Quality Repair vs. Replace in Tulsa?

Quality Heating & Cooling services in Tulsa

At Air Assurance, we undestand it's one of the most difficult decisions a homeowner will have to make — whether to have a quality repair on an old HVAC system or bite the bullet and replace it. But how do you decide the quality repair vs. replace dilemma, in the Tulsa Oklahoma market? Ask the following questions to determine whether to repair that old A/C or furnace one more time, or replace it entirely.

How old is your system?

Experts tend to agree that a combustion furnace reaches the end of its service life between 15–20 years, while an A/C or heat pump is closer to 10–15.

Are other factors affecting the longevity of your HVAC system?

Where you live and its climate will have a big effect on how many years you get out of a furnace or A/C. A furnace, for instance, will last longer in a Southern climate, while an A/C will last longer in a Northern climate where it's not running 24/7). Professional maintenance is another important factor. A well-maintained HVAC system can be expected to last longer than one that has been neglected. A system with proper air filter maintenance also will last longer.

Is your older system breaking down a lot?

This is usually a good sign that an "experienced" HVAC system is nearing the end of its service life. At a certain point, you'll have to decide whether it's time to quit throwing good money after bad, and go ahead and invest in a new high-efficiency furnace, A/C, or heat pump.

Are you energy bills going up?

If your utility bills are rising and there's no obvious reason, such as a more severe winter, utility rate increases, or some other household use that's consuming power, the culprit might be an older HVAC system that no longer operates as efficiently as it used to. Investing in a new high-efficiency furnace, A/C, or heat pump system, fortunately, can start a new era of lower energy costs, eventually reimbursing you for much of the cost of that new HVAC system.

To discuss the repair vs. replace question in your Broken Arrow home, please contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Geralt/Pixabay”

Proper Attic Insulation Can Save Money and Energy this Season

Attic insulation estimates - tulsa ok

Good attic insulation is one of the easiest ways to keep Broken Arrow's freezing winters from stealing your comfort. By reducing the load on your furnace, insulation also helps hold down your heating bills.

The Importance of Attic Insulation

The warm air from your furnace naturally rises toward your ceiling. Without sufficient air sealing and insulation in the attic, that warmth will flow into the attic and then through the roof. This not only wastes heat, it also contributes to moisture and mold issues in the attic and ice dams that could damage your roof. To keep your home warm and free from damage, your attic should have at least an R-38 layer of insulation, which requires around 12 inches of fiberglass batts. For even greater energy efficiency, add more insulation to achieve an R-60 layer.

Choosing the Right Insulation

Insulation is available in two forms and a number of different materials. Every type of insulation has pros and cons, so review your options before you decide how to improve your attic insulation. Your options include:

Batt insulation — These strips are cut to fit between floor and wall joints, making them easy for a non-professional to lay into place. Batts are produced in fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool, plastic fiber, cotton, and sheep's wool, among other materials. Fiberglass and cellulose are the most efficient of these, but mineral wool helps more with noise reduction.

Loose-fill (blown-in) insulation — Produced as small pieces of material designed to be installed using a blower machine, loose-fill insulation fills in small corners better than batts, so it insulates more efficiently. On the downside, you'll need to rent a blower machine or hire a professional for insulation.

Rigid foam — These stiff boards of polystyrene or other foam can be set into place without special equipment. While they're highly efficient and moisture resistant, the higher cost compared to batts or loose-fill makes them less popular for use in attics.

If you could use professional help to improve your attic insulation, contact us at Air Assurance in the Broken Arrow area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “irin k/Shutterstock”

HVAC Upgrades that Qualify for Tax Credits

If you're considering replacing the heating or cooling equipment in your Broken Arrow home, you may be able to take advantage of federal tax credits when you choose energy efficient models. A knowledgeable local HVAC contractor can give you personalized advice about the specific equipment and efficiency level to best suit your needs and budget that might qualify you for extra savings like:

Tax Credits on Solar Energy Through 2021

Having a solar-ready heat pump or air conditioner installed in your home before December 31, 2021 may qualify you for a federal tax credit of up to nine percent of the equipment's cost. There's also an additional credit available on the solar module used to generate electricity for your new HVAC components:

• Until the end of 2019, the credit is thirty percent of the module cost and installation, with no dollar limit.

• In 2020, the available credit will be reduced to 26 percent, and for 2021 it drops to 22 percent.

The credits are available for equipment installations in existing and newly-constructed homes that are either principal or second residences (rental property doesn't qualify).

Tax Credits on Efficiency Improvements Through 2020

In December 2019, Congress passed legislation that renewed the tax credits for 2020 and made them retroactive back to 2018. For qualified HVAC improvements, homeowners may be eligible to claim the federal tax credits equal to 10% of the installed costs; a maximum tax credit of $500.

If you purchased a system from Air Assurance in the past, or are thinking of purchasing another system from us in the recent future, you could be qualified for up to $500 in additional savings in the form of tax credits for 2018, 2019, and 2020! The tax credit is retroactive.

Of course, we’re not tax professionals, so be sure to consult your tax advisor before filing your taxes. We just don’t want you to leave any money on the table! 

Here is a website for you to see for yourself:  Read About 2020 Tax Credits

For updated information from the IRS, you can visit their recently released information.

• Instructions for Form 5695

• Form 5695

 If you purchased a 95%+ AFUE Furnace, 16 SEER or above AC unit, 15 SEER or above Heat Pump, 14 SEER or above Package unit, or a tankless water heating system, or many other energy efficient home enhancements, you could qualify for an additional $500 off your taxes! 

Prior Tax-Savings on Energy Efficient HVAC Equipment

Through December 31, 2016, the federal government offered tax credits for different types of high-efficiency HVAC systems. They applied to Energy Star-qualified equipment installed in an existing home/principal residence, and the amount varied depending on the equipment type:

• Central air conditioners, packaged units, heat pumps and ductless mini-split systems qualified for a credit of up to $300.

• Propane, natural gas and oil furnaces and boilers qualified for a tax savings of up to $150.

• Geothermal heat pumps qualified for a credit of 30 percent of the cost, with no upper limit.

While the above-mentioned tax-saving credits have expired, they could be reinstated at some point in the future, so it's worthwhile checking for available credit updates on the federal government's Energy Star program website.

If you're thinking about upgrading to new energy-efficient HVAC equipment for your Broken Arrow home and you'd like to explore your options or learn whether there are tax credits available, contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC upgrades and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “stevepb/Pixabay”

Indoor Air Quality Testing - Tulsa, OK

Indoor Air Quality Testing - Tulsa, OK

We spend a great deal of time in our indoor environment, whether it’s at home or at work in our place of business. Air Assurance provides many air quality services including air duct cleaning, air duct sealing, and indoor air quality testing. The professional at Air Assurance can also help correct and improve your indoor environment with a number of options. Call on Air Assurance when you need air quality testing - We service all of Greater Tulsa, including Jenks, Broken Arrow, Owasso, Sapulpa and more.

Way to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Maintaining indoor comfort involves more than keeping your home's living spaces warm or cool. Indoor air quality is also a major factor that affects how comfortable your home will be. When particulates and contaminants such as dust, pollen, mold, and related materials get into your home's air, you can have problems such as allergy and asthma attacks, worsening of respiratory conditions, and the onset of physical discomforts such as irritated eyes and scratchy throats. Here are some suggestions for improving the indoor air quality in your home this fall and year-round.

• Change HVAC system filters: The air filters in your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump help remove particulates from your indoor air. They capture these materials as air from your home circulates through the system to be heated or cooled. Make sure these filters are kept clean and fresh. They should be checked at least once a month and changed when they get dirty.

• Maintain your HVAC equipment: Regular preventive maintenance will improve the function of your HVAC system and boost its ability to remove particulates, reduce humidity, and keep your indoor air cleaner.

• Clean, dust, and vacuum regularly: Keeping your indoor environment clean and free of dust, mold, and other contaminants can significantly improve indoor air quality. Dust and vacuum at least weekly.

• Increase ventilation: Ventilation keeps a steady flow of air moving through your home, which helps remove particulates and send them outside. When weather and outdoor conditions permit, open windows and doors to let breezes move through your indoor spaces. Install a whole-house ventilation system that provides effective airflow for your entire home. Turn your window air conditioner to fan-only to provide extra ventilation.

• Install air filtration and cleaning systems: Install high-efficiency air cleaning and filtration equipment that provides additional removal of particulates and indoor pollution. Use the highest-quality filters possible in these devices.

Air Assurance is a premier source for professional HVAC services in Tulsa and the surrounding Oklahoma communities. Contact us today for more information on indoor air quality and how to keep your home's air cleaner and fresher throughout the year.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Zurijeta/Shutterstock”

Air Duct Cleaning & Sealing - Tulsa

AIR DUCT CLEANING - TULSA

At Air Assurance, we provide many indoor air quality solutions. Many homeowners have dealt with allergies, dust, or other problems in their home never realizing that the indoor air quality can be improved. If too little outdoor air enters a home, pollutants such as dust, mold, bacteria, fungi, and other contaminates can accumulate to levels that can pose health and comfort problems. Health concerns, such as allergies, asthma or the hazards of carbon monoxide can often be attributed to a poorly maintained, designed, or installed heating and air conditioning system.

AIR DUCT CLEANING IN TULSA REQUIRED?

Indoor Air Quality is important. Air duct cleaning helps maintain the hygiene of your household. Unclean ducts make the air unfit for breathing. Bad indoor air quality is one of the major causes of many respiratory problems like asthma and allergies. But did you know, you don't always need a duct cleaning? Often times we can help elimnate the source of the duct problem.

The system cleans your air ducts by brushing and removing debris and dirt directly out of your HVAC system and into our hepa filtration silencing box. We can then apply an anti-microbial protectant inside your duct work that kills most germs and microbes on contact for up to an entire year, greatly reducing or eliminating air-borne pathogens.

An HVAC air filter captures only about 7 percent of airborne debris in the average home. That means that roughly 93 percent of the dust in your air keeps circulating through the heat vents and HVAC system. To improve your air quality and protect your costly HVAC equipment from damage, it's wise to have the condition of your ducts checked every two years. When duct cleaning is needed, make sure you hire an experienced professional who adheres to standards established by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) and uses the correct cleaning procedures to safeguard your home and HVAC system.In between checkups, watch for these telltale signs that your ducts need cleaning.

Excessive Amounts of Debris and Dust

If your heating vents are covered with soot, dust or cobwebs and particles are sent floating through the air when the blower is running, there's likely a considerable buildup deep inside the duct system that should be removed. If your home is newly built or you've recently had remodeling done in your older home, you may need the ducts cleaned to clear out any leftover construction debris.

Signs of Pests

When pests invade the ductwork, contaminants like insect parts and rodent droppings can make the air circulating through your home unhealthy to breathe. If you hear to see evidence of insects or vermin in the heating vents, call in an exterminator. Once the infestation has been eradicated, have the duct system professionally sanitized.To learn whether cleaning the heat vents is necessary in your Broken Arrow home, contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about heat vents and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-615-4677. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “matius/Shutterstock”

How to Properly Winterize Your HVAC

With the arrival of colder weather in the Broken Arrow area, it's time to get your home's HVAC system ready for the coming winter. You can ensure your family's comfort, and protect the system's various components from damage by taking these steps to winterize your HVAC now:

Promote Good Airflow and Air Quality

There are some simple tasks that you can tackle to prevent airflow restrictions and boost air quality when the heating system is running. Replace the HVAC air filter first, then clean the vents throughout your house by removing and wiping down the covers and vacuuming inside each duct opening. Make sure your registers are fully open too, and that nothing is blocking the return air grilles.

Protect the Outdoor Component

If you have a central split-system air conditioner, you'll want to shut down the outdoor unit so it won't get harmed if the thermostat accidentally gets switched over to cooling mode during the winter. This is easy to do by via the breaker in your main electrical panel, and the switch that's located outside near the unit. To shield the unit from falling ice, place a board or piece of plywood on top, and weigh it down with a brick or concrete block.

Clean Up Around the Outdoor Unit

Yard debris like piles of dead leaves around the outdoor unit make it more attractive to rodents and other nesting pests. To discourage them from setting up housekeeping, trim back and clear away dead vegetation, then open the cabinet and vacuum/sweep out any accumulated debris from inside.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Having a certified technician service your HVAC system can give you peace of mind that it's operating safely and efficiently. A pro will inspect and clean the furnace and verify that critical components like the blower, venting, heat exchanger and electrical are in good repair. If you have a heat pump, they'll check the refrigerant level and clean the coils, and make sure that the defrost and back up heat are functioning properly.For more advice about how to winterize your HVAC, contact us at Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

HVAC-Inspired Costumes for the Whole Family

Before long, neighborhoods will be teeming with ghouls, superheroes, cartoon characters, and all other sorts of wacky and amazing Halloween costumes. But, did you realize that HVAC-inspired costumes are often easy to put together and can really stand out in a crowd? Here are a few of our favorites for this year:

HVAC Worker Costumes

You have two routes you can take here. First, you can play it straight and dress up as a service technician, plumber, electrician, etc. The second choice is to get a little more inventive. For instance, you could use a ton of hairspray and go as an electrocuted electrician orsplatter yourself with brown paint and go as a plumber who's experienced a sewer backup (gross, we know... but funny, right?). Plus, you could add a little flare and scare by using make-up to create a zombie look for the costume.

Dryer Vent Costumes

Who would've thought that your dryer vent could give you so many options for Halloween costumes? You can use them as the arms and legs of an awesome looking robot, fashion them into the mechanical arms of Dr. Octopus, create your own Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz, or go all out and celebrate the holiday as Slinky from Toy Story.

Fortnite Costume Accessories

This year, costumes based on the insanely popular video game Fortnite are likely to be everywhere. A big part of the game concerns weapons used against your opponents, but fake guns are so yesterday. Instead, we suggest that you use a plunger to create either the clinger weapon or the game's grappling hook (you can easily Google what they look like). Just be sure that you purchase a new plunger for the costume. We definitely don't want kids running around outside with one taken from a toilet.

For more expert advice on HVAC-inspired Halloween costumes or any home comfort topics, contact the professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding area for more than 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

What To Do Before Turning on Your Heater

Turning on your heater is an annual event marking the start of a new season. With the hot summer behind, you’re looking forward to staying comfortable in cold weather to come. Making sure a few start-up essentials are done first can help ensure a smooth transition into the heating season. Here are some suggestions for turning on your heater in an organized procedure to make sure all parts of the system are working together.

Inspect the vent duct

Verify that the furnace connection to the vent duct is secure and the duct is intact. Go outside and look up at the vent cap where the vent duct terminates on the roof. Verify that the cap is in place and look for any signs of bird’s nests, leaves or other obstructions.

Ensure adequate clearance

Make sure no items are placed within three feet of the furnace on all sides. Flammable liquids, paints, solvents, etc, should never be stored in the same room as the furnace at all.

Install a new filter

Don’t start the heating season with a dirty filter left over from the cooling season. From now on, continue to change the furnace filter at least every other month.

Check the vents

Check supply vents in each room to verify that they're fully open. Check return vents (or there central return if there’s only one) and make sure they’re not obstructed by furniture, drapes or other objects.

Start the furnace

Follow manufacturer’s instructions for starting up the furnace.

Feel for airflow

Check for warm airflow at every supply vent. If you don’t feel warmth from one or more vents, shut down the furnace and call for professional HVAC service.

Schedule an annual tune-up

Get professional preventive maintenance performed by a qualified HVAC technician. The service includes manufacturer-recommended maintenance procedures to ensure maximum furnace efficiency, lowest cost and reduced wear and tear. It also includes an up-close inspection of furnace components to detect and resolve any incipient problems now, before they become a major issue later.

For qualified service when it's time for turning on your heater, contact Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

How Does Duct Design Affect Heating and Cooling?

If you're asked which of your home's HVAC components are most important, you'd probably say your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump. Another component that you shouldn't overlook is the duct system that distributes your conditioned air, because it directly affects your heating and cooling equipment's performance.

If the duct design is flawed, the ductwork is poorly installed, or it's damaged or leaky, you can experience problems with:

Temperature control.

Damaged or leaky ductwork that lets conditioned air escape can make it difficult or impossible to maintain your desired comfort level.

Air quality.

Pressure imbalances due to duct design flaws can pull in contaminants and allergens from unconditioned areas and erode your indoor air quality.

Energy consumption.

Overcoming duct deficiencies increases the workload of your HVAC equipment, so it uses more energy.

Component longevity.

That extra workload can also shorten your costly HVAC equipment's lifespan.

Fundamentals of Effective Ductwork Design

A properly-designed duct system should deliver the correct volume of air, at your desired temperature, to the various rooms in your home. Also, it should return stale air back to the HVAC equipment for reconditioning. An effective duct design is based on principles of air distribution and thermal gains and losses, and requires quality materials, construction and installation. Such a system also relies on:

Proper duct sizing.

Individual ducts must be sized to match the capacity of the HVAC equipment. Undersized ducts can't carry a sufficient volume of air, and oversized ducts will reduce the system's efficiency.

Balanced airflow.

To avoid creating positive or negative pressure within the house and HVAC system, the duct system must have the right number of supply and return ducts to deliver an equal volume of air.

Duct location.

Whenever possible, ducts should be placed inside the home's conditioned envelope. If ducts must be routed through unconditioned areas like a garage or attic, they need to be properly sealed and insulated to limit energy losses.

If you have concerns that flaws in your HVAC duct design are affecting heating and cooling in your Broken Arrow home, contact us today at Air Assurance for expert help.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Garage Ventilation Needs

While keeping the interior of the home adequately ventilated has proven benefits, the importance of garage ventilation hasn’t received as much attention. However, in a home with an attached garage, healthy air quality in the living spaces can be impacted by the garage environment.

Garage Air vs. House Air

The house wall shared with the garage often isn’t a vapor-proof barrier. Tiny cracks and gaps in the structure can allow fumes originating inside the garage to enter the house. Pollutants include exhaust from vehicles in the garage, as well as vapors from gasoline, solvents, paints and cleaning solutions that are typically stored there. Hot summer temperatures inside an unconditioned garage enhance vaporization of volatile chemicals and increase infiltration into adjacent rooms of the house even more.

Fresh Air In, Toxic Fumes Out

To reduce the accumulation of fumes inside the garage, a powered ventilation fan pulls in fresh outdoor air and flushes out toxic vapors. Usually installed in the roof or one wall of the garage, the fan draws outdoor air in through a passive vent grille in an opposite wall. The cross-ventilating action purges the garage space, exhausting fumes into outdoor air and also generating lower air pressure inside the garage. Lower air pressure, in turn, counteracts the tendency of garage vapors to infiltrate the house.Options to activate a garage ventilation fan include:

• A simple manual on/off switch to run the fan as long as desired.

• A manual "on" switch with an adjustable timer function that runs the fan for a preset interval before shutting it off automatically.

• Sensors installed in the garage door that detect when a vehicle enters the garage and activate the fan, then turn it off automatically.

Variable-speed garage vent fans are also available to adjust to specific circumstances. For example, when activities such as spray painting are underway in the garage, or when high temperatures inside the garage make it uncomfortable to work in.

For more about the benefits of effective garage ventilation, contact Air Assurance.

Keep Guests Cool at Summer Parties

Summer parties are the best, but when guests are uncomfortable because of the sweltering heat, they can turn into a disaster. We'd hate to see that happen, so we've compiled some of our favorite tips to help you keep your guests cool:

Get a Checkup for Your HVAC System

Like clockwork, you should be scheduling a yearly inspection of your cooling system by an HVAC professional. This will keep your system running more efficiently for your guests (and you, of course) while prolonging its lifespan.

Change the Air Filter

If you want to keep your guests cool, then you need to make sure that your HVAC system is as efficient as possible. If the air filter is dirty, then that's not happening. Replace it at the beginning of the summer season and then get it replaced every 30 days or so after that, as needed.

Consider an Evening Party

Everyone loves a good BBQ in the middle of the day, but the heat might bother some guests. A great way to keep them cool during summer parties is by taking away the sun. No, they don't have an app for that, so your best bet is to schedule your party in the evening.

Serve Plenty of Liquids

Guests who become dehydrated are not only unhappy, but could be in serious danger. You can solve this problem by providing plenty of water and other refreshing drinks. This is essential if you're serving alcohol since those will add to the dehydration.

Provide Tons of Shade

If you prefer to have an outdoor party during the day, then you should ensure that your guests have plenty of shade to shield themselves from the summer sun. If your backyard is lacking, there are plenty of shading choices that can be set up and taken down for each get-together.

To schedule services to ensure your guests stay cool at summer parties, reach out to the professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the HVAC needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Water Heater Maintenance Can Affect Your HVAC

If you have a forced-air central HVAC system and a gas water heater like many area homes, and you're looking for ways to save energy, you need to understand that there's a maintenance correlation between the two. What this means is when you're taking steps to boost the efficiency of your HVAC, you'll waste potential savings if you ignore water heater maintenance.

Why Water Heater Maintenance is Important

When it comes to home comfort, your HVAC system and water heater are two necessities you rely on daily. They're also the two biggest energy users in most households. Just as twice-yearly maintenance is vital to keep your HVAC operating efficiently, it's essential for your water heater too.Having your water heater serviced regularly by an experienced professional not only helps with efficiency, but it also keeps the appliance running reliably and can prolong its lifespan too. Here are some key maintenance tasks that a pro will tackle:

• Testing the T&P valve. This valve needs to be fully functional so excess pressure/hot water can exit the tank. If it's seized up, it should be replaced to prevent a dangerous rupture or explosion.

• Checking/replacing the anode rod. This metal rod is in place to attract corrosion so it doesn't eat away at the tank material. Eventually, the rod will disintegrate, so it should be checked routinely and replaced as needed.

• Flushing sediment from the tank. Some minerals present in water form into sediment particles during the heating process, then settle to the tank bottom. Draining, flushing and refilling the tank every year is necessary to clear out sediment so it doesn't affect the unit's energy efficiency, or cause it to fail prematurely.

• Inspecting the tank for corrosion. If your plumber finds considerable rust development along the tank's seams and at various connections, it can be a sign that your water heater might start leaking or even rupture unexpectedly. If the appliance is badly rusted, having a new water heater installed will probably be recommended.

To schedule HVAC system or water heater maintenance in your Broken Arrow home, contact us at Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

How Planting Trees Can Lead to HVAC Savings

We all know that shade trees make a difference when it comes to keeping cool in the summertime. But did you know that planting trees can also boost HVAC savings on your energy bill? Read on for how the trees you plant today can earn their keep by saving on your HVAC energy bill in the future.

Keeping Cool With Trees

Shade trees keep the temperature down in your home in two ways. They block solar radiation from entering the home, sure, but they also cool the air around them through a process called transpiration. The trees pull water through the roots, which changes from a liquid to vapor as it is released through the leaves. As the vapor enters the air, a cooling effect takes place. A dense planting of shade trees can cool the air around them by as much as 6 degrees.

Where to Plant Trees

Think carefully about where you want to plant trees. Shorter shade trees work well on the eastern and western sides of the home, since that's where the sun will shine closest to the horizon. Taller trees on the south face of the home offer midday cover and can keep the walls and roof cool.Don't plant trees too close to the home -- 10 to 20 feet away from exterior walls is recommended. Planting trees too close can cause foundation problems. You may also have to do extensive trimming to keep limbs from damaging the roof during storms.

Choosing Trees

If you aren't particularly tree savvy, talk to a nursery professional before you choose trees based on looks alone. Avoid trees that are too fast growing, as these species may be subject to disease or breakage before they grow big enough to shade your home. Ask about maximum height, growth habit and the tree's ability to flourish in the microclimate that your home will provide. Don't choose trees that shed fibers or seeds that might clog your outdoor condenser unit.

We've got more tips on HVAC savings at Air Assurance of Broken Arrow.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

What is an Air Exchange Rate and Why is it Important?

One of the unfamiliar terms you may encounter as a homeowner is “air exchange rate.” Understanding what the term means is vital, because it's a key factor in how well your HVAC system heats and cools, and whether you and your family enjoy a comfortable, healthy living environment.

Air Exchange Rate Basics

Air exchange rates, or “air changes per hour,” simply refer to the number of times that air gets replaced in each room every hour. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) provides guidelines for air changes per hour, and they vary depending on the room: bedrooms should have five–six, kitchens 7–8, and laundry rooms require 8–9 changes.HVAC contractors use these “changes per hour” recommended ranges to calculate the amount of airflow that's needed in different rooms to ensure adequate house-wide air exchange. Each room's volume (height × width × length) is multiplied by the recommended number of hourly changes, then divided by 60.

Why Air Exchange Rates Are Important

Homes today are built and weatherized to minimize energy losses and maximize efficiency. Here in Oklahoma, homes also tend to be closed up to keep conditioned air indoors during our lengthy cooling seasons. If air exchange isn't sufficient, trapped allergens, pollutants and irritants can degrade the indoor air quality and affect the well-being of a home's occupants.If your home is older and not as tightly-built or weatherized, air exchange can occur through leaks in the exterior envelope. If that's not enough, or you have a well-sealed home, your HVAC pro may advise you that extra measures are needed to ensure good air quality, such as:

• Installing a ventilation system to remove stale air and pull in fresher air from outdoors.

• Adding an air cleaner to the HVAC system to help reduce airborne allergens and pollutants.

• Consistently maintaining your HVAC, ventilation and air cleaning equipment, and making filter changes as recommended to keep everything operating at an optimal level.

If you're wondering whether the air exchange rate in your Broken Arrow home is adequate, contact us at Air Assurance to schedule an HVAC system assessment.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Why You Should Leave Customer Reviews for Your HVAC Contractor

In this brave new world of social media, no business owner can afford to ignore online customer reviews. That includes HVAC contractors, who are responsible for seeing expensive installations and repairs of some of the most sophisticated equipment in your home. Those contractors need to know when a customer is satisfied on all fronts and when there's room for improvement.

Sites such as Yelp, Angie's List, Houzz and Nextdoor are leading the way in providing consumers with a forum to rate their experience in HVAC, and much more. In turn these sites help businesses get a sense of how they can fine-tune customer service. So if you've never thought about giving your HVAC company a boost after a satisfactory experience, maybe you should. Here are some additional reasons why you might want to opt in and write a customer review for your HVAC contractor.

1. Good reviews can boost sales.

Good reviews give consumers the information they need to decide on a product or service. Customers want to compare the experiences of other customers, to ensure they are making the right decision before they commit to a contractor.

2. Improve service.

Online reviews help your HVAC contractor do a better job, resolving any issues you might have had in a forthright and positive way. There's never anything wrong with constructive criticism. It's always helpful to keep the discourse courteous, and forego the snarky and snide. If your experience was horrific enough to warrant trashing the contractor, then you need to speak to him before you get to the review stage, and see if you can resolve the issue satisfactorily.

3. Boost rankings.

The more your HVAC company gets mentioned on these sites, the higher their search engine ranking.

4. Boost keyword content.

Online reviews help a business's website maintain an influx of SEO (search engine optimization) keywords, so the business has a more prominent online presence. You're helping other customers find your preferred HVAC company.

For more on how customer reviews can benefit your HVAC company, contact Air Assurance. We've served the Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Name That Tune: What a Humming Air Conditioner Means

All air conditioners make noise as they run, mainly from the blower fans and the compressors. When the dominant sound is a humming air conditioner, odds are, something isn’t working as it should. The most common problems associated with the humming sound include:

Indoor Noises

• When you hear humming sounds from the air handler, it may be caused by a frozen motor. Some blower motors require periodic lubrication to keep their bearings turning smoothly. A lack of oil will seize the bearings and prevent the motor’s shaft from turning. It could conceivably run until it burns out.

• Humming from the breaker box. Whenever you hear humming sounds near the circuit breaker panel, suspect a serious electrical problem and turn off the noisy breaker. If you can’t identify which, turn off the main breaker and contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Outdoors

A humming sound is much more likely to originate in the outdoor condenser and it could be coming from:

• The compressor. This part does the heavy lifting in cooling systems and it could hum or buzz when it’s at the end of its lifetime. It could also indicate an electrical problem involving the compressor.Compressors sit on rubber isolation feet that can wear out or crack. Damaged feet can cause the compressor vibrations to amplify and cause humming sounds.

• Frozen coil. It might seem counterintuitive, but a humming air conditioner may have a frozen coil. Coils freeze when the refrigerant level is too low or they’re too dirty. A frozen coil can do serious damage to a heat pump or A/C should the compressor continue to run.

• Fan problems. The condenser uses a large fan to blow the heat off the hot refrigerant. There could be a problem with its motor or the fan blade, which could be loose or bent.

Whenever you hear a humming air conditioner and it’s not working as it should or the sound is isn’t part of its normal operation, contact the pros at Air Assurance to diagnose and fix it. We proudly provide HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

A Room-by-Room Look at Where You Can Maximize Energy Efficiency

Increasing your home’s energy efficiency may not be out of your reach, regardless of your budget. Even the smallest efforts you make on a room-by-room lower the amount you use, leaving more money in your pocket.

Overall Improvements

• Look for air leaks around windows and exterior doors and seal with caulk or fresh weatherstripping.

• Identify areas in the attic where insulation is lacking and add more.

• Make a note to check the air filter for the HVAC system when it’s running often. Dirty filters increase energy bills and shorten the life of HVAC systems.

Living Areas

• As you upgrade your home’s electronics and entertainment system, choose Energy Star-rated models.

• Install reversible ceiling fans to use summer and winter for greater comfort. A fan increases comfort in the summer and when reversed, will actually warm the room in the winter.

Kitchen

• Use the ventilation fan in the summer to remove heat while cooking.

• Turn to the microwave and slow cookers during exceptionally hot weather. They use less energy and emit less heat than using the stove or oven.

• Run full loads in the dishwasher and let them air dry instead of using the dry cycle.

Bathrooms

• Run the ventilation fans when bathing during the summer to remove hot, humid air.

• Replace old or leaking faucets with WaterSense fixtures that use much less water.

• Turn the water heater down to 120 degrees F. Not only does it increase water heating energy efficiency, it also reduces the risk of scalding and extends the life of the water heater.

Bedrooms

• Whenever the HVAC system is running, make sure the windows are locked to prevent air infiltration.

• Use ceiling or floor fans to lower the “feels like” temperature when sleeping.

• Install shade screens on south- or west-facing windows that receive direct sunlight.

• Use smart power strips or surge protectors that turn off when it detects the devices are idle.

Taking steps to increase energy efficiency at home reduces your monthly overhead and often increases indoor comfort. For more information, contact Air Assurance, providing HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

How to Combat Your Allergies with Your HVAC System

We're always thrilled to see spring arrive in Broken Arrow, but with it come the inevitable discomforts of spring allergies. Fortunately you've got a friend in combating them that you may not have even been aware of: your HVAC system. Learn how to effectively use your HVAC system to get your household's suffering from allergies and other respiratory ailments under control.

Control Allergens at the Source

No matter what you're allergic to -- be it pollen, pet dander, dust, mold or chemical pollutants in your home -- they should be controlled at the source. Your springtime allergic reactions are most likely caused by flowering plants and the pollen they produce. Reduce the pollen that gets into your home by doing the following

• Keep doors and windows closed.

• Brush off clothes and pets before entering the home.

• Sequester pollen-bearing plants in one room with the door closed, until they are finished producing pollen.

• Fit wire mesh or plastic filters on window screens to block pollen when windows are open.

Trapping Pollen

Pollen that is circulating in your home's air can be trapped in the HVAC system with a good quality, pleated air filter. Low cost fiberglass filters won't do much to improve your indoor air quality, so choose a filter rated from MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) 8-12.

You might also look into some type of electrostatic filter to install in your HVAC system. These filters attract airborne particulates with an electric charge. The particles stick to the filter, which must be cleaned periodically to be effective. They are somewhat expensive, but on the other hand, will last a long time so don't have to be changed and discarded the way other filters do.

Room air purifiers may also help. They use HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters to clean air before it is recirculated. These portable models are sold according to the size room you want to purify. More effective are whole-house air cleaners, installed in the HVAC system.

For more on using the HVAC system to combat allergies, contact Air Assurance. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Do You Need Additional Insurance for Your HVAC Unit?

Your HVAC system contains some of your home's most essential and expensive equipment, so you need to have the assurance that it's fully protected against damage. HVAC insurance can provide this peace of mind, but it's vital to know if your equipment has adequate coverage now under your existing policies, or if you need to purchase additional insurance. Here's a look at the various ways your HVAC can be protected:

Typical HVAC Equipment Coverage Under Homeowners' Insurance

If damage occurs to your HVAC equipment from one of the named perils listed in your homeowner's policy, it's most likely covered. These types of events can include:

• Accidental fires

• Hail, wind or similar storm damage

• Vandalism and theft

• Power surges and lightning strikes

• Impact from falling objects, like a tree limb

• Floods caused by ruptured pipes

Exceptions to Homeowners' Insurance Coverage

If your HVAC system components are damaged accidentally, your homeowner's policy likely won't cover you for repairs or a replacement. Equipment breakdowns and failures due to normal wear, old age or maintenance issues aren't covered either. Plus, HVAC damage caused by flooding that occurs during a natural disaster isn't typically covered under standard homeowner's insurance, unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.

Major Appliance or Home Warranty Insurance

There are companies that offer supplemental warranties that act as insurance coverage against breakdowns/failures and the repair or replacement of major appliances and household equipment, such as your HVAC components. The cost of these policies can vary greatly, as well as the exact coverage and terms.

HVAC Contractor Service Plans

Reputable local HVAC contractors usually offer service plans for household heating and cooling systems. This kind of coverage focuses on preventive maintenance, so it's rather like a hedge against equipment breakdowns and failures. A good service plan should give you a variety of benefits that include twice-yearly maintenance visits, savings on parts, labor and after-hour service, extended warranties on new equipment, and priority service.To learn more about HVAC insurance or how our extended service plans can protect the comfort equipment in your Broken Arrow home, contact us today at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Using Voice-Enabled HVAC Products for Efficiency

"Siri! Play songs from my newest playlist!" "Alexa! Order more ink for my printer!" Smart devices simplify our lives in many ways. You can control virtually everything in your home by voice command -- including your HVAC system. Here's how you can use voice-enabled HVAC products in your home.

Voice-Controlled Thermostat

The first thing you need is a smart, WiFi-connected thermostat. This lets you control your HVAC system from your mobile device. You can program it to go into energy-saving mode while you're out of the house, or tell it to turn the system back on just a few minutes before you get home, so your house is comfortable when you arrive. It can also keep track of weather forecasts for your area and adjust accordingly.Furthermore, you can use an app to connect your WiFi thermostat with Alexa or a similar device, to control the temperature with your voice. Commands like, "Alexa, turn the temperature down to 68 degrees," can be issued from, say, your bedroom, and the adjustment will be made immediately, without your having to walk to the thermostat or even get out of bed!

Other Voice-Enabled HVAC Products

Your thermostat is just the beginning. There are all sorts of smart HVAC products that can make things easier and save energy. For instance, a smart fan senses when people are in the room and won't waste energy circulating air in an unoccupied space. And by connecting it to your voice-enabled device, you can tell it to speed up or slow down, as well as reverse the direction of the blades.You can also install smart vents. Air is distributed only to the rooms that have people in them, so you aren't heating or cooling empty bedrooms while everyone is in the living room. And with Alexa or another smart device, it's easy to say, "Turn off the vents upstairs," while you're downstairs in the kitchen making dinner. With smart HVAC devices, the possibilities are endless.To learn more about voice-enabled HVAC products, contact us at Air Assurance today. We're Broken Arrow's trusted source for heating and cooling solutions.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.