Tag: Cooling

Categories
Heating & cooling

How to clean an air conditioner

The air conditioner is one of the most important appliances in the home, it’s responsible for maintaining a comfortable climate all year round. Over time, the internal parts can accumulate a significant amount of dirt and grime. As a homeowner, it’s important to know how to clean split system air conditioner, window air conditioners or any air conditioning appliances to ensure they continue to operate well throughout the seasons.

What is the difference between air conditioning units?

  • Ducted A/C – Ducted air conditioners cause air to be sent through ducts, allowing each room in the house to be cooled at the same time.
  • Split system A/C – This type of air conditioner uses different components from both an outdoor and an indoor air conditioner. The indoor air conditioner has filter and distribution components, it’s usually mounted high on a wall and controlled with a remote. The outdoor unit houses the condenser fan and compressor parts.
  • Window A/C – A window air conditioner features everything needed to cool the room in one main unit. It’s mounted in a window cavity and cools or heats that particular room. 
  • Portable A/C – Portable air conditioners are designed to cool a single room and sit on the floor. This type of AC is compact in size, which makes it easy to move to different rooms of the house. 
Outside air conditioner unit/Condenser fan / Source: Hobart Heating And Refrigeration

Materials and tools

  • Screwdriver – Remove the exterior parts with a screwdriver
  • Stiff brush or duster – A stiff brush will make it easier to clean some of the parts and remove excess dirt
  • Vacuum – A vacuum is necessary for suctioning dirt and grime in the hard-to-reach places
  • Antibacterial solution – This product will disinfect the internal components of the AC, including the inside fins to ensure the air is clean and healthy to breathe
  • Coil cleaner – This product is a spray that works well for stripping dirt and grime from the coils
  • Fin comb – A fin comb is necessary for straightening the evaporator and condenser fins 

How to clean an indoor air conditioner

  1. Turn off the power – Turning off the power ensures it’s safe to clean all the different parts of the air conditioner. Shut off the breaker or unplug the air conditioner from the outlet, depending on what type of unit you own.
  2. Check your manufacturer’s instructions – If you want to learn how to clean an air conditioner, read the owner’s manual to determine what the manufacturer recommends to avoid mistakes or causing damage to the parts. There may be certain types of cleaning products or tools that you should use depending on the specific model you own.
  3. Clean your filter panels – Clean the filter panels by removing the front panel. Remove the filter and use a soapy water solution to clean and rinse it thoroughly. It should completely dry before installing it back onto the unit.
  4. Vacuum the AC filter – If you want to learn how to clean air conditioner filter, you’ll need to gently vacuum it with a hose that has a soft bristle attachment. Disposable filters aren’t designed to be cleaned and reused.
    1. Soak the AC Filter – Soak the AC filter in soapy water to remove the build-up of dirt and grime.
    2. Spray the AC Filter – Spray the AC filter with clean water to remove all the soap.
    3. Dry the AC Filter – Allow the AC filter to dry for several hours before you reinstall it onto the unit.
  5. Clean your air conditioner’s louvres – Wipe down the louvers with a cloth. If you can remove them, soak the louvres in detergent before rinsing the soap off and allowing it to dry before reinstalling. 
  6. Clean the exterior unit – Clean the exterior of the air conditioner by using a damp cloth. This will remove excess debris that has accumulated. If you want to learn how to clean air conditioner vents, start by unscrewing the vents. Use a scrub brush and vacuum cleaner to remove the dirt.
Ducted air conditioning / Source: Eco Air Services

How to clean an outside air conditioner unit

  1. Disconnect from power – Disconnect the air conditioner unit by shutting turning off the main power switch. This will allow you to safely handle the parts without the risk of electrocuting yourself.
  2. Remove AC grill & clean – Gently unscrew the AC grill and hose it off. Direct the spray at different angles to remove more of the dirt that is hiding in the small crevices.
  3. Clean the AC coils and fins – If you want to learn how to clean air conditioner coils, you can do this by hosing off the unit. Spray from the top of the unit and work your way down. Use a fin comb to straighten the fins and loosen any debris, cobwebs, etc. 

Contact local air conditioning technicians

How often should you clean your air conditioner?

  • Weekly – Run the ‘dry out’ program if your air conditioner has it for added convenience.
  • Quarterly- Dust the filter screens and wiping down any ducts or vents with a soft damp cloth.
  • Annually – Clean the outdoor unit and remove any vegetation or obstructions that are present, which can affect the operation of the unit. Spider webs that are present also need to be removed. Hire a professional technician to service the air conditioner to ensure they can inspect all the parts and determine if any potential issues are present. An air conditioning technician will also know how to clean air conditioner if you want to leave the work to an expert.

How do you hire an air conditioner technician?

 If you want to hire someone who knows how to clean ducted air conditioner filter, it’s important to find someone that has several years of experience in the industry to ensure they’re qualified to perform the work. They should have the proper qualifications and certifications to ensure they can get the job done correctly the first time. 

Ask the technician for at least three references to ensure you can contact their customers. It’s also necessary to look up their license to verify they’re qualified to provide you with AC services.

Categories
Heating & cooling

How to cool down a room

Easy ways to keep your cool

During the warmer months of the year, it is easy to feel uncomfortable in your home as the temperatures rise outside, especially if your air conditioner isn’t working or you can’t afford to install the appliance. Fortunately, there are several ways to cold down a room without relying on an air conditioner. Here are a few of the top ways to create cooler air and prevent heat from transferring into your home.

Curtains

Curtains work well for insulating your bedroom or living room by blocking heat that can transfer through the windows. Make a point of closing the curtains during the day when it’s the warmest to keep the room cooler. Blackout curtains work well for blocking out any natural light that may cause a room to overheat, and they also help maintain cool temperatures on warmer days. Opt for dark, thick curtains that don’t allow any sunlight into the space.

Windows

You should open windows at night when it’s cooler to allow fresh air into the room. This will create a cross breeze to ensure your room starts to fill with cool air and can prevent the need for fans or air conditioners. It will also prevent the space from feeling stuffy. 

Open window louvers
Open window for breeze / Source: Swift Eco Clean

Mattress

Sleeping low on the ground can also help you to stay cooler at night because heat always rises. Consider placing your mattress directly on the floor, especially if you have tiles on the floor, which can feel cool to the touch. 

If you live in a warm climate, consider investing in a cooling mattress that doesn’t retain a lot of heat. Mattresses are now more advanced and feature breathable cores and moisture-wicking covers to ensure you don’t sweat as you sleep. Cooling sheets and pillows will also prove to be useful and allow air to pass through to prevent your body from overheating. Cotton sheets are also an excellent option if you need something more cost-effective because of their breathable texture.

Switch off tech

The electronic devices you use in your room can generate a lot of heat throughout the day and night. Get into the habit of turning off your electronic devices when they’re not in use, which includes your computer, laptop, and any lamps or lights. This step will not only reduce the temperature in the room but can also allow you to reduce your energy usage throughout the season.

With your lights, it’s also important to switch to LED light bulbs, which don’t release as much heat as halogen bulbs. LED lights stay cool and are more energy-efficient to allow you to spend less on electricity. Keeping the lights off as much as possible will also make it easier to keep the temperature lower in the room.

Contact an air conditioning technician

Fans

If you want to learn how to cool down a room with a fan, make sure the direction of your ceiling fan is set at counterclockwise to make the cooler air circulate as heat rises. This creates downdraft to make it easy to have a cool breeze in the summer without using much energy. Many newer ceiling fans even make it easy to change the direction of the ceiling fans with a push of a button on the remote control to ensure you can do it in seconds. The counterclockwise directly also works well for all types of fans, whether you’re relying on a pedestal or desk fan to stay cool. A window fan can also circulate the air in the room and prevent warm air from entering the building when you want to leave your windows open on warm days.

Exhaust fans also work well for suctioning the warm air in the room and releasing it into the outside air. You can use these fans for when you’re cooking or for general use to prevent heat from the stovetop increasing the temperature in the kitchen.

Not only are fans effective, but you can also create your own DIY air conditioner, which is the best way to cool a room. Place ice in a large bowl and place a fan behind it to ensure ice-cold air blows across the room. 

Bedroom with ceiling fan
Bedroom with ceiling fan / Source: Seton Electrical

Dehumidifier

Many people don’t realize how effective a dehumidifier can be during the summer season when there are higher humidity levels. A dehumidifier will immediately start to remove moisture in the room and can cause the temperature to drop gradually. After a few minutes of the device operating, it can reduce the temperature in the room by a few degrees without having to rely on an air conditioner.

How to hire an air conditioning technician

When you’re looking to hire an air conditioning technician for inspections, installations or repairs, there are a few things you should do.

  • Read online reviews that are posted by other customers to ensure you find a professional you can trust 
  • Check that the AC technician is licensed within your state and has several years of experience in the industry
  • Ensure the AC technician has a physical workplace or office, as well as a professional website to ensure they’re reputable
Categories
Lighting & electrical

How to install a ceiling fan

A ceiling fan is an excellent addition to any room of the home. Even if you have an AC, a ceiling fan can help it work more efficiently by circulating the air. Ceiling fans range in price from $89 to $350 or more. Then, you have an additional ceiling fan installation cost of between $200-$300. This might have you asking the question if you can install it yourself.

Can I install a ceiling fan myself?

The technical answer to this question is yes, but you cannot do so in Australia. The main reasons why DIY ceiling fan installation is illegal in Australia are two-fold. The first is that it involves electricity, and there is a risk of fire hazard or electrocution if you do not do everything right. The second is that if the ceiling fan is not mounted correctly, it can fall or damage the ceiling. These are the best reasons to hire a trusted professional instead of doing it yourself. 

Where to hang a ceiling fan

The most common place to hang a ceiling fan is in the centre of the room, but this is not always the case. You might want a ceiling fan in a specific location, like over the bed or in one half of an entertainment room. The ceiling fan placement must also take into consideration the location of any wires or pipes above the ceiling. It must also be mounted securely to the ceiling beams.

Source: Local Architect South Coast

Materials and tools

Here are some of the tools and materials that your ceiling fan professional will bring with them to do the job. 

  • Fan with mounting kit
  • Fan support brace
  • Wall control switch
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Drywall saw
  • A multimeter or circuit tester
  • Wire strippers
  • Screwdrivers
  • Drill or driver

Contact local experts

How to install a ceiling fan 

Here are the basic steps to installing a ceiling fan that your professional will have to do. These steps are not complete instructions and are for information only. 

  • Turn off the power: The first thing to be done is to turn off the power at the circuit panel. Your professional will double-check with the circuit tester to make sure no power is flowing in the wires. 
  • Remove the old fan: Unscrew the lightbulb cover and remove the bulbs. Lower the fixture and loosen the electrical tape and wire nuts. Disconnect the wires and remove the existing ceiling box. 
  • Install the hanging bar: The adjustable hanging bar and electrical box will be screwed to the beams and fastened according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This is the most important part of the installation to ensure the fan does not wobble and damage the ceiling. 
  • Assembly and hanging: Assemble the fan according to the instructions and attach the fan assembly to the ceiling electrical box. Connect the wires, making sure to follow all local and state guidelines regarding the amount of exposed end, types of wire nuts, lack of kinks, and other considerations. 
  • Attach blades and trim: Assemble and attach the blades and trim. Now it is time to turn on the power and test the fan. 

Safety precautions to take when installing a ceiling fan yourself

Installing a ceiling fan involves several safety hazards. The first is that it involves electricity. If you do not know how to connect the wires properly, it can cause a fire. There is also the potential for an electrical shock. Also, you will be on a ladder working with your hands overhead. If you are not used to it, you can easily fall. Not only are you working on a ladder, but you are lifting heavy objects and working at odd angles. That is another reason why hiring a professional who is knowledgeable and used to the working conditions is a good idea. 

Source: KTR Creations

How to hire an electrician

If you want to have a new ceiling fan installed, you must have the work performed by a licenced electrician. In some states, you can face heavy fines and even prison time for connecting a fan to the wires of your home. Here are some things you should ask when hiring an electrician to install your fan. 

  • Are you licenced to work in my location? 
  • Can you provide proper certificates after the installation?
  • Are you insured, and do you offer a warranty on your work?
Categories
Heating & cooling

What does a dehumidifier do?

You absolutely need to be comfortable within your own home, and one way to ensure extreme discomfort is to have a home that is too humid. It feels lousy, and you’re also opening up your abode to some very harmful things. Humidity creates a moisture-laden home that could bring about a horribly unhealthy environment. It could lead to plenty of mould and other harmful allergens throughout the whole house. So, how do you combat this humidity? The easiest way is to invest in a good, strong dehumidifier. A good dehumidifier will take out all of the excess moisture in the air, making the whole home more comfortable and safer for anyone living there.

The benefits of a dehumidifier

They get rid of mould and musty odours

An excessively humid home can promote the growth of mildew and mould, which will end up emitting an unsavoury musty smell. Mould and mildew thrive in wet environments, and the smell is not easy to eradicate if you do not tackle the source of the dampness. A dehumidifier is beneficial in the sense that it removes the excess moisture from the air, which stops the growth of mould and mildew and eliminates the nasty musty smell. Mould and mildew can also be detrimental to your respiratory health, so using a dehumidifier can help prevent illness.

They promote the longevity of your home contents

Dehumidifiers help protect your home’s contents from the effects of excessive moisture. They also promote the longevity of items, such as clothing, books, food and shoes. These items will also never smell musty as a result. A dehumidifier will also prevent household pests, such as silverfish, from thriving, which helps protect your books and clothing.

Changing the water out of a dehumidifier / Shutterstock

They help enhance your health

A humid environment is not very conducive for those who are prone to airborne allergies and asthma. A dehumidifier would therefore come in very handy, as they promote temperature stability. Dehumidifiers also have the added benefit of including a filter that assists in eradicating air pollutants, such as dust, mould spores and pollen. This promotes a healthier indoor environment for you. Dust mites are also reduced within the home since they can only thrive in humid environments. This can help reduce allergic reactions and asthma attacks.

They are beneficial for drying clothes

Dehumidifiers are ideal when it rains and you are unable to hang your clothes outside to dry or if you prefer not to use a dryer. All you need to do to dry your clothes in record speed is secure them on a drying rack in close proximity to the dehumidifier. Another added advantage is that your wet clothes would not be adding to your home’s humidity. Dehumidifiers are also able to dry clothes overnight, and they are also more energy-efficient than dryers since they use less power. This means you’ll have lower electricity bills, which also makes dehumidifiers a cost-effective choice.

Types of portable dehumidifiers

Absorbent

For small areas that require the removal of moisture, an absorbent dehumidifier is an ideal option. For instance, the Hippos you observe in department stores, hardware stores and supermarkets are containers that hold absorbent material like silica gel. This material absorbs the moisture in the air and pushes the water down to a collection area. Once it is full, you simply dispose of the excess water. This is ideal in cupboards and closets. For smaller areas, utilise sachets or silica gel, which will help mitigate mould.

Refrigerant

By drawing warm, moist air from the room, a refrigerant dehumidifier runs the air through several coils that have been cooled and returns dry air to the environment. This process is extremely effective because the warm air meets the cold coils, resulting in condensation. This water then drips into a bucket, which must be periodically emptied. Another option is for the excess water to drain through a special tube. These dehumidifiers are available in a variety of sizes to fit any room and can be easily moved. Additionally, for extra-moist areas, several can be run simultaneously.

Desiccant

Similar to refrigerant dehumidifiers, this equipment sucks warm, moist air and also expels dry air. The difference is that as opposed to removing the moisture-utilizing cold coils, there is a bed of desiccants inside, which absorb the moisture. The excess water is then drained into a bucket, which must be emptied. Similarly, the other option is a special tube that drains directly outside. Additionally, these are available in a variety of sizes and can easily be moved and paired with other dehumidifiers.

Dehumidifiers can be small and compact / Source: Shutterstock

Finding the right dehumidifier for your house

The first thing you should do is examine the layout of your house so you can pick out just the right type of dehumidifier. Examine the space where you’re going to put in the dehumidifier. Take into account how big or how small the space is, how much average humidity is in the space, and how much you use the room. If you have a smaller room you’d like to make more comfortable, there’s no need to pick up a gigantic dehumidifier – and vice versa. Check-in on the specifications on every dehumidifier. Look at the capacity first. Your average dehumidifier for a one- or two-bedroom home should be able to take out 10 litres of water from the air every day, while ones designed for bigger houses need at least double that capacity. Next, look at how much noise the dehumidifier will produce. If you have it in an area where you’re constantly working, louder dehumidifiers might quickly become annoying. 

You also want to look for a home dehumidifier that is easily transportable. Try to avoid the super-heavy ones, and look for dehumidifiers that can be moved from one room to another. You should also definitely invest in a dehumidifier that has a device called a ”humidistat” This device automatically adjusts the levels, so you’re not constantly turning the dehumidifier up and down. 

Climate considerations

Where you live also plays a part in choosing the right type of dehumidifier. The wetter the area you live in, the more powerful your dehumidifier should be, as there’s that much more moisture that needs to be removed from the air. If your climate is a more temperate one, you might want to get a smaller, more portable dehumidifier that can easily be moved from one room to another. That’s all you should need. If you have any questions about the capacity of the dehumidifier, ask a local expert at a home-supply store. They should be able to give you all the information you need.

Categories
Heating & cooling

A guide to air conditioners

As the summer arrives, a lot of people flock to stores to buy new air conditioners. If you are in need of one, all you need to know about purchasing an air conditioner is mentioned in this guide. There are air conditioners on the market to suit every budget and need. Read ahead to select the one that is perfect for you.

Air conditioning options

Air conditioners are available in a range of styles. Mentioned below are the main types:

  • Portable air conditioners: Portable air conditioners can be moved from one room to the next as per your requirement after installation. Though ideal for people who move a lot, portable air conditioners are not the most efficient and can be quite noisy.
  • Window air conditioners: These are installed in a window opening in the wall and are suitable for cooling small areas in your home.
  • Split systems: Split systems have two main components. One is the wall unit that is installed indoors and the other is the condensing unit that is located outside the home. Split systems are efficient and are available as reverse-cycle units. This means they can be used as a heater during the winter and as an air conditioner during the summer.
  • Ducted air conditioners: These are also available as reverse-cycle systems and have an option of being zoned. This allows you to cool certain areas of your home and is presently the most expensive option.

Where to place it

If you do not have a current system in your home, the first step will be to consider the placement of the unit. The first component is the exterior portion. Place it outside of the home, in a place where it does not take away from the overall aesthetics of the home and is not too loud. You are likely going to want to speak to your neighbours about placement as well. Most systems can run fairly loudly, which means you will need to consider proper placement the first time you instal it or you could be dealing with complaints about the noise.

Source: Valuez

Conditioning Efficiency

Select an air conditioner that is very efficient and that gives you maximum cooling per unit of power consumed. A good way to confirm this is to check the label of the air conditioner to see how much power it consumes. A unit that has variable speed settings adjusts the output of the air conditioner according to the temperature of the room. This is efficient because the room stays more consistent in temperature and the cost in maintaining the temperature is also reduced.

How to save money using an air conditioner

Make sure you have the right air conditioner

The first – and most essential – way to save money on air conditioning is also the simplest. You just have to make sure that you have the right type of air conditioner for your home. That means you need to find one that is the ideal size for the rooms you need to be cooled. Take into consideration all of the essential factors of the rooms – how hot they get, which direction they face, what people will be residing in them, and so on. If you put a small air conditioner in a large room (and vice versa), you’re not going to be getting all the coolness you need. Also, check the energy star rating on the air conditioner, and only look for one with a big number of stars. 

Contact local air conditioner experts

Clean your air conditioner and install insulation

Once you pick out your air conditioner, you need to perform regular maintenance on it. Change and clean the filters, and make sure the whole unit is sparkling clean. Doing this will ensure that the air conditioner will perform at peak efficiency. Additionally, you need to take a look at the insulation you have in your house. The more insulation you have, the less you’ll have to have the air conditioner on. Make sure that all of your insulation has a high ”R” rating before you put it in – you’ll be able to cut down the temperature by several degrees if you get the right type installed in the house. 

Use natural methods to cool your house

There are also several simple things you can do to cool down that don’t even involve the air conditioner. Shut the doors and turn all the lights off – you’ll be surprised at how far that goes. You can also do things like instal a verandah to help deflect sunlight, put double-glazed windows in, plant trees and shrubbery to create shade, instal ceiling fans or paint your home in lighter colours. Do all of these little things, and you’ll see big savings on your bill. 

An outdoor unit / Source: Seeto & Sons Air Conditioning

Selecting a professional installer

You could instal components of the air conditioning system yourself. However, because this is a complex system and requires expertise, it is best to turn to a professional installer instead. The right professional makes a big difference. If you choose one that isn’t as skilled, you could end up with a system that is hard to use, does not work properly, or may not be as efficient as it should be.

Look for a professional who has proper licensing and certification. He or she should have experience as well. You will also want to ensure that this provider has insurance to protect you from mistakes. Once you do this, do not just hire the first person you see. Rather, request a quote for service instead. It is a good idea to select a professional who offers a fair price for the service, but who also has outstanding references (people you can actually speak with) as well. This can help you feel comfortable allowing this person to do the work for you

Categories
Walls & flooring

How to install underfloor insulation

What is underfloor insulation?

Underfloor insulation is an extra layer added underneath floorboards to prevent hot or cold air from escaping the home. Insulation can come in various different materials, such as polystyrene board, batt insulation and reflective foil.

Benefits of underfloor insulation

Floor insulation has many benefits. The main reasons why homeowners choose to install insulation in floors include:

Soundproofing

Your flooring can allow sounds and reverberations to filter through. With an insulating barrier between floorboards and the outside, the acoustics of vibration and sound waves is limited, resulting in a quieter environment.

Energy-efficient

By insulating your floors and ceilings, energy savings of up to 45% is possible. Whether you have hardwood floors with joists or a concrete slab, your floors are responsible for a considerable amount of heat loss. 

Saves you money in the long run

Underfloor insulation will keep your home warmer in the winter and cool in the summer. The need to use heating and air conditioning will be significantly reduced, which will save you money when it comes to your energy bills. Even though underfloor insulation costs money to install, it should pay off in the long run when you spend less on heating and cooling. 

Easy to install 

There is not a lot of complicated installation requirements that comes with under house insulation. Fitting insulation between floor joints can be a simple procedure. Different types of insulation include:

  • Fibreglass/wool batts
  • Rock wool batts
  • Polyurethane foam
  • Polystyrene panels
The insulation must be fit securely in-between the joists / Source: Shutterstock

When can a home’s floors be insulated?

A home’s floors can be insulated any time, provided there is enough crawl space to access under the home. However, it is much easier to have this work done during a home’s initial construction.

Retrofitting

Retrofitting is the process of installing insulation to an already existing home. If your home has joist and stump floors, insulation is made to fit within the wooden slats. However, if your home sits on a slab, an experienced contractor in insulation installation is recommended. An expert will be required to assess whether there is enough space to go in and install the insulation. 

During initial construction

Fitting underfloor insulation is easiest when the home is being constructed. Rigid foam insulation can be glued or fitted between wood sleepers and can also be done on top of finished concrete. Some homeowners incorporate radiant heating coils. A general contractor often has the means to place the installation while installing the floors.

Contact local insulation experts

How to install underfloor insulation

Install the strapping

Strapping consists of wire fasteners that are secured on floor joists. If using on concrete, plastic strapping is recommended. Wiring wrapped around a nail on both rafters is often used in securing. 

Open insulation packets and let it expand

Before fitting insulation pieces between joists, allow them to air out and expand. This will prevent your strapping from being too snug.

Put the insulation in place

Insulation is designed to fit securely between joists to cover any holes or cracks on the surface. Make sure the entire length of the insulation is firmly in place.

What homes would benefit from underfloor insulation?

Homes in colder climates that are prone to heat loss will dramatically benefit from underfloor insulation. Additionally, homes that have a large number of tiled areas will also benefit. Placing insulation under bathroom floor areas can cut your heat loss by up to 40%. Homeowners often take steps to add insulation to ceilings, walls and roof joists, but neglect to realize the heat loss from a floor. 

If you are in the process of building your own home in Canberra or elsewhere, underfloor insulation is an important thing to consider. It will be much easier to install before your home is completed. If you are looking to buy a brand new home, make sure this detail has been addressed. You can also use this feature as a bargaining tool in your offer to buy a house. 

Protective equipment must be worn when handling insulation / Source: Shutterstock

How to hire an insulation expert

Regardless of an existing house or one that is under construction, hiring an insulation expert is always a good idea. You want your home to be as comfortable as possible. Insulation experts have the education and experience to complete the job correctly. While it is not always required to use an insulation expert, knowing that the work has been done accurately and is guaranteed will give you peace of mind.

Licensing per location

Each state has a required license for building classification. Ensure the professional you hire has the correct licensing to complete the job before you agree to work with them. Other factors to check are:

  • Number of years of experience
  • References and reviews
  • Break down of costs

Not every contractor will have experience in insulation installation. Make sure that your candidate has the background knowledge to do a proper job. An energy assessment can also explain how and why installing insulation under your floor can save money and make you more comfortable. A qualified insulation expert will also be familiar with the building codes in your area and can help to keep you up to code.

Categories
Heating & cooling

6 steps to prepare your air conditioner for the warm weather

The warm weather brings about a ton of excitement and anticipation for the things that come along with it. You’ll soon be able to enjoy evenings on the patio, early morning walks, and afternoons in the sun.

While dragging the lawn chairs out of the shed and dusting off the cooler can be quite easy, there are a few tasks around the house you’ll need to prepare for.

Your air conditioner is something you should look into and is ready to take on the heavy workload when the heat arrives. Failing to perform a clean your air conditioner could lead to major damage in your unit that might be unfixable, not to mention the cooling vents and ductwork inside your home.

Here is a 6-step checklist to go over before turning on your air conditioner this Summer. Not only will these steps help preserve your air conditioner, but they can also help you save money on your cooling costs:

1. Check your air filter

It’s recommended by most manufacturers that the air filter on your air conditioner be changed every three months or so. Read the requirements on your AC unit to know what to plan for with your specific machine.

The air filter’s job is to collect as it enters the machine and to keep it from blowing into your home. Because of this, the filter can quickly become dirty with debris that might affect the way it operates. If you fail to change the filter at the recommended 3-month mark, this dirt could end up causing damage to your machine, affecting the quality of air that comes out on the other end, and causing your machine to overwork.

It’s important to check your air conditioner’s filter regularly / Source: Tapair

Even if you change the filter on time, it’s recommended to keep an eye on it every few weeks and to keep an eye out for any dirt that might accumulate. Get familiar with where your filter is and how to change it when you first purchase the air conditioner to prevent any ongoing issues in the future.

2. Consider a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat can end up saving you energy and money in the short and long-term if you decide to swap out an older model.

How can a programmable thermostat save you money? Well, you can set it at different levels for peak hours of the day. For example, you can set it at a lower temperature around 1 p.m. every day, but relax the levels for the middle of the night when everyone is asleep and traffic is at a minimum.

If you have ever heard your air conditioning unit turn on in the middle of the night as everyone is wrapped up in blankets and thought about the energy (and money) you’re currently wasting, then a programmable thermostat is a good investment for your home.

3. Clean the coils

The exterior coils on your AC unit can be affected by a similar thing to what can happen to your air filter (which we talked about above). Dirt, debris, moisture, and dust can build up on the coils and negatively affect the overall operation of the machine.

Depending on the size of your AC unit, you can clean your coils in a few different ways. It is recommended that you hire a professional to clean the coils on your unit but, if done with care and patience, most people should be able to do it themselves.

Use a household detergent or commercial cleaner and use a light spray to cover the coils. You can then use a hose to lightly rinse the coils. If needed, use a rag to gently clean the coils. Repeat this process until the coils are clear of debris and clean.

4. Clean the fins

The fins on an AC unit do two things: they keep the unit safe from damage (weather, lawnmowers, weed whackers, and more) and they move the warm air away from the machine. They are crucial in preventing your machine from overheating and keep air flowing in and out.

You can actually purchase an AC Fin Comb that can help keep the fins clean without causing any damage. The fins are delicate so you must proceed with caution when touching them unless you want to face large AC repair costs.

Visit your local hardware store, purchase a fin comb (if your machine didn’t come with one) and be careful when even touching the fins on your AC unit.

Source: Split Systems Down Under

5. Check the drain line.

The drain line will remove any condensation that builds up in the coils and carry it away from the machine. If the drain line becomes clogged, your machine could stop working and you may need to hire someone to take a look at it.

If you continue to check the drain line on a regular basis, you should be able to keep it moving smoothly and prevent any blockages. By flushing one cup of bleach down the drain at the start of the season (before turning it on), followed by a cup of water, it should move any small build-ups and prevent anything larger from happening.

You should only need to do this at the start of the season and the end of the season unless you notice a blockage begins to build up.

Contact local air conditioning experts

6. Final check: Air vents, ductwork, and area around unit

The final thing I recommend you do is to do a check of all the parts involved in the cooling process in your home. This final step could uncover any small damages or blockages that could lead to larger issues in the middle of the Summer when you really need your machine to work properly.

  • Is any and all exposed ductwork in working shape? Do you notice any wear or small damages?
  • Are all air vents in the home clear of items and ready to blow out cool air when the machine is turned on?
  • Is the electrical wiring in good shape with nothing exposed?

You’re ready to ‘cool down’

If you’ve reached this point of the article with no issues, then you should be ready to cool your home when temperatures begin to rise.

If you notice any potential damage or blockages with your air conditioning unit, I recommend you seek out the help of an AC professional. Small issues can be fixed early on but leaving them for too long could lead to expensive repairs, or even having to replace your unit.

Air conditioning units are expensive machines that operate at a high pace. If you continue to take care of your unit by doing regular cleaning and maintenance, then it will repay you with a steady, high-quality cooling. Failing to do this could result in frustrations and expenses you’d rather avoid.

Categories
Heating & cooling

What is ducted air conditioning?

Ducted air conditioning is one the most popular means of maintaining a desirable temperature in a home. The best part about ducted air conditioning is that it can be used for heating and cooling as well.

Characteristics of a Ducted Air Conditioning System

A ducted air conditioner consists of a main compressor to cool the air and a series of ducts that then distributes the cooled air through the house. For total convenience, you can also select a reverse-cycle ducted air conditioner capable of both cooling your home in summer and heating it in winter. The base unit is installed either on the roof, under the floor, or outside on a deck or concrete pad, depending on your home. The air conditioning system can also be fitted with energy efficient inverters that monitor the internal temperature and cycle on and off at the energy level needed to operate.

Ducted air conditioning is a subtle option for keeping your home cool and comfortable / Source: Clear Finish Painting & Decorating

Advantages of a Ducted Air Conditioning System

Ducted air conditioning systems are suited for most buildings and have features that make them superior to other types of air conditioners. Primarily, a ducted system can keep your entire home at the same temperature. However, if energy efficiency is important to you and only need to keep parts of your house cool, you should consider a zoned system that can be programmed to operate in certain rooms at certain times. For example, you can cool the kitchen and living room during the day and the bedrooms at night. 

Another advantage to ducted air conditioning systems is that they are hidden from view. The only part you see inside your house are the vents on the ceiling or the floor.  The units are either outside or on the roof. This means no more losing a closet to an old-fashioned water cooler or having an unsightly window unit spoiling the appearance of your house. 

However, ducted air conditioning system are not an out of the box solution. The compressor, the air handler, the ductwork, and all the wiring must be sized and installed separately. Talk with a professional who can design and install the correct size of system for your home. Too large a system runs inefficiently and too small a system runs up your bills without giving you the cooling you want. This is not a do-it-yourself project. 

Factors to consider before getting ducting air conditioning

  • Understand the energy star rating system – Every air conditioning system is given a star rating based on the balance between energy consumption and the ability to heat or a cool. In technical terms, this rating is known as Coefficient of Performance (COP) for heating systems and Energy Efficient Ratio (ERR) for cooling systems. When you start looking for an air conditioning system, this is the first thing you should take into account.
  • Choose the right capacity – Depending on the area of the room that needs to be cooled or heated, you must decide the capacity of an air conditioning system. The capacity is directly proportional to the amount of energy consumed by a system and is measured in kilowatts(KW). It is crucial that you choose the right capacity according to the size of a room. If you choose a lower capacity system for a large room, the cooling won’t be efficient and the energy consumption will be sky-high. Follow this equation to calculate the ideal capacity – for the living area, choose a system which consumes 125 watts per square metre of space while for the bedroom, 80 watts per square metre is ideal. Also consider the height of the ceiling and the insulation mechanism of a room; a room with a high ceiling and open doors or windows will need a system with higher capacity.

How to increase the energy efficiency ofducted air conditioning?

Even after choosing the perfect air conditioning system, there are a few steps that can you take to maximise energy efficiency. Firstly, insulate the room by using double glazed glass; this will ensure that the cool air doesn’t escape the room. Secondly, set your air conditioning at the right temperature; a difference of a single celsius can reduce energy expenditure by almost 15%.

If you have a particularly large house, you can consider getting a zoned system, i.e. a system with separate motors in different parts of the house. This will lead to quicker and more efficient cooling, but it will also increase cooling expenses. To reduce expenses and save energy, ask your air conditioning experts about inverter technology. This form of technology adjusts a compressor’s speed according to the temperature of a room. This feature is very beneficial for people who live in areas with high temperatures where air conditioners are forced to work round the clock.