Best Heating Alternatives to Save Energy in the Winter

No one enjoys a freezing home, but heating up your place will typically take a big toll on energy costs. Don't fret - we've taken the time to put together a short list of heating alternatives that will help you save energy and lower costs.Here are some heating alternatives to consider this season:

Install a Solar Energy System

Solar power may very well be the wave of the future. Many homeowners have already discovered the savings they can enjoy by harnessing the power of the sun. If you have any issues with installation, an HVAC technician can assist you.

Install a Geothermal System

Why focus on the energy above when you can draw power from below instead? Our planet is full of energy just below its service and a geothermal system will allow you to harness that energy to heat your entire home at a lower cost than a traditional heating system.

Pick Up a Couple Space Heaters

If only one or two of your rooms are occupied at a time, there may be no reason to run your heating system. Instead, pick up a couple of space heaters and use them instead. These small units can warm you up very quickly and they can be moved from room to room (and person to person) as needed.

Start Using the Fireplace

Many homes use their fireplace for nothing more than decoration. Caring for a fireplace takes a bit of time, but it's totally worth the benefit of warming up a large portion of your home for a lower cost.

Put on a Sweater

While turning on the heat is easy to do, it's also the most costly. If your home isn't too cold, putting on a sweater - or warm clothes, in general - should be more than enough to keep you warm.

If you're looking for more advice on heating alternatives or have any other questions related to home comfort, please contact the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the HVAC needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about home alternatives and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “nattanan23/Pixabay”

What’s That Smell? Heating System Odors

Let’s face it - strange heating system odors can put you in a foul mood, especially if you’re just trying to enjoy the comfort your heating system normally offers. They could also be the first sign that something’s gone wrong with your heating equipment.Any one of the heating system odors mentioned below can spell trouble for your heating system if left unchecked. Here’s a quick guide on these odors, including what causes them and how to take care of them for good:

Dirty socks

Bacteria buildup on the evaporator coils can cause unpleasant odors that are sometimes it can to dirty socks. Cleaning the coils and other parts of your HVAC system can help take care of this problem.

Ozone or metallic odors

Burnt electrical wiring or overheating components can give off a variety of metallic and ozone-like odors. You should have your HVAC technician seek out the culprit before using your furnace again.

Dusty or musty odors

If you haven’t used your furnace in a while, then chances are you’ll end up burning off some of the dust and debris that has collected on your furnace during its dormancy. This is quite normal, unless you have a dirty air filter that needs changing.

Burning oil

Spilled oil, fuel line leaks and improper ignition can cause your basement or storage area to smell like heating oil. If the odor doesn’t go away within a day or so, then you should have your HVAC technician check out your furnace.

Rotten eggs

If you smell rotten eggs or sulfur, then you’re likely dealing with a natural gas leak. The additives in natural gas are designed to give off this noxious odor, alerting you to its presence. Shut off your heating system, exit your home and call your local gas company to tackle the leak.

If your nose is clueing you in to strange heating system odors, then it’s probably time to have an HVAC technician take a close look at your system. To schedule an appointment in the Broken Arrow area, contact us at Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about your heating system and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Guide to Understanding Manuals J, D, and S

During an HVAC system installation, there are several important technical elements that must be taken into account to ensure the system is correct for your home and that it will work at its best. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) publishes three technical references that provide all the guidance, procedures, and best practices that your HVAC professional will need for a successful installation. Here is a brief introduction to Manuals J, D, and S, and what they cover.

Manual J — Residential Load Calculation

Manual J provides all the technical guidance necessary for a residential load calculation. Each building has a heating or cooling load, which is the amount of heating or cooling needed to keep the inside spaces at the temperature the residents prefer. A load calculation takes into consideration multiple thermal and physical characteristics of the building to determine its load. Once your HVAC professional knows the building's load, he can easily guide you to the type of HVAC equipment that has the functional capacity to satisfy that load.

Manual D — Residential Duct Systems

Manual D covers the ductwork in residential settings. The HVAC system ductwork is the network of pipes that directs heated or cooled air from your HVAC equipment to the inside of your home. Ductwork must be properly designed, installed, sealed, and insulated to ensure it carries conditioned air without loss of energy and without wasteful air leaks.

Manual S — Residential Heating and Cooling Equipment Selection

Manual S includes detailed technical specifications and performance information on multiple brands of air conditioners and heat pumps. This type of data helps your HVAC pro choose the best equipment for your particular needs. Manual S also provides additional information on equipment sizing, ventilation, and air distribution.

With more than three decades of experience in the HVAC industry, Air Assurance brings top-quality sales, installation, maintenance, and repair to customers in Tulsa and the neighboring communities. Contact us today for more information on Manuals J, D, and S and how these important technical references are used to ensure the best possible HVAC performance in your home.

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Important Tips to Consider When Purchasing a New Furnace

Buying a new furnace for your home may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information, you can easily choose a heating system that will serve your needs for many years to come. The following tips can help you identify what's important in a new furnace.

• Efficiency: The efficiency of your new furnace will determine how effectively it heats your home and how much it will cost to maintain indoor comfort during the colder months. Higher-efficiency models use less fuel and, as a result, provide heating for a lower cost. Look for a furnace with a high AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating, usually 90 or above.

• Size: Proper furnace sizing is essential to buying a system that works well for your home. Sizing, in HVAC terms, refers to the system's capacity to produce heat and keep your indoor living spaces at the temperature you prefer. Have your HVAC professional perform a load calculation on your home. This is a detailed evaluation process that determines exactly how much heating is needed. When you have this information, you can easily find a furnace of the correct size.

• Fuel type: Most often, you'll probably want to buy a new furnace that uses the same type of fuel as your old one. If you have a gas furnace, for example, you'll already have the utility connections in place for a new gas model. However, there are circumstances where you might want to change fuel types or switch to an electric furnace. Ask your HVAC expert for advice.

• Efficiency-boosting features: Additional components can be added to your furnace to boost performance and efficiency even higher. Variable-speed blowers, for example, provide a lower speed for use when less heating is required. This lower speed uses less energy and costs less to operate. Dual heat exchangers improve heat transfer functions.

Air Assurance offers expert heating and cooling services to customers in Tulsa and neighboring areas. Contact us today for more information on how to choose a new furnace and for expert help with selecting, installing and maintaining your heating system.

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Troubleshooting Steps to Follow When Dealing With Frozen Evaporator Coils

Troubleshooting frozen evaporator coils may suggest several causes for the symptom, but the actual cure usually requires the services of a professional HVAC technician. The evaporator coil sealed inside the indoor air handler removes heat from the air and transfers it to the flow of refrigerant circulating through the coil.

While the refrigerant flow is cold—around 40 degrees—it should always remain above freezing. If the refrigerant drops below 32 degrees, condensation produced by the cooling process freezes on the coil surfaces instead of draining away. As the ice formation expands, airflow through the coil is increasingly obstructed, the system begins running non-stop instead of cycling on and off, and severe A/C component damage may result.Here are some potential causes to aid in troubleshooting frozen evaporator coils:

Insufficient Airflow

Air volume through the coil affects the amount of heat energy absorbed by refrigerant. When the airflow is low, heat transfer is diminished and the refrigerant temperature may drift into the freezing range. The most common cause of low airflow is a dirty or clogged air filter. Try replacing the air filter and see if coil freezing problems resolve. If not, contact your HVAC contractor about professional service.

Lack of Refrigerant

Another reason refrigerant may drop below freezing is because there’s not enough of it in the system. A low refrigerant charge is almost always the result of a leak somewhere, and it can't be adequately resolved by simply adding more refrigerant. A qualified HVAC technician can use leak detection methods to pinpoint the leakage and make a permanent fix.

Dirt or Dust Accumulation

Continuously exposed to system airflow, an evaporator coil often becomes coated with airborne dust or dirt. This residue on coil surfaces inhibits heat transfer into the refrigerant and triggers sub-freezing temperatures. Ice forms as condensation freezes. The sealed evaporator coil is not accessible for DIY cleaning. However, coil inspection and cleaning are a standard part of an annual A/C preventive maintenance service provided by your HVAC contractor.

For more about troubleshooting frozen evaporator coils, as well as professional service to resolve the cause, contact Air Assurance.

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Find Out Why Preventative HVAC Maintenance Is So Important

The equipment and systems that heat and cool your home are just like any other mechanical devices. If they aren't properly maintained, they won't operate with optimum efficiency, they'll malfunction more often and they won't last as long. While cooling and heating systems need annual professional maintenance, they also need TLC from the homeowner in the form of preventative HVAC maintenance. Following are some steps you can take to help your HVAC systems keep your home comfortable while using energy efficiently.

Preventative HVAC Maintenance Steps

• Check the air filter. The air filter for your furnace, heat pump or A/C plays an essential role in delivering cooled and heated air throughout your home. If the filter is clogged or dirty, the HVAC equipment will have to work harder to push air through the system. This will waste energy and stress system components. A dirty air filter also will result in dust coating sensitive parts, causing friction and wasting energy. Finally, when a filter gets clogged, eventually your blower will start pushing particulates around the filter and into your indoor air. Inspect the filter monthly and when it looks dirty, change or clean it (depending on the filter).

• Keep vents and registers clear. Rugs, furniture, toys and other objects can block heating and cooling registers. This impedes airflow and reduces HVAC performance.

• Similarly, keep yard debris such as leaves, sticks and grass cuttings away from the outside unit of a split-system A/C or heat pump. Anything that restricts airflow to the condenser coil will erode efficiency and performance.

With today's complex heating and cooling systems, most homeowners are better off letting a professional technician handle any but the simplest preventative HVAC maintenance. During an annual or semi-annual maintenance tune-up, a trained technician will run through a lengthy checklist of tasks and checks to make sure your heating or cooling systems will operate efficiently and safely till the next regularly scheduled visit.

To schedule a preventative HVAC maintenance visit, or to discuss an extended service protection plan, please contact us at Air Assurance. We provide quality HVAC services to the greater Tulsa metro area.

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Can UV Lights Really Eliminate Furnace Smells?

One of the biggest complaints homeowners have about dirty furnaces is the smell that often comes along with them. Many people have been turning to UV lights to help eliminate potentially harmful organic pollutants and the odor they can spread throughout your home.

Where Furnace Smells Originate

When we think of harmful pollutants like bacteria and mold, our primary concern is usually the danger they pose to our health, especially in those who suffer from respiratory issues, such as allergies and asthma. What you may not realize is that the accumulation of these elements are usually the source of musty odors in your furnace. As air is drawn through your ductwork and redistributed throughout your home, these smells can quickly fill your entire residence if left unchecked.

How UV Lights Eliminate Odors

Put simply, these high-intensity lights eliminate odors by reducing the amount of organic pollutants found in your home. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which these pollutants have no defense against, disrupts their DNA and interferes with reproduction. This reduction can be done by either treating the air in your home or your HVAC system's components. When the pollutants are gone, so are the odors that accompany them.

Professional Installation is Key

Installing UV lights is not something you should attempt yourself. Installation must be done by a professional HVAC technician, who will typically accomplish the task one of two ways. The first technique is to place the lights in an area where the air being pulled through your ductwork will be treated before being redistributed to other areas of your home. The second technique is to install the lights in such a way that your problem HVAC components are bathed in ultraviolet radiation as needed.

For more expert advice on UV lights, or if you have any other questions related to home comfort, please don't hesitate to contact the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas since 1985.

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Select the Best Whole-Home Humidifier for Your Broken Arrow Home

Dry indoor air is common during the heating months. However, it can cause discomforts, health ailments and provide ideal conditions for many viruses, including influenza. A practical solution to alleviate dry indoor air and its side effects is a whole-home humidifier. Keep reading to learn how to select the best model for your home.

Evaporative or Steam Humidifier

Evaporative and steam are two popular types of in-duct humidifiers. They are plumbed to your home’s water supply and drainage and contain no pans to refill and maintain. You can also control humidity levels automatically with a wall-mounted device called a humidistat.

Evaporative humidifiers (also called flow-through) contain a changeable media pad or a washable mesh screen to provide ducted airflow with moisture. Water flows evenly down the pad or screen through holes in a water trough. Airflow from the furnace blower is diverted into the humidifier and through the pad or screen. The airflow then evaporates some of the water, and carries the water vapor through the air ducts to your living space. Excess water flows into a collection pan and is drained away.

Very little electricity is used with evaporative humidifiers. In fact, you may actually save energy by using a humidifier. Humid air feels warmer than dry air, which means you can turn back your thermostat a few degrees and receive lower heating bills.Like evaporative humidifiers, steam humidifiers attach to your ductwork, using airflow to distribute water vapor to your entire home. In steam whole-home humidifier, electrodes produce steam, rather than using evaporation. Steam humidifiers deliver more precise distribution of water vapor and are considered better than evaporative models for larger homes.

Humidifier Sizing

To size a humidifier, an HVAC technician will measure the square footage of your home and consider HVAC add-on equipment, such as a zoning system and variable-speed blower. Sizing is important for efficient operation. Why waste money paying for a humidifier that's too large?

For more information about whole-home humidifiers, contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow.

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Thermostat Batteries Need Replacing? These DIY Tips May Save You a Service Call

Imagine arriving home from a long day only to find your home unusually hot or cold and your HVAC system’s thermostat blank. So you attempt to diagnose the problem - you move a few controls, double-check the circuit breakers and...nothing. When this happens, the problem isn’t with your HVAC system – it’s usually as simple as a dead battery.Dead thermostat batteries are actually a common enough problem that elicits service calls to an HVAC technician. However, you don’t need a technician to take care of this issue. Here’s what you need to know when your thermostat batteries need replacing:

• Your thermostat will actually let you know days or even weeks in advance when your batteries need replacing, usually with a “dead battery” warning or symbol flashing on the thermostat display.

• Before changing your batteries, find out what size cells your thermostat uses. Most thermostats use AA or AAA alkaline batteries, while others rely on CR2032 3-volt lithium batteries.

• Read up on how to properly change the batteries without damaging the thermostat itself. Your operator’s manual should offer some instructional help, including a pictorial diagram of the thermostat and its battery location.

• Be careful when removing and replacing batteries, not just to reduce shock but also to avoid handling battery acid.

Knowing when your thermostat batteries need replacing and how to change them will save you a diagnostic fee and the embarrassment of an unnecessary technician visit.Don’t hesitate to contact Air Assurance for expert advice on your home’s heating and cooling needs. We’ve proudly served Broken Arrow and the surrounding area since 1985.

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Customer Service: What Should You Expect From Your HVAC Contractor?

When it comes to servicing your furnace, air conditioning, or other HVAC needs, it's important to know what to expect in terms of customer service when dealing with any HVAC contractor.

Professionalism

When you call an HVAC technician, you should expect a certain level of professionalism. You should be assured that the technician is a non-smoker, background checked, and is drug tested for both your safety and peace-of-mind. The technician should be N.A.T.E. (North American Technician Excellence) certified to prove a certain level of expertise.When he or she arrives, the technician should be prompt. The contractor should be uniformed, clean and should have a proper badge and identification. You should feel secure about letting him or her into your home.

Honesty and Reliability

Your HVAC technician should be honest and trustworthy. He or she should also use the best parts when it comes to installing or repairing your HVAC system. It doesn't help you if your technician uses substandard parts which will cause a breakdown in the future.

Diagnostic Service Calls

If your HVAC system is having problems, it's important that the technician diagnose the problem thoroughly. That means that he or she has the tools needed for the job and enough spare parts on the truck so the problem can be fixed once you give the go ahead. The technician should spend as long as required to figure out the problem, no matter how long it takes. Once the problem has been diagnosed, your technician should explain the problem thoroughly to you without gibberish so that you understand what needs to be fixed. He or she should quote you a firm price for fixing the problem. By going the extra mile, your technician is performing great customer service.

For all your HVAC needs, contact Air Assurance, your experts in heating and cooling in the Tulsa area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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Bewildered About What Type of Furnace Filter to Choose? This Guide Can Help

Buying the right furnace filter can make a big difference. With all of the choices out there, it can be hard to make a proper decision. However when you take into account all of the factors that are important to you in regards to your family’s health, indoor air quality and cost, the choice becomes much easier.First you must consider the efficiency of your filter by looking at its minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV rating. The MERV ranges from 1-20, with 1 being the cheapest and least restrictive to airflow and 20 being the most efficient, collecting 99.9 percent of all airborne particles.A low-MERV filter provides just enough protection to keep larger particles out of the furnace. These are cheaper to use but do little to improve air as they are solely to keep your HVAC unit dust free. A cost-effective MERV 4 filter allows for decent airflow and catches most large particles like dust and lint and are good if you’re not overly concerned with air quality.These filters may be fine if you don’t have allergies; however, if you are sensitive to airborne allergens, you may want to consider installing an electrostatic furnace filter with a MERV rating between 8-10 that will catch pollen, spores and dander. If someone in your family has low immunity, consider a high efficiency, pleated synthetic cotton filter with a MERV of 14 or higher. These can be removed and cleaned, catch bacteria, most smoke and can last up to six years, if properly maintained.  While they do cost more, they will save you money in health care costs.Whichever you do choose, remember that filers with higher MERV ratings require more attention and regular cleaning or replacement. While higher quality filters remove more particles, they also put more strain on your unit due to reduced airflow so it is advisable to contact a qualified HVAC technician before making a change.For more information on furnace filters and HVAC needs, contact Air Assurance, servicing the Tulsa Metropolitan region since 1985.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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Be Thinking Now About Fall Maintenance

Summer days can be blisteringly hot in Broken Arrow, so why even think about fall maintenance on your HVAC system? Because, to recycle a few old chestnuts, there's no time like the present and time flies. Before you know it, chilly fall days have already arrived and your furnace may or may not be ready to efficiently supply heat against the chill. Not only that, but your A/C unit may be struggling to dispense cool air in order to combat summer heat and humidity. Act now by calling an HVAC-trained technician who can ready your furnace and check out your A/C so that both work at optimum efficiency.Time for a Tune-UpA qualified technician follows a checklist for fall maintenance on HVAC systems and knows what to tune up and what to change out. Things that need checking include:

• Properly functioning start-up and shut-down controls

• Air filters that may need cleaning or replacing

• Any obstructions in the condensate drain that can promote bacteria, mold and mildew growth

• Lubrication of moving parts to reduce friction and wear, and increase overall efficiency

• Performance and settings of thermostat, and possible upgrade to a programmable thermostat for ease and energy-saving factors

• Integrity of electrical connections and voltage measurements for all electrical parts and components; loose or faulty connections can be serious problems waiting to happen

• Heat exchangers and burners, fuel lines and connections thoroughly checked and maintained to avoid potential fire or health hazards (Burners and exchangers in either oil or gas furnaces often become fouled with dirt that interferes with proper burner operation.)

• A/C evaporator and condenser coils that may require cleaning, refrigerant level checks and ascertaining that all blower parts are in tip-top condition

The best time to prepare for fall is during the summer months, while there's still time for needed checks, maintenance and repairs on your Broken Arrow home's heating or A/C system. For more information or expert advice concerning a fall maintenance check-up on your HVAC unit or any other home-comfort issues, contact Air Assurance.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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Reduce Allergies in Your Home By Reducing Dust

Dust, dust mites and other allergens annoy all of us. For someone with asthma or other sensitivities, dust can trigger coughing, wheezing, stuffy nose, skin rash and more severe allergic reactions. You can reduce allergies in your Broken Arrow home by reducing the amount of dust that enters and collects inside your home.

Air Filters

By keeping windows closed and using your HVAC system, you reduce allergies by reducing the amount of contaminants that enter your home. Before air enters your living area it passes through the air filter. This filter traps pollen, pet hair and other pollutants. These particles collect on the filter surface and eventually will restrict air flow. With too much buildup, dust begins to break loose and enter your air. It is important to change air filters on a regular basis for them to perform effectively.

The more expensive, high efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) do not necessarily last longer. They trap smaller particles and may need to be replaced more often. Not all HVAC systems are designed for these dense filters. Too much air restriction could result in system damage as well as air leaks and defeat the original intent of the filter. Consult with an HVAC technician before switching to HEPA filters. If reducing allergies is a major concern for you, you may benefit from a whole-house air purifier.

Cleaning

• Run a damp mop over hard surfaces each day.

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Paper bag vacuum filters allow dust to re-enter the air.

• To further reduce allergies: Wet-vacuum and use a steamer when possible. Wet-vacuum cleaning washes the carpets and the heat from steam cleaning kills dust mites.

• Choose tight-weave pillow and mattress covers. They are easier to clean and dust is less likely to penetrate.

Contact Air Assurance for more information about protecting the air inside your home. We began serving the residential and commercial HVAC system needs of the Tulsa metropolitan area in 1985. Our experts will evaluate yours system and consult with you so that you can make informed decisions about maintaining your air quality and HVAC system.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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Tips to Protect Your Air Conditioner From Thieves

Most homeowners dedicate some time and effort toward security in their home, but what you may have missed is protecting your possessions that live outdoors. Your outside heat pump and air conditioning (A/C) units are both common targets of thieves because of their valuable copper content. There are a few simple things you can do to protect your air conditioner.

Use an Alarm

If you are looking for maximum protection, a video surveillance system combined with an alarm system is your best bet. There are special alarm systems designed just for outdoor HVAC units, although they can be fairly expensive. Both security consultants and HVAC technicians are good sources for more information and recommendations.

Disguise Your Equipment

One surefire way to stop most thieves from trying to steal from you is to pretend that you don’t have anything to steal. Installing your outdoor unit in your backyard and covering it with bushes or patio furniture is a great way to hide it.

Invest in a Cage

Another robust option is to buy a specialized cage for your A/C unit. Not only will this protect you from thieves, but it will also protect the unit from damage caused by weather. One thing to be wary of is that some cheaper cages may protect the unit from most things, but still allow copper to be stripped.

Fence It In

If you don’t already have your yard fenced in, building a tall fence can not only provide cover for your A/C, but also make it harder to spot. This works best if you have a large dog that often occupies the yard, but you could always stick up a dog warning sign as a deterrent anyways.

If you have any questions about how you can protect your air conditioner in your Broken Arrow home, please contact Air Assurance for further assistance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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UV Lights: Good Choice for Pollutant Control

UV Lights: Good Choice for Pollutant Control

Mold, bacteria and viruses in your air ducts present a major risk to health. However, the small size of these pathogens makes them hard to detect and impossible to remove with standard air filters. One of the most economical and effective ways to minimize your exposure to these micro-organisms is to eliminate their growth through the installation of UV lights in your air ducts.Ultraviolet lamps emit nonvisible light of the same wavelengths as that emitted by the sun. Microorganisms, including bacteria, molds and viruses, cannot grow in the presence of UV light. UV lamps look similar to fluorescent light bulbs, and they are easy for our HVAC technicians to install into your existing air system. They do not leave behind any harmful chemical residues.It is important to consider the location of the UV lamps when having them installed in your air ducts. Lamps can be installed in the main supply duct, return air duct or air handler unit. Positioning them near the A/C coil is highly effective in reducing mold levels; this area is a breeding ground for mold because it attracts moisture, pollen and dust. This is especially a problem in humid areas such as Tulsa. Placing UV lamps in the return and supply air ducts purifies the air as it travels through your system, removing pollutants that are brought in from the outdoors.The newest UV lights are an economical choice for pollutant control. Upon installation, ultraviolet lights eliminate the biofilm of bacteria and mold that develops on the inside of air ducts. This improves airflow and heat exchange, lowering your energy costs. New, automated UV disinfection systems supply exactly the amount of UV light needed to kill the mold, bacteria and viruses present at a specific time. This saves 60 to 80 percent on energy costs when compared to traditional UV lamps, which operate at a set intensity all day long.Contact us to learn more about the benefits of UV disinfection systems or to have UV lights installed in your A/C system. We take pride in offering premier HVAC services to the Tulsa Metropolitan area.Normal0falsefalsefalseEN-USX-NONEX-NONE/* Style Definitions */table.MsoNormalTable{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;mso-style-noshow:yes;mso-style-priority:99;mso-style-parent:"";mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;mso-para-margin:0in;mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;mso-pagination:widow-orphan;font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";}

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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Assess Your Home Insulation and Make Improvements Before Fall

Assess Your Home Insulation and Make Improvements Before Fall

When a homeowner thinks about home insulation, he or she is often concerned with its ability to keep the heat outside during the summer and, to a lesser degree, the fall. The reality, however, is that insulation is always a concern, even during the winter months when it's imperative that you keep the heat inside. Checking during the fall to make sure you have the correct amount and type of insulation in your home will work wonders on your energy usage and, in turn, your utility bills. Where to Check Your InsulationInsulation is located in various places around your home, including your basement, attic, walls, etc. Insulation can even be located in your floor. Its primary objective is to create a barrier within the walls, floor, and ceiling that keeps heat or cold from leaking inside or outside. The problem is that many homes don't use the correct kind of insulation for their needs.Evaluating Your Insulation NeedsIn order to insulate your home properly, you're going to need to evaluate each room. The first thing you need to learn is R-value. This refers to the degree of resistance against heat flow of a certain type of insulation. Knowing the recommended R-value in our area is essential if you're hoping for maximum protection against heat loss. The other part of the equation is the type of insulation involved. There are a number of different types, such as flexible rolls, foam, rigid and reflective.How can you tell which type of insulation to use and its required R-value? You can typically find information online or even by visiting your local hardware store. However, much of that may be too generalized. What you should really do is hire a professional HVAC technician who has been efficiently trained and can perform an energy evaluation to determine how to maximize the insulation's efficiency.For more expert advice on home insulation or other home comfort issues, please contact the experts at Air Assurance. We've been serving the needs of the Greater Tulsa Metropolitan area since 1985.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Why Your A/C's SEER Isn't Being Reached

Why Your A/C's SEER Isn't Being Reached

The SEER rating on an air conditioning system stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. SEER measures how many units of energy are expended by the air conditioner to generate one unit of cooling. Modern units are required to have a rating of at least 13 and some are much higher. You can achieve a lot of savings on your utility bill when you replace your old inefficient unit. However, poor conditions can lower an A/C's SEER so much that you won’t even see an improvement.

First, your house should be well insulated to keep hot air out and cool air in. Leaky ducts are another factor that can mean poor energy efficiency. Have your technician check ductwork to make sure it's the right size, tight and leak-free. Leaks can be sealed by a trained professional.

Make sure you choose the right size unit for your home. An oversized unit won’t deliver more cool air, but will run in shorter, inefficient cycles that never achieve the right level of cooling and dehumidification -- especially in places like Broken Arrow, where summers are hot. Your HVAC technician should use Manuals J and S to find the unit that is just the right size and is compatible with your ductwork.

Inefficient airflow can increase energy costs by up to 10 percent, so it’s important to take care of any issues during installation. Airflow can be obstructed by damaged ducts or grilles or obstructions like debris in the ducts. An improperly sized air handler is another cause of improper airflow. Your technician should measure the air handler to make sure it's the right size for your A/C unit.

Refrigerant charge is another important component on the installation checklist. Most systems are either undercharged or overcharged. Your technician will do a careful measurement of the line set to get the right charge.

If your A/C's SEER isn't being reached, call Air Assurance. With more than 20 years experience and the largest fleet team in the area, we can find and eliminate the factors that lower your A/C's SEER.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Keep Those A/C Coils Clean for Top Efficiency

Keep Those A/C Coils Clean for Top Efficiency

You have to wonder how earlier generations survived the hot, muggy summers here in the Broken Arrow area without an air conditioner (A/C). Most homeowners know that regularly changing their air filters is a crucial to maintaining air conditioner top efficiency; however, many don’t realize that keeping the coils clean is just as important.

Dirty coils can cause your equipment to use 37 percent more energy, and can reduce its cooling capability by as much as 30 percent. Due to increased pressure on the system, equipment failure is possible, requiring the need for an experienced HVAC technician. Additionally, dirty coils and their condensate pans can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold, greatly reducing your indoor air quality (IAQ).

Following are various methods for cleaning your A/C coils. Remember that for best results, you should call your HVAC pro to do the job.

• Compressed air. If the coils are not contaminated with adhered matter, blowing compressed air across the coil fins may suffice. A soft-bristled brush may also be used to remove light dust.

• Steam cleaning. Be careful to apply steam at a low pressure, and keep the stream parallel to the fins to avoid possibly bending them.

• Foaming chemicals. Using a garden-type of pump sprayer, apply a foaming chemical to the surface of the A/C coil and let it sit until it saturates the fins. Vacuum the dried foam, repeat the process, and then rinse with clean hose water.

• Pressure washing. Pressure wash in the normal airflow’s opposite direction, being careful not to bend the fins. If desired, apply a cleaning solution first with a hand sprayer or the built-in chemical injection system on the pressure washer. Repeat the process until the rinse water is free of particles. This method may increase Macromolecular Organic Dust (MOD), which must be contained in the cleaning area.

Remember to turn off the system at the thermostat and to clean the condensate pan along with the A/C coils. If you have any questions, or to schedule professional maintenance on your unit, contact us here at Air Assurance. Our all NATE-certified staff will be happy to assist you.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

When Installing a Heat Pump, Let These Guidelines Show You the Way

When Installing a Heat Pump, Let These Guidelines Show You the Way

A heat pump is an economical way to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, especially in Midwestern climates. Instead of converting heat to fuel like combustion furnaces, heat pumps simply move heat. The performance of your heat pump relies on selecting the right type and size for your home and expert installation. Whether you use an air-source or geothermal heat pump, work with a professional HVAC technician to avoid problems and get the best results. When installing a heat pump, here are a few things to do first.

• Make sure your home is properly insulated with correct duct work and energy-efficient windows. If ducts are in the attic or crawl space, insulate with R-8 insulation to provide the best barrier. Install ducts inside your insulation to save energy. If your home is energy-efficient, you can install a smaller heat pump unit with shorter duct lengths.

• When installing new ducts, you can specify that measured air leaks should be below 10 percent of the airflow. A professional can reduce air leakage to below 5 percent with skill and careful planning and workmanship. Keep air leakage as low as possible for maximum efficiency.

• Do not use building cavities for your ducts. They typically leak, causing moisture problems, uncomfortable airflow and energy loss.

• After duct work is installed, test it by pulling on it to ensure that it's sealed well and fastened securely. Duct joints should be sealed with mastic.

• When installing a heat pump, put it on the north side of the house where it tends to be the shadiest. If this isn't possible, choose a shady place without any obstructions at least 10 feet from each open side and the top of your heat pump unit.

• For optimal heating and cooling efficiency, ask your technician or contractor to put a return register in each room of the house.

For more expert advice on installing a heat pump or other home comfort needs, please contact us at Air Assurance Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing in Broken Arrow, OK., servicing the greater Tulsa Metropolitan area since 1985.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Your Water Heater Needs Seasonal Maintenance: Here's How

Your Water Heater Needs Seasonal Maintenance: Here's How

When the seasons shift and it's time to start thinking about preventive maintenance for your HVAC system, expand your attention a little further to appliances such as your water heater. With regular maintenance, your water heater will run more efficiently, at a lower cost, and at a higher level of safety.Flush the tankDuring normal use, sediments and other material will accumulate in the bottom of your water heater's storage tank. Removing these sediments helps prevent damaging rust and corrosion within your water heater. A clean tank also improves system efficiency, which reduces the amount you pay every month for hot-water expenses.A complete tank flush should be performed as part of seasonal preventive maintenance. You can occasionally perform a smaller-scale flush by following these steps:

1. Locate the drain valve near the bottom of the tank. It will likely look like a faucet or similar type of plumbing fixture.

2. Put an empty bucket under the drain.

3. The drain may have a handle or a large slot in a valve designed to be turned by a flat-blade screwdriver. Turn the handle or slotted valve to start a flow of water into the bucket.

4. Drain a few gallons of water from the tank, then shut off the valve and empty the bucket.

Test temperature and pressure (T&P) valveYou should test T&P valve of your water heater regularly to make sure it works properly. The T&P valve is designed to release internal pressure if the water in the heater gets too hot or develops too much pressure. This prevents the water heater from bursting and causing damage or injury.To test the valve, lift up on the handle and release it. The valve should quickly snap back into place, accompanied by a gurgling sound of water moving into the drain. If the valve returns to position slowly or not at all, have your HVAC technician replace it immediately.HVAC customers in Tulsa and Broken Arrow can count on Air Assurance for reliable, expert HVAC sales, maintenance and repair. Contact us today for more information on maintaining your water heater or to schedule a professional maintenance inspection for your hot-water system.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Image courtesy of Shutterstock