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When Is It Time To Replace Your Furnace

Replace Your Furnace

Determining the Right Time to Replace Your Furnace

If you are on this website, something has brought you to consider the lifespan of your HVAC system. Perhaps a recent expensive repair bill arrived or you hear a new noise when the heat comes on. It reminded you that, like every mechanical system, your furnace will need to be replaced someday. Thinking about it now will give you some time to prepare for replacing your heating and air conditioning system since an emergency replacement is generally expensive and inconvenient.

Most of the available information about furnace replacement is written by manufacturers and installers, like Mullinix. While we endeavor to give you the best and most accurate information at hand, you might question the source, since we also hope to install your new furnace. Even the Department of Energy has an agenda different than yours when they offer information concerning furnace lifespan. Their agenda certainly does not consider your family’s budget. In this article, we will try to give you enough information to help you make a decision that meets your need.

How Long Do Furnaces Last?

Online information is very fluid concerning this question: you will see 15-20 years, 20-25 years, and even 25-30 years. No one can guaranty how long your furnace will last; we are left with some statistical generalities. Here it is: if your furnace is approaching 20 years of service life it is time to prepare for an eventual replacement. HVAC systems are a major purchase—take advantage of the advance notice.

What Leads to a Shortened Lifespan?

While no one can guaranty how long your furnace will last, we can tell what cuts into serviceable time.

  • Environmental conditions such as salt and moisture will lead to rust and corrosion in HVAC components. Prevent these conditions and repair them whenever possible to extend service life.
  • An improperly sized system will wear out quickly.
    • If the HVAC system is too large, it will heat or cool very quickly and shut off. Not only does the rapid cycling wear on electrical parts, but the rapid cycle results in less comfort than desired.
    • On the other hand, a system that is too small struggles to reach the desired temperature, even though it cycles long. Not only will it wear out quickly, but in the cooling season, an undersized system struggles to remove moisture.
  • Poor maintenance will shorten the lifespan of your furnace. That includes when the air filter is not changed regularly, dust accumulates on electrical components, or small repairs are neglected. Maintaining your HVAC system is the most effective thing you can do to lengthen its lifespan.

What Lengthens HVAC Lifespan?

Not only can we tell what shortens serviceable time, but we can also tell what lengthens service life:

  • Start with quality:
    • Selecting quality products makes a difference with every decision, and purchasing a key mechanical system to service your home is no different.
    • The U.S. Department of Energy says that improper installation of your HVAC system will reduce efficiency by 30% and will lead to premature failures. Make sure your HVAC professionals have the experience and training needed to properly install your system.
  • We cannot stress the importance of regular maintenance of your system. A technician will clean interior parts, inspect the electrical and mechanical parts for efficient, proper function, and perform small repairs as needed. This keeps your furnace and air conditioner in good working order, whether it is an old or new system.
  • Do your part by changing the air filter at least every three months.

Further Replacement Considerations

It might be time to replace your system if your system is 20 years old and:

  • You are facing expensive repairs or the replacement of expensive components. If you need to replace an air conditioning compressor or furnace heat exchange, the replacement cost might high enough that system replacement might be a wiser choice.
  • You are facing repeated repairs at inconvenient times.
  • Your utility bill has risen sharply or the furnace/air conditioner is tripping the breaker.
  • You are also planning a major remodel or room addition.

Have questions about replacing your furnace?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and furnace replacement, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Replace Your Furnace

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New Furnace Tips

New Furnace Tips

A New Furnace for Christmas

The transition from cooling to heating has led you to the decision to replace your furnace; the old unit served your family well, but it is time. Mullinix is grateful that you chose us to walk you through the process. The new furnace will function with greater efficiency and will take less energy than the old unit to keep you warm and comfortable. While you are waiting for all of the components to be delivered and the installation to be scheduled, here are some steps you can take to enhance the performance of the new furnace.

Improve Your Building Envelop

A technician performed a walk-through inspection and sized your furnace, customizing it to your living space. One step that you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your home is to check the attic insulation and check for obvious air leaks.

  • A quick inspection of your attic insulation is in order. Insert yourself through the opening enough to see the insulation. It should:
    • Appear like a smooth blanket, without hills and valleys
    • It should cover the ceiling joists by at least 4”
  • If your insulation needs attention, decide whether to call an insulator or to do-it-yourself
  • Use an incense stick to check windows and door frames for air movement. Use caulk and weather stripping as needed. This is definitely a do-it-yourself project.

Clean Your Ductwork

If your new furnace will tie into existing supply and return vents, make sure the ducts are all clean. The new furnace will start moving clean air throughout the house, instead of recirculating dust, pollen, and other airborne particles left from the old system. Cleaning ducts requires special equipment, but hiring a professional will be worth the cost.

Insist on a Smart Thermostat

Your new furnace will be installed with either a programmable thermostat (temperature control switch) or a Smart thermostat. Opt for the Smart thermostat. Take some time to learn the features and customize the new system to best suit your family. A smart thermostat allows you to:

  • Program daily or weekly heating schedules. By dropping the temperature overnight while everyone is sleeping, you will enhance your sleeping experience and save money.
  • Make changes to the schedule on the fly should your normal schedule change.
  • Customize your energy saving by being attuned to daily price fluctuations according to your local utility company.
  • Receive notifications, should a component malfunction or fail

Have questions about your New Furnace?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

New Furnace Tips

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Winterize Your Air Conditioner Unit

Winterize-Your-Air-Conditioner-1

Winterize Your Air Conditioner System

The last of the year’s warm days are quickly passing and we are facing the heating season of late Fall and Winter. It will be a while before you need the air conditioner (AC), so this is the time to winterize your Air Conditioner to make sure it stays ready for Spring. Winterization will also help extend the life of your air conditioner; here are several tips to winterize your Air Conditioner unit:

  1. These Winterize Your Air Conditioner Unit tips are recommendations; we first suggest that you follow your instruction manual to ensure the manufacturer’s warranty remains valid.
    1. Since HVAC equipment is becoming increasingly complex, do not attempt repairs on your own. Attempting repairs can be both dangerous and expensive, so leave it to the professionals.
    2. Manufacturers recommend an annual maintenance check with a qualified HVAC technician. Winterization is not an alternative to regular preventative maintenance visits.
  2. This is time to bring in window AC units. Removing window units will:
    1. Protect your room from leaks—both water leaks from blowing rain and cold air leaking through and around the unit.
    2. Protect the window unit from winter weather, including freezing rain that can damage the compressor fins.
    3. Extend the life of the window unit.
  3. Do you have central air conditioning or a heat pump? This is an important determination since a heat pump can be in use all winter while an AC unit will be dormant. During the summer, a heat pump moves heat out of the house to help cool and moves heat from the outside to help heat. The process is very energy efficient, so DO NOT turn a heat pump off. How can you tell the difference? Read the model number on the manufacturer’s label; if the model number includes the letters HP, it is a heat pump. If you still have questions, write the model number down and look it up online.
  4. When you have determined you have an air conditioner, prepare to turn the power off to the AC for the Winter.
    1. Look at the service panel to determine whether the AC has a dedicated circuit, separate from the furnace. If there is a dedicated circuit, turn the power off at the breaker.
    2. If the AC unit does not have a dedicated circuit breaker, look for a small breaker box on or near the outside unit. Flip the switch to “off.” When Spring arrives, make sure you flip the switch back to the “on” position approximately 24 hours before using the AC unit.
  5. After the power is off, gently wash the build-up of dirt from between the cooling fins.
    1. The outside AC unit is called a compressor or condenser; it squeezes refrigerant gas with great pressure. Once the pressure is released, the gas cools, providing the cooling needed for your home. The refrigerant gas then picks up heat and the hot gas passes through a series of tubes. Fins give greater surface area and airflow cools the gas before it is compressed again.
    2. Grass clippings and dirt collects between the fins and reduce the airflow. A gentle stream of water washes it out.
    3. Do NOT use a power washer! Too much pressure will bend the fins and prevent airflow.
  6. Inspect the roof gutter system in the immediate vicinity.
    1. Make sure leaks or a clogged and overflowing gutter are not dropping water directly into the AC unit. The water can freeze and cause damage.
    2. Make sure the gutters are not depositing standing water around the base of the AC unit.
  7. If you cover the outdoor AC nit to Winterize Your Air Conditioner, make sure you do it correctly:
    1. A cover that encapsulates the whole unit might attract small animals seeking shelter for the winter. Manufacturers do not recommend this.
    2. A cover over the top of the unit can provide protection from ice, leaves and falling limbs. Make sure that the covering is secured and will not blow away to cause damage.
    3. Schedule a date in early Spring to remove the cover. The cover will restrict airflow and can cause the AC unit to overheat. Overheating can result in the compressor unit failing.

Give Mullinix a call and schedule an HVAC maintenance visit to Winterize Your Air Conditioner; this will extend the life of your system and improve energy efficiency .

Have questions about how to Winterize Your Air Conditioner?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Winterize-Your-Air-Conditioner-1

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Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

As we enter late Fall and early Winter, the heating season is beginning in earnest. At Mullinix we care about the safety of our clients and offer some practical Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season to help protect your family and property.

Improperly used or poorly maintained heating equipment results in an annual average of 49,000 house fires:

  • 500 people lose their lives and 1,350 people are injured every year
  • The property loss exceeds $1.1B every year
  • About half of these fires happen during December, January and February1

Please, take steps to reduce the risk of fire by following some important safety tips.

Be prepared with smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Building codes require detectors on every level in new homes. If your home is not equipped with smoke and CO detectors, acquiring and installing them is a priority.

  • Some fire stations give detectors away during the heating season—it is worth investigating. Smoke detectors are inexpensive; don’t hesitate. Detectors save lives every year.
  • Smoke detectors should be installed in every bedroom or sleeping area.
  • Smoke detectors cannot protect you if they cease to function. Schedule battery replacement annually and push the little red button once per month to make sure they function properly.

Know the primary cause of home heating fires. Approximately 75% of home heating fires are caused by stationary or portable space heaters.

  • If you use electric-powered space heaters, it is essential that you take proper precautions:
    • Look for the UL safety notice to ensure it meets fire safety standards.
    • Electric space heaters draw significant power—inspect for damaged or frayed cords.
    • Plug the space heater into an outlet—do not use an extension cord.
    • Keep ANYTHING that can burn at least three feet away from the space heater.
    • Turn the space heater off when you leave the room or when you are going to sleep.
    • Do not place space heaters in high-traffic areas or within reach of small children.
  • If you use a wood/pellet burning stove or fireplace, it is essential that you take proper precautions:
    • A professional chimney sweep should inspect and clean your chimney annually. Twenty-five percent of home heating fires result from poorly maintained chimneys. Firewood leaves a deposit of a tar-like substance, called creosote. The build-up of creosote can lead to a fire inside the chimney that often ignites a house fire.
    • Flammable objects must be kept at least three feet from heat and ignition sources, including fire starters, wood, and pellets.
  • If you use central heat, it is essential that you take proper precautions:
    • An annual preventative maintenance inspection should be scheduled to ensure your furnace/heat pump functions safely and efficiently. An inspection will reveal potential problems before they become major problems and prevent home fire hazards.
    • Clean your ductwork regularly and make sure registers and returns are not blocked by furniture or drapes.
    • Replace your air filter regularly, at least every three months. This prevents stress on the furnace due to a clogged filter.

NEVER use an oven or stovetop to heat your home. The unvented exhaust gas from combustion contains CO, a colorless, odorless, yet poisonous gas.

Have questions about Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Fire Safety Tips During Heating Season

1https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Heating-equipment

 

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Heater Maintenance for Cooling Temperatures

Heater Maintenance for Cooling Temperatures

Heater Maintenance for Winter

As Fall comes, cooler temperatures will follow. Mornings have a nice crisp feel as you step outside for breakfast. Soon enough you will slide the thermostat setting over from Cool to Heat. You will expect your HVAC system to deliver warm air to the comfort setting you are accustomed to; it can be distressing when it does not live up to your expectations.

If your central heating system worked fine last season, you might wonder, why “fix it if it’s not broken?” But then commonsense takes over and you realize nothing good comes from waiting until your HVAC system fails during the heating season. Actually, the beginning of the heating season is an excellent time to call your HVAC system professional and schedule a preventative maintenance visit. Here are some good reasons for a maintenance visit now:

  • Safety. If your forced-air furnace uses propane, butane, or natural gas, it needs regular inspection to check for a gas leak, faulty burners, or cracks in the exhaust flue. Gases from these sources can enter your home with deadly results.
  • Potential Problems. Your heating and air conditioning professional can inspect electrical and mechanical components for reduced performance, which indicates imminent failure. Consider these small problems that are caught before they become big problems. If the problem is big and replacement is necessary, it is better to find it early, compared to a failure causing an emergency replacement during a stationary cold front that moves in all week long.
  • Clean air. Part of the maintenance service is a thorough cleaning of surfaces inside the system and installation of a new filter. All of the dust, pollen, and dander removed will no longer circulate throughout your home.
  • Efficiency. After checking for safety issues, inspecting for failing components, and giving it a thorough cleaning, your heater will run more efficiently and reduce your energy bills.

Why now?

HVAC professionals are under stress when systems are under stress—at the peak of both cooling and heating seasons. Extreme temperatures put increased load on units; you will know if your refrigerant has been leaking or a capacitor has failed when the temp has peaked or bottomed out.

Getting a routine visit during a slower season allows technicians to respond quickly. Once the cold weather arrives, repairs and replacements become more frequent and response time may be longer. Check for a seasonal special rate as an appreciation for calling during the seasonal lull.

Last season was hard on furnaces and heat pumps. Even if yours ran well all winter long, schedule your annual Heater Maintenance service now to keep it in good order this Fall and Winter.

Have questions about Heater Maintenance?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Heater Maintenance, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Heater Maintenance for Cooling Temperatures

 

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7 Heater Installation Tips for Homeowners

Heater Installation

Heater Installation

Whether replacing an aging HVAC system or determining the proper system for a new home, the decisions you make can impact the comfort and wellbeing of your family for the next twenty years. Since people do not purchase central heat and air on a whim or as an impulse, you will want to take some time to research and have questions answered. Before you begin to feel overwhelmed, let us share with you several considerations you need to know before deciding.

Hire Professionals for Heater Installation

Unless you are the ultimate do-it-yourselfer, it is in your best interest to hire an HVAC professional to design and install the system. Reputable companies or individuals will have certifications, references, and years of experience. Since this system will last 15 to 20 years, you should find someone with whom you can develop a long-term relationship, someone that you feel comfortable inviting back to your home for maintenance and repairs. Do some investigating, ask plenty of questions. Insist on quality workmanship and customer service.

Choose a Brand

A decision that goes hand-in-hand with choosing a professional is choosing a brand of the HVAC system. Most installers are associated with one or more brands of equipment. Companies design products they think will fit in particular market niches, very similar to automobile manufacturers. There will be advantages and disadvantages with each brand.

Which should have priority, the professional installer or the brand of product? You decide.

A Custom System

Whether you are replacing an old system or buying a new one, always request the installation professional to customize the new system.

  •  A calculation is made on the criteria present in your existing home; how many windows and doors, the R-value of the insulation, the number of floors, the square footage, and more.
  • Advanced designs increase the efficiency of units consistently. Certain technologies are available now that were not available 20 years ago.
  • Any remodeling or room additions can be a part of the new calculation.

Within a manufacturer’s product line, you will see various options—standard and deluxe models. A custom design will allow you to discuss options and results with the installation professional.

After completing the calculations and customizing your preferred design, the installer will provide you with a job estimate, with material and labor costs. The design calculation and cost estimate should be free of charge but ask ahead of time to avoid misunderstandings.

Considering Heater Installation Conversion?

If you are considering converting an HVAC system from one power source to another, here are a few considerations.

  • Converting between readily available power sources is not a big problem; i.e., switch between natural gas and electricity, when both are supplied to the house. An upgrade of your electric service panel might be required.
  • Converting to a power source without supply can be prohibitively expensive, i.e., bring natural gas into an all-electric home.

Permits and Inspections

Depending on your location, this project may require a building permit and building inspections. Your professional installer will be familiar with local requirements, know the procedures and have a good working relationship with all involved. Talk with your installation professional about the process; this should be included in his estimate, not a separate expense.

If a permit and inspection are required, the installer stops work at the appropriate time to allow the inspector access to the progress. A final inspection will also be scheduled at the end of the project to ensure the system has been installed correctly. If a permit/inspection is not required, you can ask that internal inspections be completed by the installation company for your peace of mind.

Cost Saving Measures

As part of your decision-making, inquire of the installation professional concerning Federal, State, local, or company incentives or rebates. Usually, the incentives will be more for the most energy-efficient choices. You should also experience noticeable energy cost savings each month; results may vary but expect up to 30% savings by installing a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system.

Have questions about New Heater Installation?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Heater Installation, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

Heater Installation

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4 Signs It Is Time For a New AC Installation

New AC Installation

Is it Time for a New AC Installation?

Your HVAC system is a lot like your roof. They both function very well at what they were designed to do and they both function about the same amount of time. Honestly, you probably do not give either of them much thought . . . until they stop functioning properly. Every year, your HVAC system keeps you comfortable; cool in the summer, and warm in the winter.

New AC Installation is a large enough hit to the budget for most people that it requires a little planning and preparation. It might help to know a few indications that an aging system is nearing failure. Consider these tips:

1. How old is your system?

Most HVAC systems have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, but for maximum efficiency, Energy Star recommends an HVAC system be replaced after 10 years.

Energy Star is a standard, set by the Energy Department, to define and identify energy efficiency. HVAC systems are hearty and durable, designed to be efficient with the best technology available at the time of manufacture.

Age is not the deciding factor in determining whether to replace your furnace or heat pump, but it is a factor. If your HVAC system is 10 years old or older and other factors are present, it is a good indication.

2. Does it sound old?

As an HVAC system ages, it will typically begin making new, unusual noises. Noises could stem from something as simple as a loose part or a control switch needing to be replaced. These noises should prompt you to make a service call to your HVAC professional.

You may notice a louder than normal hum coming from older motors and electrical components. Again, a technician will be able to tell you for sure whether it is normal wear, a serviceable problem, or in need of replacement.

3. How often do you need repairs?

To maintain your HVAC system, an annual preventative maintenance call from a technician is recommended. If you hear an unusual noise, or if the system is not working properly, it is normal to make a call to your New AC Installation professional.

However, if repair calls have become more frequent and the repairs are becoming more expensive, this is a good indication that the time has come for replacement.

There are some key components in your HVAC system that, should they fail, component replacement becomes very expensive. If you are aware of this fact, replacing the entire system might be preferable to component replacement.

4. What does your energy bill say?

This might be a little more subtle but keep an eye on your energy bills. Energy bills will increase due to price increases, but if your energy bill is going up while the price is not, it might indicate replacement needs to come soon. A failing system often results in rising energy bills; remember, the Department of Energy recommends early replacement for this reason.

Any one of these indicators is the indicator for replacement, but by watching for combinations of these factors, you will have time to prepare for system replacement.

Have questions about New AC Installation?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and New AC Installation, schedule an appointment, or visit our New AC Installation information page.

New AC Installation

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Home Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions

Home Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions

Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions For Your Home

Are you considering a new electric vehicle?

Recently, I parked in a local State Park to hike and noticed the sporting look of a car I didn’t recognize. It was a Tesla and it surprised me to see an electric vehicle in a rather rural setting.

The Rise of Electric Vehicles

However, electric vehicles (EV) sales are rising worldwide and now in the U.S. In 2010, just 17,000 electric vehicles were in use worldwide. The technology improved and by 2019, 7.2 million EVs were on the road, 1.4 million in the U.S. Several changes are driving the innovation:

  • Technology is improving all the time. The average distance an EV manufactured in 2010 could travel was 84 miles per charge. The 2020 models boast between 200 and 300 miles per charge. It is estimated that by 2028 electric vehicles will average 400 miles per charge, the equivalent of the miles driven by the average sedan on a tank of gas.
  • Government incentives (carrots) and regulations (sticks) are in place with car manufactures. The goal is to reduce our carbon footprint, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and improve air quality. Some states are quicker to accept the change. California and 11 other states have agreed to ban new internal combustion vehicles by 2035.Like them or not, you can expect to see more EV options and fewer gas-powered vehicles in the future.
  • With all of the research and incentives, the cost of EVs is falling each year. The most expensive component for EVs is the batteries. Smaller, lighter, more powerful batteries result in better utility and make EVs more affordable.The cost to manufacture a battery per kilowatt-hour has fallen from $1,183/kWh in 2010 to $135/kWh in 2020.By 2030, researchers estimate kWh cost to be as low as $65/kWh. By 2025, the cost of electric-powered vehicles is estimated to be on par with internal combustion engine vehicles.2

Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Buying the first EV must have been like buying the first fax machine. We have a nationwide infrastructure for acquiring gasoline and diesel fuel, but where can you find a charging station?

The greatest barrier to widespread acceptance of EVs is the question facing potential EV purchasers is “Where can I charge it?” If the national goal is to increase EV use, consumers must be convinced adequate options are available to overcome “range anxiety.”

  • As the sales of EVs increase, even more, charging options must be available. Multiple charging options will need to be in place, so if you “run out of juice,” you are not stranded.
  • The Federal Government is also incentivizing the development of EV charging station infrastructure. Many charging options will be commercial ventures, just like the gas station, convenience store, or truck stop.
  • Just like battery prices, expect the initial charges to be reasonable, but come down over time. There will be trends that develop but imagine if you could charge your care at the office will you are working or the shopping centers or grocery stores will you shop. Perhaps “range anxiety” will be no more valid with an electric car than a gas-powered car.
  • The demand for charging energy in 2020 was about 20 billion kWh; it is expected to grow to about 280 billion kWh in 2030. The goal is to add 400,000 public charging stations in the coming years, bringing the total to 500,000.

Electric Vehicle Charging Options

With present technology, there are three types of charging stations for EVs, and chances are you may use more than one option.

Level 1 Electric Vehicle Charging

Every EV is sold with a Level 1 charger and no installation is required. Your Level 1 charge plugs into any standard 120v wall outlet. The pro for this option—you can charge your EV from almost any location at no extra cost. The con for this option—it is very slow. Charge time for a 100-mile charge might be 10-17 hours.

Most likely, this will not be your main option. However, it is like the “donut” spare tire; it will sure help in an emergency.

Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charging

A Level 2 charger will probably be a preferred option since it cuts the charge time for a 100-mile charge to 4-t hours and a full charge to 6-9 hours. Level 2 chargers use 240v outlets, similar to your clothes dryer or HVAC system. A Level 2, installed in your garage, would allow you to leave the next morning fully charged with confidence.

However, installing a Level 2 charging station in your garage is not a DIY project, unless you are a professional electrician. An electrician will need to analyze your power service to ensure you have sufficient reserve to power a charger as needed.

The electrician will install a new breaker, run power to the station site, install the charger and demonstrate its safe use. Having a professional install the charging station will ensure it is completed according to the building code and avoid hazards. Expect the installation to cost between $200 and $1,200, depending upon how complicated the install.

Level 3 Electric Vehicle Charging

Level 3 or DC Fast Chargers are used for public charging stations and for commercial/industrial settings. The pro—they are extremely fast (in comparison), with a charge time for a 100-mile charge at about 20 minutes, a full charge in about 30 minutes. The con—it is prohibitively expensive for home use.

Expect to use a Level 3 charger with a user fee. How much? It varies, and it will fluctuate as they become more available. Public charging stations will be the equivalent of current gas stations.

Have questions about Home Electric Vehicle Charging?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Home Electric Vehicle Charging, schedule an appointment, or visit our Home Electric Vehicle Charging information page.

Home Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions

1 https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/california-gas-diesel-car-truck-sales-ban-2035-newsom/

 2 https://www.utilitydive.com/news/electric-vehicle-models-expected-to-triple-in-4-years-as-declining-battery/592061/

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Landscaping that Compliments Your HVAC System

Landscaping that Compliments Your HVAC System

Landscaping That Will Not Inhibit Your HVAC System

Landscaping and lawn care is a growing business in the U.S. (pun intended). American’s purchase more than $49 billion dollars on DIY lawn care and landscaping products; that is more than $503 annually per home. At the same time, the lawn care business is booming: lawn care professionals bring in an additional $103 billion. A nice lawn brings style and value to our property, and for those who participate, it brings fun and entertainment to our family and friends.

We are not a lawn care business; we are HVAC System professionals. In this article, we will help you care for your outdoor air conditioner (AC) compressor unit while you care for your lawn and landscape.

Broad Principles

The air conditioner compressor needs good airflow to work properly. Avoid permanent features that obstruct air movement.

The compressor is a valuable HVAC System component, so take precautions to protect it from damage.

Long-term Planning

  • The main function of your compressor is heat exchange; it helps remove the heat from inside your house while cooling the air and removing humidity. You’re HVAC System compressor functions best out of direct sunlight, and receiving direct sunlight for long periods can affect its efficiency. Most builders consider placement during construction, but if not, here are a few options:
    • Explore changing the compressor location the next time it is replaced.
    • Strategically plant a small shade tree nearby to create shade at crucial times during the summer months.
  • Resist the urge to planting shrubs or leafy plants in close proximity to the compressor as camouflage. Vegetation can impede airflow and also restrict access for technicians when they service the unit. A better option is a 2 to 3-foot perimeter of grass or gravel. Mulch might seem like a good option, but mulch is light and moves with both wind and water. If mulch finds its way inside the compressor, it can damage the fins or the fan blades.

Property Maintenance

  • Inspect your trees and take note of old or dying tree limbs in the vicinity of your compressor. A fallen limb on the next windy day can damage the compressor and force you to replace it prematurely. Since the compressor was installed close to the home, you will also prevent damage to walls, windows, and roof at the same time.
  • Before major storms, remove patio furniture, yard toys, or other items that might blow into the compressor and cause damage.
  • After a windy day or severe storm, inspect the area for twigs or leaves that might have blown against the AC unit. Debris accumulated around the compressor will impede airflow or be drawn inside the unit.

While Mowing

  • Before you mow, pick up rocks or twigs in the area of the AC compressor. If the lawnmower blade throws items at the compressor at high speeds, it can damage the unit severely.
  • Try to avoid mowing while the unit is engaged to prevent the fan blades from drawing grass clippings between the fins or inside the compressor air exchange. Grass clippings will clog the unit and can cause it to overheat.
  • When mowing, make sure the mower guard is pushing the grass clippings away from the compressor unit.

Have questions about your HVAC System Maintenance?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and the importance of keeping landscape away from your HVAC System, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC maintenance information page.

Landscaping that Compliments Your HVAC System

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Energy Saving Benefits of a Smart Thermostat

Energy Saving Benefits of a Smart Thermostat

Smart Thermostat Benefits and Features

Many people grew up with the round dial, analog thermostat with slow controls that needed frequent adjustments. The next iteration was a digital programmable thermostat, with better control precision and better response time. The current, state-of-the-art choice is a smart thermostat, with features that increase your comfort and save you money. Let’s dive into this new technology.

Smart thermostats have a wall-mounted interface, similar to earlier models. The unit should be mounted in a convenient, central location; away from doors so that the HVAC system doesn’t activate every time the door opens, and away from appliances, so that generated heat doesn’t activate the HVAC system. The bonus is the connection to the internet and a cellphone app with tools for comfort and savings.

Smart thermostats are programmable:

Many people like a cooler temperature while sleeping, so the thermostat can be programmed to lower the temperature overnight. The program can be set to return to normal comfort levels 30 minutes before the family wakes up to get ready for the day.

Settings can be changed while the house is unoccupied and return to normal comfortable temperatures 30 minutes before the family returns. If you adjust your smart thermostat to a lower setting while you are away, but your schedule changes, you can adjust thermostat settings to prepare your home for your arrival.

A smart thermostat will also learn your comfort preferences and adjust automatically. It takes a couple of weeks of your programmed input, but once the thermostat can identify patterns, it recalls your desired patterns of comfort it will adjust to keep you comfortable. There is often an expanded feature that, with internet access, feeds your thermostat with the local weather forecasts. Can your analog thermostat respond to a cold snap or excessive heat?

Smart thermostats save money

A remarkable feature of smart thermostats is a proven record of cost savings. Because the thermostat is collecting data about your HVAC patterns, you are given saving tools customized for your house. Here is how that works:

The thermostat app prepares graphing tools to help you understand your household energy consumption. This information can be coupled with programmed comfort patterns; armed with such tools, you can take control of energy use.

A saving opportunity:

You can save energy and achieve a noticeable cost saving by adjusting the temperature by five-degree for 8 hours. If you program a 50 adjustment after the family leaves for school/work, you will notice a difference beginning the first month.

A second opportunity comes during sleeping hours. Another 50 adjustments overnight would compound the savings. The larger the adjustment, the greater the savings.

ENERGY STAR is a program managed by the US Environmental Protection Agency:  https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/thermostats

In addition, if everyone used ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats, U.S. homeowners could save $740 million dollars annually and help care for our environment.

Additional savings happen because you understand how to optimize the use of your HVAC system and save on normal wear and tear. The app alerts you when components experience reduced efficiency and need repairs. Ideally, you catch small problems before they become big problems. You can set notifications to remind you to schedule a preventative maintenance visit or change filters. Neglecting your HVAC system will certainly lead to more frequent repairs and early replacement.

Match a smart thermostat to your current system

Some thermostats are better paired with certain HVAC equipment than others. Features and tools vary from one brand to another, so check with your HVAC professional technician to determine the best thermostat for your home. Installation is easy and takes only a few hours. The installer can help you learn the features of the app and ensure you are prepared to use the technology to its greatest advantage.

Have questions about Smart Thermostats?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and how to reduce your energy utility bills with a smart thermostat, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC maintenance information page.

Energy Saving Benefits of a Smart Thermostat