Take a Course in AC Essentials
To enjoy air conditioning, no one has to know Willis Carrier's "Apparatus for Treating Air" history. As the summer creeps on and the temperatures and humidity continue to climb, there is nothing more fundamental to day-to-day comfort than the good old AC unit. There is a great deal to know about this hugely important piece of machinery. As modern technology, in general, continues to improve by leaps and bounds, so too does the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry. There are many more options out there than before, and there are things to consider even beyond solely the home's temperature.
Air Conditioning Technology
At one time, the window unit was the epitome of air conditioning technology. The industry has come a long way, and now most places have what is generally referred to as central air, but professionals would call a traditional HVAC system. One of the latest trends in the HVAC world is what is known as ductless HVAC or mini-splits. Both of these systems have strengths and weaknesses, and customers should keep in mind that the newest is not always the best choice for their particular home.
Traditional HVAC:
- Strengths: best at cooling large spaces to a single temperature, advanced filtering for clean air, a wider range of replacement, and service options as it is a well-established form of cooling.
- Weaknesses: tends to lose efficiency through ducts(higher energy costs), all rooms are subject to a single thermostat, lurking problems in the ducts can threaten air quality.
Ductless HVAC/Mini Splits:
- Strengths: easy to install in homes with no previous ductwork. Highly efficient (money-saving), allows for the creation of temperature zones within the home to maximize efficiency, less invasive, no ducts to gather lingering pollutants.
- Weaknesses: tubing on the outside of the home may affect home aesthetic, initial expense, less robust filters.
Pop Quiz: Signals for AC Repair
Air conditioners tend to give very clear signs that something is wrong before they completely go kaput. Look for these signs to indicate whether or not an HVAC system needs a check-up.
- Strange noises: Clanging, banging, or hissing can indicate a problem worth calling a technician for. Allowing this to occur can further damage the unit.
- Not keeping up with high temps: If the unit does not seem to be cooling as well as it once did, there may be reason to believe that there is an issue with the refrigerant, its tubing, or the filters.
- Leaks: Water collecting in places the homeowner wouldn't expect can be due to a problem with the HVAC unit.
Testing IAQ IQ: The Importance of Indoor Air Quality
The EPA has removed many contaminants that cause long-term problems, such as asbestos and lead. Still, one cannot entirely remove some types of pollutants, and human exposure is inevitable. This is why indoor air quality is so important. If a home has proper ventilation and filtering, the HVAC system can clean the air and provide a safe environment for the home's residents.
About Carmine's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
With 24-hour emergency service and a reputation as the fastest plumbers in town, it is hardly a wonder that Carmine's Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has been in business in Connecticut for more than 30 years. Their flat-rate pricing and wide range of services make them the top choice for homeowners in Danbury, CT. Call now for AC repair!
