Conditioned Air Company of Naples, LLC Blog: Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Tips for Installing Air Conditioning in an Older Home

Monday, September 19th, 2016

In the hot and humid climate of Southwest Florida, air conditioning is practically a necessity during the hottest parts of the year, and a quality system can increase the value of your home significantly. Many older homes lack a central air conditioning system, so here are a few tips that will help when installing air conditioning in an older home:

Prepare Your Home

For an air conditioning system to run efficiently without dramatically increasing your energy costs, your home must be reasonably sealed and insulated. Drafts around windows, doors and other penetrations in your exterior walls can allow cool air to escape, significantly increasing your cooling costs, and a lack of insulation will make it hard for your home to maintain a cool temperature. Before installing air conditioning in an older home, consider having an energy evaluation done to find out where your home needs proper sealing and additional insulation.

Choose a System Type

If your home has existing ducts for a furnace, adding a central air conditioning system can be a relatively inexpensive choice. If, however, ducts must be added, the costs will increase dramatically. In that case, you may want to consider adding a ductless mini-split system, which can cool one or more rooms without the need for traditional air ducts. If you are upgrading your heating system at the same time, another option may be a heat pump, which requires air ducts, but can both heat and cool your home efficiently and cost-effectively.

Size It Correctly

Often, especially in older homes, air conditioners are oversized to compensate for any problems with air leaks or poor insulation. An air conditioner that isn’t properly sized will run inefficiently, increasing energy costs. Oversized systems will cycle on and off frequently, preventing proper dehumidification and stressing components like the blower motor and fans. Systems that are too small will work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. A professional should be used to size the system, using the proper Manual J procedures.

For more tips on installing air conditioning in an older home, talk to our team at Conditioned Air.

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3 Signs it’s Time to Upgrade Your Air Conditioner

Wednesday, September 7th, 2016

A dependable air conditioning system is vital to weathering the hot and humid conditions of Southwest Florida comfortably, but as your system ages, it may become ineffective at cooling, inefficient and expensive to operate. Here are a few signs that indicate upgrading your air conditioner may be a wise investment:

It Requires Frequent and Expensive Repairs

Air conditioners require annual maintenance to run efficiently and properly, but if your air conditioner starts requiring frequent repairs to keep it running, or if a major component like the condenser or compressor must be replaced, it may be time to consider upgrading your air conditioner. As those repair bills start to add up — especially on an older system — they can quickly approach the cost of a new, much more efficient air conditioner.

It Runs Inefficiently

As an air conditioner ages, it will begin to run less efficiently, reducing your comfort and significantly increasing your energy costs. While some of that efficiency may be gained back through frequent maintenance, eventually the costs of operating the system will outweigh the benefits, especially if it’s an older model with a SEER rating of less than 13. Today’s most efficient air conditioners have SEER ratings of over 20, which can significantly reduce your cooling costs, often by over 20 percent.

It’s Over 10 Years Old

If your system is over 10 years old, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Most air conditioners have a usable lifespan of 10 to 12 years. If your air conditioner is showing signs of age like reduced efficiency, strange noises, or increased maintenance costs (and it has already had a long life), upgrading to a new, more efficient model will improve your comfort and reduce your energy costs significantly.

By upgrading your air conditioner, you can not only save money on your cooling costs, but you can also make sure that your system will operate reliably through even the highest temperatures. Talk to our team at Conditioned Air in Southwest Florida to learn about the latest in energy-efficient air conditioning systems.

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The Latest in High Efficiency Air Conditioning Systems

Wednesday, August 31st, 2016

Air conditioners are a major source of energy usage in the Southwest Florida area, and as energy prices rise, energy-efficiency becomes even more important. If you have an air conditioning system that is several years old, there may be significant savings to be had by upgrading to a newer model. The latest high-efficiency air conditioning systems have many innovative features that reduce energy usage while improving your comfort and increasing reliability. Here are a few of the most important features to look for in a new high-efficiency system.

High SEER Rating

Older air conditioning systems had SEER ratings as low as 13. And as they become older, they become even less efficient, even if they have been maintained relatively well. Today’s high-efficiency air conditioning systems have SEER ratings of over 20, and they can reduce your cooling costs by 20 percent or more.

Two-Speed Compressors

Older systems had single-speed compressors that would run for a while at full speed, then shut down to regulate the temperature of the home. Not only does this process inhibit dehumidification, but it’s also inefficient, noisy, and hard on the compressor. Two-speed compressors can run at full speed to reduce the temperature quickly, then switch to a slower speed to move a constant volume of air slowly. This eliminates uneven cooling and allows the compressor run at a slower, more efficient speed the majority of the time.

Variable Speed Air Handlers

Air handlers in older systems turn on and off as needed to moderate temperature, leading to noisy and inefficient operation. Variable-speed air handlers can adjust the volume of air by speeding up or slowing down as necessary. This allows them to better adapt to changing temperatures which eliminates unevenness and allows them to run slower, which reduces energy consumption.

Efficient Coil Designs

In high-efficiency air conditioning systems, the evaporator and condenser coils have been redesigned to increase surface area, reduce restrictions and increase the efficiency of the heat transfer process.

For more information about high-efficiency air conditioning systems, talk to our team at Conditioned Air, serving the Southwest Florida region.

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Why You Need a NATE Certified Technician

Wednesday, August 17th, 2016

The air conditioning and heating systems in your Florida home are not only important to your health and your comfort, but they also represent a significant investment. To protect that investment, it’s critical that repairs and maintenance be done only by professionals, such as NATE-certified technicians from a quality HVAC service. As a consumer, the benefits of NATE certification are extensive.

What Is NATE?

NATE, the North American Technical Excellence organization, is an association of HVAC industry professionals that includes technicians, service providers, equipment manufacturers, industry associations, and government agencies, such as the EPA. It provides education and certification services for HVAC technicians, and it helps to create relevant standards for the industry.

Benefits of NATE Certification

Technicians that are NATE certified have received thorough training on all types of HVAC equipment, including air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces and boilers, and have demonstrated that knowledge and experience through an exhaustive testing and certification process.

This ensures that each technician can properly size and install a system using the applicable Manual J procedures and perform all routine maintenance on that system, including filter changes, cleaning the coils, adjusting fan belts, checking the electrical system, and inspecting heat exchangers according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals and procedures. This protects the system’s warranty and keeps it running properly and efficiently.

The technician will also be able to perform any required repairs, including warranty work, and offer advice and knowledge about the system. NATE-certified technicians have all the knowledge and experience necessary to care for your system properly, extending its lifespan, preventing major system problems, and protecting its warranty. They represent the best technicians in the industry, and HVAC service companies that employ NATE-certified technicians demonstrate a commitment to high-quality, professional customer service.

To learn more about the benefits of NATE certification, talk to our team at Conditioned Air today. We are proud to feature NATE-certified technicians with extensive knowledge and real-world experience who can handle all of your heating and cooling needs quickly and efficiently. We serve the Southwest Florida region, including the Naples, Sarasota and Ft. Myers areas.

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Coping With Indoor Allergy Issues in the Summer

Wednesday, August 10th, 2016

As summer hits the Southwest Florida area and both the temperature and humidity rise, many people will be spending the majority of time indoors comforted by air conditioning. This can present problems for those with allergies, as indoor allergy issues will become more prevalent. There are, however, several steps that you can take to successfully cope with indoor allergy issues during the summer.

Keep Doors and Windows Closed

When pollen counts are high, it’s best to keep your windows and doors closed and use the air conditioning as much as possible to avoid unnecessary allergens. This is especially true in the early morning hours — from about 5:00 to 10:00 a.m. — when pollen counts tend to be the highest.

Avoid Bringing Allergens Inside

When you do work outside during the summer, such as mowing the lawn or cleaning the yard, pollen, dust and other allergens can easily hitch a ride indoors on your clothing. To avoid adding extra allergens to your indoor air, change your clothes and take a shower after the job is finished and wash your work clothes often.

Clean Often

Minimize the accumulation of allergens by vacuuming and dusting often, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and either moist or electrostatic cloths. Install hypoallergenic sheets, pillowcases and mattress covers in each bedroom, and wash them at least once a week. Reduce clutter throughout your home and reduce the number of surfaces that can collect dust and allergens.

Keep Your HVAC System Maintained

Have your HVAC system professionally inspected and cleaned twice a year to prevent system problems and reduce dust accumulation. Check the air filters monthly and replace them as necessary, and upgrade to filters with higher MERV ratings for better air filtration. Consider installing a whole-home air cleaner or ventilation system to improve indoor air quality and to reduce the amount of allergens and dust in your home.

For more suggestions about coping with summer indoor allergy issues, talk to our air quality experts at Conditioned Air. We have been serving the Southwest Florida region since 1962.

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Will a Heat Pump Cool My Home in the Summer?

Wednesday, August 3rd, 2016

In the mild weather of the Southwest Florida region, a heat pump can be an inexpensive way to heat your home in the winter. In most cases, they can also cool your home in the summer.

How Does a Heat Pump Cool?

Both air conditioners and heat pumps work on the same principle. They use a special phase-changing refrigerant to absorb heat from the air through a set of coils, and then they release it through another set of coils located elsewhere. An air conditioning system removes heat from your home and brings it outside, cooling the interior during the summer.

During the winter, heat pumps absorb heat from the outdoor air and release it inside. Unlike air conditioning, however, most heat pumps can also reverse the flow of coolant through a special valve. This allows them to function like an air conditioning unit during the summer, using the indoor coils to absorb heat from your home, after which it’s released outside through the outdoor portion of the system.

Can Heat Pumps Cool Efficiently?

Heat pumps can be just as efficient for cooling during the summer as air conditioners are. A model rated for 16 SEER will perform just as well as an air conditioner rated for 16 SEER. In mild climates where heat pumps are more efficient for heating during the winter, one system can be used for both heating and cooling, reducing your overall system costs. Air conditioners, in comparison, must rely on a separate system — such as a gas furnace — for heating in the winter.

Do Heat Pumps Require Special Maintenance?

The maintenance requirements for heat pumps are similar to those of air conditioners. Once or twice a year, the coils should be cleaned thoroughly, the refrigerant levels should be checked, the blower fan other moving parts should be lubricated and adjusted, and the electrical system should be inspected. Also, air filters should be checked monthly and changed at least every three months.

For more information about the cooling abilities of a heat pump, talk to our team at Conditioned Air, serving the Southwest Florida region.

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Attic Insulation is Important in the Summer, Too!

Wednesday, July 27th, 2016

Proper insulation is critical to the comfort of your Southwest Florida home, and it can help reduce your energy costs in both the winter and summer. One of the easiest ways to increase the energy efficiency of your home is by adding attic insulation.

Why Attic Insulation Is Important During the Summer

Most people know that attic insulation is critical during the winter to keep the heat inside your home, but it also plays an important role during the summer. As the sun beats down on the surface of your roof, it heats the air in the attic. Because the air in your home is cool, the heat will naturally try to travel from the attic to the interior of your home to reach equilibrium with the indoor air temperature. Attic insulation slows this process down, increasing the efficiency of your cooling system and keeping you comfortable at a reasonable cost.

How Much Insulation Is Necessary

In the Southwest Florida region, the current recommended insulation levels for attics range from R-30 to R-60. The R-Value measures a material’s resistance to the flow of heat, and the higher the value is, the more it prevents heat transfer between the interior and the exterior of a structure.

How to Add Insulation

If your attic is not finished, it’s relatively easy to add more insulation. Fiberglass batts can be added over the top of loose fill, fiberglass or foam, and should be added in perpendicular layers to existing batt insulation. Loose-fill insulation can be added to existing loose insulation; or if there’s no insulation, spray foam, fiberglass or loose fill can be used. Be sure to leave the eaves open for proper roof ventilation, and use baffles between the rafters where the roof meets the wall to promote airflow. If your attic has three to four inches of existing insulation, it’s recommended to add R-25 to R-38 for the best results.

To learn more about the importance of proper attic insulation, contact our team at Conditioned Air. Our service area includes Bradenton, Naples, Ft. Myers and Sarasota.

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Air Conditioner Maintenance Tips for Peak Cooling Season

Wednesday, July 20th, 2016

Between the high temperatures and excessive humidity of the Southwest Florida region, peak cooling season can be difficult on air conditioning equipment, leading to inefficient cooling performance or major system malfunctions. With a bit of simple air conditioner maintenance, you can keep your home comfortable, protect your system, and keep your energy costs under control throughout the summer.

Have Your System Professionally Inspected

Before the peak cooling season starts, it’s good practice to have your system inspected by a professional HVAC technician who will perform routine maintenance like checking the refrigerant levels, cleaning the coils, and replacing the air filter. This will ensure that your system runs as efficiently as possible, in addition to helping prevent problems when the system is operating at full capacity later in the summer.

Change the Air Filter Often

A dirty or restrictive air filter can increase your cooling costs, harm your indoor air quality and cause major system problems. During the cooling season, you should check it at least once a month and replace it when required, or at least every two or three months.

Keep the Outdoor Unit Free of Debris

To operate efficiently, the condenser coil of your air conditioner needs plenty of airflow to dissipate the heat from your home. Keep at least a 2-foot area around the outdoor assembly clear of all debris, including furniture, toys and tall plants. If leaves, grass or other debris accumulate in the coils or system fan, turn off the power and remove the large debris by hand; then rinse the coils with a garden hose to remove smaller debris.

Reduce the Cooling Load

Adding extra heat to your home or the air conditioning system can reduce its cooling performance and increase your cooling costs. Keep the outdoor unit shaded during peak cooling season if possible, and use blinds or shades inside your home to prevent solar gain. Avoid heat-generating activities like cooking, washing clothes or bathing during the afternoon.

For more air conditioner maintenance tips, talk to our cooling experts at Conditioned Air, serving the communities of Southwest Florida, including Naples and Sarasota.

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3 Common Causes of Noisy Air Conditioners

Wednesday, July 13th, 2016

Modern air conditioning systems are relatively quiet, and though some noise is to be expected, any sounds that are new, unusual or that have become louder should be investigated to prevent expensive damage to your system. Three of the most common sources of abnormal sounds include the fan belt, the electrical system, and the compressor, and they should be thoroughly inspected if your air conditioner is noisy or suddenly louder than normal.

Blower Fan Belt

Inside the air handler, especially in a commercial application, a belt connects the blower motor to a squirrel-cage fan, which is used to move air through ducts of your home. Over time, the belt can stretch or begin to crack, and the pulleys on the motor and the fan can lose lubrication or become misaligned. A stretched belt can cause screeching sounds as it slips, and a cracked belt can start thumping as pieces break away. Pulleys that are starved of lubrication or misaligned can begin to whine or screech, as can the blower motor if it’s not properly lubricated. Have the belt adjusted or replaced, if necessary, and check the pulleys and blower motor for proper lubrication and alignment. Failing bearings can also cause this type of noise.

Electrical System

Faulty electrical contacts, relays, and capacitors can cause many strange noises in a system, including clicking as relays or contacts fail to engage properly or buzzing as the start capacitor fails to start the compressor properly. Have the electrical system inspected, cleaning any dirty contacts and replacing burned or faulty components.

Compressor

Problems with the compressor can cause screeching, whining, thumping, buzzing or hissing noises. If it’s hissing, there’s likely a refrigerant leak; and if it’s buzzing, the start capacitor may have failed. Screeching, whining, thumping or other noises may indicate serious problems with the compressor, such as damaged pistons or scrolls, lubrication failure or worn brushes. Have the compressor inspected immediately to avoid unnecessary damage.

If your air conditioner is noisy, talk to our HVAC experts at Conditioned Air today to determine the cause of the problem. We serve the Southwest Florida area, including the communities of Naples and Sarasota.

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Common Indoor Allergy Triggers (And What to Do About Them!)

Wednesday, July 6th, 2016

For those that suffer from allergies, any particles or pollutants in the indoor air can make them uncomfortable and cause symptoms like congestion, sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes or a runny nose. There are many allergy triggers present in the average home, but with a few simple steps, you can minimize their effect on your comfort and your health.

Common Indoor Allergy Triggers

There are several substances that can cause indoor allergy symptoms, including many household products and natural sources. Some of the most common allergy triggers include:

Household dust: Everyday household dust can contain dozens of allergens, including pollen, skin cells, insect droppings and mold spores. It can collect anywhere in a home, but is hard to remove or control effectively in certain areas, such as carpeted rooms, duct systems, storage areas or on anything mounted high on the ceilings or walls. Frequent dusting and vacuuming can reduce dust problems.
Dust mites: Secretions and droppings from dust mites and other insects can cause many allergy symptoms, though by controlling humidity, minimizing dust and using hypoallergenic bedding, symptoms can be reduced.
Pollen: Pollen often finds its way in through open windows or doors, or is carried in by people. With proper air filtration and frequent cleaning, most pollen can be eliminated.
Pet dander: Skin cells, hair and skin secretions from pets can trigger allergy symptoms in many people, especially if the pet sleeps in the same room. Regular cleaning, air filtration and frequently washing pet bedding and furniture covers can reduce symptoms.
Chemicals: Volatile organic compounds or chemical vapors from cleaning products, new furniture or carpeting, paint or building products can cause discomfort for those with allergies. Choosing products with low VOC concentrations and using proper ventilation can eliminate most problems.

Reducing Indoor Allergy Triggers

Frequent HVAC maintenance and air filter changes, as well as regular dusting and vacuuming, can reduce or eliminate most problems with dust, pollen and pet dander. Keeping the humidity under 50 percent can control dust mites and mold.

To learn more about controlling indoor allergy triggers, talk to our experts at Conditioned Air, serving Southwest Florida.

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