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How Energy Efficient is a Heat Pump?

Since a heat pump is able to heat as well as cool homes very efficiently, this system has grown in popularity in recent times. While most people are aware of how air conditioners and furnaces function, not many are familiar with the working of a heat pump. Here we provide you information about what a heat pump is, how it works and how energy-efficient it can be.

Every homeowner is interested in knowing how they can save some money on their energy bills. If you choose a heat pump with good energy ratings, that can save you a substantial amount. When you install a unit that is Energy Star rates, you can also qualify for a tax credit of $300- This is a definite win-win situation.

Like an air conditioning system, a heat pump also works on the principles of refrigeration rather than on the principle of fuel combustion, for both, its heating and cooling functions. In the cooling mode, the system functions just like a replacement AC. It extracts heat from the indoor spaces and expels it outdoors. However, when it is moved to the heating mode, this process is reversed. It then draws heat even from the colder air outdoors and uses that to warm the interior space.

Factors That Energy-Efficiency of a Heat Pump Depend On

Whether or not your heating system replacement will be able to help you save on your energy bills is dependent on a range of factors such as:

    The climate in your area Type of fuel used in your home Level of insulation in your home The existence of other energy-efficient installations on your property

heat pump isn’t an ideal option in regions that have a cold climate. They save significantly more energy when they are functioning in their heating mode. However, when there is a drop in the outdoor temperatures, your house requires more heat; unfortunately, a heat pump doesn’t function very efficiently when the outdoor temperatures are lower; and this is when you would require a supplementary system to provide additional heat. This also means you end up paying more for electrical heating.

If you live in a region with a colder climate, and natural gas is available, the smarter thing to do is to use a traditional forced air, air-conditioning system. Natural gas is always a more expensive and less-efficient fuel compared to electricity (though some exceptions do exist).

However, in regions like the Northeast where people typically use electric resistance heat or fuel oil, a heat pump can offer significant savings. Though electric resistance furnaces are cheaper to install compared to a heat pump, the latter is able to deliver 1.5 – 2.5 times more heat using the same amount of energy, based on what the climate in the area is, the size of the house and type of system used. The correct way to identify which form of heating and cooling is best for your home; you would have to compare the unit’s purchase price against its efficiency, the fuel cost and the heating and cooling load requirements of your home. The aspect to keep in view is that if you are buying a heat pump as a furnace replacement, you may also have to replace the ductwork as well as a heat pump generally requires a larger duct.

Efficiency Ratings of Heat Pumps

When there is talk about the energy-efficiency of a heat pump, there are certain ratings that have to be taken into account. All the cooling and heating appliances sold in the United States have the Federal “Energy Guide” label- this is a rating for the energy-efficiency of the heating and cooling modes; the ratings relay on a relative scale and they indicate how that particular unit compares to other similar products with higher and lower efficiency levels.

About SEER and HSPF Ratings

Highly sophisticated testing is used in arriving at both these ratings and they are a reflection of performance of the unit, over the entire season. HVAC system manufacturers generally use 2 different measurement indexes:

SEER- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating

This rating evaluates the heat pump’s efficiency when it’s in the AC mode. The ratio calculation is done based on the total amount of cooling that’s generated (which is measured in BTUs). This is divided by the electricity consumed over the course of the cooling season. If the system has a higher SEER rating, it means the heat pump is more energy-efficient. In the US, it is required by law that all AC systems have a minimum SEER of 13.

HSPF- Heating Seasonal Performance Factor

With reference to warming a house, the HSPF is the more important number. This is similar to SEER; but it evaluates any additional usage of energy that has taken place, such as any backup heat requirements or defrosting the unit in the winter time. An energy star certified heat pump will always have higher SEER and HSPF compared to standard models. This makes them about 8 % more efficient than all standard models and 20% more efficient than the older models.

Efficient Heat Pump- The Different Options

Most people are curious to know what makes a particular heat pump model more energy-efficient than any others. The simple answer is that there are a number of options on the market today, which use the latest technology to heat up & deliver the conditioned air. The high-efficiency heat pumps are equipped with variable-capacity controls. Instead of operating the system at top capacity round the clock, the control system coordinates the blower and the compressor to adjust the cooling and heating requirements of your home, at any given time. Since they rarely operate at full speed, they tend to be much quieter and save you a significant amount of money in the long term.

Other Factors that Matter

Aside from all these aspects, the other factors that add to the energy-efficiency of the heat pump are:

    Zoned Heating & Cooling Two-Speed Compressors Variable-Speed Motors Heat pumps with a “desuperheater” Backup Burners

Finding a good and energy-efficient heat pump system that will also save you money in the long term is about conducting some research, getting advice from experts and ensuring that aspects such as insulation and maintenance are taken care of.

Best Portable Air Conditioner Systems

Portable air conditioners are a great solution for small spaces or for homeowners that want to cool one room at a time. This prevents them from wasting money to cool spaces that aren’t being used. Portable AC units are available in sizes ranging from 5,000 BTU to 24,500 BTU or more, so there is a unit to fit every need. We’ve evaluated consumer reviews and industry testing to determine the best portable AC units for 2013. They are listed in size order.

1. American Comfort ACW200CH 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

This unit will cool about 250 square feet and can remove more than 8 gallons of moisture per day. It uses eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. Its two-speed fan can be operated by remote control, and a 24-hour timer prevents excessive use. The compressor is backed by a five-year warranty which is above average for the industry.

2. Friedrich ZoneAire Series PO9B 9,300 BTU Portable AC

This is one of the most popularunits produced by Friedrich, which is a top-rated brand. It can cool more than 200 CFM and 300 square feet of enclosed space. It and features a 3-speed fan, LCD remote control, and 24-hour timer. There is no drip pan and it uses eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. The unit provides superior dehumidification, at an outstanding 15 gallons per day.

3. Danby Premiere Series DPAC12012P 12,000 Portable Air Conditioner

This unit features a three-speed fan, full remote control, and an electronic LED display. It also has a handle and casters for easy movement. It uses eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. It offers below-average dehumidification at about seven gallons per day due to the single hose design.

4. LG LP1311BXR 13,000 Portable Air Conditioner

This unit can cool a large, 500 square foot room and has 250 CFM of air flow. It is high quality and high efficiency at 9.7. It comes with one of the industry’s best warranties and cools with eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. Dehumidification is below average at 9.6 gallons per day. It comes with a digital remote, electronic thermostat, LCD display, oscillating louvers, three-speed fan with fan-only mode, and a 24-hour timer for efficient use.

5. Sharp CV2P13SX 13,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Ion Technology

This unit will cool up to 500 square feet of enclosed space. It has Plasmacluster Ion Technology to release positive and negative ions into the air. It also features eight-gallon per day dehumidification, four-way directional, oscillating louvers, three-speed fan for cooling or fan-only mode, full-function digital remote, and timer. It has very low noise output at 41 decibels.

6. Friedrich ZoneAire Series PH14B Portable Air Conditioner

Overall, this is our top-rated portable air conditioner. It is high quality and has outstanding performance. The unit has true heat pump technology to cool and heat by reversing the flow and function of the refrigerant. It has a 10,700 BTU heating mode, dehumidification-only mode, 24-hour timer, dual hose design for increased performance, and an outlet drain that you don’t have to empty.

7. Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose ARC-14SH Portable AC with Heater

This unit can treat up to 500 square feet and remove 12.5 gallons of humidity per day. The dual hose design prevents fresh air from mixing with exhaust for a faster cooling and dehumidification. Eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant won’t harm the ozone. It also has multidirectional casters for easy movement.

8. Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose ARC-14S Portable AC – No Heater

This unit has no heater, so you’ll save $25 to $100 on up-front costs. It has the same cooling and dehumidifying capacities as the ARC-14SH. It drains into an exhaust hose so there isn’t a tank to empty. Features include a three-speed fan, remote control, and a 24-hour timer.

9. Koldfront PAC1401W Ultracool 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

This is one of the most popular-sized portable AC units. This unit can cool 500 square foot and offers a dehumidification-only mode for damp days. It features a three-speed fan, digital controls, a 24-hour timer, remote, caster wheels, and an internal condensate removal system. The unit’s washable pre-filter and a replaceable carbon filter can remove particulates and odors from the air.

10. MovinCool Classic Series Classic 18 18,000 BTU Portable AC

This is a high-powered unit that can be used in a commercial or residential setting. It has a powerful 1,180 CFM fan for outstanding air flow. The condensate tank has five-gallon capacity and an automatic tank shutoff to prevent overflow, although a hose attachment is included for easy draining. Total dehumidification is more than 24 gallons per day.

Ways to go green with AC in Orem, Utah

In general, people are changing their habits and going green. The residents of Orem, Utah are no different. There are many benefits to going green, from the lower energy costs, to the environmental benefits, and the health benefits. While you will use your air conditioner quite a lot in the hot Orem summer, there are still ways in which you can go green with your AC.

1. Overcooling

Overcooling your home means that your AC is working harder, and using more energy. Even adjusting your thermostat by one degree can affect the workload of your AC, and reduce your energy bill.

2. Timing

You will want to come home to a comfortably cool home, but you shouldn’t leave your AC on all day as it wastes energy. You can ut it on a timer instead, and set it to come on before you get home. This way you conserve energy, but still have a cool house.

3. Fans

Use your fans to move the cool air around your home. This can help make you feel cooler, but isn’t using as much energy as your air conditioner would.

4. Unused Rooms

Close off the vents and ducts for rooms that aren’t used often. This can lower the workload of your AC, as it doesn’t need to cool as big an area.

5. Blinds

Closing your blinds can stop the Orem summer heat from getting into your home. Heat can get in through your windows when the blinds are open, but it can’t escape again. This means that your AC has to do more to keep an even cool temperature in your home.

6. Insulation

Check the insulation in your home, and replace any as needed. Seal any air leaks in your home. These two small steps can save you more than $100 a year.

7. Replace Your AC

Homes with older model AC units should think about an AC replacement. Older models are much less energy efficient than newer models, and you can find a wholesale air conditioner, which can reduce the amount of money you need to spend on a new unit. The newer models are usually energy efficiency rated, so look for the best possible rating.

8. Maintenance

Maintaining, servicing, and cleaning your air conditioner on a regular schedule keeps it running smoothly, effectively and efficiently.

9. Coolant

Some coolants, especially those in older models are environmentally damaging, such as Freon, for example. Check to see what kind of coolant is in your AC, and if an environmentally friendly coolant is available. In some cases, it can be possible for the coolant to be changed to an eco-friendly option.

The Health & Wealth Benefits of Home Energy Efficiency in Orem, Utah

Utah is the third fastest growing state in terms of population, and Orem is one of the most popular places in Utah to live. As the population grows, more and more people are looking to buy or rent properties that already have a good energy efficiency rating, or are looking at ways to make their property more energy efficient. There are so many different reasons and benefits to home energy efficiency, both for you personally and the community as a whole.

The first, and most widely known benefit of home energy efficiency is that your energy bills are lowered. You can see a noticeable difference in your energy costs by making even small changes such as replacing your exiting light bulbs with energy efficient light bulbs. You should also check your appliances for their energy efficiency rating. Every appliance is given a rating based on how energy efficient it is. You should consider changing older appliances for new ones, as generally speaking, new appliances will be more energy efficient. If you have an older model air conditioner, then you may need to think about an AC replacement. Your air conditioner is used frequently, particularly in summer, and replacing it with an energy efficient model can see a drastic reduction in your bills. You can look for a wholesale air conditioner retailer, as there may be a cheaper option for replacing your AC.

There are also some health benefits to making your home energy efficient. The air quality in an energy efficient home tends to be better as well. The AC replaces the air in the home every three hours, which means that with an energy efficient AC that is well maintained, you get more fresh air in your home. Energy efficient homes also tend to use less artificial light, and more natural light, which has been proven to reduce eye strain, and decrease stress levels.

Environmentally speaking, it is much better to be energy efficient. It reduces the energy that your home needs, which lessens the workload of the power plant. This, in turn, allows for more resources to be left for use in the future. It also reduces the amount of greenhouse gases that the power plant releases, and decreases your carbon footprint.

In terms of the benefits to the community, becoming energy efficient has a knock on effect. As more people are becoming more energy efficient, the energy efficiency industry grows, and more jobs are created. Companies recruit more workers, and fund more research, which allows for more innovation within the industry.

 

These are just some of the benefits to becoming energy efficient, and there are numerous more. If you are looking into making your home energy efficient, then you could have an energy efficient audit conducted. This will show you the best ways to make your home energy efficient.

Ways to Go Green with AC in Richardson, TX

In the United States, the hottest cities like Richardson, TX consumes more than 50% of the energy which add to the value of carbon monoxide emission. There is a host of un-green systems in the US, which play a key role in these statistics, but the air conditioner ranks on the top of the list. The need to save the country from the harmful carbon monoxide has made the government and people collectively put a step forward for Go Green air conditioning! But the question arises how air conditioning can go green? So, to provide you a better picture, listed below is a few points that will explain does green air conditioning saves environment and energy or there is no other option besides AC replacement.

Let us get started!

Improving the Insulation Feature of the House

Improvement in the insulation factor of your house prevents the cold air from leaking. This also restricts the system from putting an extra effort thus helping maintain the indoor environment and saving the energy cost.

Installation of Radiant Heat Barriers

Hot summer days transfer heat from outside making the air conditioner ineffective. But this is where radiant heat barriers prove to be bliss as it reduces the heat transfer into the attic thus keeping the temperature of the room cool.

Installing Ceiling Fans

Provide a helping hand to your air conditioner by installing ceiling fans. It helps in raising the level of thermostat thus making the air conditioner work at an optimal temperature in reducing the energy cost.

Insulating the Ductwork

Non-insulated places like attics, garages, and crawl spaces, reduce the cooling efficiency of the air conditioner. Therefore, proper insulation and sealing of ductwork are important in order to make the AC function properly.

Installing Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats take the responsibility of handling the AC temperature. Therefore, there is no need for an owner to turn the AC up or down which impacts the home cooling costs and temperature of the room.

Replacing the Old AC

If you are using an older model, you are just increasing the energy utility bills. Therefore, contacting the wholesale air conditioner for buying a new AC is the most optimal option.

So, these are a few ways of going green with AC in Richardson, TX. Follow these tips and make an effort to save the environment and your hefty energy bills.

The Health and Wealth Benefits of Home Energy Efficiency in Richardson, TX

Energy efficiency directly leads to healthier and wealthier world and there are plenty of reasons to shore this up. Starting from saving lots of bucks to saving the environment, you can do it all by using energy efficient devices and appliances in your living space. Richardson City goes big on home energy efficiency. By being eco-conscious, you can make humorous difference to the world. You don’t necessarily have to give up on your comfort or make huge upfront investments for putting this plan in operation.We will help you get this done by giving out some amazing ways on cutting cost on your monthly bills and also how you can make a difference to the environment-

  • Energy Efficient Appliances For Energy Efficient Homes– The households in Richardson, TX spends an average of $5000 on cooling, electric and heating units installed in the house. Well, you can trim the cost on bills by using energy efficient air conditioner, heating and electric units. This will save almost 30% on the total bill. You can always refer to voluntary programs such as Energy Star to know more about energy efficient solutions for homes these days.
  • Unyielding Comfort– As a matter of fact, energy efficient houses in Richardson, TX are more insulated. This implies that you can relish uncompromised comfort at your home while making your contribution towards healthy environment and saving your money.
  • Deploying Employment– While energy efficient products are pacing up, more jobs opportunities are surfacing for their production. Isn’t it great that a small change in your life will do so much good to the world?
  • Good-bye Pollution-Indeed, as much the usage of green products will amplify, the pollution will whoosh from the environment. Breathe healthy-live healthy!
  • Lesser Noxious Waste– When we speak of the energy efficient appliances, AC is the first thing to cross our mind given the fact that they are the most cost consuming installations at our house. We suggest imperative AC replacement from non-energy efficient to EE one and keep its maintenance in continual check to eliminate any kind of allergic obstacles in your house.

The usage of energy efficient products is highly encouraged. You can find affordable cooling units at wholesale air conditioner stores and get them installed to commence the change. All other appliances are also easily available in the market. So guys, take a pledge to go green and save your health and wealth in earnest way possible.

 

Air Conditioning System Buying Tips!

Summer heat will be back before you know it, don’t get caught with a broken-down AC unit! With proper maintenance, A central air conditioning system will generally last 13 to 20 years. Consider when you will need a new unit and what type will suit your home.

Tips for Buying a New Air Conditioning System:

Never Settle on Just One Estimate! If it’s time to upgrade you AC unit, consult with at least three qualified HVAC contractors before deciding how to proceed. This isn’t just our humble opinion, it’s recommended by consumer reports! Try Not to Wait Until Its Broken! Don’t wait until your system doesn’t work to replace it. If you are getting regular maintenance from a qualified contractor, they will let you know when you should begin to consider replacing the unit. If your unit is more than 12 to 15 years old, be prepared for a failure at any time and start getting estimates now. That way, you’ll be prepared when the time comes, and it WILL come.

Buy the HIGHESTEfficiency You Can Afford! The AC unit uses more energy than any single home appliance. Try to buy an item with the highest SEER  you can reasonably afford! This will save big on future energy bills and qualify you for Home Energy Tax Credits. Choose a Reputable HVAC Contractor. Properly vet the HVAC company before inviting them to your home for a service call. Consult friends and family and the internet to find a reliable company in your area.

Ways to go green with AC in Cypress, Texas 77433

Minor changes can go a long way in saving the earth, and going green is one effective method to prevent pollution. You can start by using less paper and switching to CFL light bulbs. You can also opt for other methods to go green. However, the question now is what are the ways to go green with your air conditioner in Cypress, Texas 77433?

How to Go Green with AC When you Need to Conserve Energy?

By nature, Cypress, Texas has more sunny days than wet days. The summer season is nearly approaching. Therefore, it will be nearly impossible for people to avoid using their air conditioner throughout the month of July. There really is no need to stop using air conditioning systems during the summer months due to the fact that there are features to conserve energy. These features ensure you keep your home more comfortable.

By doing this, air conditioner owners are promoting the cause to going green without suffering from the hot, humid weather of Cypress. Aside from this, you can do the following steps to conserve energy and  go green with your air conditioning system.

·    Turn It Off When Not In Use

Don’t forget to turn off your AC when you are not using it. When you are out for work, switch it off. When your home is already cold, you can temporarily turn it off and turn it back on when needed. When your unit is on, you can turn off other appliances or lights in your home to conserve energy and thus, promote going green.

Night time hours may not be as hot and humid as day time hours. So, try to not use your air conditioning during the night and turn off all electricity-powered appliances and devices.

·    Keep a Monthly Maintenance with a Good Service Repair Man

Another way to go green with your AC unit is to impose monthly maintenance servicing from a professional. They will keep a stringent assessment and evaluation of your air conditioner. The technician will clean your AC system thoroughly and properly. Also, he will know the correct parts to evaluate and make sure they are working properly. He will, in essence, make sure your AC is in good working condition.

Thus, the maintenance will keep your air conditioner running with a highly effective performance. Furthermore, when your air conditioning unit is working well, its energy-saving feature works well too. Hence, you are conserving energy.

In addition, when the service repair man performs regular maintenance on your AC, early detection of defects is possible. So, when your AC requires repair, he can immediately figure out what is wrong and either fix the malfunction or advise you if a replacement is needed.

A good repairman will tell you which is more beneficial for you and energy-saving. With this, if he sees that you will save more money by buying a new air conditioner instead of repairing it, he will do so. The good thing about buying an AC today is that there are various offers of wholesale air conditioner promotions.

The Health & Wealth Benefits of Home Energy Efficiency in Cypress, Texas

Your home is where your heart is. It is where you and your family live, and to provide a satisfying living lifestyle, a home must be a comfortable dwelling. However, there are times that environmental conditions can take a toll on your air conditioning system. When this happens, you and your family’s peace of mind is at stake and your comfort will be compromised.

Extreme temperatures and weather changes are a critical issue in many areas including in Cypress, Texas. Cypresses’ weather can tend to become very hot and humid during summer days. The ideal comfort of living will never be achieved if your home is extremely cold or hot. It can also cause many health issues, and thus, it may result in you spending more money on your healthcare services.

For that reason, it is important to pay attention to your unit’s performance. Health scares may occur when the house is too hot due to the weather and humidity. Nevertheless, acquiring a regular air conditioning system can help you solve these problems. A professional expert will help you create a peaceful and calm temperature.

More so, there are a lot of allergens ready to strike at different times of the year. Having the right air conditioning unit installed will keep allergens under control. Making sure you have the proper installation and maintenance of your air condition system will trap any debris before they can even enter your home, such as dust and other particles that carry different kinds of allergens, .

The main objective of a good service is to ensure the proper regulation of all conditions mentioned above. Thus, you are creating a more comfortable and suitable environment for you and your family.

Benefits of a Good and Proper AC Installation and Maintenance Service

·    Appropriate and Comfortable Temperatures

A good service provider increases the chance of a home energy benefit. For an appropriate and comfortable temperature, the service provider will make sure the unit is working correctly. The technician will make sure your house will be warm during winter months and cool during the summer. Hence, a good service ensures a comfortable temperature inside your home at all times of the year.

·    Filter Particles of Dust and Other Unwanted Debris

A good air conditioning system has everything it needs in order to filter any particles of dust and other unwanted debris before it passes and spreads throughout your home. The dust usually brings pollen and other forms of allergens. In essence, the filtration system of your air conditioning unit is an extremely crucial part of maintaining good health for you and your family.

·    High Quality of the Air Conditioning System

Finding a good service provider ensures you will find a high-quality system for both your heating and air conditioning system. To ensure a high-quality of air conditioning system, you must look for the seal of approval for home energy efficiency. Also, you must check and research the brand and star approval when deciding which air conditioning system is right for your home. For quite a long time, units with this seal have been proven and tested for stringent standards for energy efficiency.

4 Simple Ways to Go AC Green in Lakelands SC

Did you know that we Americans use as much electricity on air conditioners as the continent of Africa uses for electricity on everything? Our national population is just over 4% of the world’s total and yet we use more energy powering our cooling systems than the rest of the world uses on the same devices combined. It isn’t surprising that even we here in South Carolina’s Lakelands are being forced to take measures to lower our carbon emissions and become more efficient with our methods of avoiding the heat.

Take a look at the top 4 ways you can help the environment (and your wallet!) with your machine:

1.   Shut your doors and windows!  New York City passed a law two years ago that made it illegal for nearly all shops and restaurants to keep their entrances and windows open whilst AC units pump out cool air during the hot months. Many other cities and states have, subsequently, copied or are thinking of copying the law in their local district and understanding why is easy. The appliances have a thermometer and a temperature gage which means that it will keep working until the whole room is the required temperature. If there is air from outside seeping into the room, this means your standard wholesale air conditioner must work harder because so much of its cool air is escaping into the outdoors and this means it takes longer to cool the room, which raises pollution as well as the cost of electricity bills.

2.   Turn it off or raise the temperature when you can! – Particularly during spring or fall – outside the summer months – if the temperature in your home is under than 80°F, most people shouldn’t feel the need to turn on their AC. It is annoying to keep messing with your temperature settings but paying crazy prices for household costs and increasing global warming is worse than the mild annoyance so it’s worth considering.

3.    Be open to maintenance, repair or even an upgrade! –Many air conditioners across our nation have tiny parts that can become faulty real easily and/or use outdated technology. Both can mean the device uses more power in order to cool your home so you may need to just get new parts or maybe get an AC replacement. If you’re not an expert with electrical appliances, why not hire someone who is to give you this insight? Though call-outs for air conditioner specialists aren’t usually cheap, your bills could be significantly lowered with their advice and help.

4.  Get outdoors! – Lakelands residents are lucky enough to have some amazing locations right on our doorstep. Whether it’s the Music Farm or Koger Centresometimes getting out can be just the tonic for cooling down.

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