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How does a whole-house humidifier work? 

A whole house humidifier works by adding moisture into the air, reducing allergens and airborne viruses, thereby improving the air quality. A whole-house humidifier also reduces static electricity, minimizes dry skin, and reduces the energy used to cool and heat your home. 

What are the benefits of a whole-house humidifier? 

1. Improved Health

Low humidity dries the lungs, nasal passages, sinuses, and throat out. By having a whole-house humidifier installed, the humidity inside your home is raised to a healthier level. This will lessen the attacks of sinusitis and sore throat. For anyone in your home with asthma or allergies, a whole-house humidifier can cut back the bacteria that build up in homes and stops the spread of mold and other things that can cause problems. 

2. Better Sleep 

When the humidity in your home is too low, it dries the soft palate which triggers snoring. 

With a whole-house humidifier installed, the nasal passage, soft palate, and throat are kept moist, making it easier to breathe. 

3. Comfort

The winter is notorious for drying out the skin, making it itchy and almost painful. With a whole-house humidifier, your lips are no longer chapped, your skin is no longer itchy! 

4. Energy Cost Reduced

A whole house humidifier will enable you to lower your thermostat a few degrees, saving you money each month on utility bills. 

5. Furniture and House

Finally, a whole-house humidifier will maintain the humidity in your home and keeps your furniture from drying out and cracking. 

What type of whole-house humidifier is the most effective?

For certain, we have provided information about how installing a whole-house humidifier can help your home and family member. But you want to get the type is right for your home. The three types of whole-house humidifiers are: 

• Bypass: This type of whole-house humidifier adds moisture to warm air through the furnace by taking the warm air from the home’s heating ducts and passing it via a water tray. The air collects moisture and delivers it back through the house.
• Fan-powered: This whole house humidifier differs from the above described with a fan pushing the air through the water tray to increase water evaporation. Fan-powered humidifiers can produce up to a gallon or more of humidity daily compared to the aforementioned bypass humidifiers. This type of humidifier is more energy-efficient, using not more power than a 25-watt light bulb. 
• Steam: Hands down, this is the best whole-house humidifier. It boils the water, creating humidity as steam, that is then picks it up and pushes through the home’s ventilation system. 

What is the cost of a whole-house humidifier?

The cost of a whole house humidifier can vary on the brand your purchase. This is one area where you can be certain that you get what you pay for! In other words, if you go with the less expensive model, you probably won’t get as long of a lifespan.

How do you know what size whole house humidifier to get? 

There are two main factors to consider when purchasing a whole-house humidifier: 

• The size of your home
• The insulation level of your home

The standard output for a furnace humidifier is the number of gallons of water that is absorbed within a 24-hour period. For example, a countertop humidifier is designed to provide adequate humidity for a standard-sized room that typically holds between 1 and 2 gallons of water. A stand-alone humidifier for a whole house that is attached to a sink will usually have a ten-gallon to a twelve-gallon water reservoir.

What maintenance is required for a whole-house humidifier? 

There isn’t much to do, but what little is needed is important. A checklist to follow, which is usually included in the owner’s manual:

• Water panels. These infuse the air with moisture before circulating the air throughout a room. These should be checked periodically for clogs and debris and replaced if needed.
• Clean the reservoirs. The reservoir should be checked regularly for bacteria and mineral buildup.
• Level the humidifier. Make sure the humidifier is level at all times for proper operation. 
• Leak check. Leaking can be common for whole-house humidifiers when they have become less effective. 
• The humidistat. If the humidistat isn’t working right, the effectiveness is going to decrease too.  
• Thorough cleaning. Clean your whole house humidifier regularly according to manufacturers’ instructions.  

In Closing

Installing a whole-house humidifier in Vacaville, CA is typically taken on by a professional HVAC technician. But, can a whole house humidifier be installed as a DIY project? The answer is that it can be a doable DIY project if you’re handy with tools and have the time. You can follow the instructions that came with the unit or look for videos online, though it is advisable, for safety, time and overall benefits, to use a professional. If you live in the area, you can reach out company at 707-689-5128. Call for a consultation today! 

Does whole house humidifier use a lot of water?

We just told you that a whole house humidifier will reduce your utilities by helping the cooling and heating in your home. Then we tell you that it will use water?! Don’t worry, it isn’t like filling a swimming pool. Water usage for an evaporative whole house humidifier is between two and three gallons per hour when humidifying.  

Do whole house humidifiers cause mold?

If a whole house humidifier isn’t used correctly, it can create some issues: 

• Mold Growth.  Excessive moisture can accumulate in the air ducts, forming mold that is distributed throughout your home via the air ducts. Mold can cause allergic reactions like coughing, itchy eyes, and sneezing. 
• Damage Wood.  The excessive moisture causes condensation in the attic, which leads to roof rot. The moisture can seep into your wooden floors, causing delaminating and deterioration.
• Stain Finishes. As moisture builds condensation on windows and stains the finishes around the windows. 

Are whole-house humidifiers noisy?

There are three types of whole house humidifiers: 

• Bypass humidifiers: Instead of a fan, these humidifiers use the blower that is inside the HVAC system. 
• Fan-powered humidifiers: This type of humidifier has an internal fan to push humidity through your home even if the furnace isn’t on. 
• Steam humidifiers: This is a combination of both with an internal fan that operates with the furnace, the fan is silent with pure steam which is healthier. 

Does a whole-home humidifier also dehumidify?

A whole house humidifier measures and levels the humidity automatically, adding or removing it as needed.  On the other hand, portable humidifiers and dehumidifiers work only in confined areas.

Where is the best place to put a whole house humidifier in a house? 

The idea of a whole house humidifier is to distribute the most humidity in the largest area of your house. To achieve this, it is recommended to place the unit close to a cold air return so it the humified air can be distributed thoroughly. In most cases, the living area is the best location. 

How long do whole-house humidifiers last?

The lifespan of a whole house humidifier can last up to 15 years. Maintenance and water quality are important factors in the lifespan. 

What are common problems with humidifier HVAC?

The following list of problems with whole house humidifiers can be fixed by the homeowner: 

• Humidistat needs to be turned up
• Water valve not opening
• Bypass damper not opening
• Not plugged in
• Water panel or pad completely clogged
• Wheel pad installed in backward
• Water level too low

The following are problems that you’ll need a professional to repair: 

• Water valve clogged
• Orifice clogged
• Motor or solenoid valve goes bad
• Humidistat goes bad
• Wiring goes bad
• Float not working 

How do I find a leak in my air duct?

There are a few methods you can use to check if you need any air duct repairs. Review these options then choose the one best for your home: 

1. Inspect for any obvious leaks, or separations, in the ductwork. With a flashlight, check the most obvious areas that could need air duct repair. If you find any, mark the area with a sharpie so that you can find easily air duct repair later. Or carry mastic tape with you and make repairs as you find them.
2. Turn on the HVAC system to full blast. With the system blowing air, you should be able to find possible air duct repairs needed. 
3. Inspect the elbows and joints. Any place where air ductwork is connected to other air ductwork is a common area for leaking. If there is a connection or turn in the ductwork, it is prone to leak. 
4. Check for older air duct repair tape. If there is existing older air duct repair tape, it may be leaking. Remove the old and replace it with new mastic that will seal the duct better.
5. Use a smoke pencil. One way to check for air duct repair needs is with a smoke pencil, available at your local home improvement store. Light the pencil and slowly move the pencil over the air duct, watch for smoke swirling, that is where air duct repairs are needed.

What do you use to seal ductwork?

Hiring a professional air duct cleaning and sealing service is the best way, but it is understandable that a homeowner may want to do it themselves to save a few dollars.  The following are recommended by professionals as 3 of the best DIY methods of air duct repairing and sealing. Two ways are with air duct repair tape. What kind of tape do you use for ductwork? You can use the following types of tape, which are not “duct tape” as you may be familiar with. 

• Short-term Air Duct Repair: Using foil HVAC sealing duct tape will last up to seven years if applied as directed. This is not the ‘duct tape’ you use for repairing vinyl, it is specifically an aluminum or foil duct tape for air duct repair tasks. 

• Long-term Air Duct Repair: Using mastic air duct repair sealant tape will last longer, as short as 15 years and up to 25 years. This tape has a fiber reinforcement to the water-based, paste-like substance that hardens after being applied to the ductwork. You’ll need a paintbrush to apply.

Another method for air duct repair is:

• Matching components: Not necessarily recommended by professionals but it will work in a pinch. Using an additional like air duct material to piece two parts together. You’ll still need to use an air duct repair tape to connect the pieces together to assure there isn’t any air loss. 

Professional air duct repair services will use an aerosol air duct sealer. A newer method uses a product consisting of polymers or long molecules. When sprayed into the air ducts, they cling together, sealing up holes, leaks, and misalignments. This air duct repair method creates an efficient, tight air duct sealing from the inside.

How long does duct sealant take to dry?

In most cases, within 30 minutes, air duct repair sealant will feel dry to the touch. Instructions will advise waiting up to 24 hours before insulating around the air ducts. 

How do I stop condensation in my air ducts?

There is an air duct wrap made with inner foam insulation and an outer foil layer. By wrapping it around the air ducts and fasten with duct tape at the joints, condensation should stop. 

Age is the number one factor for energy-efficient air conditioners. The older the unit, the more power it uses. Do old air conditioners use more electricity? Absolutely!  An air conditioning system that is 20 years old will use around 6 kWh of electricity, whereas a newer system will use 1.71 kWh of electricity.

Maintenance has the next biggest effect on getting the most energy-efficient air conditioning. Keeping the filter changed or cleaned is essential and having it professionally inspected and serviced will make a big difference in having an energy-efficient air conditioner. 

The next factor in energy consumption is the air conditioners’ capacity. Yes, the bigger the system, the more power it will it use. If you have too small of a unit, it is working harder and using more energy to cool your home.  If you’re considering an upgrade for an air conditioner that consumes less electricity, you need a minimum of 20 BTUs per square foot.

A fourth factor in having an energy-efficient air conditioner is the SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit will operate and the less energy it will use. Choose a SEER rating around 13 or 14, higher if you can find one.

The household size will have an impact on energy efficiency too. The more people in your house, the more body heat, thus the bigger unit you’ll need. Review how many other electrical appliances your home is using too. 

How do energy-efficient air conditioners work?

The higher the SEER rating (the measurement used for energy efficiency), the more energy efficient air conditioner will be. So, what makes that happen? How the unit is built makes for a more energy-efficient system: 

• The coil construction: Lighter materials are used to build newer air conditioners today for the condenser and evaporator coils. This allows the heat transfer to be more efficient, making the new units ENERGY STAR approved. 
• A multi-stage compressor: The compressor is what uses the most power in an air conditioner because that is where the refrigerant is turned into a high-pressure gas that circulates and does the heat exchange that creates the cool air. Where older air conditioners operated at one power level, they were on or off, the newer energy-efficient air conditioners adjust to lower needs using less power. This reduces the amount of power the air conditioner is using. 
• Blower fans with variable speeds: The blower fan in your HVAC system uses a lot of energy, and an older system, it usually has only one speed. With a newer system having variable speeds and over 60% of the time, it is using the lower speed, thus making it an energy-efficient air conditioner. 

How can I lower my AC bill?

Fortunately, there are a few simple tips to follow that will help lower your cooling bill, even when using an air conditioner: 

1. Professional Installation: If you’re upgrading to an energy-efficient air conditioner this summer, have it professionally installed by an experienced and trained service technician. There are companies out there that will offer free installation, question if it is with an experienced, trained technician. 
2. Prevent Direct Sunlight and Insulate: Make sure the exterior part of your air conditioner isn’t in direct sunlight. This will make it work harder and more, which will reflect on your cooling bill. Make sure all the doors and windows are shut when using the air conditioner. Letting all the cooled air escape outside will make the unit work harder and use more power. Also ensure all windows and doors are shut. If they are not, warm air from outside will enter the cooling area. This again makes your unit work harder to keep the room cool, thereby increasing your utility bills.
3. Avoid Non-Stop Use: When you use your air conditioner twenty-four/seven, it makes all the components within the system work harder, thus, using more electricity, and wearing out faster. If the weather is cooler, turn your air conditioner off and let it rest to reduce your energy costs.
4. Regular Maintenance and Service:  Ask the dealer where you purchase your new air conditioner about their maintenance and service plans, then keep the schedule they recommend. In between those appointments, makes sure you change or clean the filter every 30 days for your part of the maintenance too. A clean filter equals an energy-efficient air conditioner. 
5. Too low of a temperature setting: The temperatures during the summer get high, so yes, you’ll use your air conditioner more, lowering the thermostat. If the room is comfortable, raise the thermostat by 5 degrees and you’ll have a more energy-efficient air conditioner. 
6. Get the right energy star rating: The star rating is the best way to estimate the cooling efficiency of your air conditioner. Learn how to calculate the energy usage of an air conditioner before you go shopping so that you get the best deal for your budget and needs. 

What is the difference between an air conditioner vs fan electricity usage? 

Using ‘stand fans’ instead of the air conditioner when feasible will use a significantly lot less energy. A fan uses only one percent of the energy an air conditioner uses, so you can get 24 hours of fan cooling for the same amount of energy that 15 minutes of air conditioning use. 

However, a fan isn’t always the best option for staying cool. First, you must be sitting right by the fan for it to cool you, and that isn’t always an option.  Next, fans increase our dehydration and electrolyte balance by evaporating the moisture in our skin. If the temps are over 95 degrees, a fan is not the better choice. 

Is the energy usage of a window air conditioner less than a central energy-efficient air conditioner? Definitely!  Windows air conditioning units are very energy efficient, consuming a lot less energy than an HVA unit, in fact, a window unit uses only 1/8 of the energy! 

Why is my central heat blowing cold air?

The central heat system is taken for granted most of the year in California. But when the central heating is not working right, either because it’s blowing cold air or not blowing at all, it is time to find the problem. It may also be time to call for a professional central heating repair service, though you should do that after you have tried the following things to do your own central heating repair: 

1. Check FAN setting on the thermostat: This setting controls the blower that circulates the warmed air through your home. When it is set to ON, the blower will run continuously, even if the furnace isn’t heated. So, for a central heating repair, the first thing to do is check that the fan setting is on AUTO. This will ensure the blower is only running when the furnace has heated up. 
2. Check the air filter: If the air filter is dirty and clogged, it blocks the airflow across the heat exchanger. This will overheat the exchanger, trip the safety switch, and the furnace burners shut off. For a DIY central heating repair, turn the furnace off at the thermostat, and inspect the air filter. If it is dirty, clean it or change it. 
3. Check the pilot light: If you have a gas-powered furnace, check that the pilot light is lit. If it is out, you’re not going to get any heat until the pilot light is re-lit. For a DIY central heating repair to light the pilot light, take these steps. 

• Step One: Turn the furnace off by turning the thermostat to the OFF position.
• Step Two: Find the pilot light assembly, usually at the bottom, and reset the switch where there are three choices: Pilot, Off, and On.
• Step Three: Turn the knob to “off” and wait 5 minutes for the gas to come down from the pilot.
• Step Four: Turn the knob to the “pilot” position and press the knob in to re-start the gas flow. 
• Step Five: While pressing the knob, hold a lighter or match to the pilot opening. A flame should light up in a few seconds. If you have a steady blue flame, you’ve got a working furnace and should proceed to the next step. 
• Step Six: Turn the knob to the “on” position and the furnace will ignite.
• Step Seven: Turn the thermostat to the HEAT and ON positions. The thermostat should be set at 5 degrees lower than the room temperature and hot hair should be blowing out now. If not, you’ll need to schedule professional central heating repair service. 

4. Check your condensate line: One final thing to do is check for pooling or puddles of water around the furnace. If you find this, it is typically because the PVC condensation line is blocked. This will shut the furnace off. Typical reasons a condensation line is blocked are dirt, dust, ice, or mold built up in the line. You simply need to take the line off and clean it out to get things working again. Empty the condensation pan and clean it out. 

How long do central heat and air units last?

Most HVAC central heating systems have a lifespan between 15 years and 25 years. The exact lifespan can depend on the type of heating system, the maintenance you keep and how often you have professional central heating repairs and inspections performed. Other factors that can affect the lifespan of a central heating system and things that can reduce the lifespan of HVAC equipment include:

• Defective or poor-quality components from the factory
• Oversized or undersized system
• Improper installation 
• High usage 
• Improper usage
• Lack of proper central heating repairs
• Corrosive or salty environment 

Do you know how to save money on central heating?

Your lifestyle is a big part of what will make a central heating system cost you money! Follow these eight suggestions and you’ll be surprised how much you’ll cut your utilities in a month: 

1. Bundle up! Dress for the weather and wear a sweater while inside.
2. Let the sun work for you by leaving blinds and curtains open on the sunny side of the house. 
3. Bake and cook more at home.
4. Lower the thermostat to 68. 
5. Keep doors and windows closed, and make sure they are completely sealed. 
6. Have the air ducts professionally inspected once a year to have them sealed up. 
7. Use ceiling fans set to push the warmed air down.
8. Rearrange the furniture so you’re getting the most sun during the day and not blocking vents. 

Is central heating bad for your health?

Central heat is notorious for drying out the air. This can cause the eyes and nose to dry out, and some people will experience nosebleeds, scabs, and a gritty feeling in their eyes. Adding a room humidifier or a humidifier to the system can alleviate those discomforts. However, one common worry – that central heating can cause problems with carbon monoxide – is generally not something homeowners will experience with central heating systems. But it is always a good idea to have a carbon monoxide detector in your home, no matter the type of heating system you have or other equipment you may be using. Better safe than sorry.

To answer the question as to when should you get a furnace replacement, we offer the following list of indications of when it is time to get a furnace upgrade: 

Repairs

Are the repairs becoming more frequent and more expensive? If you’ve answered yes to either or both of these questions, it is time to seek a furnace upgrade. You may have another two winters, but the sooner you upgrade your furnace, the less likely you’ll be to wake up in the middle of a winter night cold. The basic rule of furnace upgrade is to look at the repair cost vs the upgrade cost. If the repairs are costing as much as 50% of what a furnace upgrade would cost, it is time. 

Heating Bill

Yes, the cost of utilities increases every year for all of us, but if your utility bill increases greatly from one winter to the next, it could be that your existing furnace is burning more fuel trying to keep up. You should review the matter and assess the cost of keeping the existing furnace versus the cost of a furnace upgrade by reviewing the efficiency rating. While a new furnace upgrade will cost more upfront, consider what it will save you over time with better and higher energy efficiency. 

 Weighing In the Factors

Along with the age, add up the repair cost and heating costs factors. You can’t just base this on one factor; you need to put them all together to get the best idea when to get a furnace upgrade. 

Can you upgrade your furnace blower?

Depending on how old the existing furnace is, it may not be the best idea to upgrade the blower. However, when getting a furnace upgrade, yes – upgrading the blower is a good idea, and often recommended. A variable speed furnace blower motor will improve the efficiency of the furnace, making the comfort of your home even better. It is more efficient than turning a blower motor off and on for regulating indoor temperatures.

When you go with a one-speed blower for your furnace, you get an overwhelming blast of heat when it’s turned on, and just as quickly it stops when you turn the blower off. With a variable speed furnace blower, it will slowly work its way up and down in speed to reach the desired temperature setting, keeping consistent without the massive fluctuation.

Is a furnace worth upgrading?

As we have covered here, there are a few factors that should be considered for a furnace upgrade – the age + the repair cost + the utility expenses. A furnace that has proper routine maintenance, including professional inspections every year, can give you between 20 to 25 years of service. Then it begins costing you more, as they say, “nickel and diming” your bank account until you are broke. 

At that point, considering the factors we’ve discussed, yes, it is well worth a furnace upgrade! You should work with a professional that knows how to upgrade furnaces, including guiding you toward getting the right one for your home and personal needs. 

How much does it cost to upgrade a furnace?

Several factors are involved in the cost of a furnace upgrade too. The brand and the model you choose will vary in pricing, some brands being more expensive than others. Then there is the factor of size, as you want one that will keep your home comfortable.

Like an air conditioner, you can choose one that is too large or too small. Then there is the factor if you need an electric or gas-powered unit. An electric furnace upgrade can cost between $2,000 and $7,000, while a gas furnace upgrade can cost between $3,800 and $10,000. 

As you begin your journey on finding the right furnace upgrade, you want to work with an expert that can answer the question, “What furnace do I need?” They should have some questions for you at that point, like what size is your home, is it single or multi-story, whether you have electric or gas connections, and of course, what’s your budget?

Check the Air Filter

A dirty air filter can cause several problems and left unaddressed, can actually lead to damaging the entire system. This should be getting changed every 30 days to keep the following from happening: 

• Low airflow
• Frozen refrigerant lines 
• Frozen evaporator coil 
• AC condensation overflowing the drip pan
• Inadequate cooling, creating hot/cold spots and keeping AC from reaching the desired temperature setting
• Energy bill increases
• Total equipment failure

Replace the air filter whether it looks dirty or not.  Make a note to change the filter every 30 days regardless of whether it looks dirty. This is a good time to replace the batteries in your smoke alarm too.

Check the Thermostat Settings

This is the simplest of any possible DIY fixes. A thermostat on the wrong settings will cause the following: 

• Only warm or hot blowing out of vents
• Air conditioner not turning on

Check the thermostat switch is on “cool” and not heat. This problem is common at the first of summer when the weather is changing. Somebody may have accidentally switched it while dusting too, so it is always worth checking. 

Check the Circuit Breakers

This could be a simple fix when the circuit breaker flipped off that is keeping your AC from turning on. It could be a power surge in the area that caused it. If you flip it back on and it flips right back off, you need to call a professional AC technician or electrician. There could be something more serious with the electrical part of your HVAC system or it could be your system needs air conditioner refrigerant. This is something the technician can check and determine. 

Check the Outdoor Unit

An outdoor unit that is clogged with debris, grass, weeds, etc., or just simply dirty from outdoor exposure can cause the following: 

• Energy bill increases
• Warm air blowing from air vents
• AC isn’t cooling adequately
• Repairs needed too frequently

Check the outside unit of your air conditioning system. Rinse it off using the garden hose on a gentle spray. If you see dirt inside the unit covering the condenser, call your AC technician. Make sure any debris, grass, trash, and weeds aren’t sucked up against it. Keeping fences and foliage a minimum of 2 feet away from the outside unit is recommended. Check that  the air conditioner refrigerant line insulation is still intact as well.

Check All Air Vents

When the air vents are closed off or blocked, they can cause problems like: 

• The AC has to struggle to cool 
• Refrigerant lines freeze up
• Evaporator coil freeze up
• AC condensation overflows the drip pan
• Damages compressor
• Blower motor stops
• Air ducts begin leaking, causing higher energy bills 

Walk through your home and open all air supply vents, even in empty rooms. Make sure drapes, furniture, or rugs are blocking the return vents. Homeowners often think that closing the vents in an unused room is an energy saving step, when in fact, it causes the AC system to work harder – and that reflects on the energy bill. 

How do I fix my AC if it’s not blowing cold air?

We just reviewed some common issues, many of which you can take care of yourself without calling a professional service technician. Let’s recap those things again that could help you get your AC blowing cold air: 

• Power issues – make sure the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker is flipped on. 
• Thermostat issues – Make sure the thermostat is set “on” and “cold”. Replace the batteries. Remove the cover and blow any dust out with canned air or a hair dryer on “cool”. 
• Clogged or Dirty Filter – Replace the AC filter. Some systems will automatically shut down when the filter is dirty so the motor doesn’t overheat.
• Ice buildup – A dirty filter, frozen coils or refrigerant lines can cause ice to build up inside the unit. Replace the air filter and then run the system on “fan only” for a while and let it melt the ice off. If this doesn’t fix it, your system may need an air conditioner refrigerant charge and that will require a service call. 
• Clogged condensation drain – As an air conditioner removes moisture from your home, that water drains through a hose and into a drain pan. The hose could be clogged, which will cause the system to shut down as a safety measure. Try to clean the hose out with a mild solution of bleach and water. 
• Dirty compressor – The exterior portion of your AC system can get covered with dirt and dust, grass, trash, and weeds can get sucked up against it and cause the unit to shut down. Check around it and remove anything that could be blocking air flow. 
• Low refrigerant levels – Refrigerant for ac units doesn’t evaporate or get bad. When an air conditioner refrigerant charge is needed, typically it is because of a leak somewhere within the system. The only solution for this is to call an AC technician. They have the equipment to check the air conditioner refrigerant and the authority to purchase more if needed. 

How do you know your AC needs refrigerant?

A few common indicators that your system needs air conditioner refrigerant: 

1. Air conditioner constantly runs but the house isn’t cool. 
2. Warm air blowing from the vents.
3. Electric bills are higher than before.
4. There is a buildup of ice on the refrigerant line.
5. The refrigerant line has bubbles coming from and hissing sounds.

How do I find a leak in my AC?

This is something that should be done by a professional air conditioning technician. There are two ways you can check for a leak, with one being obvious – by looking for dirty, oily spots on the lines or around the unit. Refrigerant is an oily substance and if it is leaking, you’ll notice the oily marks. 

Another method is to mix dish soap with water and spray it on areas that you suspect are leaking. If there is air conditioner refrigerant leaking, it will blow soap bubbles there. Again, we must stress that the best way to find out if your system is leaking air conditioner refrigerant is to schedule a service call with a licensed professional contractor. 

Can I put refrigerant in my home AC?

Physically, with the proper equipment and tools anyone with a mechanical sense can install their own air conditioner refrigerant. However, legally, you cannot purchase the refrigerant needed. The EPA has established laws that prevent everyday citizens from purchasing air conditioner refrigerant. Only certified and licensed contractors are permitted to purchase the product. 

• Asbestos
• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Cookstoves
• Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products
• Lead (Pb) 
• Pesticides
• Radon (Rn) 
• Secondhand Smoke
• VOCs
• Wood Smoke

What affects indoor air quality?

In addition to the things we listed above, other factors that is affecting our indoor air quality, is the air exchange rate, occupant behavior,  outdoor climate, and the weather conditions. Of those, the indoor air exchange rate with the outdoor air is important. 

The air exchange rate is affected by the construction, design, and the operating parameters of a structure. These all ultimately have a contribution to the infiltration of air flowing through cracks, joints, and other openings of ceilings, floors, and walls. When the air exchange isn’t adequate, it lowers the indoor air quality. 

How does indoor air quality affect our health?

The EPA has warned that the indoor air pollution issue is in one of the top 5 environmental risks to us today. With the well debated subject of climate change, along with increased humidity and precipitation, the indoor air pollution is exacerbated and promotes indoor mold growth. In conjunction with the bacteria, bio contaminants and dust mites, we shouldn’t be surprised at the growing number of people with allergies. 

Indoor air pollutants are to blame for many that suffer with irritated eyes, nose, and throat. More of are complaining and suffering from dizziness, fatigue, and headaches, and anyone with asthma or other respiratory issues suffer even more. The poor indoor air quality of today has added to chronic health issues like cancer, heart disease, and other respiratory diseases like COPD. 

How do you test air quality in your home?

For the DIY homeowner, here are three indoor air quality tests you can perform: 

1. Carbon Monoxide
   This is an odorless gas that fireplaces, furnaces, grills, water heaters and other gas appliances emit. If the carbon monoxide is leaking and builds up, it is poisonous to humans and animals. A carbon monoxide detector will alert you to a dangerous high level of CO in your home.  
2. Radon
   This radioactive gas is the 2^nd leading cause of lung cancer, testing for radon in the home is wise. A naturally occurrence from uranium breaking down in the soil and then seep inside your home, it becomes a silent poison.  There are at-home radon test kits available at local home improvement stores. You can also get kits at a discount from the National Radon Program Services.
3. Allergens and Other Pollutants
   There is a device called “Speck” that will monitor common pollutants inside a home. It measures the levels of harmful particles so that you can determine what you need to change in your home to reduce those contaminants. A reputable indoor air quality company will have this or a similar device. 

A healthy humidity level. 

 Nothing loves moisture more than dust mites and mold, so keep that moisture down to a level of 50% humidity and those allergens will be kept in check. A dehumidifier will reduce  the indoor air moisture and control the allergens too. A few ways you can dehumidify your home: 

• Crack windows while cooking and use the exhaust fan.
• Crack windows and use exhaust fan while bathing or running the dishwasher.
• Be careful with overwatering your houseplants.
• Make sure the clothes dryer is vented to the outside.
• Fix plumbing leaks inside and outside, especially under the house.
• Check the  HVAC drip pan and empty it on regular basis. Indoor air quality and hvac systems are not best friends! 

No Smoking Zone

Every home should be  a no-smoking zone when there are asthmatic or respiratory patients.  Secondhand smoke is the single most damaging factor to indoor air quality.  With over 4,000 chemicals, a child subjected to 2nd hand spoke has an increase in developing ear infections, respiratory infections, asthma, and has been associated with cancer, and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Call 707-689-5128 today for your indoor air quality testing in Vacaville, CA.

The difference between a whole house air purifier and a humidifier is simple. One cleans the air, and one adds moisture to the air. By their names, it easy to tell the difference: The “air purifier” cleans the air and the “humidifier” adds moisture to the air. 

For a more detailed answer, a whole house air purifier cleans the air in your home by removing or inactivating any pollutants from the air with two basic components. With a fan and a filter, typically a HEPA filtration technology or the new PECO technology, an 

Air purifier can remove dust and pollutants that get trapped in the filter as air from the house passes through it, then sends it back into the house, clean and clear. 

A humidifier boils water takes the steam that creates and add it to the air using ultrasonic technology that vibrates water droplets. There are some  humidifiers that use a fan and wick to evaporate the water. A downside to the ultrasonic type of humidifier is the tiny mineral particles they may introduce into the air, so it is recommended to use only distilled water and not tap water. Either type of humidifier should be cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis. 

Do I need an air purifier for each room?

A professional air quality expert will recommend a whole house air purifier, however, not everyone can afford this means of improving indoor air quality. So we go with the individual, portable air purifier. There are two factors that should be considered in determining if you need one for every room in your home: 

1. The Square Footage: Your home’s square footage relates to the volume of air that is to be cleaned.
2. The Air Purifier Capacity: This relates to the amount of air the unit can clean.

So, no, you may not need an air purifier in each room if you choose an air purifier that has a large square foot capacity. Or you can choose to go with a whole house air purifier, then every room will benefit from having clean, purified air.  

How long does it take for an air purifier to clean a room?

A portable room air purifier will take between thirty minutes and two hours to purify the air in the room, with a difference noticeable after the first 20 minutes. Remember, an air purifier is only as useful as it the air changes per hour), the brand and model, and the size of the room you place the unit. 

An average extraction rate is based on one hour and the amount of air it can clean. A HEPA air filter will run 15 minutes per air change, thus cleaning the air faster than a non-HEPA filter. Keep in mind that during the summer, there number of pollutants increase, so it will take a room air purifier longer to clean the air. 

Does whole house UV air purifier work?

Another confusion are UV air purifiers and whole house air cleaners. Each has a purpose with a UV light in that air purifiers have neutralizes microorganism that can be harmful as they spread and transmit.  A whole house air purifier remove tiny particles from the air supply. The UV light in a whole house air purifier does not remove any particles, therefore, they are not helpful in removing allergens. 

However, using both UV light and whole house air purifier will provide the best defense by cleaning the  air filtering it too. A whole house air purifier will miss some of the tiniest of tiny particles, the UV light kills any harmful microorganisms.

These questions have been around as long as having air conditioned air has been around (or after that first electric bill anyway!). The bottom line to these never ending questions is: Your air-conditioning system is going to be a more energy efficient HVAC system when it  runs at full speed. 

Yes, you read that right. To run your HVAC system at a lower speed, it uses more energy, and it will dehumidify your house better too. So, set your thermostat a degree or two higher and let it run all day. You’ll actually save as much as 5% for every degree you bump up the thermostat, the recommended setting is 78 degrees.

During the summer when the temps are raising, try these things for a month or two and see if it makes any difference on your energy bill. If not, you may need to get quotes on a new energy efficient HVAC system: 

• Programmable Thermostat – Yes, you’ve probably had everyone and their neighbor telling you to install a programmable thermostat, and guess what? They’re right, installing one of these, whether you have a older HVAC system or a new energy efficient HVAC, a programmable thermostat will do wonders for your electric bill. Set the time when you want the thermostat cooling, and it will do it automatically. 
• Ceiling Fans – We know, this sounds like your parents from the 1970s, but you’d be surprised at how much air will move around with a ceiling fan in place. While the programmable thermostat is set higher, the ceiling fan keeps the air moving around so it doesn’t get muggy and stale feeling, and your home will still feel cooler. 
• Plant Bushes – The south side and west side is where the heat hits the hardest. Planting bushes on both sides will minimize the heat getting to your home when the sun is blaring on those sides. 
• Crosswinds – There is nothing better on a warm spring day or cooler summer days than windows open throughout the house. You shouldn’t open them all the way, you don’t even to open every window. Just a few so that you get a crosswind coming through the house. Experiment try different windows and see which give you the most crosswind benefit. 

How can I lower my AC bill?

It can get to the point of outrageous when it comes to the electric bill in the summer. You want to be comfortable but at the sacrifice of the family budget. Luckily, with these tips, you can save a few dollars on the electric bill and help get more energy efficient HVAC system while extending its lifespan too: 

Seal the Doors and Windows

You could be losing a lot of that cherished cool air conditioned right through the doors and windows, even if they are closed. If you can feel any draft on the outside around the edges  of the doors and windows, that is where your expensive cooled air is going. Make sure they are all closed and caulk any leaking areas. Installing mesh window screens, solar screens, and window film can knock out as much as 70% of the UV rays, keeping them out of you house. Even with the best energy efficient HVAC system, the cooled air will escape. 

Thermostat Placement

Programmable or old school, a thermostat installed on an exterior wall or by  a window will never have an accurate reading. That inaccurate reading will make your energy efficient HVAC system turn on prematurely and run more.  Schedule an HVAC contractor to come move your thermostat, which may cost a few dollars, but you’ll have that money back with a lower electric bill. 

Temperature Setting

Moving the thermostat setting up 2 to 3 degrees before you leave for a trip and you’ll save between 3% and 5% on your electric bill for every degree you move it up. Of course the programmable thermostat is the better way to do this, you simply program the days and hours you’re not home and it will automatically raise the thermostat for you. A money saver even with an energy efficient HVAC system.  

Avoid Heat

Summertime is vacation travel time and when you’re at home, it is cooking outside time! Use your grill as much as possible for cooking meals and you won’t heat the house up. Try hanging clothes and sheets to hang or do your laundry early in the morning before it heats up outside. Turn the dishwasher dry option off and dry the dishes by hand instead. 

Utilize What You Have

Keep the blinds and curtain closed on the sunny side of the house, use fans, especially ceiling fans, to stir the air up around your house. Get your basement finished out and spend the hottest part of the day down there. 

Plant Trees 

This won’t help your monthly electric bills this summer, but as those trees get bigger, they will eventually by reducing the sunlight that comes through the window. That will lessen the amount you need the air conditioning on and until your trees mature, use blackout curtains. 

Maintenance and Repairs

Even with the most advanced energy efficient HVAC system, if you don’t take care of it, it won’t  be the money save you need. Changing or cleaning the air filter every 30 day is a must to keep it running efficiently and properly, and it is a money saver too!   If your HVAC contractor recommends repairs, follow their advice. When something isn’t running right, it isn’t saving money. 

How many hours should AC run per day?

An energy efficient HVAC system is designed to operate at maximum capacity when the temps are the hottest outside, like 100 degrees. At that hot, the air conditioning should be running basically, continuously to keep the indoor temperature at a comfortable setting.

What about an air conditioner that isn’t keeping the right temperature? Or it is running non-stop? Your HVAC system may need to be checked out by a professional contractor or it could be too small for the size you’re cooling. In general, an energy efficient HVAC air conditioner should run approximately 15 minutes on a mild day and almost non-stop on a hot day. 

What is a good temperature for AC at night?

Well, you don’t want to be too cold, and body temperatures are different for everyone. The general consensus is between 60 degree and 67 degrees. It is recommended when the nights are cool, sleep with a window open and then close it when you wake up.  That will trap the natural cool air and help the air conditioner work less.  One of the best energy efficient HVAC system is the outdoors. 

HVAC units tend to be quieter than air condition window units, and if you’re planning on cooling the entire house at one time, the more energy-efficient HVAC is the better choice. If you have rooms that won’t need cooling every day or even all day, then a window air conditioning unit would be a good choice. Need energy efficient HVAC installation in your home in Vacaville, CA? Call 707-689-5128 today.