Preventative Maintenance for York PA Heating Systems

We still have a little bit of winter left -- don't risk a single cold night. If you haven't had your heating system checked out in quite a while, it's time.

Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling offers Preventative Maintenance Packages that can keep your heating system humming along. York PA customers have trusted us to keep their systems running through the coldest winters for years.

Ready to have us look at your heating system? Call today at (717) 938-3796, or complete our FREE online heating system repair estimate form and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.

Your Money - Household Ways To Save Thousands

As the average home owner or renter, you have a full time job at home. You just don't realize it. And because you don't keep up on the maintenance, as you should, you're only making yourself and your loved ones suffer as victims. That may sound extreme, but the average home owner usually let's the simplest maintenance slip by unnoticed. You may say, "I'll get to it tomorrow.", but it's always tomorrow. I'm talking about basic monthly maintenance on the little things. When was the last time you cleaned your refrigerator coils? Did you cut those bushes back away from the house yet? What about the two most important and simplest tasks such as draining the sludge from your water heater and changing out your air filter in your air conditioner system? Why haven't done those tasks? They only take about 10 - 15 minutes. You might as well be throwing your wallet down on the sidewalk for someone else to pickup.

What!? That's right. By not changing your air filter once per month, your air conditioner needs to work harder. Your filter is dirty so the air conditioner needs to suck the inside air through all that dirt just so it can blow a lot of that dirt and allergens back in through your air registers. Think of the old vacuums that used bags. Would you take that old vacuum bag out in the house just to have that plume of dust and dirt fly up in your face? Your allergies don't react well to this. How much money do you spend on antihistamines and other allergy medications? This contributes to your allergies acting up even when you are inside your house.

By not following a regular filter change schedule, your air conditioner gets tired and worn out faster. This means that after years of abuse, instead of lasting 12 - 15 years, you'll be calling a service technician several years sooner. You wouldn't think that a little dirt and dust can do that, but a little adds up quickly. That's not a big concern though is it? The average hourly labor charge for a service technician in any trade will run you about $70 and up. In fact, count on at least $60 just for the technician to turn that key in his ignition and say, "Good afternoon." The cost not only can, but will be at least several hundred dollars. I'm not trying to scare you, but the truth is the truth.

What about your water heater? What sludge? Every water source pumps very small particulates of minerals and dirt into your house and goes through your water heater, even if you are on city water. Over time, these particulates can corrode the anode rod inside your water heater (which is a good thing). This "sacrificial rod" is what degrades over time instead of your water heater, and it settles as rusty sediment and dirt at the bottom of your water heater. You need to flush out this sludge from your water heater at least once per year. If you are on a well, then I would recommend flushing your water heater out at least 3 times per year and install a sediment filter on the main pipe that flows into your water heater. You will need to periodically replace the sacrificial anode rod as well; more frequently if you are on a well system, or you will find yourself replacing the water heater itself.

If you fail to perform basic preventive maintenance around the house, you won't be buying just a filter or anode rod for a few dollars. You'll be new equipment years before you need to do so. If you are unsure of how to do the maintenance, schedule a service call from a qualified technician, and observe them as they do the job properly. You will be better prepared to do it yourself the next time, and you can get your questions answered by someone who brings their experience into your home.

For more information and guidance about saving money in home repairs for water heaters, air conditioning, heat pumps, etc, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Your Water Heater Heats Your Water and Burns Your Money Up

With energy costs constantly on the rise and the housing market in a huge slump it is surprising to find home builders not taking steps to enhance a new home's features when it doesn't cost any extra. Basic upgrades which don't really carry an "upgrade" price tag would only facilitate a quicker sale. This would relieve some financial stress on builders from trying to carry the cost of an unsold home. Instead, homeowners are having to refit the home with new appliances in order to achieve a more efficient and economical cost of living. Perhaps the wisest and most efficient upgrade a homeowner can make is changing out their current traditional water heater for an on-demand tankless water heater.

Traditional water heaters store large quantities of hot water. For the average home the typical water heater stores 40 to 60 gallons. In order for the water to remain hot these types of water heaters need to continuously cycle on and off to maintain the preset temperature of the hot water. Even when there isn't any hot water being drawn at the faucets the water heater is still wasting the homeowners money by trying to maintain the water temperature at a consistent high level.

On-demand tankless water heaters only expend energy when the hot water faucet is opened. This type of water heater quickly and almost instantly heats the water to the preset temperature and can provide an unending supply of hot water. This means no longer would the homeowner run out of hot water for a shower while the washing machine is running or the whole family needs to take a shower one person after another.

Most on-demand tankless water heaters for the entire home utilize gas instead of electricity. There are electric tankless water heaters available, however they are designed for lower demand water usage such as at the kitchen sink. This is the limitation of electrically powered water heaters.

Depending upon the homeowners needs, one or a combination of both will pay for themselves in short order. The do-it-yourself handyman should be aware, regarding attempting to replace a water heater with a new tankless water heater, that in most locales a permit and inspection may be required for safety. Gas can be very hazardous to deal with and unless the homeowner is a professional this upgrade should not be done by a novice or amateur. A professional will be able to steer the homeowner in the right direction.

Learn more about water heaters and receive a free estimate from Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

"No Sweat" With Heating and Cooling Costs On The Rise

Most of your electric bill is likely to be blowing in the wind, literally. Depending on the climate you live in, up to 80% of your bill may be to pay for heating and cooling costs, and often times the expenses are higher than they should be due to inefficiencies. Especially true of houses built in the 1990's and earlier, leaky windows, door jambs, vents, and ducting can result in your thermostat trying to heat or cool the outdoors.

In several states, electricity prices were capped years ago. Now, in states like Pennsylvania, the cost cap on electricity is being lifted, and people are experiencing doubling or even tripling of monthly bills. Now is the time to reevaluate the weatherization of your home. If you have a heat pump, the rated efficiency of your system makes a big difference in your monthly bill. Older units with a low energy efficiency rating, for example a 10 SEER unit, may be costing more than they're worth. Replacing them with a 13 SEER unit might drop your electric bill by a hundreds or thousands of dollars on an annual basis.

Taking the time to caulk windows, insulate hot water pipes, blanket water heaters, and inspect & seal air conditioning duct work keeps the comfortable air in, and the uncomfortable air out.. If you live in a house with multiple heating and cooling zones, it becomes even more important to monitor your home's efficiency. I live in a reasonably large house with three separate zones, for example, and one of the three heat pumps went on the fritz a few weeks ago. When the outside unit (the compressor side of the system) was replaced, the cost was about $1500. I replaced a 10 SEER unit with a 13 SEER unit, but the inside unit (the air handler & coil) was still functioning okay, so I did not replace it. The end result is a system that functions at something less than 13 SEER (efficiency) but something better than 10 SEER. The result: my electric bill dropped $212 during the coldest month of the year. My $1500 investment will pay for itself in under 8 months.

Working with tangible numbers, it became painfully evident to me that my own bills have been higher than they should have been for years, prompting me to go on a weatherization crusade throughout the house. How is your electric bill these days? Realizing the savings, isn't it time to spend less money on inefficiency, or on heating and cooling the outside? Set your Congress-approved economic stimulus check aside and make it work for you by reducing your cost of living.

Here are some examples on how to keep more of what you earn by spending a little bit now. A new water heater blanket costs about $40. If it saves you just $5 per month, it pays for itself in eight months and continues to save $60 per year thereafter. New weather seals on doors and windows can cost $25 to purchase, but may save $15 per month by improving the air-tight characteristics of your home, for a $180 per year savings. Simply cleaning out your oven or drier vents and ensuring that the vent flaps close properly can save $10 or more per month. Replacing brittle, leaky duct work tape between adjoining sections in your attic, basement, or crawl space can cost $20 but save hundreds of dollars per year by reducing leakage. Insulating or lagging hot water pipes can keep your water hotter and costs lower, too.

Most of the little fixes discussed above are cheap to do. The problem is, they take time. If you schedule the morning to get the jobs done on a Saturday or Sunday, a few dedicated hours of work can make for a better cash flow for your household. If you qualify for low-income incentives, your particular state may even sponsor a program to do the work for you at no cost. Look up the keyword "weatherization" on your favorite search engine to learn more.

Learn more about heating and cooling and how to save money by visiting Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Ignoring Your Water Heater and Furnace Can Cost You

Whether it's a plumber, carpenter, or HVAC technician, it can be extremely difficult to find a reliable and conscientious service company.  It's even a greater concern when something crucial such as your furnace or heat pump goes down in the winter time and you are at the mercy of whomever shows up.  Word of mouth is still the best form of advertising.  Ask friends and neighbors which companies are good and the first words heard will be, "Well, don't use ..."  By process of elimination the unreliable companies will be weeded out and the ones left standing are a good source from which to start.

Now the focus can turn to the two major systems that homeowners depend upon day in and day out with little thought to them, water heaters and furnaces or heat pumps.  Everyday people turn the handle to the hot water or flick the on switch for the heat and it just works.  Like magic hot water and hot air comes pouring from some unseen source of goodness until it breaks.  Then worry and frustration set in.  The key is to be proactive in your search for a responsible company before you are up against the wall.  If the homeowner already possesses the knowledge and skill to maintain this equipment this is a moot point, however for the large majority of homeowners, servicing these expensive pieces of equipment themselves is not an option.

As much use as compressors and furnaces get throughout the year, it is a wonder that they don't break more often.  Having the home's furnace or HVAC components inspected once per year will always pay off in the end.  Most of the time any potential problems can be determined and prevented by a simple and inexpensive service call.  Every HVAC technician will recommend that furnace and return filters be changed regularly.  Some will even be able to set up an automatic service call schedule so the customer doesn't need to trouble themselves.  Duct work should be checked and cleaned as well.  Duct cleaning is also a regular service that is highly under utilized and dirty duct work contributes to poor air quality in the home.  The average homeowner can change the air filters, but duct cleaning requires specialized equipment that is expensive and therefore more advantageous to let a professional handle the task.

Water heaters are probably the more frequently serviced or damaged appliance in the home. Water heaters are either powered by electric or gas.  Either one can be service by a plumber or HVAC technician.  The hardness of the water will dictate how often the water heater should be flushed out and anode rods replaced.  Only a physical inspection of these components can determine the next course of action.  If a homeowner is unfamiliar with these units, a service call to a professional is best.  The large majority of technician will be more than happy to answer all of the questions and even show the homeowner things that they can do in order to minimize future service calls.

Again the key to a worry free home is to maintain each component within in order to minimize expense and down time later.  It is this rule that most individuals don't heed that causes undue stress and unrealistic expectations of the "hero" technician.  A little time taken now will save a lot of time later and their time is your money.  Save it now.

For more information and guidance about energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs in your home or to request a free estimate, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

HVAC Inspections

Make Sure the Heat and Air Conditioning Works When the Weather Turns Ugly

While winter is in full swing throughout the northern states, most major cities, such as Harrisburg, PA or smaller cities like York, PA, are able to effectively deal with the freezing temperatures due to larger maintenance budgets. Those families and the common man without "deep pockets" will most assuredly find it a greater challenge to make ends meet. One aspect of home and equipment maintenance which can not be overlooked is the HVAC system.

Whether the home is outfitted with baseboard heating, radiant heat or the traditional furnace, the equipment should be inspected annually. Hopefully the HVAC system was inspected before the bitter cold of winter arrived on the scene. The reason for this inspection is to help ensure that the heating will be working properly to maintain a moderate comfort level.

Nothing is worse than being stuck in a snowed in house when the furnace or other heat source fails. Interior temperatures can plummet. The two demographics which are at the greatest risk of sustaining serious injury or negative effects from the bitter cold are the elderly and the very young. Every year there are multiple reports of some elderly man or woman who has expired due to hypothermia or freezing. Those individuals with pre-existing health conditions are even more susceptible.

Different sources will cite a large varying of statistics regarding deaths attributed to cold temperatures. The New York Times, in a ten year old article, reported that there are more than 700 deaths every year due to cold weather temperatures. Other reports state that number as being in the thousands.

The point of this writing is not to instill fear, but merely to point out that in many of these cases exposure to the cold can be detrimental. It is also quite possible and realistic for a home owner to prevent this condition in the first place. Most, if not all heating and air conditioning service companies, provide maintenance contracts and residential inspection services with just this in mind.

The problem is most home owners do not anticipate any heating failure. When a furnace or heat pump does break down the home owner will usually expect that a HVAC service company will be able to come out and simply and quickly repair the equipment. The problem is that every part that may be faulty can not possibly be stocked by a heating and air conditioning company. There are simply too many components and models of furnaces and other heating equipment to accommodate. Some parts may need to be ordered. In this case the home owner will need to wait. In the meantime the individual will need to have a backup emergency plan or suffer the consequences.

To learn more about HVAC Inspections or to receive a free estimate, visit Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Taxing the Furnace, Boiler or Water Heater Can Increase the Likelihood of Equipment Failure

This has been an exceptionally cold winter season setting record low temperatures and taxing almost everyone's furnace, heat pump or water heater. This is particularly true in northern regions of the U.S. such as Pennsylvania. Sub-freezing temperatures can also have a disastrous effect on water pipes and water heaters, especially if the temperature is consistently freezing or below for a moderate length of time.

As the temperature of the water drops due to harsh freezing ground conditions, the water heater needs to work harder to heat the new incoming water. Should the water source be from a well, this can also introduce dirt and heavy minerals into the water heater, thereby greatly shortening the water heaters life span. Many home owners in northern states may not have an electric or gas water heater. Some may have a furnace, often referred to as a boiler depending upon the method of transferring heat throughout the home.

Older furnaces are not as efficient as newer equipment. One simple way to determine this is if the utility bills have slowly crept higher and higher over the past few years for the same quantity of fuel. If the home owner has not kept receipts of fuel or electric bills from years past to compare, a call to the electric company or fuel supplier may be able to give the home owner a monthly summary of past energy usage. A little basic math will probably be required to determine if the actual cost has increased.

Should the temperature inside the house become colder despite adjusting the thermostat, it may mean the furnace is failing. Because many homes use a furnace for supplying heat and hot water, should the hot water from the tap seem cooler than usual, a broken furnace may indeed be the culprit. Even though at its heart, a boiler is a simple machine, there is nothing simple about replacing one.

If the home owner decides to troubleshoot themselves, the thermostat will be the cheapest place to start. Replacing the thermostat with a newer digital thermostat will be a plus, whether the old one was faulty or not. Thermostats are not universal. A particular model which works on a single stage heat pump will not work for a furnace or boiler. The wiring diagrams can also be flawed due to a variety of possible configurations a home may have.

Although it may add to the cost, there is no substitute for a qualified service technician or company. If the heating equipment has failed, there probably will not be the luxury of time for shopping around for just the perfect solution. Safety and comfort need to be the priority. With the current economic status quo, some HVAC companies may extend payment plans to their customers. Whether this is the case or not, always exercise diligence when looking for a reputable company. Ask the neighbors for recommendations. Word of mouth is still one of the best ways of advertising, especially in smaller communities.

Learn more about furnaces, boilers and water heaters by visiting Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling of Lewisberry, PA. Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Heating and HVAC Failure...

What To Do When the Heat Fails and the Cold Weather Impinges On the Home

With the large number of home owners experiencing a diminished cash flow and financial hardship trying to find ways to save every penny should not come at the expense from the necessary home maintenance. Letting home maintenance tasks slide will actually create a greater expense in the near future. Nowhere is this truer than with heating and air conditioning.

Unless the home is located in a tropical paradise, the home owner will be running the heat starting in November. Should the home be located in a northern state such as Pennsylvania, the heat has probably been set to come on in October as the nightly temperatures can dip down to the 40 degree mark. What happens when the HVAC system is not operating properly?

Some potential problems can easily be checked by the home owner directly. The first step in troubleshooting any mechanical system is to start with the basics. Special skills are not required to check the basics. The only tools which may be necessary are a screwdriver and possibly a flashlight.

A common problem which can easily be overlooked by the home owner is to check the air filter(s). Many times there is a small access panel located on the air handler which will house an air filter in addition to the air filter which is located at the air return vent. If either of these air filters is full of dirt and dust, this can cause the HVAC system to strain unnecessarily and greatly restrict air flow throughout the ducts.

When the heat does not work at all the cause may simply be a tripped breaker if heating system is electric. With gas furnaces a pilot light may have been extinguished. It is extremely important not to attempt to re-light the pilot immediately in case there is a build up of gas.

The first step should always be to turn the shut off gas line valve and open the nearby windows in order to vent the build up of gas to the outside. Only after a suitable amount of time has passed can the gas be turned back on and the pilot light lit. Many tragic accidents and house fires can be easily avoided with just a little caution.

Many heating and air conditioning companies offer annual HVAC inspections for the home owner. It may also be a good idea to take advantage of a service program that may be offered. A routine service at regularly scheduled intervals can be helpful to keep the heating and cooling system working at peak efficiency. Many times a problem can be discovered and fixed for a few dollars before it develops into a major expense.

Receive a free quote from Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling in Lewisberry, PA.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Air Conditioner Maintenance - Spend More on Utilities Without Caring Properly For the HVAC System

Now that summer is almost here, almost every family or home owner will be using the air conditioner quite frequently. Even if the air conditioner is not your responsibility, but that of a landlord, it is still necessary to perform the most basic of maintenance. Basic tasks, which will help keep the outside unit and inside unit functioning normally, are easier than one might think.

There are usually two units to a central air conditioner system, the condenser, which is usually on the exterior of the home and resting on a concrete slab or platform, and the evaporator coil, which can be found in a variety of locations. The evaporator coil can usually be found in the garage, attic or inside a mechanical room or closet. It is always found after the blower motor in the plenum, which is the large metal boxed housing where the air return ductwork enters. The evaporator coil is not directly visible or usually serviceable by the home owner.

One of the most important checks to do is giving the condenser a cursory glance. If the entire unit is not readily seen, then it means it is time to cut back the shrubs and grass. The condenser's immediate surroundings must be kept free of any obstructions and overgrowth that may interfere with any movement of air. Common problems in addition to bushes and grass interfering are trash cans being set immediately next to the condenser or a wooden railing blocking the free movement of air.

It is recommended that there be a minimum of approximately 18 inches. Any less than this and the unit will need to work harder, thereby shortening the lifespan of the condenser. When the condenser works harder it also means that the cooling ability can be compromised and the utility bill will be more expensive. Clearing obstructions is just an easy way to save monthly expense.

The second thing to notice is if the cooling fins have been bent and flattened. Cooling fins, which are made from thin strips of aluminum, are easily damaged or clogged by flying debris and dirt from lawn mowers, weed trimmers and other lawn maintenance equipment. Bent cooling fins are essentially the same thing as blocking the free movement of air. Most hardware stores sell fin combs which only cost a few dollars, but can save much greater expense from service calls and equipment failure.

The last main task a home owner needs to do regularly is replacing the filter at the air intake vent. Air filters can range in cost from $2 or $3 to $30 and up. It all depends upon the type of filter purchased. The more expensive air filters are electrostatic and specialty filters. These expensive filters are often reusable by washing them clean. Usually one filter change every 30 days is adequate for the average home. However, if the family is sensitive to pollen and dust or there are several pets in the household, more frequent filter changes may be necessary. Most plenums can have a narrow removable door where another air filter may be located. This filter should not need replacing as often. Many times the air filter has been removed completely and never replaced.

Regardless of the type of HVAC system present, one thing is recommended. An annual tune up should be performed before the system is placed into heavy service during the late spring and summer months. Calling an HVAC service company can ensure that the system will be functioning properly and greatly decrease the chances of a problem going unchecked causing equipment failure.

For more information on air conditioning and HVAC maintenance please visit www.comfortzonepa.com.

Article independently authored by Daniel P. Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone PA.

Air Conditioning and Heating - A Home HVAC System Can Be Properly Maintained With Little Expense

Very few home owners understand how a heating or cooling system work to provide a comfortable environment. Most home owners probably do not even care, until the system loses its effectiveness or fails completely. Depending upon the problem, the cost can be as little as $30 or as much as several thousand dollars. There is little an individual can do to help maintain an air conditioner system. Almost all of the possible "fixes" a home owner can perform themselves will just cost a few dollars. Theses "fixes, however, fall under maintaining rather than outright repair. The few tasks involved are filter changes, visually inspection of the outside compressor unit, and proper landscaping. Regular filter changes are one of the most important chores to perform and also one of the most inexpensive. Many times there is a second air filter at the heat pump or elsewhere in the system which is serviceable by the home owner. By routinely replacing a dirty filter with a new one, the home owner allows the HVAC system to operate without straining to pull air through a clogged filter. HEPA type filters have been standard use and fairly inexpensive per unit. Many professionals may recommend the use of a reusable electrostatic filter. These filters are washable and can last much longer than most other types of filters, thereby saving money. Visually inspecting the compressor unit on the outside of the building can indicate a potential problem. one does not necessarily need to be a HVAC technician to recognize a problem. The first attribute to examine are the fins. The fins are thin metal flat strips resembling fine ridges. The purpose of these fins are to dissipate heat, much like the radiator does in a car. Should the fins be bent or flattened, airflow through the fins is restricted which in turn will prevent proper and effective heating and cooling of a home or business. Many home improvement stores sell fin combs which are used to straightened bent fins, however, if the fins are mashed enough or show other signs of wear or damage a professional technician should be called to inspect the unit. A second visual inspection should be made regarding the placement and the way the compressor is mounted on the pad. If the unit is not in a level position, problems can occur. Should the outside unit shift, tubing connections can be damaged which may allow leakage of the refrigerant. Should this take place, the leak may or may not be noticeable immediately. Placement of this unit should be above any dips in the ground slope. If the compressor is allowed to sit in a puddle of water every time rain falls, a shortened lifespan can be expected. The last thing a home owner can do, and of major importance, is to make sure the outside compressor unit is clear of any plant overgrowth or clutter. Too many times is an air conditioner compressor unit intentionally blocked and crowded by large shrubs or fencing sections in the home owner's attempt to hide the unsightly unit. It is imperative to allow sufficient space on all sides of the HVAC unit in order for the proper and efficient operation of the outside equipment. By blocking or tightly concealing the compressor, the air flow is greatly restricted causing the HAVC system to work harder and longer. Not only will this shorten the life of the equipment, but raise the monthly utility bill. The unrestricted airflow is of prime importance. There will come a time, though, when a repair technician or HVAC company will need to be called to service a home's air conditioning and heating system. By following the few maintenance tips above, a home owner can be reasonably assured of having to call a HVAC company later rather than sooner.

For more information on service and care for your heating and cooling needs visit
http://www.comfortzonepa.com today.

Article independently authored by Daniel Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone Heating and Cooling.

Every Home is Contaminated...

The Reality of Poor Air Quality Will Make You Sick

As the outside climate reaches frigid or uncomfortably warm temperatures, many home owners and businesses rely on the heating and air conditioner system to provide a comfortable interior environment. One of the many problems with relying heavily on these HVAC systems has been experienced by allergy sufferers for decades. Even though outside air is introduced into the heating and air conditioning cycle, much of the interior air is being recirculated throughout the building which increase the chances of passing along bacteria and viruses.

A key concern that has received recent heavy attention from the media and medical professionals is that of contracting bacteria and viruses. H1N1, or swine flu, is a good example of a virus for which many medical professionals and politicians have attempted to find a solution in order to prevent it from reaching epidemic proportions.

Air quality tests, provided by many HVAC service companies, are a beneficial service. There are limitations to what these tests will detect. Certain tests are designed to only detect one hazard, such as the home owner radon tests, while air quality testing provided by a service professional tests for a variety of hazards. Most of the air quality testing will check for molds, spores, and fungus, as well as carbon monoxide, radon, and other volatile organic compounds, or V.O.C.s. Special steps are needed, however, to eliminate the threat of radon, carbon monoxide, and other V.O.C.s. Service professionals are almost always required to help handle the deadly effects of these gases and situations in order to return the home or business to a safe status. The presence of these dangerous contaminants should not be dismissed.

One of the few preventative measures the average home owner can perform themselves is to replace the existing air filter with an electrostatic air filter. These filters do cost a little more, but are recognized by professionals to be more effective at filtering the air than just a traditional mesh style filter. Getting in the habit of either regularly replacing the mesh style air filter or cleaning the electrostatic air filter is just one of many steps in the combating harmful impurities. By servicing the air filter, it will help to minimize the amount of pollen, dust, and irritants.

There are other steps, such as duct cleaning, that can be taken to improve indoor air quality. Many professional air conditioning companies offer services of this type and more. It is important to note, however, that there is no method that will 100% completely eradicate every single harmful contaminant and contagion, but with a few more proactive steps, the home owner or business can greatly reduce the effects of these troublesome elements.

For more information and guidance about air conditioning and heating installation and repair service, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com. Comfort Zone has a great maintenance plan guide when having a professional, qualified technician service your heating and cooling system.

Posted by WebDrafter.com, Inc. with permission.
Article independently authored by Daniel Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Comfort Zone.

Air Filters - The Unsung Heroes of Air Conditioning

In order to keep a home heating and cooling system running smoothly, most professionals recommend changing air filters every months. The air filter prevents dust and particles from making their way into the air ducts and being deposited on the inner workings of the air handler. If there were no filter, then massive amounts of dust, dirt, and other irritants would accumulate causing a decrease in efficiency and greatly shortening the life span of the HVAC equipment.

Not changing the filter periodically results in a slow build up of dust in the ducts. This build up reduces the airflow throughout the home and increases allergens being blown into the interior of the home. Allergens in the air cause respiratory problems and sometimes eye and skin irritation. Some air filters are specifically designed to remove more allergens and provided better air quality for allergy sufferers.

Other considerations for filters are size and type. The size should fit well, and most sizes are commercially available. Types to choose from include pleated, electrostatic, and HEPA. Pleated filters are inexpensive and may be manufactured from charcoal to help with odor control. Pleated types are typically disposable. Electrostatic types usually have a lifetime guarantee, but require the homeowner to periodically clean the filter to provide maximum efficiency. HEPA filters are designed to reduce allergens by up to 97 percent and may be a good choice for allergy prone individuals. Using a combination of pleated and electrostatic filters is quite possible and recommended by many professionals.

Most HVAC systems use multiple user replaceable filters. One filter is always placed at the air return which is located at the air intake or return vent. This filter is almost always easily changed out by the homeowner. The other filter, if present, is usually found behind a panel at or in the air handler itself. This filter can be easily accessed if the air handler is located at ground level inside a garage or utility room. Often times, air handlers are installed in an attic recess above the garage. This last location can prove to be a hassle, but the good news is this particular filter need not be changed every month as the air filter at the return.

To ensure the best air quality possible, hiring a professional HVAC service technician to clean the ducts and remove all of the dust bunnies and fur will not only benefit the health of the family, but allow the air conditioning and heating system to last longer. Clean ducts will also reduce or eliminate the possibility of a fire hazard that dirty ducts can cause.

Consulting a professional to determine the proper type of filter for the home is always a good idea. A qualified heating and air company will guide the homeowner to the proper brand, style and size, as well as inspect the air ducts for cleanliness. By beginning with clean air ducts, the unit will run more efficiently and the filter will be able to work as well as possible.

For more information and guidance about air conditioning and heating installation and repair service, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com. Comfort Zone has a great maintenance plan guide when having a professional, qualified technician service your heating and cooling system.

Air Ducts of HVAC Systems

The Nightmares of Allergy Sufferers and People With Asthma and COPD

Every year more and more people are trying to improve the quality of life by eating healthier, exercising, and limiting smoking and drinking. The expectation is that this will their health to improve and increase the longevity of their life. While it is true all of these changes can only benefit individuals, there are hidden environmental factors which most people are not even aware. What about breathing better? Poor air quality is probably the number one reason for the increase in allergies and respiratory ailments, such as Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulminary Disease, or COPD, which are on the rise. Not the air quality outside, but the air quality inside.

The average human being spends at least 16 hours per day indoors due to sleeping and working and another 1.5 hours commuting according to a research study conducted by the University of Southern California. This constant confinement breathing the same stagnant air creates a hazardous climate. What is worse is the condition in which most HVAC systems and ducts are kept.

Even after a couple of years in a recent constructed building, the air ducts can be rife with allergens, dirt, dust, and contaminants. The air conditioning and heat cycles just serve to recirculate much of this hazardous material and inject it into the air being inhaled. While it is true that air filters do help in reducing some of these pollutants, most continue to be minimally effective.

Electrostatic air filters are perhaps the most advantageous and expensive to use in the goal of eliminating breathable indoor pollutants and allergens, but the best solution involves a combination of tasks. Duct cleaning is almost unheard of in a large majority of family homes. Most home owners or renters never think about calling an HVAC company to service the duct work throughout the home, just as they forget about cleaning the coils under the fridge or flushing out the water heater periodically.

Regular duct cleaning should not be viewed as an expense, but a required maintenance just as a vehicle needs oil changes. Most home owners would be amazed and disgusted with the amount of crud, lint, and furry dust bunnies which reside in the ducts. Some of this can easily be viewed by taking a solid look into a few of the air registers. Should a family have pets, what they will find is even worse.

When a family rids the ducts of foreign hazardous crud, the family will benefit in ways not before realized. The home will be cleaner. The home will smell cleaner. Every family member will breathe easier and enjoy better health. After all, it is much easier and cheaper to maintain a loved one's health, rather than pay costly medical bills to restore a loved one's health.

For more information and guidance about heating, ventilation, air conditioning and water heaters, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com.

Save Money on Expensive Repairs

Air Conditioning and Heating Equipment can be Easily Maintained.

Relatively few homeowners understand how a home's HVAC system operates. It's mystical abilities to cool the home or heat the home is always ignored until the worst possible moment when the on switch is flicked and the roaring sound of rushing air is never heard. The next thoughts inevitably come around to "How much is this going to cost to fix?" and "I can't afford to pay a repair bill now!"

Repair bills can be expensive and often are, but there are much less expensive alternatives. Performing routine home maintenance also should include the air conditioner and heating system. Most individuals do not possess anemometers, capacitance meters, vacuum gauges, etc. which are necessary to test and maintain air conditioning and heating systems. Most people don't know how to use these tools, much less ever hearing of them. The maintenance which can save the homeowner money does not require any specialized tools or knowledge.

A few basics which don't require any expensive purchases are monthly replacements of the air filters and a visible inspection of the outside condensing unit. The reason these two maintenance tasks are so crucial is that it prevents the HVAC system from working harder than it needs to and any damage or problem with the outside unit, which is almost always exposed to the harsh elements, is often apparent even to the untrained lay person.

Another common problem with outside units is that the cooling fins which are exposed to debris and rocks thrown from lawn mowers, can become bent and mashed together. A simple inexpensive fix for this is to purchase and use a fin comb. The purpose of the fins are to provide more surface area from which heat will dissipate. Should the fins become bent and crushed together, the free movement of air is substantially restricted which will cause the system to work harder and less efficiently.

Many professional air conditioning companies offer service contracts which provide routine inspections and adjustments of the equipment and recharging of the coolant level. While this next alternative does increase in cost, it will guarantee that the home's HVAC system is always working at maximum potential and efficiency. The huge benefit of this method is that many major problems can be foreseen and corrected before becoming major problems which translate to major cost. Besides preventing costly repairs or replacement of equipment, it also means that any equipment down time will be kept to a minimum which translates to maximum comfort.

Those individuals which would benefit the most from service contracts would be the elderly and the young. These two demographics are at greater risk for being detrimentally affected by the heat and extreme colder temperatures, such as found in Minnesota or other northern states.

For more information and guidance about Heating and Cooling, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com. Comfort Zone specializes in installation, service, and repair of a wide range of heating and cooling systems and appliance repairs.

A Programmable Thermostat Enables the Homeowner to Save Money Every Month

Why has your electric or fuel been so much more expensive in the past few months than it was this time last year? Last year fuel and energy cost skyrocketed, but since has levelled off and throughout most of the country have lessened somewhat. Shouldn't this year's costs have lessened proportionately?

While the temperature has been a little warmer during the past month, it still doesn't explain the overly large bill. The biggest consumer of electricity or fuel is the heating and air conditioning of a home. Next in line would be the water heater, refrigerator, and clothes dryer.

Perhaps a cause of the increase in the monthly bill is due to friends or family visiting recently. If there has not been any visitors, then look closely as personal and family habits. Has anyone changed how frequently showers are being taken? Are more meals being prepared at home on the stove? Should none of these possibilities hold any insight, the next step is looking at the HVAC equipment.

While the large majority of homeowners do not have the correct tools or knowledge and experience for testing the functionally of circuit boards, refrigerant levels, condensers, and so forth, the homeowner can tell if the compressor, or outside unit is running smoothly or rough, just by listening and looking at the unit. Depending upon the type of heating and cooling system present, a home may also have a separate air handler in the attic or basement.

While most of an HVAC system can be quite expensive to repair or replace, the most inexpensive unit to have tested or replaced is the thermostat or humidistat. Most of the thermostats available on the market are digital in nature. Many of these are programmable which, if programmed properly, can actually allow a homeowner's energy costs to decrease slightly every month.

Many HVAC service companies use the identical models found in the larger brick and mortar hardware store. This doesn't mean that a homeowner is able to run out to the big orange home improvement store and pick out any thermostat. Thermostats need to be paired properly with the type of HVAC system the homeowner uses.

Wiring diagrams are included with each thermostat, however, these diagrams are never all inclusive of all types of wiring schematics. Many times after following the wiring directions, one wire will be left without a connection being made. Many thermostats have more than one of the same colored wire that went to two different connections on the old thermostat, but not the new one. It can be exceptionally frustrating and confusing for a do-it-yourself type person and is just best left up to the professional service technician.

For more information and guidance about heating, ventilation, air conditioning and water heaters, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com. Comfort Zone specializes in improving home efficiency with HVAC and other home mechanical services.

Save Thousands of Dollars Over Just 2 Years...

with Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems.

Geothermal heating and cooling has recently been thrust into the forefront of ecologically green and financially efficient methods of residential and commercial heating and cooling. Originally developed for large scale energy production and then utilized by large utility corporations and petroleum companies, the cost was prohibitive for any smaller communities or individual family use. This has now changed in one aspect. It has now become financially feasible for individual families, homeowners, and independent business owners to heat and cool the home or other structure with minimal monthly expense.

While the initial cost of having a geothermal system installed to produce heat in the winter and cold air in summer may seem costly, the monthly savings on every utility bill makes it a pleasure to invest in and operate. Geothermal heat pumps, which may be referred to as GHP or geoexchange systems, will save the homeowner 30-70 percent in heating costs and 20-50 percent in cooling costs according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It is estimated that it will only take 3-10 years to recover the costs of installing a geothermal heat pump system.

The reason for such great interest and development in geothermal energy, heating, and cooling is that it is the most efficient manner to date to produce energy with the least greenhouse emissions. Heating and cooling a home using a system such should not be viewed solely as an expense, but a definite return on an investment regardless of whether the homeowner stays or decides to sell in the future. Coupled with the fact that it is an ecologically responsible method of heating and cooling, tax incentives are available and other government programs actually will subsidize part of the cost to the homeowner to install a geothermal system.

There are different types of geothermal systems, such as closed loop, open loop, and direct exchange setups, but the main operating principals are the same. While closed loop and direct exchange systems are often much less expensive to install, open loop systems can be more efficient, but require a nearby source of water such as a pond or well and more maintenance depending on the quality of water source. Regardless of the type of system being installed, the fact remains that geothermal heating and cooling can easily save multi-thousands of dollars over every two year span for the homeowner.

For more information and guidance about heating, ventilation, air conditioning and water heaters, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com. Comfort Zone specializes in improving home efficiency with HVAC and other home mechanical services.

Ensure Your Air Conditioner Cools As Summer Turns on the Heat

As the seasons change, the temperature and climate are reaching new record highs. Over the next several years, summers are due to be increasingly hot and humid. What's the best way to stay cool and comfortable while at the same time keeping energy costs down?

Many people try to go out to the malls and sit or walk around for hours. Bookstores and libraries are other options that are popular. While these ideas will provide some respite from both the heat and paying high energy costs to run the home air conditioning, they aren't always practical. And then you have the following summers again and again with which to contend.

Although money is tight for the majority of Americans, it is still a good practice to have preventative maintenance done on your existing HVAC system. If the air conditioning or heat pump system is close to ten years old, the best thing to do is consult with an HVAC specialist. Most of the time, regarding HVAC systems, it is more cost effective to upgrade equipment to the newer current equipment available today. Depending on the age of your existing condenser, compressor, or air handler, upgrading just one component may not be an option.

HVAC components need to be sized and paired together in order to achieve maximum efficiency which translates to maximum savings. Often times, just the condenser can not be replaced without replacing the air handler at the same time. This is one reason that many homeowners are put off by what may seem like exorbitant prices. Sometimes with older HVAC components, the EPA regulations and federal law may limit or prevent replacing a component with the same type due to current environmental standards and concerns regarding the inefficiency of older equipment. Many of the older components are not being manufactured any more for this reason alone. In this case, the homeowner should expect a much higher estimate.

This doesn't mean that the homeowner should settle for the first quote they receive. In fact, it would be foolish not to obtain more than 3 separate quotes. People are always told, "you get what you pay for." Many times this is true, but in today's economic climate, more and more service companies are fiercely competing due to the fact that they too have experienced dwindling profit margins. This gives the consumer a much better chance of receiving the same quality of service as before without as high a cost involved.

A company's track record speaks volumes and should always be considered before selecting their services. Word of mouth is still one of the best forms of advertising. It is also the best form of getting recommendations for a company's services. Ask around. If more than a third of the comments are negative about a particular company, chances are there's something to the claims and probably best to avoid the company.

One thing is certain, however, waiting until the heat of the summer hits is not the best time to finally decide to service or upgrade the current HVAC equipment. Demand for service is always highest in the summer months and that means having to wait as much as 3 days or more for service. Three days or more of 90 degree temperatures with no relief is a miserable thing to experience and can prove dangerous to the young and elderly. Proactive and preventative service now will ensure future summers that are comfortable and care free.

For more information and guidance about heating, ventilation, air conditioning and water heaters, visit http://www.comfortzonepa.com. Comfort Zone specializes in improving home efficiency with HVAC and other home mechanical services.

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Here at Comfort Zone, we are Central Pennsylvania's premier A/C and Heating Specialist. In addition to heating and air conditioning installation and repair, we also provide indoor air quality, duct work, water heaters, humidity control, installation and repair of geothermals, and much more.

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