Fighting Broken Systems

Is your heating, plumbing or HVAC equipment giving you problems? If you need an experienced team to rid you of your terrifying problems, look no further. We can combat any spooky heating and plumbing problems plaguing your home. This Halloween, take the opportunity to get in touch for any inspections or repairs.

Scary Noises

Is your plumbing system making awful noises? Does it make you scared to even think about trying to get in there and fix the problem yourself? Then leave the work to our experts. We can banish the problem noises from your pipes and get them running smoothly. Unusual plumbing noises don't scare us!

Slow to Heat

If your heat is slower than the undead, there could be a variety of problems. Your heat should come on promptly when you engage the unit. If it's taking awhile to warm up, or not warming up at all, you should talk to one of our technicians. You may need to do something as simple as adding some insulation or you may need your system updated.

General Discomfort

If your plumbing, heating or HVAC equipment is generally making you uncomfortable, give us a call. We come face to face with some of the worse systems in the Twin Cities, and we've lived to tell the tale. Your heating and plumbing woes are no match for our team. So, don't hesitate to contact us for all your service needs.

In need of plumbing or heating repair services? Give us a call today at 218-927-6828 or contact us online.

AC Tune Up Saves Operating And Maintenance Expense

A properly maintained AC system will operate more efficiently and with fewer repairs than a neglected system. More efficiency translates to less money spent for maintaining your comfort. If you are mechanically inclined and electrically qualified, you can do much of your own AC tune up. Unless you are already qualified as a heating and air conditioning technician, there are a few areas in which it would be better for you to seek the assistance of an expert. You will have to decide for yourself how much you can do and when it's time to recruit the talents of a qualified technician.

The first and easiest AC tune up item is replacing the air filters. Filters are best replaced monthly for maximum efficiency. Even in the mild seasons when heating or cooling is not required very often. You should never go more than three months before changing filters. Dirty filters are one of the main reasons for poor efficiency in heating and cooling systems, and a major cause of mechanical failure.

Next on the AC tune up list is installing a programmable thermostat if you don't already have one. Then you need to learn how to program it correctly. Once they are set up, there's little that you have to do unless you have a change in life style. Programmable thermostats will adjust the temperature for the best efficiency and comfort whether you are sleeping, awake, or away at work. A properly utilized programmable thermostat could easily save you ten percent of your energy bill.

Additional items to address in your AC tune up would be in lubricating all indoor and outdoor fan motors, checking the security of all electrical connections, verifying the correct refrigerant charge, and checking the efficiency and safety of any combustion processes in your heating system. Most home owners and building owners aren't qualified to take care of all these items, and should utilize a qualified professional Aitkin HVAC service company.  If you would like assistance in performing your AC tune up in Aitkin, MN or the surrounding areas, click here.

A Few More Summer Air Conditioning Tips

We've helped you out with saving money while using your air conditioning unit, and we've also told you how to keep your air conditioner running. Now we're adding a few more tips for you to really get the most out of your AC in the summer heat.

For instance, it's important to know exactly how powerful your air conditioner is and how big the room is that it's located in. The power of an air conditioner is measured in BTUs, which stands for British Thermal Units. The higher the BTU, the more cool air an AC can pump out. Check out page 3 of this Energy Star document to see how many BTUs you'll need to cool a certain room size.

Another tip; did you know that running a ceiling fan in conjunction with the air conditioner can make you feel between 3 and 8 degrees cooler? Even better, an air conditioner can cost as little as a penny per hour to run, so you won't be breaking the bank by adding this feature to your air conditioned room.

Finally, if your air conditioning unit is 10 years old or more, you might be in a better position if you just completely replaced it. Newer AC units (the ones that are Energy Star compliant) can actually use 10% less energy than older air conditioners. The energy savings you experience could actually end up paying for the new unit over time.

Interested in having a new Aitkin MN air conditioner installed, or does your current AC need maintenance? Call Northern Air Plumbing and Heating today at (218) 927-6828.

Keeping your AC Running

Summer can be a tough time for your air conditioner. When the temperature shoots up, you put a lot more stress on the AC, which requires it to be in good shape. If it's not, it's possible you could experience a breakdown. There are 23 specific air conditioner problems that account for 93% of failures, but the good news is this; 16 of these problems can be prevented with proper maintenance.

• Changing your air filter every 1-3 months can go a long way in preventing long-term damage to your air conditioner.
• Keeping the area your AC is in clear of any debris can also help.
• Taking a look at your drain line to make sure it is draining moisture properly will help keep your AC running smooth, and prevent damage to your home's interior.

Above all, it's a good idea to call a professional HVAC company to do a checkup on your unit. Aitkin MN air conditioner specialists Northern Air would love to help! Give us a call today at (218) 927-6828.

Air Conditioning: Why Your A/C Is Freezing

Despite the high heat outside, the pipes on your air conditioner can freeze. When this happens, your air conditioning unit can experience issues that might cause it to not work properly.

The reason the pipes freeze is because the refrigerant temperature in the indoor coil is lower than the freezing point of water, and it shows when you see ice on the outside suction line. Usually, this is due to poor air flow through the evaporator coil, which is caused by dirt in either the:

1. Air Filter
2. Blower Wheel
3. Evaporator Coil
4. Ductwork

Another reason your pipes might be freezing is because of low refrigerant, but only consider this once you eliminate the four options above. 

How do you stop the pipes from freezing?

1. If it's because of low refrigerant, have your air conditioning company recharge it. 
2. If there are leaking lines, then you'll need to have those fixed. 
3. Have your air filter, blower wheel, evaporator coil and/or ductwork cleaned out. 
4. Regularly change your air filter, at least on an annual basis. 
5. You may have to have the blower replaced if it's not running at the correct speed. 

Need help figuring out your problem? Call Aitkin MN Air Conditioner repair company Northern Air Plumbing & Heating today at 218-927-6828.

Money Saving Air Conditioner Tips

Summer officially starts next month, which means hotter temperatures are going to make their way into the Aitkin MN region. While many welcome the summer season, those who have to pay the electric bill every month may not be as excited; an air conditioner can increase your energy usage, after all, which then increases the amount you have to pay the electric company. Luckily, there are a few tips you can use to cut down on the amount of energy your air conditioner consumes.

Regular maintenance and service.
Keep the number of an air conditioner service specialist handy (perhaps Northern Air?) and have your air conditioner checked out regularly. If your A/C is running at a less-than-optimal level, it could be consuming way more energy than a healthy system.

Clean your air conditioner.
Be sure to keep your system clean, and change any filters on your air conditioner. A clean-running system is a happy one, and won't spike up your electric bill as much as an A/C that's performance is being affected by dirt, debris, and other interference.

Replace your windows.
Do you have single pane windows in your home? Now might be the time to replace those. They're more drafty and less energy efficient than double paned windows, and force your air conditioner to work harder than it should have to in order to keep your home at a cool, consistent temperature.

Interested in having your existing air conditioner checked out, or a new one installed in your Aitkin home? Get in touch with Northern Air Plumbing & Heating at (218) 927-6828.

Why Choose Northern Air Plumbing & Heating?

When it comes to your needs for Aitkin plumbing, MN HVAC or Minnesota air conditioning, you have plenty of options.

So, why should you choose Northern Air Plumbing & Heating? We feel our plumbing and HVAC work speaks for itself, but here are a few other reasons why you should make Northern Air Plumbing & Heating your choice for Aitkin residential plumbing or MN commercial HVAC:

• Family owned and local, serving Aitkin MN heating needs for over 18 years
• Licensed, bonded and insured
• We uphold and defer to the Minnesota Plumbing and Building Codes
• ONE YEAR WARRANTY for all work
• We stand behind our workmanship
• We do what is right for your needs
• MN plumbing and Aitkin HVAC for all projects, small to big
• Quality plumbing products and plumbing service for a fair price
• Friendly service with a smile and handshake!

Don’t take our word for all this. Read what our customers have to say about us on our Testimonials page.

Contact Northern Air Plumbing & Heating today at 218.927.6828 or receive a FREE ESTIMATE for any of your Aitkin air conditioning or Minnesota plumbing needs!

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.

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.

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.

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.