Tips for Minimizing AC Strain During the Hot Summer Months

Summer is here, which means you can expect to run your AC virtually nonstop. It's necessary to beat the Oklahoma heat, but it also puts a lot of pressure on your system, which can wear it out more quickly, causing frequent breakdowns and shortening its life span. How can you keep that AC strain to a minimum while still keeping your home comfortable? Read on for a few tips.

• Keep the sun out. Close the curtains and blinds during the day to keep the hot sun out. Then, at night, consider opening a window or two to let cool air in that will linger into the next day, keeping the heat at bay.

• Avoid peak hours. Any hot activities you have to do, such as cooking, baking, and taking hot showers or baths should be saved for evening, once the sun is down. This will keep your home from getting too hot during the day and, thus, reduce AC strain.

• Replace filters. As dust and other contaminants build up in your air filter over time, they restrict airflow from your system. The less cold air you have, the longer it takes your home to reach your set temperature and the harder your AC has to work, which causes AC strain. Check the filter every month and replace it every three to six months.

• Perform ductwork maintenance. Ductwork leaks also reduce airflow. Look for holes, tears, and other damage to your ducts and repair them with metal tape or mastic sealant — or call your HVAC technician to do it. Also make sure that your ducts are properly insulated. If they're not, the cold air will gain heat as it travels from the system to your home, causing it to take longer to cool your home properly.

• Get a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can be programmed in coordination with your schedule and automatically switch to a more energy-efficient setting when you're not home. Your AC's workload is reduced, and you don't pay to cool an empty house.

For more help reducing the AC strain in your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We keep Broken Arrow's HVAC systems running at peak performance and efficiency.

Does the Summer Make HVAC Plumbing Issues Worse?

HVAC plumbing issues can occur in both the heating and cooling seasons. In winter, high-efficiency, two-stage furnaces produce condensation in the heating process. During summer, however, it’s the central air conditioner that generates the most condensation and the greatest potential for HVAC plumbing issues. 

Condensation forms as warm, moist indoor air flows through the AC evaporator coil inside the indoor air handler. During hot summer weather, a typical air conditioner produces between 5 and 20 gallons of condensate daily. Water from the coil drips into the condensate drain pan that's installed beneath the air handler, then flows into a household drain line. In some installations, a condensate pump removes water from the drain pan.

Condensate-Drainage Issues

Plumbing issues caused by condensate may originate at several points in the air-conditioning process:

• A crack or hole in the condensate drain pan

• A clogged drain line, often caused by algae or mold growth originating in the drain pan, which causes the pan to overflow

• A defective condensate pump

Coil Icing

Icing forming in the AC evaporator coil reduces system airflow and may eventually trigger an automatic system shutdown. Ice accumulation often extends outside the coil. As melting occurs when the system shuts down, water may not be contained by the pan, causing water damage around the indoor air handler. 

Preventing HVAC Plumbing Issues

To minimize the potential for water damage due to plumbing issues, take these preventive measures:

• Schedule annual professional maintenance by a qualified HVAC contractor. This service includes checking proper function of the AC drain components, including the condensate drain pan and drain line. If mold or algae growth is causing clogs, the pan and drain line can be cleaned and treated with germicidal solutions to kill mold and algae, as well as prevent recurrence.

• Resolve causes of evaporator-coil icing. These include maintaining proper system airflow with regular monthly air-filter replacement. Because low refrigerant charge may also trigger coil ice, annual AC preventive maintenance, including checking and verifying the refrigerant level, is also recommended.

For more advice about HVAC plumbing issues, contact the professionals at Air Assurance.

How to Prevent Your AC Freezing Up in Summer

An HVAC freezing up in summer is a unit that needs prompt attention. While air conditioners are supposed to produce cold air, ice formation is definitely not part of this process. No component in a properly functioning central AC should generate temperatures that drop below freezing. 

Most everything about an HVAC freezing up in summer is bad news:

• First, a frozen air conditioner will not produce cool comfort anymore. Often, the unit may shut down entirely. Because freeze-ups often happen when outdoor temperatures are excessively high, this can mean very uncomfortable living conditions until the problem is resolved.

• Ice forming inside indoor evaporator coil passages gradually obstructs system airflow. This, in turn, causes the system to run longer cycles. As airflow becomes increasingly obstructed, the system runs nearly nonstop. By that time, severe, permanent damage to the compressor — the most costly component in a typical central AC — may have occurred.

What Causes AC Freeze-Ups?

• Low system airflow. When airflow through the indoor evaporator coil drops below specifications, the temperature of refrigerant circulating through the coil may plunge below freezing. Condensation naturally forming on the coil then freezes, eventually obstructing the coil. The best insurance to support optimum HVAC airflow is replacing the system air filter every month all summer long. This is an effective, affordable measure to help avoid an HVAC freezing up in summer.

• Refrigerant leaks. When the AC refrigerant charge drops too low, coil icing is a common early symptom. Air conditioners don’t consume refrigerant, so if the amount circulating through the system is insufficient, that usually indicates a leak somewhere. A qualified HVAC technician has the equipment to track down and repair these small refrigerant leaks. Then, the system's refrigerant charge can be restored to proper specifications.

If your HVAC freezing up in summer threatens your indoor comfort, ask the cooling professionals at Air Assurance about qualified HVAC service to resolve the problem. 

Which Kind of Ductwork Material Should You Use for Your HVAC System?

Your ductwork plays the critical role of directing heated or cooled air from your HVAC system to different parts of your home. It's also the channel through which air is returned to your furnace or air handler to be treated. You can choose between different ductwork materials, with each having its own perks and quirks. Let's explore the different types of ductwork material to help you identify the best one for your heating and cooling needs.

Sheet Metal

This type of ductwork is made of aluminum or galvanized steel. It's very durable, and its nonporous surface makes it the least likely to develop biological growth. The smooth interior surface usually traps particles like dust. If you choose sheet metal for your home, it's advisable to have the ducts cleaned by a professional occasionally to maintain good indoor air quality.

Fiberglass

Some sheet metal ducts have an internal or external fiberglass lining to insulate against heat loss. The lining lowers the HVAC system's sound, making it a popular option for offices and commercial buildings. With a sealed interior lining, the fiberglass ducts will need intense cleaning, which can reduce durability. Fiberglass ductwork can also be contaminated with mold and bacteria.

Fiberboard

Fiberboard ductwork is usually the most inexpensive ductwork system to install. It's constructed with resin-bonded fiberglass strands. The exterior has foil that serves as a water retarder and air barrier. The strands make the interior textured. Consequently, the crevices can trap dust and debris, posing an indoor air-quality concern. The rough surface can affect airflow and efficiency.

Flexible Ducts

Flexible ducts comprise a steel spring coil encapsulated in thick plastic. They're lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. Their flexibility makes them ideal for installation in tight spaces that can't accommodate rigid ductwork. Flexible ducts have inner ribs that cause more airflow restriction than sheet metal ducts.

Kinks, turns, and bends should be minimized during flexible duct installation, as they can hurt HVAC performance. Therefore, it's essential to work with a quality HVAC installer. Flexible ductwork is good for indoor air quality.

The best ductwork material for your home will depend on its overall design and your specific circumstances, such as the need for noise reduction or heat retention, as well as your budget. An experienced HVAC professional can give you proper guidance on ductwork material. Contact Air Assurance if you need assistance with any HVAC-related issues in the Broken Arrow area.

Safety Tips If You Have an Emergency Power Generator

Power outages can be inconvenient and pose a risk to your health, as essential appliances like a heating and cooling system, medical equipment, and refrigerators stop working. While an emergency power generator can power all your necessities and provide comfort and safety, they pose life-threatening risks like electrocution and carbon monoxide poisoning. Here are some crucial safety tips to help you avoid potential dangers.

Use Outside Only

When your run an emergency power generator inside your house, shed, or garage, the carbon monoxide levels in its exhaust can become lethal in minutes. Don't run the generator indoors, even with an open door. Choose a location that's 20 feet or more away from your house. Also, ensure the exhaust doesn't blow against a neighbor's home or your home.

Purchase the Right Outdoor Extension Cords

Buy and use outdoor extension cords that match the generator outlet you want to connect them to. Use a 20-amp extension cord for a 20-amp outlet. Use 3-wire cords.

Don't Back-Feed

Back-feeding occurs when electricity flows in the reverse direction. When using an emergency power generator, back-feeding occurs when you use a generator power cord to plug into appliance outlets, such as your range or dryer. Back-feeding energizes your whole house, and the generator most likely can't handle that type of load. Electricity can also travel back through the main panel to the transformer.

Back-feeding poses a safety risk to you, your family members, neighbors, and utility workers. Therefore, don't back-feed.

Place It on Level Ground

The lubrication systems of many small generators scoop oil and then splash it onto the moving parts. Placing the generator on a slope can make some parts of the engine run dry because of the crankshaft dippers not reaching all the oil. Place the generator on a level spot.

Allow the Generator to Cool Down Before Refueling

A minor spill when refueling a hot generator can cause a fire. Wait for 10 or more minutes before refilling to allow the generator to cool down.

Unsafe use of an emergency power generator can lead to a tragedy. For your generator to be the lifesaver it's supposed to be, make sure you always use it correctly. If you're looking for an award-winning HVAC and plumbing contractor in Broken Arrow, contact us at Air Assurance.

How Do You Handle Mold in HVAC Systems During the Summer?

Mold colonies can damage property and possessions and cause health problems for those in your home. Significant mold growth will emit a foul, musty, and earthy odor. During the summer, mold in HVAC systems can also become a substantial problem that affects your home's indoor air quality, the health of its occupants — and your pocketbook. Read on to learn where to look for mold in HVAC systems and how to go about mitigating mold problems.

Mold in the HVAC Filter

The HVAC filter is an important device that protects vital parts and ductwork from dirt and grime buildup. However, the air filter also traps mold spores that can develop into mold growth. Check the filter and surrounding area each month for mold in HVAC filters. If you do see mold, remove the filter, clean the affected area, and install a new filter.

Mold in the Evaporator Coil

One of the vital components of the HVAC system that the air filter helps protect is the evaporator coil. Mold spores that aren't trapped by the air filter can collect and grow on the coil. If you see mold on the evaporator coil, use a spray-on foam coil cleaner to destroy the mold and to remove dirt and grime.

Mold in the Condensate Pan and Line

The condensation that collects on the evaporator coil drips into a condensate pan. From there, condensation flows through a condensate drain tube. If you want to find and remove all mold in HVAC systems, you'll need to check the condensate pan and line. For mold removal, pour a quart of a 50/50 concoction of water and bleach into the pan.

Mold in the Ductwork

The air ducts are the lungs of your HVAC system, and they are just as susceptible to mold growth as the other HVAC parts are. Mold growth in the air ducts should be mitigated by a professional duct cleaning done by a professional, such as your HVAC contractor. Duct cleaning and mold removal will improve your indoor air quality only if it is done correctly.

If you need help mitigating mold on the HVAC parts and in the drains and ducts in your Broken Arrow home, please contact the HVAC professionals at Air Assurance right away.

What Are the Best Energy Saving Tips for Summer?

With summer on the horizon and warmer weather on the way, it's time to get your Broken Arrow home more energy-efficient. Maybe you already use energy saving tips for summer, such as turning the thermostat up at night and during work hours and checking your HVAC filter each month. You can add to those two great energy savers with the following six energy saving tips for summer.

Prepare Meals Outdoors

When you prepare meals in the oven and on the stovetop, a substantial amount of heat is generated, warming your home. The thermostat senses the rise in temperature and your AC system turns on. Consider cooking more meals outdoors on the grill. Not only will you save energy, you can have a great time with family and friends.

Dry Laundry Outdoors

The higher temperatures of summer can be of service. Air dry your laundry outside. You'll save energy, your clothes will smell fresh, and the clothes dryer won't be generating heat inside your home.

Water Heater Energy Savings

Did you know that only your AC and heating systems use more energy than the water heater? Another point to ponder: Your water heater runs and uses energy around the clock all year. Your AC and heating units probably don't run 24/7/365, so turning back the water heater temperature on the thermostat to 120 degrees can save a lot of energy.

Seal Up Your Home

Sealing air leaks in your home's envelope helps reduce the cooling load on your AC system, making it one of the best energy savings tips for summer. Ensure the hatch or door to the attic is well sealed with foam weatherstripping. If you have drafty windows and doors, seal them with caulk and weatherstripping.

Schedule AC Maintenance

If you want your AC to operate at peak efficiency, it needs to be serviced each year, one of the essential energy saving tips for summer. Schedule AC maintenance with your HVAC contractor. Professional maintenance locates and fixes small problems before they become expensive problems, and it helps keep your home more comfortable for less money.

Start off with your list of energy saving tips for summer by contacting Air Assurance and scheduling professional AC maintenance.

What Is the Best Whole House Air Purifier?

We might not have to worry much about urban smog around Broken Arrow, but dust, allergens, and harmful microbes are still common air-quality issues. By using multiple air-cleaning methods, the best whole house air purifier models help protect you from all these pollutants.

Choosing Air-Purification Methods

Some in-duct systems use a prefilter, such as a HEPA filter, to trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other particles. Those that include an electronic ionizer catch particles too small for filters to handle. Air purifiers do more than just trap particulate pollutants, though. Many include ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lamps that neutralize even the smallest viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. Rather than physically trapping these microbes, the light breaks them down to prevent them from reproducing. Systems that use a gas-phase air filter, such as activated carbon, absorb harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors that slip through particulate filters and are among those that are the best whole house air purifier.

Relatively new on the market are photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) systems. These systems neutralize organic air contaminants by shining UV light at a catalyst (usually titanium dioxide), which breaks down organic pollutants in the air passing through. These systems handle both microbes and gaseous contaminants.

The Best Whole House Air Purifier Options

REME HALO In-Duct Air Purifier. Using proprietary Reflective Electro Magnetic Energy technology, this system safely oxidizes and neutralizes mold spores, bacteria, viruses, VOCs, and smoke particles. It was originally designed to correct sick-building syndrome.

D200 Dual Lamp Air Purifier. This PCO system neutralizes viruses, bacteria, and mold spores as well as VOCs. It also includes an activated carbon filter to absorb gaseous pollutants and odor-causing compounds not broken down by the PCO light.

REKO Lighting R2000 Air Purifier. This easy-to-install UVGI light system neutralizes bacteria, viruses, and mold spores but doesn't work against any other type of pollutant. If mold is your main problem, though, it's a good choice. 

If you could use some help finding the best whole house air purifier for your needs, contact us at Air Assurance.

What Advantages Are There to a Home Plumbing Diagram?

For most homeowners, your pipes tend to be a bit of a mystery. You know they're there, but if your plumber asked you to show them the locations of specific pipes and what they do, would you be able to do it? This is important information, especially when having extensive work done on them. That's why it's essential to have a home plumbing diagram. Here's what you need to know about them.

What Is a Home Plumbing Diagram?

A home plumbing diagram is a rough blueprint of your home, showing exactly where all of the pipes are and what they do. If you're doing work on your home, such as adding an extra bathroom, the plumbers will need to have that diagram to know how and where to connect the new pipes to the old. Likewise, if your plumbing needs major repairs, your plumbers may need to know where to access which pipes.

You can usually obtain your home plumbing diagram from your local county clerk or registrar for a nominal fee. Once you have it, keep it in a safe place with your other important documents so you're ready to show it in a plumbing emergency.

Types of Pipes on Your Home Plumbing Diagram

What will your diagram show? There are four basic types of pipes, which, on your home plumbing diagram, will be color-coded for differentiation. First is the fresh water supply. This denotes the pipes that carry water from the municipal water supply to your faucets, spigots, etc. There are also hot-water lines, which bring water from your water heater to most of the same places.

Then there are the waste pipes. They carry the water which flows down your drains and into the sewer. Finally, the venting pipe takes the sewer gases that build up in your pipes and vents them out through the roof. If your venting pipe is poorly installed, it may cause your home to smell like sewage.

For help with these and other home-plumbing needs, contact us at Air Assurance. We provide quality repair and renovation solutions to Broken Arrow.