Don't Overspend on Your Heating and Energy Cost!

No matter what time of year it is, when it comes to heating and air one of the most standard complaints is the cost. Sure, we want to be cool in the summer and warm in the winter, but we would rather not pay exorbitant prices to do so. As a result, we have products like programmable thermostats, extra insulation, radiant heating systems, solar panels and many other energy efficient items installed in our homes in hopes that we can keep energy costs low and comfort levels where we want them.
Unfortunately, despite our efforts it still seems that energy costs are not getting that much lower. This is often because while we are feverishly working at the things we can see or perhaps know to look for, there are a number of steps we have overlooked. So, to bring those common energy spenders to the forefront, be sure to avoid the following:

• Leaving the furnace or air conditioner salesperson talk us into a larger unit than is necessary. In reality, this actually makes the system inefficient and wastes energy.
• Having a gas or electric comfort system that is not as powerful as it should be; this is especially common in older homes. According to the Federal Trade Commission, an all-electric heating system should have an AFUE rating no lower than 78% and no lower than 75% for gas heaters.
• Not having the ducts checked for leakage when having a new heating and cooling system is installed. If there is air seeping out, then it's money you could be saving!
• Thinking that since heat rises, it is not necessary to use insulation in the attic, this includes not fully insulating the floors over a basement or crawlspace, or between walls and windows.
• Not using ceiling and portable fans to improve the comfort levels. These types of fans use very little electricity and help to keep the air circulating. In most regions of the country, you can actually set the thermostat to 85 degrees and still keep the home comfortable. Just by circulating the air in your home you can set the thermostat 5 degree higher than you normally would.
• Not checking the caulking around doors and windows on a regular basis. If there are any cracks, then you are losing cool/warm air.

A few things to do, to lower energy cost are:

• If you have an older refrigerator, consider replacing it with an energy efficient model. Studies show that older models (pre 1983) actually cost 2-3 times more to use than newer models. Also, if you have a refrigerator in the garage, consider either getting rid of it or moving it indoors as its location alone requires it to work harder to keep cool.
• If you have windows on the west and south side of your home, plant deciduous shade trees and plants as they will help keep out heat during the warm months and help retain heat during the cooler ones.
• Replace traditional light bulbs with CFLs.

Learn more about saving on heating and energy or request a free estimate from Northern Air Plumbing & Heating of Aitkin, MN. Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

The Pros & Cons of Having a Tankless Water Heater

If you are interested in alternate heating sources, chances are, you have considered a tankless water heater. After all, like many of the alternative heating solutions, tankless water heaters are touted as a great option. But are they really right for you? If you are still trying to determine what type of alternative energy system is best for your home then consider these pros and cons of a tankless water heater.
Advantages of the Tankless Water Heater:

• You have unlimited hot water. Since the water is heated while passing through the system you don't have to worry about the tank getting emptied. However, flow rate is determined by how much hot water can be produced without letting up.
• Tankless hot water heaters require less space. They can be mounted on a wall or internally in a building's structure.
• There is less risk of water damage. Because water is stored in a tank then you don't have to worry about leaks or ruptures. However, it is imperative that the lines to the tank are properly and correctly secured and mounted so be sure to have a tankless water heater professionally installed.
• You have consistency of the water's pressure and temperature. You will need to talk the installer to ensure that the unit is set according to your needs and preferences, though. Regarding the temperature, like a traditional water heater, the tankless system is inversely proportional to the rate of the water flow- the faster the flow the less time the water spends being heated.
• Tankless water systems are not dependent on the water pressure that is going to the shower, faucet or other location. Unlike an underground system which often has lines that require the water to go against gravity to get to a location, a tankless system is not affected by gravitational challenges so the system does not have to work as hard to "transport" the water thus saving you money.

Disadvantages of a Tankless Water Heater:

• Hot Water! When you turn on the faucet in a home that has a tankless water heater, be prepared for scalding hot water. You will need to turn the hot water incrementally-especially for bathing or dishwashing.
• The cost of installation is high-especially if it is done after the home is built- and it can take as much as 10 years for the installation cost to be offset by the usage costs. In addition, it can be necessary to change over the valves, voltages, BTU and other aspects of an existing water heating system.
• It can be difficult to get cooler temperature water as there is sometimes a gap between the cold water and hot water system.
• A tankless water system is not always compatible with recirculation systems as the tankless water heaters are inactive when not in use and to be implemented to work with convection based systems will use more energy and defeat the purpose of having a tankless system.

Contact Northern Air Plumbing & Heating to receive a free plumbing & heating estimate.

Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

How Clean is Your Air?

Ah....Taking a deep breath of fresh, clean-smelling air is great. And, the cleaner the air is, the better for all. And while most of us recognize that oftentimes the outside air contains pollutants from factories and plants, we may overlook the air in our homes. But whether you live in a home that was just built or a home that has been around for decades, you will find that having an air purifier system installed will greatly improve how you feel.
There are 4 basic types of air purifiers, each with their own perks and quirks. They range in cost and ease of installation, so don't just go out and buy the first one you see. In addition, it should be noted that there is no exact requirements to grade these systems by. However, some basic considerations are cost, maintenance requirements, power requirements, level and source of pollution, room size, and unit efficiency. Here are brief descriptions of each type of air purifiers, though it is not uncommon for an air cleaner unit to work through combining some of the techniques.
Electronic ionizers: These air cleaners use an electronic process to reverse the charge of the particles in the air. They contain collection plates which work much like magnets that attract the particles in the air, as well as from items in the room like clothing, walls, floors and furniture. In order for the electronic air purifiers to best work, you will need to dust and vacuum the room often. Also, keep in mind that this type of air cleaner does produce a small amount of ozone. One of the best examples of this type of air purifier is the Friedrich C-90B because it also uses a strong fan and a HEPA filter.
HEPA air purifiers: This type of air filter uses pleated High Efficiency Particle Arresting filters that trap the particles. This is accomplished by using a fan to pull the air through the filter. These fans are often noisy, but some models are quieter than others. On the more positive side, HEPA filters are touted as being the most effective and they do not produce any ozone.
UV purifiers: This type of air purifier works by using ultra violet light to neutralize biological contaminants. Many experts agree that UV light is effective in destroying microbes such as bacteria, dust mites and mold spores if given enough exposure time. However, units of this type should be combined with a filter and fan to be most effective.
Ozone generators: There are some units that merely produce ozone and in actuality remove none of the allergens from the air. Large amounts of ozone will neutralize strong odors such as smoke odor, but according to the EPA this is dangerous for human health. This product gets around the EPA by not claiming to be a medical device; in addition, these types of air purifiers have been banned in the state of California by the Air Resources Board.
For more information on heating and air, please visit www.northernairplumbing.com or call 218.927.6828.
Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Give Your Sump Pump a Little TLC

Thunderstorms can be very destructive, as we all know. Wind and heavy rains can do quite a bit of damage to any home and the basement is no exception. The unsung hero keeping your basement flood free and dry is the sump pump. Generally, this workhorse plugs along with very little thought from the homeowner. When it does receive attention it is usually because it has a problem and the basement is flooding! Don't get caught in this situation by giving your pump a little TLC from time to time.
The first thing to consider is a temporary power outage. Unfortunately, a common companion to a severe storm is power failure. This is the worst time to have an outage! Copious amounts of water are raining down and this water needs to stay out of your home. If the power outage is severe, you might be without electricity for days or weeks. Frantically running around looking for a solution while your basement fills with water is no fun. Be prepared ahead of time and have a backup system in place. This might consist of something as straight forward as a generator and having reserve fuel on hand. Or maybe you install a small solar array with batteries so that you can have power on an indefinite basis. This option is particularly appealing with the current tax reduction incentive that the federal government is offering. Spend a little money now and avoid the enormous expense of repairing a flooded basement.
Second, inspect your pump from time to time. Examine the components and look for wear and tear. Pumps do not last forever and replacing one before it fails will put you way ahead.
Third, inspect the basin periodically for debris. Over time debris and small objects can find their way into your sump pump basin. These objects can become lodged in the pump and disrupt the pump's on/off switch. This can lead to pump failure as the pump end up running far more frequently than necessary. Be proactive and remove debris from your sump pump basin periodically. On a related note, don't install a pump in a basin with a dirt or gravel bottom as these can lead to debris problems as well.
Finally, even if nothing is wrong with your pump, you might want to consider replacing it every five years. Although they can last longer than this, replacing it before failure is a cheap insurance policy!
Hopefully, these tips can help you avoid a wet basement. Now, enjoy the next thunderstorm that passes through instead of worrying about your sump pump!
For more information on sump pump repair, sump pumps, or any plumbing needs visit www.NorthernAirPlumbing.com or call 218.927.6828
Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

What to Do If You Smell Natural Gas in Your Home

Someday you might be sitting and quietly reading a book when the pungent odor of rotten eggs assaults your nose. Uh-oh! You have gas leaking from somewhere. Time to do a little investigation.

If the smell of gas is extremely strong and abundant you have a very serious problem and should exit the house immediately and then call 911. A home full of gas could explode. However, as is more common, the smell will be rather subtle and it is perfectly acceptable to attempt to locate the source. Be warned, do not use a lighter, matches or any other fire to find the leak. Doing so can cause the gas to ignite. Yes, people have done this - don't be one of them.

First, check your stove to make sure all of the burners are turned off. It is not uncommon for a knob to be bumped and allow small amounts of gas to escape.

Next, check the pilot light on your water heater. Gas might be escaping from this point as well if it has gone out. Relight the pilot light according to your water heater's instructions.

If the stove and water heater are okay, try to localize the smell by the very sophisticated sniff test. Continually sniff the air in the area and keep moving to the sections where the smell is the strongest. Eventually, you are likely to end up looking at a section of gas line or a gas line joint.

You can test the line by applying liquid dishwashing detergent over the entire section or joint. Wait a couple minutes and look for bubbles. There isn't a leak if bubbles don't form. Try another joint or section until you locate the source of the gas.

Turn off the valve allowing gas to flow into this section of the gas line. If you are comfortable with the task, repair the line yourself. Otherwise, call in the pros.

During this process it is a good idea to open up windows to allow the gas to vent out of the house. Also, don't turn on any appliances or lights as this could cause the gas to ignite. This is a more remote possibility but there is no reason to tempt Fate.

Finally, a bit of trivia. The rotten egg smell is an additive to the gas as a safety measure. Natural gas by itself is odorless. With these simple tips you can quickly diagnose a leak and turn off the gas in order keep your home safe and allow for a proper repair. Happy sniffing!

For more information on services or maintentance of your natural gas heat, please visit Northern Air Plumbing or call 218.927.6828.

Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

6 FAQ's About Radiant Heating

If you are considering an alternate heat sources for your home then there are several choices. You may opt for geothermal units, solar heating, tankless water heaters or radiant heat. If you have been thinking about ways to improve your energy usage, then consider these frequently asked questions regarding radiant heating.

1. What is the difference between radiant heating and traditional forced air heaters? Radiant heaters are as much as 40% more efficient as it gently warms the solid surfaces in the room resulting in the air becoming warmer.
2. Will this heating method harm my wooded floors? As long as the building is energy efficient, then under floor heating will not harm the wooden floors. While in years past, radiant heating was not recommended, today's buildings are better built and have the proper insulation to accommodate radiant heating. However, if you have an older home, it would be wise to have professional look at your floors/insulation and determine if radiant heating would be a good idea.
3. Is it possible to combine this method of heating and conventional air conditioning? Yes. However, if this is your choice, it is best to have both systems installed at the same time. Typically, the recommended form of air conditioning is a system that is installed in the attic. It is not recommended that you combine a forced air system with a radiant system (one for heating and one for cooling) as this is not only more expensive, but is not as comfortable in regards to the temperature of the home and the quality of the air. In fact, only 5% of the heat transfer is by convection, ensuring cleaner air than traditional energy sources.
4. Do flooring materials such as carpet, tile or wood have any effect on how well this system works? Ceramic tile, wood and linoleum are great for conducting heat; however, carpet is thicker so it takes more energy to heat through the carpet into the room and often results in heat loss below the house. However, in multiple story homes, carpet is good for the upper stories as the "heat loss" will simply go to the floor below.
5. Can this form of heating have specific zones and how many controls are possible? As a rule of thumb, each floor is its own zone and will have its own control.
6. What type of quality of living features does a radiant heating system offer? Not only is the air cleaner with a radiant heating system, but additional benefits are more even heating throughout the home with no dry heat or hot air drafts to cause shifts in humidity and temperature, the ability to arrange your furniture in any formation you want without regard to where the vents are, the system is quiet so you don't hear it "click" on or off and a radiant heat system will last considerably longer than a forced air system as it is corrosion, impact, crush and pressure resistant.

For additional information on the topic of radiant heating visit Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Keep Your HVAC Heating and Cooling System Well Maintained

Even in the Depressed Economy

With the advent of winter and colder temperatures quickly approaching, inevitably many home owners will experience a broken furnace or HVAC system. Without a source of heat to provide warmth it is not only uncomfortable, but down right dangerous. Many older homes will often have more drafts and leaks than a newer home will.
As the economy and home owners continues to remain financially depressed, home owners are constantly on the lookout for the best way to stretch the U.S. dollar. For many home owners retrofitting with new types of insulation or remodeling is not a financially feasible option. Doing nothing, however, is an unwise decision.
The alternative can be a scary scenario. Every year multiple deaths are reported and attributed to freezing temperatures. When an individual succumbs to severe hypothermia, the risk of cardiac arrest is extremely high. Although this is a very sobering thought, it is none the less a real possibility.
The best defense is a good offense. Every home owner and family should be proactive with regards to the home's heating in the winter months. Preventative maintenance is always a necessity, but nowhere is this more important than in regions which experience single digit temperatures, such as Minnesota. Having the furnace or other heating source inspected before extreme colder temperatures arrive is paramount to ensure that the HVAC system is working at an optimum level.
"Before" is the operative word. Left unchecked a furnace or heat pump, which may normally be in passable enough condition to provide protection from mildly cooler temperatures, is severely taxed when the temperature drops near the freezing point. Should the HVAC system fail in the middle of a cold spell it is quite likely that it could be at least a couple of days before it is possible for any service company to arrive. The worst case scenario is to be snowed in when the system fails. By this time it may be too late. Individuals at greatest risk of succumbing to extreme temperatures are the elderly and the young.
Because HVAC systems are not always strictly electrical, but often use re-circulated water as a heating source, many plumbing companies also specialize in heating and cooling. Finding a service company which offers a wide range of services can provide the convenience of a one-stop solution for the home owner. Some of these companies may offer reduced rates per service call when an annual service contract is set up, which can benefit both parties.

For additional information on the topic of heating and plumbing visit Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Article independently authored by Daniel Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Radiant Heating - How Hydronic Heating Methods Are More Efficient Than a Furnace and Electric Heat

With all of the hectic day to day stress that a home owner experiences finding a reliable company which can service multiple major systems of a home is invaluable. Home owners may think that it is unusual for a plumbing service company to also handle heating and cooling systems and equipment. In all reality air and water are almost identical in the way each behaves, as both are fluids. With each utility having similar properties, it is no surprise an HVAC company will very often handle plumbing and plumbing repair service requests.
In many homes throughout the country, usually found in northern climates, hydronic heating, one of the most efficient methods, is used to heat the home during cooler weather. Hydronic heating is the use of hot water being circulated through a series of pipes and allowing the heat to dissipate into the living quarters. Most commonly this is seen as units resembling base board heaters and even radiators.
Much like the radiator in a vehicle, there are metal fins lining the interior of the metal housing in baseboard heating fixtures. The fins provide a greater amount of surface area for the heat from the hot water to be shed instead of simply relying on a basic pipe. In addition to this, it is also possible to run a series of tubes under the floor, inside the walls or within the ceiling. Running tubes of circulating hot water through the floor or ceiling is one type of radiant heat. There can also be electric radiant heat systems, but are not always as energy efficient as hydronic heating.
Unlike forced heat, which is the most common heating method found throughout the country, the rooms are warmed from the top down. If the home owner were able to walk on the ceiling, this would be a very efficient and comfortable way to heat the home. Radiant heat, when installed in the floor, heats the rooms from the floor up. Because heat rises, all of the heat and energy from the radiant heat is felt at the bottom half of the room, which is where home owners spend all of their time.
Irregardless of the placement of the piping or radiators, all hydronic heating systems need a boiler, normally kept in the basement, which heat the water. Boilers can either be fueled by natural gas, propane, oil or electricity, with oil and gas being the most common. With just one utility such as heating requiring water, oil, pipes or gas, it can easily be understood why an HVAC company would also need to be versatile by being knowledgeable and experienced with plumbing.

For additional information on the topic of heating and cooling visit Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Article independently authored by Daniel Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Home Comfort System

If you are thinking about making some changes to your heating or cooling system, then you may be surprised at just how many choices are available today. No longer is it simply a matter of wood stoves/fireplaces, coal, gas or electric. Today's choices range from geothermal heating and cooling or solar powered systems, basic gas or electric heaters to radiant heat or basic window or room heaters or air conditioning units to humidifiers and dehumidifiers. So, with the many home comfort system choices available, how can you determine what will be best for your home?
In addition to the many types of systems available, you will also want to think about the region of the U.S. you live in. After all, if you live in the northeastern part of the country then your summers are typically cooler and your winters much more severe than those experienced by families in the southwest, and for folks in Florida the humidity level is different than for those in Michigan. Before making a decision, be sure to talk to several people (preferably those who have a residence similar to yours) and see what they have found to be most effective for their home. Then, as you begin your quest, here are several key factors to keep in mind:

1. Does anyone in the home have any allergies or asthma? Do you have indoor pets, especially those known for shedding a great deal? If so, then a whole house air cleaner can help remove any unwanted dust particles and allergens as well as any pet dander. Look for a comfort system with an air filtration system that removes 99% or more of them. Once the system is installed, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding how often the filter(s) need to be changed.
2. Are you hoping to lower your energy costs with the new comfort system? Since this applies to us all, then make sure that the system you are considering has an Energy Star rating. Not only will these products save you money over the course of time, but most of them come with government rebates.
3. What types of materials are common for your flooring and furniture? If you have a great deal of wood, then you will want to consider a whole house humidifier in order to add moisture back in the air and protect the wood floors.
4. How big is your home? Make sure you have the dimensions, not just for your home, but for each room, so that you can get the most from your comfort. One that is too big will cost more to both purchase and use, while one that is too small will be inefficient and have to run too hard to have any money saving value.
5. Does your family constantly adjust the thermostat? Be sure to choose a system with a programmable thermostat so that you can set the temperature to suit the needs of particular day, time of day, or other consideration.

For additional information on the topic of heating and air visit Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Is Radiant Heating Right For You?

There are many ways available to keep your home warm, so it is a given that some are more energy efficient than others. After all, there is the traditional fireplace, coal burning heaters, wood stoves, electric heat and radiant heat. Yet one of the most energy efficient methods, radiant heat, is perhaps one of the most unused, despite having been around since the days of the early Romans.
History shows that the early Romans used radiant floor heat as a form of central heating for their villas and baths by directing flue gases from beneath the stone slab floors. However, this method of heating ultimately became obsolete, until the early 20th century when it was rediscovered and then adapted by modern science so that hot water was run through the iron or copper pipes. In fact, when Frank Lloyd Wright began designing houses, he frequently employed radiant heating.
As with any "new" thing, it took time for radiant heating to become more standard, but today there are many companies that specialize in the installation and maintenance of this energy efficient method of heating one's home. And, despite claims by more traditional heating methods that assert as much as a 92% efficiency rating, a radiant heat system is actually 30-40% more efficient than forced-air heating systems. This is due to a simple law of science: hot air rises and cold air falls. Consequently, radiant heat rises up from the floor heating the air from the bottom up, then during the warmer months the system is combined with an attic mounted air conditioning system so the air is cooled efficiently and effectively-saving the homeowner money!
If you are building a new home, or merely thinking about upgrading your current home heating system, think about these reasons for using radiant heat:

• Consistent warmth throughout the home because heat loss from occupants is reduced as the higher temperatures are nearer to the floor while cooler temperature are at ceiling level.
• More effective use of energy as the rooms are not pressurized and allowing air and heat to seep out.
• Temperatures stay even throughout the home as you can set the temperatures based needed heat levels. Also, because the heat is dispersed through the floor, there is no need to have the furniture set up a specific way to allot for air vents.
• Radiant heat is quiet. Because the heat is produced by water moving through pipes in the floor, there is no need for the system to make any noise when the heater "kicks in". The only sound comes from the burner in the boiler.
• Miniscule amounts of bad air as only 5% of the heat is transferred by convection. This means that there is no dust, odors, germs or allergens being dispersed throughout a building.
• Durability is perhaps the greatest benefit of radiant heating thanks to PEX tubing that is used in installation. It will last for years and requires little or no maintenance.

For additional information on the topic of radiant heat systems visit Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Give Your Sump Pump a Little TLC

Thunderstorms can be very destructive, as we all know. Wind and heavy rains can do quite a bit of damage to any home and the basement is no exception. The unsung hero keeping your basement flood free and dry is the sump pump. Generally, this workhorse plugs along with very little thought from the homeowner. When it does receive attention it is usually because it has a problem and the basement is flooding! Don't get caught in this situation by giving your pump a little TLC from time to time.
The first thing to consider is a temporary power outage. Unfortunately, a common companion to a severe storm is power failure. This is the worst time to have an outage! Copious amounts of water are raining down and this water needs to stay out of your home. If the power outage is severe, you might be without electricity for days or weeks. Frantically running around looking for a solution while your basement fills with water is no fun. Be prepared ahead of time and have a backup system in place. This might consist of something as straight forward as a generator and having reserve fuel on hand. Or maybe you install a small solar array with batteries so that you can have power on an indefinite basis. This option is particularly appealing with the current tax reduction incentive that the federal government is offering. Spend a little money now and avoid the enormous expense of repairing a flooded basement.
Second, inspect your pump from time to time. Examine the components and look for wear and tear. Pumps do not last forever and replacing one before it fails will put you way ahead.
Third, inspect the basin periodically for debris. Over time debris and small objects can find their way into your sump pump basin. These objects can become lodged in the pump and disrupt the pump's on/off switch. This can lead to pump failure as the pump end up running far more frequently than necessary. Be proactive and remove debris from your sump pump basin periodically. On a related note, don't install a pump in a basin with a dirt or gravel bottom as these can lead to debris problems as well.
Finally, even if nothing is wrong with your pump, you might want to consider replacing it every five years. Although they can last longer than this, replacing it before failure is a cheap insurance policy!
Hopefully, these tips can help you avoid a wet basement. Now, enjoy the next thunderstorm that passes through instead of worrying about your sump pump!
To learn more about the topic of sump pumps please visit www.NorthernAirPlumbing.com.
Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing.

16 Common Terms in the Field of HVAC

Embarking on a new field of work or hobby can be quite the adventure. After all, there is the thrill of doing something new, meeting others with similar interests, and the opportunity to improve one's knowledge of a subject. As part of these new experiences, comes a new vocabulary relates to the chosen field. In the field of HVAC, (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) it is no different. However, for many homeowners the terms association with this field can be a bit intimidating. Here are some of the more common terms and abbreviations one is likely to hear when talking to an HVAC specialist:

• ACCA- The Air Conditioning Contractors of America; a group that represent HVAC and refrigeration specialist.
• Activated carbon- Granular processed carbon, often used in air filters to clean the air.
• Air balancing- Adjusting the air conditioning and heating to ensure the correct amount of air is delivered to each room.
• AFUE- Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency; a rating that shows the efficiency of furnaces and gas heating units. The number represents how much energy is converted to usable heat.
• Air Handling unit- The equipment that moves or "mixes" the air being heated or cooled. Its components include a blower fan, heating/cooling coils, controls, drain pans, and air filters.
• Compressor- A pump in an air conditioning system that moves the refrigerant from the evaporator coils inside to the condenser outside then back into the building. There are 4 types of condensers: the centrifugal compressor, the reciprocating, the rotary screw, and the scroll.
• Condenser- The outside of an air conditioning unit that condenses the refrigerant from a gas to a liquid to remove the unwanted hot or cold air from the building to the outside.
• Drip pan- A tray or pan in which the water collects as it is condensed from the evaporator.
• Duct- The conduit through which heated or cooled air is moved from the condenser unit to the rooms of a building.
• EER- Energy Efficient Ratio; a ratio of the cooling capacity to the electrical input under specific conditions. The higher the number the better.
• Evaporator Coil- Tubes that move the heat and moisture as the refrigerant evaporates back into a gas.
• Matched system- A heating and air system which has components certified to perform at a certain level when used together.
• Packaged heat pump- A refrigerant system that has all its parts in one unit.
• SEER- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio; this shows how effective an air conditioner or heat pump is, the higher the number the better the unit.
• Split system- Commonly used in homes. It is when two or more parts of an HVAC are located outside of the home with lines running between the components.
• Variable-speed motor- A type of motor that has multiple speeds to allow for better air circulation, as well as less noise and energy use.

For more information on heating and air conditioning please visit www.northernairplumbing.com.

Article indpendently authored by Janet M Slagell. The content here in may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing.

Bathroom Ventilation Can Save You Money

Whether you have just purchased a new home or are thinking about a remodel, the bathroom typically takes much of your consideration - as it should! The bathroom is one of the most action oriented rooms in the house and in most demand at times. In keeping this room operating in tip-top shape, be sure to consider the ventilation situation. Depending on your local building codes you might need a bathroom vent even if you have a window in the bathroom.
The purpose of a bathroom ventilation system is twofold. First, it provides comfort. After a hot shower the steam can fog up glasses and the mirror making things more difficult. Plus, bathroom odors need to be removed from time to time. However, the really important job for the venting system is the removal of moisture.
Allowing moisture to linger can create very serious problems. The one most prominent to many is the mold issue. Generally, mold needs a warm and moist environment to grow and thrive - exactly the environment an unvented bathroom provides. Mold can be a health hazard depending on the type and can cause or exacerbate respiratory problems. Additionally, it is visually unattractive. The second issue is that moisture will rot and decay your home's structure. Frequently, the damage is not visible until it is very far along making it difficult and expensive to repair. All of the issues can be avoided by properly venting the bathroom with a ceiling or wall ventilation system.
Be very wary of a contractor that wants to vent your bathroom into the attic or other space in the home. Just because the moisture is no longer in your bathroom doesn't mean it can't cause problems. The theory in venting to the attic is that the moisture will dissipate out the roof vents and not cause any harm. The first problem is that this presupposes that the attic space is being ventilated properly. If the attic is not properly ventilated then the water vapor can't escape and will cause the damage in your attic instead of your bathroom. Secondly, if the temperature is below freezing the water vapor will freeze on the surfaces in the attic - rafters, insulation, etc. - and once it warms up again it melts directly onto these surface where it can cause significant damage. This is particularly true if you have a frequently used shower. Vent your home properly and make sure ductwork is added so that your bathroom fan vents to the outside.
You can have contractor install a ventilation system for you but with a little bit of handyman skill it is a task you can undertake yourself. Check out the web for instructions on how to properly install a system.
A bathroom ventilation system is one area where you don't want to take shortcuts. Doing so can cost a lot of money!
For more information on bathroom ventilation systems visit www.northernairplumbing.com.
Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing.

Bathroom Ventilation Can Save You Money

Whether you have just purchased a new home or are thinking about a remodel, the bathroom typically takes much of your consideration - as it should! The bathroom is one of the most action oriented rooms in the house and in most demand at times. In keeping this room operating in tip-top shape, be sure to consider the ventilation situation. Depending on your local building codes you might need a bathroom vent even if you have a window in the bathroom.
The purpose of a bathroom ventilation system is twofold. First, it provides comfort. After a hot shower the steam can fog up glasses and the mirror making things more difficult. Plus, bathroom odors need to be removed from time to time. However, the really important job for the venting system is the removal of moisture.
Allowing moisture to linger can create very serious problems. The one most prominent to many is the mold issue. Generally, mold needs a warm and moist environment to grow and thrive - exactly the environment an unvented bathroom provides. Mold can be a health hazard depending on the type and can cause or exacerbate respiratory problems. Additionally, it is visually unattractive. The second issue is that moisture will rot and decay your home's structure. Frequently, the damage is not visible until it is very far along making it difficult and expensive to repair. All of the issues can be avoided by properly venting the bathroom with a ceiling or wall ventilation system.
Be very wary of a contractor that wants to vent your bathroom into the attic or other space in the home. Just because the moisture is no longer in your bathroom doesn't mean it can't cause problems. The theory in venting to the attic is that the moisture will dissipate out the roof vents and not cause any harm. The first problem is that this presupposes that the attic space is being ventilated properly. If the attic is not properly ventilated then the water vapor can't escape and will cause the damage in your attic instead of your bathroom. Secondly, if the temperature is below freezing the water vapor will freeze on the surfaces in the attic - rafters, insulation, etc. - and once it warms up again it melts directly onto these surface where it can cause significant damage. This is particularly true if you have a frequently used shower. Vent your home properly and make sure ductwork is added so that your bathroom fan vents to the outside.
You can have contractor install a ventilation system for you but with a little bit of handyman skill it is a task you can undertake yourself. Check out the web for instructions on how to properly install a system.
A bathroom ventilation system is one area where you don't want to take shortcuts. Doing so can cost a lot of money!
For more information on bathroom ventilation systems and more visit www.NorthernAirPlumbing.com.
Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing.

Is Geothermal Right for You?

With a difficult economy, many people are looking for ways to save money and stretch every dollar. You may have seen geothermal mentioned as way to save money in your quest to do the same. What exactly is geothermal and how can it help you?
First, it helps to clarify what we mean by geothermal in a residential setting. Geothermal energy production is the process of capturing heat from very hot spots in the earth and converting this energy to electricity. Generally, it is only suitable for large applications. In contrast, a geothermal ground source heat pump helps you to use electricity more efficiently. It does not, however, create electricity. When discussing geothermal for residential use, it is this concept that is being addressed in almost all instances -- you might be an exception if you live next to a volcano.
Basically, a geothermal heat pump pushes water or antifreeze through a lattice of high-density polyethylene pipes installed in your yard. The pipes are generally buried about five feet below the surface and are looped back and forth over a large area. The typical home will need between 1,000 and 2,200 feet of pipe. If you have a small yard the loops can be run vertically but this greatly increases the cost of the system. During the winter, the water or antifreeze circulates within the pipes, captures the Earth's heat and brings it back to your home. Once inside, a compressor and a heat exchanger aggregate the energy and transfer it for distribution via ductwork like a traditional furnace. The system works in reverse during the summer. The heat in your home is transferred to the pipes where the heat is absorbed by the Earth. This process works in much the same way a refrigerator functions.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, geothermal heat pumps are the most energy efficient systems for heating and cooling. This greater efficiently translates into a 30% to 40% cost savings -- with some people reporting even greater savings.
Before jumping into the geothermal arena, it helps to assess how long you will remain in your home. The up front cost for a heat pump system is pricey when compared to a traditional HVAC system and staying long term helps recoup this cost. A typical system will cost about $2,500 per geothermal ton with the average house needing two or three tons. This translates into $5,000 to $7,500. The cost for excavating or drilling is an additional cost which can range from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the difficulty and needs for your particular situation. Thus, a pre-geothermal home with a $200 per month electric bill would require about fifteen years to recoup the installation costs. This example assumes a $15,000 complete install cost with a 40% savings after the system is operational. Typically, there are state and federal tax credits available to help blunt the installation costs. In short, if you intend to move soon, a geothermal unit does not make economic sense.
However, there are additional reasons to consider a geothermal heat pump. First, it is much more environmentally sound. By utilizing the Earth's natural heat, you are reducing your usage of coal or nuclear power and their attendant pollution problems. Second, geothermal systems are mechanically more simple than standard HVAC systems. As a result, maintenance costs are much less as there are fewer parts to break or malfunction. Finally, the system is much quieter than a standard heating and cooling system.
If you intend to stay in your home for a few years, a geothermal system is a great economic move and a wonderful conversation piece. Hopefully, you can install a system soon!!!


Learn more about Geothermal Heat by visiting www.nothernairplumbing.com today!

Posted by WebDrafter.com, Inc. with permission.

Article independently authored by Matthew Eddington. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing & Heating.

Update and Refresh Your Home - Bathroom Remodeling

Renovations for the home are really common today. Sometimes changes are needed to fit a growing family, while older homes need work to be up-to-date and functional. While renovation costs can become burdensome, did you know that not renovating could cost you more?
Many real estate experts speculate that the bathroom is one of the most important factors determining the resale value of your home and one of the top concerns of potential homebuyers. Bathrooms can positively affect the value of the house by their luxurious features. While every bathroom has a sink and bath tub and toilet, not all of them have whirlpool tubs, recessed lighting or extravagant features such as heated tile.
While the bathroom can be the most influential factor in a prospective homebuyer's decision, unfortunately in used homes it is often a negative factor. The bathroom is one of the rooms that is hidden and can be closed off by a door, and unlike the living room or kitchen it is not visible and can often be ignored and not renovated until it is very out of date. The fact that bathroom renovations also tend to be expensive can influence a purchaser's decision to pass or buy a home.
Bathroom renovations do not have to always cost a lot of money. Simple renovations still have a high return on investment. A coat of paint or removing that rust pink wallpaper can have a really great impact on the overall appearance of the bathroom. If there is seventies-era inspired avocado colored tile in your bathroom there is still hope as some companies specialize in painting tile. A change in color to white, black, or neutral is something that is more modern and will stay up to date longer. Changing light fixtures can also improve and modernize the bathroom, and can even be an energy efficient way to save money in the long run. If your bathroom simply needs a quick update try replacing bathroom towels or simple accessories as an easy fix.
Bathroom remodeling is much easier today because there are products made for do-it-yourself homeowners. Products like tile or wood floor paneling can be purchased and installed for little or no heartache. While all these changes would impact the appearance and the value of your home, more drastic changes would have an even greater impact. Gutting the bathroom and installing new shower units, toilets, and sinks would create an entire new bathroom that can increase the selling price and probability of selling your home.
A return on equity estimator calculated that a modest bathroom remodel would have a 102.2 percent return! While many of our investments are negative right now, a return over 100 percent is huge, especially when it comes to the value of your home. For easy fixes and updates your local hardware store is always a good source of information, as is a professional installation company. Ask questions and get the most out of your home!

Contact www.northernairplumbing.com to update your bathroom and receive a free estimate!!!

Posted by WebDrafter.com, Inc. with permission.

Article independently authored by Matthew Eddington. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Northern Air Plumbing.

Is a High Efficiency Furnace a Good Choice?

If you are in the market for a new furnace, you have undoubtedly heard of a high efficiency furnace. But just what make a furnace highly efficient and what are the advantages over other types of furnaces?

A high efficiency furnace is a furnace that converts most of it's fuel into heat that is then circulated through your home. In order to be categorized as such, the furnace must convert at least 90% of the fuel to heat. Lesser conversion rates will earn the furnace the label of mid-efficiency or standard efficiency depending on the exact conversion percentage. Many models of furnaces greatly exceed the 90% minimum and furnace with greater than 92% efficiency are called ultra high efficiency furnaces. This percentage measure of efficiency is called the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating.

The greater efficiency is generated by how the furnace works. Furnace efficiency is increased in large part by losing less heat heat via water vapor and heated gases. A high efficiency furnace will recapture the heat from water vapor before the vapor is emitted out the flue. Additionally, efficiency is increased by replacing the pilot light with an electric ignition, as well as an improved heat exchanger and draft fan.

The drawbacks to these furnaces are that they cost more to install. A mid-efficiency furnace will cost roughly $2,000 installed depending on where you live. In contrast, a high efficiency model will cost approximately $3,000 installed and an ultra efficient model will likely cost $500 on top of that. However, with greater efficiency comes less use of fuel and lower heating bills. More efficient furnaces can save you up to 20% on your heating bill and, as a rule of thumb, expect to take three years to make up the initial greater cost in monthly savings. To maximize your savings, be sure to maintain the rest of your furnace system. Clogged air filters, holes in ducts and other broken parts reduce efficiency regardless of the sophistication of your furnace.

However, high efficiency furnaces are not for everyone. If you live an a relatively mild area where your furnace rarely runs the additional cost would not be justified. However, if you live somewhere like Minneapolis where the outside temperature can remain at sub-zero temperatures for days at a time, it makes a lot sense to consider upgrading. That said, no matter how cold your climate may get it does not make sense to invest in an upgraded furnace if you plan to move soon. Depending on the size of your utility bill, this break point is likely around the three to five year mark. If you intend to remain in the house for less than three years, a mid-efficiency furnace is probably a better bet as you will not have time to make for the higher install cost with a high efficiency furnace.

Finally, another advantage of better efficiency is that they are more comfortable. These furnaces tend to keep the home at a more even temperature and moderate temperature fluctuations that can occur with lesser efficiency furnaces. Only you know how valuable this benefit is when working out whether to upgrade or not.

In short, the higher the efficiency rating, the better the product. But you need to consider what is best for you. Hopefully, this information gives you a good jumping off point for exploring your specific needs.

For more information and guidance about high efficiency furnaces, visit Norther Air Heating & Plumbing at http://www.northernairplumbing.com. Their site has information about improving your indoor air quality.

Is a Tankless Water Heater a Good Idea?

With the cost of energy on the rise, many of us are looking for ways to save on our monthly electric or gas bills. In your search for ways to stretch a dollar, you may have heard of a tankless water heater.

A tankless water heater, whether gas or electric, is designed to heat water only on demand. Basically, water leaves your water line and enters the heater and flows around a heating unit en-route to the point of utilization without every being stored and given the opportunity to cool off again. The key feature is that the heater does not turn on until it senses that a hot water tap is being opened. In short, the water is heated as part of the delivery process and only when it will be used immediately. This is in contrast to a typical tank water heater that holds gallons of water (40 gallons is typical) in a constantly heated state. Even if you are not home for the weekend, the tank heater is diligently heating the water to your desired temperature and then heating it again as it cools off. The tankless water heater only heats water once and that is where the savings come into play.

The difficulty is that the savings can be dramatically higher or lower depending on your specific situation. However, as a rule of thumb, a household should realize a 30% savings on energy related to hot water usage. This might work out as follows:

• Tank heater cost per month - $50
• Tankless cost at 30% reduction per month - $35
• Savings per month - $15
• Savings per year - $180

$180 per year is nothing to sneeze at but a tankless system might not make sense depending on a few other variables. If you live in a very cold climate, it takes more energy to heat the water. The baseline water temperature in Phoenix is much warmer than in Fargo, N.D. If you live in Fargo, your savings would be less if all other things are equal.

Additionally, it costs about $700 for an installed tank water heater but two to three times that amount for a tankless system. This translates to roughly $700 - $1,400 additional dollars out of your pocket. At a $180 yearly cost reduction, it will take 3.5 to 8 years to recover the additional expense and begin to save money. If you plan on moving in the next few years, a tankless system makes absolutely no sense. Additionally, if you have a gas system, you will need to modify the gas lines feeding the heater and this can be very costly. Of course, this cost is not a concern if you are looking at installing in a new home.

Taking this as a whole, we can conclude that vacation homes or families with low hot water usage generally would not benefit economically from a tankless system. However, if you are a large family with the attendant high frequency showering and laundering, it may be a good fit for you.

However, there are other non-economic reasons for installing a tankless system. Tankless systems last twice as long as tank water heaters and they don't fail catastrophically. It is not uncommon for a tank system to fail and spill all forty or so gallons of water into the home. This volume of water can do tremendous damage in short order - destroyed drywall, ruined carpet, damaged electrical systems, etc. The cost to repair this damage can run upwards of thousands of dollars. The tankless system avoids this and provides you with peace-of-mind knowing that you don't have a potential hydro-time-bomb in your utility closet.

Another major reason for people electing a tankless system is avoidance of the "shower frigid dance." If you have ever been halfway through a shower and had the hot water give out, you know what I mean. With a tankless system, you have unlimited hot water since the water is being heated on the fly and not from a stored container. No more waiting for the tank to heat more after your teenager took a fifty minute shower while the dishwasher was running.

Also, a tankless system is much smaller than a tank system. If your heater is in an inconvenient spot or a tight space, a tankless system might be able to help you out.

Finally, people that are eco-conscious will choose the tankless system as well. Even if the energy savings is low, every bit counts. And with the twenty year life span of the tankless system, there is less pollution and energy used manufacturing yet another water heater at the ten year mark when a traditional system would fail.

Whether a tankless water heater is a good fit for you depends very much on your particular circumstances. However, with a little research and thought you may be able to save money and have more comfortable shower!

For more information and guidance about water heaters, visit http://www.northernairplumbing.com. Northern Air specializes in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air exchangers, water softeners, radiant heat, and more.

WebDrafter.com Designs site for Northern Air Plumbing & Heating

Northern Air Plumbing & Heating is proud to announce the design of their website from WebDrafter.com.

Northern Air provides residential and light commercial services specializing in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, air exchangers, water softeners, radiant heat, and more.

To learn more about our products and services visit www.northernairplumbing.com.