Ultimate Heating & Air Blog
Top 4 Benefits of A Programmable Thermostat
One of the easiest ways to save on your cooling and heating costs is to get a programmable thermostat in your house. These provide you with many different features so you can simply set the air or heat in your home for different times; night or day. For instance, if you are working during the day and know you will not be home, you can set your thermostat for very low heating and then have it increase the temperature shortly before you get home. This can also be done in the night when you are going to bed. Set your thermostat for lower heat while you sleep and have it warm up shortly before you wake. Just be sure to dress in warm pajamas or a warm blanket. It has definitely been proven that programmable thermostats are more convenient than manual ones and more accurate. Not only this, but below are four more benefits of having a programmable thermostat in your home.
1. Energy Efficient
In order to reduce energy costs, it is undoubtedly true the thermostat is the absolute best device. Everyone knows that the heating and cooling bills will be sky high for most of the year. In fact, the reason for this is mostly due to you using your appliances. Without realizing it, you waste energy by having them run when you really do not need them. A programmable thermostat will provide you with the convenience to switch off these heating and cooling appliances when they are not needed. Studies have shown that the homeowner pays over $2000 each year on energy bills and that by being more conscientious, they can reduce this amount by around $200 annually. This clearly shows how having a programmable thermostat can be a real benefit to you.
2. Reduce HVAC Services
These types of thermostats eliminate the need to manually operate your heating and cooling system each time. It has been shown that overusing your device can lead to malfunctions which will require repair services. This is a waste of money in itself. However, if you install a programmable thermostat in your home, you will no longer have to operate these devices yourself. You can just program your thermostat and forget about it and enjoy a comfortable environment without touching your devices.
3. Environment Friendly
You are able to set multiple settings on a programmable thermostat depending on what your requirements are and save energy and money. This energy saving alone is a good reason to have a programmable thermostat installed.
4. Comfort and Convenience
This type of thermostat offers a far more comfortable home than using a manual one since you will not have to keep switching the temperatures manually all the time. You can simply program it in advance and enjoy the rest of your day while always having the perfect temperature you require.
For more details call 208-321-8663 or click here.
Go Green: Learn How a geothermal Heat Pump can work for you
Geothermal Heat Pumps, or Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) are Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems which take advantage of the natural insulation properties of soil. Due to the fact that they are built mainly underground they have a relatively high installation price compared to other HVAC systems but, due to their high efficiency, save massive amounts of money on heating, ventilation and air conditioning costs each year.
Geothermal Heat pumps rely on the same principles as that of a normal HVAC system, a principle in Physics known as phase conversion. Phase conversion means that as a liquid is converted into a gas, it absorbs heat energy from its surroundings. The heat energy that Geothermal Heat Pumps draw on for this purpose is the heat energy stored deep within the soil, which is kept at an average temperature throughout the year, regardless of the seasons. This heat energy is energy absorbed by the soil from Solar energy, not from the core of the Earth.![]()
This heat taken from the soil is passed from the Heat Pump to the surface, to the building the GSHP is installed in. Due to this, in the Winter, the heat from the soil is used to warm your home. However, the system also works in the other direction when reversed, meaning the heat from your home can be extracted and brought down to the earth, providing a cooling effect in the Summer.
Due to these points, GSHPs are extremely efficient, among the most efficient in the world today. What this means for you is that this system costs very little to run, as very little energy is required operate it. On average, depending on the size of the system, the initial installation costs are made back within the first three to ten years after installation and most parts within this system, which can be expensive to replace or repair have a lifetime between 25 to 50 years.
The other great factor to consider when regarding GSHPs is that they are very Eco-friendly and do not rely on any fossil fuel generated electricity, as they are usually coupled with a Solar-powered system to operate the pump. This all means savings for the owner, as electricity and heating bills are effectively eliminated for heating, ventilating and air conditioning your home.
Field studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed that, when operated on a commercial scale, GSHPs were shown to save 75% of electricity that would have been required from a conventional HVAC system and avoided the emmision of 7,100 pounds of CO2 and 15 pounds of Nox each year, per ton of compressor capacity (on average, each system has an approximate 6 ton compressor capacity).
So, not only are GSHPs an efficient, cheap to operate and long lasting technology, they are also Eco-friendly and could potentially save you thousands of dollars over your lifetime. These are all fantastic reasons why and how a geothermal Heat Pump could work for you and save you money in the long-run.
For more details call (208) 995-2614 or click here
Installation 101 - how to save money this summer with a heating installation
We all want to save money each year, in many different ways, but the one guaranteed expense everybody has to pay are bills. So, if we reduce the amount of money we spend on bills, the annual returns you make back each year in savings could save you tens of thousands of dollars in the long-run. By making your heating system more efficient, you can guarantee to save money on costly heating bills, every year.
Now, it may sound counterproductive at first to install a heating system during the Summer, but when you consider the benefits that it could gain from installing a heating system at this time of year, it makes a lot of sense. 
The first aspect of installing a heating system to consider during the Summer is the insulation. When you think of insulation, more than likely the first thing you think about is how that will keep something warm. Though this is true, it is not the only property of insulation that you can benefit from in your home. Insulation isn't something that warms your house, it just prevents heat from moving from one space into another. Because of this, during the Summer, insulation also prevents heat from outside from getting in to your house. This means that a well insulated house can keep cooler more easily during the warmer parts of the year. Due to this, the Summer is an ideal time to install a heating system, as the insulation will immediately benefit you. This also helps you save money as you do not need to spend as much money during the Summer to keep your house cool.
By installing a heating system during the Summer, you also save money on the installation costs, as the labour is more readily available during the Summer, due to a lower demand for heating system installations at that time of year. Though the parts for the actual heating installation will cost the same, the available services in your local area are in direct competition with one another and so, if you look around the market for installation services, you should be able to find a competitive price for the labour costs of the installation. This all means savings for you, which, in the current global economy, are becoming more and more important for each of us.
Another factor to consider, when considering installing a heating system in your home during the Summer, is that, an early installation means you are prepared for the rest of the year in advance. Once the Summer is over, the heating system in your house has already been instaled and is operational from the first moment you need to warm your house up. The insulation that you have installed is keeping your house warmer, earlier, meaning you spend less money on heating at the start of the cold season and throughout the rest of the winter.
These are all great reasons why you can save money this Summer with a heating installation.
For more details call (208) 995-2614 or click here
Cooling 101: how to install a window AC unit
So you have decided to install a window air conditioning unit in your home but have no idea exactly how install the unit. Installing a new window unit is not difficult and can take only a short time if you understand the process. Below is a simple guide to installing a new window unit.
Preparing the Window
First, you must prepare the window for the new unit. Make sure the unit is in good repair and ready to handle the weight of the unit. Wash the glass of the unit on both the inside and the outside. Also, be sure to clear the area to make room for you to work.
Placing the Window Air Conditioning System
Once the window is prepped and ready, you are ready to set the air conditioner in place. Make sure to read the instruction manual of your unit on the installation process as instructions may vary for mounting. You may have to attach brackets to hold the unit in place, so be sure to have help on hand to provide assistance during this process.
Open the bottom sash as far as you can and then insert the air conditioner in the opening, centered. Make sure the air conditioning system is balanced and slide the flange portion of the unit the bottom on the outside of the window. You will then need to lower the sash until it is sitting on the AC unit. Once this happens, you are ready to secure the unit with the top flange.
Securing the Unit
Now you are ready to continue securing the unit. You want to be sure the window will not be opened accidentally, so insert screws in the upper flange of the unit casing through the window so it cannot be moved. You can also provide spacers to put on the window frame for added security.
Filling The Gap
You will also have gaps in your window now the sash is partially open. Use a foam seal or other material to slip into the gap to keep the hot air from coming inside the home.
Now you are ready to turn on and enjoy your new air conditioning unit. Plug the unit into the outlet and turn on. Hopefully the unit is ready to work efficiently for your home! Now that your job is complete, you can sit back and relax while enjoying the nice cool air of your new AC system!
Should I replace my Heat Pump?
The ideal time to get your system replaced is when you are actually planning on replacing it and not when it begins to fail on you which makes you rush into a decision. No homeowner really wants to replace their heat pump since it is a costly home improvement. However, if your heat pump is getting old, you need to seriously consider an upgrade to a model that is more energy efficient. This will save you money over time.
Life Span
The life of a system is generally around 10 to 15 years in the outdoor unit's compressor. These tend to fail much earlier than AC unit compressors since they are used all year. The life of a furnace is generally around 15 to 20 years.
When your system begins wearing out, you will start to have issues. Certain signs will indicate problems and a need for a replacement of cooling and heating equipment or overall system performance improvement. You might need to call in a professional contractor to install a replacement if you notice any of the signs below.
Age of Heat Pump
It is important you know how old your heat pump is. If it has been over 10 years it might be time for you to get a replacement. You might be tempted to stick with your old unit since newer models are a bit expensive, but your old unit will end up costing you more. The older models are not as efficient as the newer ones and your cooling and heating costs will be increased. You will want to check the age of the pump boiler as well. If it is over 15 years old, it might be time to replace your unit since this may also have an impact on the unit’s efficiency.
Unequal Heating or Cooling
If you notice unequal cooling or heating in your home, it may be time for you to have your unit inspected. These issues may be due to improper installation, problems with your duct system or even worse, malfunctioning equipment. If this is the case, it is definitely time for you to replace your older model with a newer one.
Heating Expense
Go through bills and expenses incurred on purchases and repairs made to your unit. If you notice that your bills are constantly increasing or you find that you have spent a great deal on repairs or new replacement parts, it is time to replace your heat pump. By sticking with your old heat pump, you will definitely continue to experience increased bills each month.
Gets Noisy
If you notice that your unit is making more noise than usual or it is even starting to wake you up at night, it is time for a replacement. Heat pumps today are more energy efficient than 10 years ago. By replacing a 15 year old heat pump with a model that is more efficient, you will save yourself up to 30% on your utility bill.
Heat Pump Troubleshooting and Maintenance
A Heat Pump is one source of heating that homeowners and business owners can use to heat their homes or businesses. A heat pump will heat the entire home and is a good heating source choice. However, just like other types of heating options, a heat pump can breakdown. Below we will list a few basic troubleshooting tips as well as maintenance options that anyone can do before contacting a professional.
First off, see if the heat pump is running. If not, try using the reset switch. This may a simple issue of the heat pump not being on. You can also check your home’s circuit breakers and fuses because they may be tripped or blown. If that is the case, simply fix the problem.
Is the heating pump coming on at all and running a short cycle? This could mean that the filter needs to be checked or that the blower may be the problem.
Check for ice on the outside portion of the unit. If there is ice located anywhere on the machine you will need to contact your local HVAC operator to come and remedy the problem.
One of the best ways to avoid having to check your heat pump is to have a yearly maintenance check on their equipment. This means someone will come out and service your unit on a regular basis. Think of it this way: you have a car. To keep the car running, you have it serviced, such as with an oil change. The heat pump is a major part of your home, so to keep it running properly it needs maintenance as well.
Heat pump repair costs can be quite high. It is best to try and find a company that will come out for a free in-home diagnosis. This way, you save money initially. Many companies do not offer this service and you may end up paying more for the initial appointment than the actual repairs.
Once the free in-home diagnosis is complete, the technician will be able to give you an estimate on the cost of the repairs. This way, you will know exactly how much the repairs will cost and you can make preparations to begin your repairs. You can even go as far as asking for special deals. It never hurts to ask and you never know, the company you are using may be offering a special offer that will help you save even more cash!
How to replace Shower drain inside the Bathroom
The shower of the home is very important for our comfort as well as our cleanliness and health. It is important that the shower function properly so everyone in the home can stay clean and comfortable. However, problems do arise and one issue that home owners come across is the shower drain. The shower drain is where every nasty thing goes after we take a bath or shower and it is important that this portion of the shower function properly. Sometimes this part of the unit must be replaced. Below is an easy to follow guide on how to replace a shower drain from inside the bathroom.
Tools and Materials
To change out the shower drain, you will need the following tools: New drain cover, Caulk gun, 4 in 1 screwdriver and a hacksaw blade. Gather your tools and head to the bathroom to get start.
Removing Old Drain Flange
The first step is to remove the old drain flange. This is also the hardest step. You will most likely have to use the hacksaw blade to cut the flange and then pull it up in sections from the shower pan. Make sure to leave the existing drain pipe intact. The drain you have purchased should fit over the drain pipe and use an O-ring to seal it.
Installing the new drain
Once you have removed the bits and pieces of the old shower drain, you will be ready to place the new drain on. Simply slip the new drain over the drain pipe and then apply 100 percent silicone sealant to the underneath side of the drain flange. This will seal the drain to the shower base. You will then place the stainless cover over the top to finish the project.
Top Quality Products
It is best to use a certain type of drain when replacement is needed. Speak with your local hardware store clerk to find out what will work best for your home. The WingTite drain is an excellent option that can easily be used to install a new drain from the bathroom. This option has four wing like pieces that will flip out from the base to clamp on the drain, securing it in place. With this option, the replacement process takes only 30 minutes with the basic tools and knowledge of repairs. The process is simple once you have the correct tools to get started!
6 Main Systems in Heating Homes
During the winter months, it is very important for home owners to have a heat source in their home. Heat will provide comfort and stability as well as safety during the bitter cold winter months. Many home owners struggle with determining which heating option will work best in their home. Below we will describe six heating systems that can be used in the home.
Space Heater
A space heater is an inexpensive heating option that is usually only used for an additional heat source. A space heater is a very cheap alternative and can only heat a small area of the home. This option is usually used when the temperatures are extremely cold and the home owner needs additional heat in the living areas.
Central Heating
A central system is an excellent source of heat for the home. This unit provides both heating and cooling options and can heat the entire home. This option consists of an outdoor and indoor unit which is connected via a series of duct work to the home. Each room will experience optimum heating when the unit is turned on via the thermostat. This option is efficient as well as affordable to operate.
Heat Pump
A heat pump is similar to a central system but operates a bit differently. The unit has an outdoor and indoor unit as well which are connected to the home via the same series of ductwork. The unit will provide both heating and cooling options and many find this type of unit to be more efficient than a central system.
Even more efficient than a regular heat pump, a geothermal heat pump will use the temperature below the earth's surface to heat and cool the home. This option is very energy efficient and has a low operation cost. This option is also stable because the temperature of the earth never wavers.
Furnace
A furnace is another heating option which can run of water, gas or oil. This option has been used for decades to heat the home and provide comfort and stability. This option is an older way of heating the home and many home owners have opted to trade in their furnace for a newer, more efficient heating system.
Boiler
A boiler is another older heating option that has been around for many years. This option is similar to a furnace and can operate with water, oil or gas. This type of unit can be harmful if not taken care of and many home owners prefer to install a newer, more modern unit.
No matter what your preference, any of these heating units work well to heat the home. Speak with your local heating provider to determine what option will work best for your home!
Right Heating Solution To Choose For Your Home Needs
Heating is an important service for home owners to have in their home. It is very important for home owners to have a heating system that will provide the home with the best heat possible. When the outside temperatures drop below freezing, those in the home want to be able to remain warm and comfortable. There are many different heating systems available on the market today for home heating needs and many home owners have a difficult time determining which option will work best for their home. Below are a few tips to consider for a new installation.
Existing Unit
One factor to consider is the existing unit in the home. If you have a heat pump or central unit in the home, the best decision may be to install the same type of unit. A new installation would most likely require only a new unit instead of a complete installation of duct work or other materials. Take a look at your existing unit and see if you would still like to have the same type of unit.
Size of Home
Another factor to consider is the size of the home. Home owners need to take a look at the size of the home and determine what type of unit will work best for the size of the home. Home owners need to make sure the unit they choose will heat the home without working overtime, which can cause stress on the unit.
Afford-ability
It is also important to consider the price of a new unit. Home owners need to be able to afford a new unit and it is important to estimate the cost of a new unit before installation. Home owners want to be sure that the unit will meet their budget needs as well as their comfort level.
Savings
It is also a great idea to determine if you can save with a new unit. If you have an older unit it is important to determine what type of unit will give you better energy efficiency as well as savings each and every month. Home owners can save as much as 30 to 50 percent or more by installing a new unit in the home.
Professional Opinion
A professional will be the home owners best bet to determining what type of unit should be installed in the home for the best heating option. A professional technician will be able to assess your home and help you determine which unit type will be best for your budget as well as your heating needs.
Contact your local HVAC professional today to determine what unit will work best in your home and then you can get started with a new installation!
Power Saving Heating Systems
If your furnace is consuming more energy than expected, this means that you have not asked the right questions with the dealer when you bought the appliance. It is true that you should have an furnace at your place for surmounting the discomfort caused by the hot weather conditions. But, at the same time, you can not afford to pay huge utility bills that may be a drain on your finance. Therefore, it is necessary that you should have power saving heating systems that will bestow the twin benefits of comfort as well as energy-saving on you.
You have a number of good heating systems in the market. They may be quite efficient in keeping your place pleasant and warm but the important question is how they do this task. Your aim is to have an furnace that provides you with the required comfort and at the same time, does not consume more energy. In other words, your monthly utility bills should be reasonable. You should not be caught unawares and should not regret that you have made a hasty decision or choice.
If you buy an efficient furnace that saves energy also, it will consume less power than the other standard heating systems. The amazing fact is that you can buy such an furnace at a good price. But, you should do a proper research for buying it at a fairly good price.
For buying power saving heating systems, you should narrow down your research to those models that have good SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio ratings. If an furnace has a good SEER rating, it means that it will consume less amount of energy for its functioning. In the US, the authorities have stipulated that the minimum SEER rating should be 13 for a new furnace. High-efficiency heating systems should have a SEER rating of at least 21. If you make it a point to buy a heating system with such a high SEER rating, you can be certain that your utility bills will be well within reasonable limits. Apart from that, some states have announced tax credits to those who buy heating systems of high SEER ratings also. You can avail these tax credits also.
The best course of action will be to consult an heating service professional who is also an expert in such ratings for buying an heating unit with a high SEER rating.
Basics of Central Heating Systems
A central heating system is probably the most popular option for home owners to have installed in their home. A central system can provide the home with both heating and air conditioning comfort, so this makes this unit both affordable and easy to use. It is important for home owners to understand how their central heating system works so they can properly maintain their unit as well as catch problems as they happen. Below we will discuss the basics of central heating systems.
Main Components
A central heating system has two main components: the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. These two options are connected via a series of pipes to allow you to have heat in the home. The heat is then transferred through the home via a series of duct work. The air will be pushed through the ductwork and enter the home via the registers in various rooms of the home. Air is brought into the unit and then warmed and pushed throughout the home.
Thermostat
The thermostat is an important part of this system. A thermostat is the control panel of the unit and is usually located on the wall in your home. There are many types of thermostats available for home owners to choose from but the most popular option is the programmable thermostat. Home owners will be able to set the temperature in their home to whatever they wish and then set the temperature for the future, when they might not be home.
Register and Return
The registers and return in your home are also important to central heating system. The registers are small grates which are located either on the floor in the ceiling. This is where the heat comes out of from the duct work to allow your home to be warmed. The return is the area where your air filter is located and where many of the components are connected.
Each of these components works together to provide you with heat in the home, so you can stay comfortable during the winter months. It is important to understand how these components work so you can tell if one of the components is not working correctly. It is also important to take advantage of heating services. You can use maintenance services to make sure that your unit is working correctly or you can have a company to contact if you are in need of repairs or other service options.
All About HEPA Filters
Most of us are not aware that filters play an important role in ensuring good performance of an HVAC system. It filters the dirty air and helps the occupants by preventing foreign particles, dusts and allergens from getting circulated indoors. HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) are highly efficient filters which are certified by the Department of Energy from the US Government. Initially in 1940s, these filters were used in Manhattan project in order to control the radioactive contaminants and pollutants. Later, these filters became more commercialized and were used by US Military and many other government agencies.
Though these filters have several applications, they are widely used in hospitals, pharmaceuticals and research labs to ensure best performance of the HVAC system. It is theoretically proved that these types of filters can remove about 99.97 percent of dust and other airborne particles. These filters not only filter the pollens, bacteria and other allergens but also filter out highly toxic, bio-hazardous and radioactive elements present in the air. Due to this reason, the HEPA filters are extensively used in a wide range of industries. They are specifically designed to remove the airborne particles up to the size of 0.3 microns which are invisible to naked eyes but can be easily inhaled.
These air filters are more efficient than any other filters as they are arranged randomly in the form of a mat using fiberglass. These types of air filters can filter the dust and airborne particles in three different ways such as Interception, Impaction and Diffusion. There are certain harmful conditions that could damage these filters such as moisture, high pressure, hot air, shock pressures, corrosive mist, fire, nitric acid and hydrofluoric acid. The filtration efficiency largely depends on various factors like temperature, air flow, pollutant loading and other considerations like moisture and corrosive contents.
The indoor air that we breathe is always polluted which results in allergies, hypersensitivity and other respiratory diseases to the occupants. Hence, these air filters are highly recommended for residential HVAC systems to control and clean the air. The most important advantage of using these air filters in homes is that it can prevent gases called VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) that are released from synthetic materials and other household chemicals. These toxic gases can easily get trapped into the rooms and can be highly harmful to the occupants. Therefore, these filters have become a major necessity for all residential HVAC systems.
What Does a Full-Service HVAC Company Do?
If you live in or near a metropolitan area of any size, you may be lucky enough to have several very reputable companies in the area that deal in HVAC, which stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
The best, most complete HVAC outfits are those that can provide full service and products to you. This is very important, because you may develop needs of different kinds, and it really helps to have some people who are on hand to take care of just about every problem you may be experiencing, especially if they are very reliable.
How can you tell if the people are full-service; that is, that they provide just about everything that is necessary in the field of HVAC? Well, you may want to see if they can fulfill what you're looking for in all of the following areas of service and expertise:
- Repair of Air Conditioning Systems - This means that you can call them and they can make a service call to you during normal business hours, with a certified professional. This will be the case whether they installed your system originally or not.
- Air Conditioning Installation - This includes putting in a new system, as well as replacing an older one. And they will come for a consultation or evaluation of your home to determine what exactly needs to be done.
- * Air Cleaning - This is obviously critical, because part of the reason for the AC to exists is to blow out clean air into your home atmosphere. Without sufficient air quality, you incur a health risk.
- Humidification/ Dehumidification - Again, a function of the air conditioning is to control the humidity.
- Zoned systems - These will dedicate cooling into certain areas of the house; those that need it the most.
- Home Ventilation - This is also an important factor, because healthy ventilation helps with air flow and also efficiency of the system from an energy-consumption standpoint.
Obviously our discussion today involves air conditioning, but there are other areas a full-service HVAC company will cover, and these include aspects of heating such as furnace repair, zoned heating systems, boilers, heat pump replacement and installation and installation of complete heating systems.
Regardless of whether they're doing AC or heat, a quality company that provides a full-service menu for its customers should also include a service warranty, maintenance plan and emergency service, preferably 24 hours a day, to cover those things that are unforeseen.
Don't Be Intimidated By These Air Conditioning Terms
If you ever have the need to talk to an air conditioning service person (and we hope you do, if only for the purposes of conducting some maintenance on your system) and you really want to engage with him about the status of your AC, he may mention some terms that are like everyday language to him, but foreign tongue to you.
So we thought perhaps you may want to get more familiar with some of these terms, which directly relate to the function of your air conditioning unit or system.
- Compressor - This is the part of the apparatus that, as the name suggests, literally "compresses" the refrigerant, so that it converts it to a temperature that is palatable to be distributed into the home through the ducts, and then goes ahead and distributes it.
- Refrigerant - Yes, we thought you'd ask. Well, the refrigerant takes the hot part of the air and basically releases it while it is in the AC system. There is a transition going on, where the older units made use of Freon, but because of government regulations, other options are being utilized, with Freon completely out of the picture by the year 2020.
- Blower - This component of the AC literally propels the air right through the air filter and sends it out the air ducts. So it is a catalyst for the release of the air in the central AC system.
- Expansion Device - This allows the refrigerant to expand once it has been compressed. That, in turn, allows it to take more heat in so it ca release it. The expansion device simply facilitates this process.
- Air Handler - Your system is called an air "conditioner." Well, this is the device that, in effect, conditions the air itself. An air handler is very expansive, and includes the blower, the supply duct, the fan compartment, the filter racks and a mixed air duct.
- Ductwork - This is the word for a system of ducts, which deliver air into the home and remove it to the outside. They are critical to the quality of the air you breathe as a result of an AC system.
Granted, this won't give you a complete education when it comes to the world of air conditioning service and installation, but it might help you get off to a good start if you are a "newbie." Also, if you are in contact with an air quality professionalism, he will gladly fill you in as much as he can if there is something you don't understand.
Air Conditioning Refrigerants - Some Lessons From History
Air conditioners have become essential for most of us - afterall, we all need our "creature comforts". There are different types of air conditioners, and the markets is flooded with plenty of options.
If this does not produce enough confusion in the buyers' minds, there is also a bunch of different technical jargon about "coolants" and how they can impact your air conditioning.
So, just what is this coolant, and how important is it? How exactly did this coolant come to be?
The coolant which is currently dominating the market is the 410A. But until a few years ago, this coolant was hardly known to our world and a different coolant was used. To see the history of coolants, we probably have to start with the ancient Rome.
The Romans were known to use cool water as refrigerants for their parties and so called hang outs. The air was allowed to evaporate, which produced evaporative cooling which raised the cool air above the surface of the earth.
Only the most highly ranked officials could afford this type of cooling. Slaves were used to fan this cooling effect onto their owners, thus causing a pseudo air conditioning effect. But, water refrigerants ran out of fashion long ago. Benjamin Franklin, was known to use alcohol as a refrigerant to cool water below its cooling point. Faraday used an expansion plus compression cycle of ammonia to cool the gases he used for laboratory purposes.
Willis Carrier designed the first modern air conditioner, and is known to be the Father of Air Conditioning. Even he used a combination of ammonia mixed with methane as a coolant.
The downside of this combination was the toxic gases it produced when it leaked. Hydrochloroflourocarbons are probably the first non lethal coolants used in modern air conditioners. The model R-22 was the most common type of this refrigerant.
But, usage of these CFCs burnt a huge hole into the ozone layer of our atmosphere, and caused environmentalists many sleepless nights fighting against this usage. Most of us are aware of the evil effects of this air conditioning coolant. Environmentalists have been rallying against this coolant for months now, and it took quite sometime for the world to take notice. The increasing global warming then triggered the key and suddenly the whole world started noticing the negative effects of this coolant. This coolant was eventually kicked out of the market. The 410A was introduced later as an ozone friendly composition that does not affect our environment.
Air Conditioning the Olympics
If you have ever been to the Olympics, you will see that the whole stadium and all the events have been air conditioned. The grandeur and the majestic appeal of the Olympics is almost not noticeable when you are dripping sweat under a hot sun and the humidity levels are taking a toll on you.
But, that can only mean the whole of the Olympics stadium is air conditioned fully. Now how is that even possible? There is so much movement everywhere and so many exits and entrances that it is almost impossible to maintain any air conditioning isn't it? Also most of the ground are open area, so how do they possibly air condition an open sports venue?
Well, to begin with, most of the big events like Olympics are always air conditioned. This is done irrespective of the number of viewers, the total amount of the crowd and the frequency of entrance and exits opening. All this is implemented with the help of centralized air conditioning systems. These systems are also called ducted air conditioning systems. This is done because, given the hot weather in the summer, the athletes and other sports stars are put through so much stress, that the heat only makes it worse.
And in hot climates, there is so much heat that it becomes almost impossible for the athletes to even pull up their socks. Air conditioners are known to have a soothing effect on the nerves of the users. They provide a calm, chilled atmosphere that is soothing for many. The air conditioning system greatly helps reduce the anxiety of the players, who are usually prone to nervous breakdowns in such situations. Added to that list are the organizers who bear the whole responsibility. If any event does not go as planned, its the organizers' necks that are in trouble.
Not only do they have to maintain a cool atmosphere, but they also have to make sure everything goes as planned and also provide the players and the spectators with the maximum comfort as possible. In case the centralized air conditioning system fails, most of the events have truckloads of portable air conditioners for backup. Since these portable air conditioners are capable of running on battery power, they can be transported easily and used without looking for a power supply. They are convenient and can be set up for the whole of the sports complex within a few hours of time.
If you're in needing of cooling needs, whether for your home or the Olympics, you can contact us -- Boise's very own air conditioning experts.
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