer to compensate. However, an oversized unit may not run long enough. Either way, energy consumption will be higher and the furnace can wear out faster.
Find the ideal location before a furnace is installed. This is an area with enough airflow and that’s properly insulated. There must also be an electrical outlet nearby to power the furnace and access to a vent leading outside. Consult with a contractor regarding necessary updates, even if you are replacing an existing furnace.
A furnace must also be placed in an area where there are no flammable items. If there are cleaning products, paper, laundry, wood scraps, paint, sawdust, or gasoline in the furnace room, remove these, so your furnace doesn’t become a fire hazard.
Before installing a new furnace, have a contractor evaluate your ductwork. They’ll look at whether your air ducts are properly sealed. If not, energy loss will be a problem, no matter how high the furnace’s AFUE rating is. A professional can seal ducts to minimize energy loss. They can also clean dirt and debris if necessary, which could otherwise reduce a furnace’s performance and efficiency.
Drafts and heat loss can cause dramatic temperature fluctuations between rooms. An increase in your electric bills is also likely. If your home has insulation issues, a heating contractor can evaluate and upgrade wall, ceiling, and attic insulation. They can also wrap the furnace in insulation to improve its performance and efficiency. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can also help as it can stop air from escaping.
If uneven temperatures are common in your home, a zoning system may be the right upgrade. It can help control how heat is distributed. Such an upgrade should be considered during a furnace install to ensure the equipment is compatible. Zoning systems typically require multiple thermostats throughout your home. A technician can help find a programmable or smart model that serves as a centralized hub for the entire system.
Zoning also requires air duct upgrades, including installing dampers. These act as valves to control how much warm air reaches each room.
Installing a furnace has safety implications. Make sure children don’t have access to the area where the unit is being installed. Technicians will be moving heavy equipment and using power tools. Shut off the gas line and circuit breaker for your furnace. If you can, do so before the contractor arrives so this step isn’t accidentally forgotten.
High-quality installation is the first step to having a safe, reliable, long-lasting furnace. At Trio Heating & Air, our licensed heating professionals have the training, tools, and equipment to complete a furnace install that ensures reliable heating and high efficiency. They also provide heating maintenance and repairs. To learn more about our heating, air conditioning, insulation, and air quality services, call (415) 223-5615 today.
A furnace install requires many considerations. Learn what to know for optimal performance and efficiency. Call Trio Heating & Air today.
Even if you’re proactive with HVAC maintenance, ductwork may be the last thing you think about. That’s not how it should be; air ducts have a major impact on system performance and efficiency. While AC duct maintenance, such as duct cleaning, can improve these (and indoor air quality), there are many reasons to consider AC duct replacement. It’s not the cheapest home improvement project or the most fun, but it can resolve many issues.
The reasons you should consult with an HVAC contractor regarding duct replacement include:
Properly installed and cared-for air ducts should last 10 to 15 years. Over time, the seals, joints, and seams in your ductwork can deteriorate, reducing HVAC system performance and increasing energy usage. Some duct systems start to deteriorate sooner. The only way to address age-related issues is to invest in AC duct replacement.
If there are gaps and holes in ducts, dust, allergens, mold, and other contaminants can fill the air you breathe. The effects can include increased allergies and asthma symptoms when you’re at home. Changing the air filter can provide relief; if it doesn’t, consider replacing ductwork to improve your indoor air quality.
If your energy bills are rising, and you haven’t used your HVAC system more (or have cut back to conserve and save), the reason may be in the air ducts. Leaky ducts let conditioned air escape. Or, ducts may be so dirty air cannot flow properly. Therefore, your AC will work harder to cool your home. A contractor can install new well-sealed ducts, so you save energy.
Reduced airflow can strain your HVAC system and prevent it from working effectively. This may be due to duct blockages or large air leaks. When air is not circulating in your home correctly or feels stale, it may be time to consider replacing ductwork.
Are some rooms too hot and others too cold? Leaks, gaps, and disconnections in ductwork can lead to temperature imbalances that never seem to go away. If ducts are in poor shape, they can prevent conditioned air from reaching parts of your home. By replacing air ducts, you can restore the temperature balance.
Air conditioning systems should perform quietly and air shouldn’t make noise as it travels through air ducts. Rattling, vibration noises, and other unusual sounds can mean your ductwork is clogged or damaged. Consult with a professional about repairing or replacing the system.
In areas where your ductwork is accessible, look for signs of damage. Call a professional if you see dents, punctures, collapsed ducts, kinked lines, and other signs the system needs to be repaired or replaced. Holes in your ducts mean they’re not distributing air properly and are likely letting in warm air and pollutants.
Mold is a sign of widespread moisture problems and potential damage to your ductwork. Once mold starts growing, it can spread throughout the system and release spores into the air. These can trigger allergies and serious health issues. Professional duct cleaning is often not enough to address the problem.
Foul odors can be a sign of mold in the duct system. Also, holes in ducts can allow smells in from outside or even other parts of your home. If your living space has smoky, chemical, cooking, bathroom, and other smells, the ductwork should be the first place to look.
If you’re renovating or remodeling your home, it’s a good time to replace your air ducts. Changes to the floor plan and layout may require moving or reconfiguring them. Plus, including AC duct replacement with your renovation avoids having to go through another disruptive project later.
Holes in air ducts are easy entryways for bugs and rodents. Pests can infest your home through ductwork and cause blockages in air ducts and HVAC units. They can also bring bacteria and disease-causing pathogens with them. The problem can often be solved with AC duct maintenance, but seriously damaged ductwork must be replaced.
Ductwork can be designed and installed in many ways. If it’s not configured and installed the way it should be for your home, your AC system won’t work efficiently. Replacing the duct system is the only way to eliminate hot and cold spots, efficiency problems, and indoor air quality issues related to poorly installed ducts.
Our experienced HVAC professionals know how to maintain and replace ductwork. Homeowners in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area and surrounding areas rely on us for high-quality duct cleaning, sealing, and repair. We can also determine the best time to consider AC duct replacement. To schedule a consultation, book service online or call (415) 223-5615 today.