Preparing Your HVAC for Autumn and Winter Rain

As we transition deeper into autumn, increased rainfall is on the horizon, continuing into winter. While there are various ways to weatherproof your HVAC system, only some methods suit some types. Fortunately, most HVAC systems are designed to endure significant weather conditions, including heavy rain. Here are some essential dos and don’ts to protect your HVAC during intense rain.

Don’t Cover Your HVAC

Avoid covering your HVAC unit with a tarp or weatherproof covering if you plan to operate it. Most HVAC systems can withstand substantial rain without issue. Covering them can create problems, especially if the unit is in operation. Generally, your system should function well in heavy rain and wind unless submerged. However, if water accumulates around the unit, it could damage the wiring and electrical components, so it’s essential to manage pooling.

Do Divert Water Away from Your HVAC

To prevent water from pooling around your HVAC system, take proactive steps to redirect drainage. Reposition your gutter downspouts, dig a trench, or create a barrier to guide water flow away from the unit. These measures can help keep your system elevated and safe during heavy rainfall.

Don’t Obstruct Airflow

While it may be tempting to set up barriers or covers near your HVAC for protection, avoid placing anything too close. HVAC systems rely on consistent airflow to function correctly. To shield the unit from debris, ensure any barriers are at least two feet away to maintain adequate ventilation.

Do Monitor for Debris

While strong winds may not directly harm your HVAC, they can blow dirt, leaves, and debris onto the unit. After a storm, inspect your AC unit for any damage or debris buildup. If you notice any issues on the exterior, there could be internal damage as well, which should be addressed before using the system.

Conclusion

Outdoor HVAC systems are generally resilient to the elements and require minimal intervention to stay operational. However, regular checks for debris and potential damage are essential. Schedule any necessary repairs promptly to ensure your system remains functional throughout the rainy season.

Fall Weather Tips

The weather has changed and it’s obvious. It almost seems like we went from decently cool to needing our heaters with a snap of someone’s fingers! As always, make sure you have your system checked and that you’re good to go for the rest of the season (and call Air Handlers if you notice problems, (360) 357-4428).

While your heater can help keep your home warm, you may be wondering about what you can do to make sure that your heater doesn’t work overtime. If so, here are a few simple tips we have to help your system work smarter, not harder.

Curtains, curtains, curtains: While it seems simple, this is easy to forget or overlook. When the sun is out and shining, open the curtains facing the sun so that some natural heat will be pulled into the house. Of course, closing the curtains on cloudy days or after dark will act as an extra bit of insulation to keep some warmth inside.

Maximize the flow: Make sure that warm air from your vents can move as freely as possible. For instance, you may want to sit close to a vent for that warm air to hit you, but it is better to move your chair or couch so that the air can go as far as possible to more efficiently heat your home.

Block the cracks: While things like making sure windows are properly sealed are standard knowledge, you should consider blocking the spaces around your doors, too.

Fall is here, stay warm with these tips

STAYING WARM WITHOUT A HEATER
Fall is around the corner and staying warm and comfortable costs a lot of money. Many of us are unaware of some natural methods one can use without actually using equipment like heaters and fireplaces that consume a lot of energy that comes with a high price. Well here are some of the energy-efficient methods that not just keep you considerably warm but also let you save money.

BLOCK THE COLD BREEZE:
A cool breeze can drop the temperature of a place by 30%. Use sealant to cover up cracks, and block crevices on doors and windows to prevent the cold breeze from coming in. It will also help to avoid heat from escaping your home.

CONSIDER INSULATION:
Insulating walls and the ceiling using Building Insulation Materials is the best way to trap heat inside. Since hot air rises, ceilings should be properly insulated to make sure it doesn’t get absorbed by the cold temperature outside. Heat lasts for more than 14 hours in an overly insulated room, whereas, it’s 8 hours in an average room with concrete walls.

WELCOME CANDLE LIGHT DINNERS:
Add ambiance to your home with candle light dinners and it’s a cheap yet great source of heat. Cooking is also one of the best ways to warm the air in your home.

OPEN YOUR CURTAINS AND LET THE SUN IN…
Sunlight is one of the greatest sources of heat and light energy. You get most of it during the day. Open your curtains or blinds and allow the warmth of the sun to heat your home. Remove any obstacles that block your windows such as plants or any other items.

ALONE WE ARE STRONG, BUT TOGETHER WE ARE WARMER!
The human body can give off enough heat to boil a gallon of water in ten minutes! Staying close to each other or spending most of the time in a room can help generate sufficient heat. Close off rooms that are not in use, so most of the heat stays trapped in a small area.

REDECORATE YOUR HOME WITH RUGS AND CARPETS!
Cold air is heavier than warm air, thus sinking to the bottom. That is why concrete or porcelain floors are cold to walk on. Adding rugs and carpets act as insulation and prevents heat loss from the floor.

HVAC Maintenance Tips for Fall: Preparing Your System for the Cooler Months

As autumn arrives and the days grow Cooler and shorter, it is essential to ensure that your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is ready to transition from cooling to heating. Proper fall maintenance can help avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure your system operates efficiently throughout the colder months. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing your HVAC system for fall.

  1. Schedule a Professional Inspection – Before the cold weather hits, scheduling a professional inspection and maintenance check for your HVAC system is a good idea. A certified technician can:
  • Inspect and Clean the Furnace: They’ll check for any issues, clean components, and ensure everything works.
  • Check Thermostat Calibration: Ensuring your thermostat is accurate can help maintain comfort and efficiency.
  • Inspect Ductwork: Look for leaks or obstructions affecting airflow and efficiency.

2. Change or Clean Air Filters – Dirty or clogged air filters can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and compromise indoor air quality. In fall:

    • Replace or Clean Filters: Depending on your filter type, either replace it with a new one or clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Check Filters Monthly: During the heating season, check the filters monthly and replace or clean them as needed.

    3. Test the Heating System – Before the cold weather sets in, it’s crucial to ensure your heating system is functioning correctly:

      • Turn On the Heater: Test the system by turning on the heat to ensure it starts up and heats your home adequately.
      • Listen for Unusual Noises: Any strange noises that could indicate a problem.

      4. Inspect and Clean Vents and Registers – Ensure that your vents and registers are clean and unobstructed to promote proper airflow:

        • Vacuum Vents: Dust and debris can accumulate in vents and registers. Use a vacuum to remove dust and debris.
        • Check for Blockages: Ensure furniture or other objects are not blocking the vents.

        5. Inspect the Heat Exchanger – The heat exchanger is a critical component of your furnace. A cracked heat exchanger can be dangerous due to the risk of carbon monoxide leaks:

          • Check for Cracks: Have a professional inspect the heat exchanger for any signs of damage or wear.

          6. Ensure Proper Ventilation – Proper ventilation is essential for indoor air quality and overall HVAC efficiency:

            • Check for Obstructions: Ensure that vents and outdoor air intakes are clear of obstructions like leaves, debris, or snow.
            • Maintain Good Airflow: Proper ventilation helps to balance the indoor air quality and efficiency of your system.

            7. Seal Drafts and Insulate – To improve your home’s energy efficiency and ensure your heating system doesn’t have to work harder than necessary:

              • Seal Drafts: Check windows and doors for drafts and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk.
              • Insulate: Ensure that your home’s insulation is adequate to keep warm air in and cold air out.

              8. Program Your Thermostat – Adjusting your thermostat settings can save energy and reduce heating costs:

                • Set Up a Schedule: Program your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep and raise it when you’re home.
                • Use a Smart Thermostat: Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to learn your schedule and adjust temperatures automatically.

                9. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace – Ensure that the area around your furnace is clean and free of clutter:

                  • Remove Obstructions: Keep items such as boxes, cleaning supplies, or other objects away from the furnace and vents.
                  • Ensure Proper Airflow: Adequate space around your furnace helps maintain proper airflow and reduces fire hazards.

                  10. Prepare for Emergencies – Having a plan in place for HVAC emergencies can save you time and stress:

                    • Know Your Emergency Contacts: Keep the contact information for Air Handlers, Inc. HVAC repair service handy.
                    • Have a Backup Heat Source: In case of a furnace failure, having an alternative heat source, such as a space heater, can be helpful.

                    Conclusion

                    Preparing your HVAC system for fall ensures comfort and efficiency during the colder months. By following these maintenance tips, you can help extend the life of your system, reduce the risk of breakdowns, and keep your home cozy throughout the fall and winter seasons. Regular maintenance and timely inspections can also lead to cost savings on energy bills and repairs. Call Air Handlers, Inc. and make an appointment to get your HVAC system ready, and you’ll enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home all season long.

                    Keep Your A/C Working During High Heat Conditions!

                    We will offer some helpful tips to keep your home cooler and prevent your AC from being strained when the temperature rises.

                    Why can’t my A/C handle a heatwave?
                    Most systems are designed to cool within 20 degrees of the outdoor temperature. Therefore, if it’s 100 degrees outside and your AC is able to cool the indoor temperature to 80 degrees or below, it’s performing well. If you notice that your older system is unable to achieve this level of cooling, it may be time to invest in a new, more energy-efficient, and reliable AC unit.

                    Switch the fan to ‘on’
                    Setting your fan to the ‘on’ position instead of ‘auto’ can help circulate more air throughout your home, allowing for better temperature balance in rooms that may be too warm or too cool.

                    Set your thermostat higher
                    While it may be tempting to lower your AC to cool your home, doing so can significantly increase your energy costs. Each time you lower the thermostat, your AC has to work harder to cool your home. Instead, consider adjusting the thermostat to around 75-78 degrees and getting used to a slightly warmer environment.

                    Close off vents in unused rooms
                    If certain rooms or areas of your home are unoccupied, it’s a good idea to shut the air vents in those areas and keep the doors closed. This not only helps in keeping the occupied areas cooler but also contributes to energy conservation and reduced energy costs.

                    Keep shades and curtains closed
                    Utilize natural shade from trees and keep your shades and curtains closed to help maintain a cooler indoor environment. Shading the sunny side of your home not only keeps it cooler but also relieves some of the pressure on your AC system.

                    Install ceiling fans
                    Ceiling fans help cool the people in the room by creating a breeze, which can make you feel cooler without affecting the actual room temperature. You can set your thermostat slightly higher and use ceiling fans to give your air conditioning system a break. They can be installed in most rooms and can be turned on or off as needed. On cooler days, you may even be able to turn off your AC entirely and rely solely on your fans for cooling.

                    Avoid using heat-generating appliances
                    On heatwave days, refrain from using the stove, dryer, or dishwasher as their operation can add to the heat in your home. If you need to use these appliances, consider doing so in the evening or even setting them to run overnight to minimize their impact on your indoor temperature.

                    Consider an upgrade
                    If your air conditioner is 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a more efficient and modern system. Over time, AC units have become more energy-efficient, delivering better performance while costing less to operate. Older systems tend to lose efficiency and may struggle to cool your home effectively.

                    Invest in preventative maintenance
                    Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your AC system and reduce the likelihood of malfunctions, resulting in greater operating efficiency. Just like your car, your AC system needs periodic servicing. An annual tune-up can help clear dust and debris from your system, ensuring it operates efficiently and consumes less energy. All moving parts can also benefit from lubrication, which helps extend their lifespan and reduce the risk of faults. Duct cleaning can also improve overall system efficiency, especially during a heatwave.

                    Consult professionals for further advice
                    Taking steps to reduce the strain on your AC system can help it operate more efficiently and lower your energy costs. By implementing some or all of these tips, you can protect your AC from overheating and premature wear and tear.”

                    At Air Handler’s Inc., we’re here to help improve your cooling system. If your air conditioner isn’t working well or your energy costs have increased, our technicians can advise you on a new more efficient system or recommend repairs to keep your existing system working perfectly.

                    How HVAC Systems Can Help with Allergies

                    Allergies can significantly impact quality of life, causing symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe health issues. For many people, the triggers are found in their environment—pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander, to name a few. Fortunately, HVAC systems can play a crucial role in managing these allergens and improving indoor air quality.

                    1. Air Filtration

                    One of the primary ways HVAC systems help with allergies is through effective air filtration. Modern HVAC systems come equipped with advanced filters designed to capture airborne particles that contribute to allergies. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are particularly effective. They can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns with an efficiency of 99.97%, which includes pollen, dust, and mold spores. Regularly replacing or cleaning these filters ensures that they continue to function optimally, capturing allergens before they circulate throughout your home.

                    2. Air Purification

                    In addition to filtration, many HVAC systems can be paired with air purifiers to enhance allergen removal. Air purifiers work in conjunction with HVAC systems to remove pollutants and allergens from the air. Some systems use ultraviolet (UV) light to kill bacteria and mold, while others employ activated carbon filters to remove odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). By integrating these air purification technologies, HVAC systems can address a broader range of allergens and improve overall air quality.

                    3. Humidity Control

                    Controlling indoor humidity is another critical factor in managing allergies. High humidity levels can promote the growth of mold and dust mites, which are common allergens. HVAC systems with built-in humidifiers or dehumidifiers help maintain optimal humidity levels, usually between 30% and 50%. This helps prevent the proliferation of mold and keeps dust mites at bay, reducing the overall allergen load in your home.

                    4. Ventilation

                    Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining indoor air quality. HVAC systems that incorporate ventilation features ensure that fresh air is regularly brought into the home while stale air is expelled. This process helps dilute indoor pollutants and allergens, reducing their concentration and improving air quality. Additionally, some advanced systems include energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), which exchange indoor air with fresh outdoor air while minimizing energy loss.

                    5. Regular Maintenance

                    Routine maintenance of HVAC systems is crucial for their performance and effectiveness in managing allergens. This includes regular cleaning and servicing of filters, ducts, and other components. Clogged filters and dirty ducts can become reservoirs for dust, mold, and other allergens, which can then be spread throughout the home when the system is in operation. By keeping the system well-maintained, homeowners can ensure it functions efficiently and continues to help control allergen levels.

                    In conclusion, HVAC systems offer multiple benefits for allergy sufferers, from advanced filtration and air purification to humidity control and effective ventilation. By leveraging these features and ensuring regular maintenance, homeowners can significantly reduce indoor allergens and create a healthier living environment. As always, consulting with a professional HVAC technician can help tailor the system to best meet specific allergy management needs.

                    Should You Upgrade to an HVAC System Before Summer?

                    As we get closer to Summer, you may be considering an upgrade to your home cooling system. Whether you’re using conventional forced air or portable air conditioning units, you’ve likely noticed a lack of effectiveness or a fair bit of inconvenience. Upgrading from conventional cooling to an HVAC system affords you numerous benefits, especially during the sweltering summer months. While both types of system aim to keep indoor environments comfortable, HVAC systems provide a more comprehensive, efficient, and environmentally friendly solution.

                    Enhanced Comfort and Air Quality

                    One of the primary advantages of HVAC systems over traditional air conditioners is the improvement in overall comfort and indoor air quality. HVAC systems are designed to regulate temperature, humidity, and air purity simultaneously. This means that not only will your home be cooler in the summer, but it will also maintain optimal humidity levels, reducing the sticky, uncomfortable feeling often associated with high temperatures. Moreover, HVAC systems come with advanced filtration options that effectively remove pollutants, allergens, and other airborne particles, resulting in cleaner and healthier indoor air.

                    Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

                    Another significant benefit of upgrading to an HVAC system is the potential for increased energy efficiency and cost savings. Modern HVAC units are engineered to be more energy-efficient than older air conditioning models. They often come with features like programmable thermostats and energy-efficient components that work together to reduce energy consumption. Over time, the reduced energy usage translates to lower utility bills, which can offset the initial investment in the HVAC system. Additionally, many newer HVAC systems qualify for rebates and incentives, further reducing the overall cost of upgrading.

                    Zoning Capabilities

                    Some HVAC systems offer zoning capabilities, which allow homeowners to control the temperature of individual rooms or zones independently. This means you can cool specific areas of your home without wasting energy on rooms that are not in use. For instance, during the day, you can keep the living areas cool while letting the temperature rise slightly in the bedrooms. This targeted cooling not only enhances comfort but also significantly boosts energy efficiency, leading to more savings on your energy bills.

                    Reliability and Longevity

                    Upgrading to an HVAC system also means investing in a more reliable and durable solution. Modern HVAC systems are built with advanced technology and higher-quality materials, making them more robust and less prone to breakdowns compared to older conventional air conditioning units. With proper maintenance, an HVAC system can last significantly longer, providing consistent and reliable performance year after year. Plus, when you schedule regular maintenance with the pros at Air Handlers, you never have to worry about your HVAC system going offline for long periods of time.

                    Smart Technology Integration

                    Modern HVAC systems often come with smart technology integration, allowing for greater control and convenience. Smart thermostats, for example, enable remote monitoring and control of the system via smartphones or other devices. This means you can adjust the temperature settings while away from home, ensuring optimal comfort upon your return without wasting energy. These smart features also provide detailed energy usage reports and maintenance reminders, helping you manage your system more effectively.

                    Conclusion

                    Upgrading from a conventional air conditioning unit to a modern HVAC system offers a multitude of benefits that go beyond just cooling your home. Enhanced comfort, better air quality, improved energy efficiency, and cost savings are just a few of the advantages that make HVAC systems a superior choice. With the added benefits of zoning capabilities, increased reliability, and smart technology integration, an HVAC system provides a comprehensive solution for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home during the summer months and beyond. Investing in an HVAC upgrade is not just about immediate comfort; it’s about long-term savings, reliability, and contributing to a healthier environment.

                    How High Winds Affect HVAC Systems

                    Recently there have been surges of strong winds in the Olympia area, and these gusts can have unseen effects on your HVAC system and the quality of the air in your home.

                    Physical Damage

                    High speed winds can cause physical damage to your HVAC system. The wind itself can sometimes loosen parts of the system, but more dangerously objects and debris picked up by the wind can be thrown into your HVAC unit and cause more severe damage. While placement of the outdoor unit, quality of the system, and other factors can minimize this damage risk, it is still recommended that you examine your HVAC system for signs of damage or lodged debris after a period of heavy winds. If you notice anything abnormal, or if the system starts performing inconsistently, noisily, or not at all, contact the experts at Air Handlers for a service appointment.

                    Air Quality

                    When we have high winds, dirt, leaves, and other particulates can gather inside your HVAC unit or be blow inside your home. When your unit turns on, this accumulated dirt can be blown throughout your house, significantly impacting the air quality of your home. While maintaining a proper filter replacement schedule can help with some of this, heavy accumulations typically require more in-depth cleanings to remove.

                    Dust and Allergies

                    When winds blow dust and dirt inside our homes, that dust can be picked up and moved around by the HVAC system, causing the decrease in air quality already mentioned, but also causing a buildup of dust on your furniture and the rest of your home. This dust can wreak havoc on allergies, causing allergy symptoms to flare up and sometimes negatively affect your health. The best way to combat this in the short term is to regularly dust and vacuum your home, though in the long run this accumulation may build up within your vents and be harder to remove. Contact Air Handlers if you feel you may need your vents inspected and cleaned!

                    New Season, New HVAC?

                    When was the last time your heating/cooling system was upgraded? As we enter the warmer seasons, having an efficient and powerful HVAC system can significantly improve the comfort level of your home or office building. Whether you’re looking to have an HVAC system installed for the first time or wanting to schedule maintenance or an update to your existing one, the professionals at Air Handlers have you covered!

                    Benefits of an HVAC System

                    Having an efficient HVAC system for your home or building provides many perks, the first of which being able to control the temperature inside. Controlled temperatures help keep an area comfortable and fresh, as a suitable unit also helps filter the air and reduce allergens, dust, and other particulates floating around in the area.

                    Maintaining an HVAC System

                    Maintaining your HVAC system is easy with the help of the pros at Air Handlers. Whether it’s anything from connecting a thermostat to performing large scale maintenance or upgrades, we’ve got you covered! If you ever need to have your system serviced or checked for issues, simply contact us and we’ll send out a member of our team to take care of your system.

                    Easy Seasonal Care

                    Modern HVAC systems require very little when it comes to seasonal care as a homeowner. Historically, many heating and cooling systems would need winterized, covered, or otherwise protected/modified for the colder seasons, but with modern HVAC technology, many newer systems need little to no seasonal prep or changes.

                    Whether you already have an HVAC system that’s due for an upgrade or you’re looking to have a brand new unit installed, the experts at Air Handlers are up to the task. Give us a call to schedule your upgrade or maintenance, or to get more information on how we can take your home’s temperature control to the next level with a new system.

                    Spring is (Almost) in the Air!

                    As February nears its end and March is coming in quick, you may be wondering what is on the horizon for your HVAC system! There are a few things to consider when it comes to the transition of Winter and Spring, and depending on your heating/cooling system, there may be some updates or maintenance to be performed.

                    Remove Your Outdoor Cover

                    While not everyone uses a cover, and not all units need one, you should double check that your unit doesn’t have a cover on it before trying to fire it up in the Spring. Check the outside portion of your HVAC system and remove its cover if you put one on before Winter.

                    Replace Your Air Filters

                    If you haven’t done so recently, you should probably replace the air filters in your heating/cooling system. This should be done regularly, so including it as part of your de-winterizing is an easy way to make sure it gets checked off the list.

                    Clean Your Air Vents

                    It’s also a good idea to periodically clean the air vents inside your home, ensuring they don’t have a buildup of dust, debris, and other contaminants. Firing your HVAC system up for the first time in a while can kick up settled dust and allergens, and cleaning your air vents can help minimize this burst of sneeze-inducing particulates.

                    Clean the Area Around Your Outside Unit

                    Sometimes things can accumulate around the exterior portion of your HVAC system during the winter, such as branches, leaves, etc. It’s a good idea to clean the area around your system to ensure there is nothing leaning against it, blocking airflow, or otherwise touching/affecting it.

                    Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up and Inspection

                    Last but not least, you should contact your HVAC technicians to schedule a routine inspection and maintenance appointment. These experts will check your system for complications or potential upgrades and ensure you’re good to go for the hot Summer months that come soon after Spring. Air Handlers has many talented HVAC experts who would be happy to help prepare you for the new year, so give us a call and schedule your appointment today!