Tulsa, OK - Where Does Your Home Need Insulation Most?

Tulsa OK - Insulation Services

Making sure your home is well insulated is one of the best things you can do to boost energy efficiency and lower your utility bills. If you're planning to replace or supplement your home's insulation, it's important to know how to evaluate insulation, and which parts of your home need it the most.Where to startSome areas in your home are a higher priority than others when it comes to insulation. If you can invest in adding insulation to only one area, it should be your attic. Heat rises, and it can easily flow right out of your house if your attic doesn't have enough insulation.Other areasOf course, insulation should never end with your attic. An energy-efficient house should be well insulated throughout. A few other important areas include:

• Exterior walls

• Cathedral ceilings

• Foundations

• Floors, especially over an unheated garage

• Ducts

• Basements and crawl spaces

Evaluating insulationBefore you add insulation to your home, you should get an idea of how much insulation you already have, and what types of insulation are being used in your house. There are a few ways to do this.

• Contact a home energy auditor to perform a whole-house energy assessment, including an insulation check.

• Inspect the insulation yourself in unfinished areas where it might be exposed. Good places to check include exposed floors and walls in your attic, basement and crawl space.

• Inspect exterior walls through electrical outlets. To do this, first turn off the power to an outlet, then remove the outer cover. Shine a flashlight in to see the insulation, and remove a small piece if necessary.

R-valuesYou can judge the efficiency of new and existing insulation by its R-value. Insulation's R-value is a simple way to judge its resistance to heat conduction, and thus its efficiency. R-values are listed on the packaging when you purchase insulation. Most homes should be insulated with an R-value of at least R-30.For more information on adding insulation to your home, contact Air Assurance Heating and Air Conditioning. We've been serving the Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     Insulation Maintenance image via Shutterstock

Your Go-To Fall Maintenance Checklist

Now that the summer season is over and the kids are back in school, you may be wondering what's next for your household. Well, like any responsible homeowner, it's time to fill out that fall maintenance to-do list. Here are a few of our favorite tasks:

Set an Appointment with Your Technician

If you want to improve the performance of your HVAC system while also prolonging its operational lifespan, set up an appointment with a technician. He or she will check to make sure that everything is running smoothly, perform maintenance on the unit, and inform you of any problems.

Clean Your Floor and Ceiling Fans

Using your floor and ceiling fans is a great way to save energy and money by giving your HVAC equipment a bit of a rest. Just keep in mind that dust has possibly accumulated during the months prior to the season, so you should definitely wipe them down so that the dust doesn't spread and clog up your air.

Clean or Replace Your Air Filter

Once your HVAC system’s air filter has been clogged up with debris, harmful particulates can enter your air and your equipment won’t work as efficiently. Check your filter every 30 days and replace it as necessary for the best results.

Seal Cracks and Gaps Around the Home

For small problem areas, such as around your doors and windows, use caulking or weather-stripping to prevent air leakage. Bigger problems, such as gaps large enough where a rodent could get through, can be covered up with heavy-duty hardware cloth.

Unblock Your Registers

Many households experience a lot of activity over the summer, so it’s easy for registers to become blocked by boxes, furniture, or other such items. Take the time to go around to each register and make sure nothing is impeding its airflow. Also check to see that the registers are open and clear of dust and debris inside.

If you have any other questions about fall maintenance or home comfort needs, then the professionals at Air Assurance can help. We've been serving Broken Arrow and the surrounding area since 1985.

New Home HVAC System: Your Checklist

If you're moving into a new home, it's a good idea to get to know your new appliances and equipment. Turn things on, look at the owner's manual and find out all the dos and don'ts. And nowhere is that more important than with your new home HVAC system.

The HVAC encompasses the heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, all of which, when working at their peak, are designed to keep you comfortable. Of the several different kinds of systems, the most common is the forced air furnace and air conditioner, which use ductwork to distribute conditioned air. Whatever type of system you have, be sure to schedule a maintenance visit from your HVAC technician to check it for any potential problems. It always pays to fix things before they turn into major repairs or breakdowns. You don't want a breakdown in the midst of the cooling or heating season.

Here are a few tips for caring for your new home HVAC.

Caretaking for Your HVAC System

1. Change the air filter. This is the most important thing you can do with a forced air system. Change the filter whenever it's dirty to improve airflow and indoor air quality. Learn which type of filter works best with your system.

2. Maintain good airflow with your outside compressor/condenser. Clear away dirt, debris, leaves, weeds, grass, shrubs and limbs, as well as garden furniture and tools so that your condenser can adequately exhaust the heat that the refrigerant carries from the home.

3. Find out whatever you can about your HVAC system. How old is it? If your system is 10 years old or older, schedule a visit from the HVAC technician to check it out and see if it's the right capacity for your home so you can plan for the right size replacement when the time comes. Also, have the ductwork assessed to see if it needs repair or if it is adequate to deliver the right volume of air for your home.

To learn more about new home HVAC issues from Air Assurance. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area.

Preparing Your Thermostat for Cooling Season

With cooling season on the horizon, it's time to prepare your home and thermostat so they're optimized for comfort and energy efficiency. Here's how you can get ready for the coming change in weather and temperature.

Invest in New Thermostat Technology

If you rely on a basic digital control to regulate your home's HVAC system, you'll appreciate the convenience that a programmable thermostat provides. The Department of Energy (DOE) also advises that going programmable can save you up to 10 percent on your yearly HVAC energy consumption. When choosing a new thermostat, look for one that works with your type of HVAC equipment and also meshes with your usual weekly routine.

Prime Your HVAC for Summer Energy Savings

To reap the greatest savings, the DOE recommends programming your thermostat with different temperature adjustments for specific periods each day: lower when you're home and active, and higher when everyone is sleeping or away. These daily temperature adjustments can add up to sizable savings over time, because a one-degree change for eight hours brings a one-percent drop in annual energy consumption. You should also:

• Set the temperature at 78°F when you're at home and active.

• Increase it to 85°F at night and when the house isn't occupied.

• Don't be afraid to experiment to see if you can save more energy with a higher temperature. Do so incrementally, one or two degrees at a time, to avoid causing discomfort or overtaxing your cooling equipment.

• Never use the override function to make a big temperature adjustment in order to cool down the house faster. The cooling process won't speed up, but you can accidentally cool your home too much and end up wasting energy.

• Run your ceiling fans in tandem with your air conditioner to boost the cooling effect, but only in occupied rooms. With the blades moving counter-clockwise, the fan's air movement cools the skin, which lets you raise the temperature setting by up to four degrees.

For expert help getting your Broken Arrow home ready for the cooling season, contact us at Air Assurance.

Furnace Safety 101

Furnace safety is a timely topic as another cold winter comes on strong. Since Oklahoma’s among the top natural gas-producing states in the U.S., it’s no surprise that gas heating is the preferred choice for residential use. Like any home heating device, gas furnaces require periodic attention for proper maintenance and safe operation. Here are some furnace safety tips to ensure peace of mind and consistent heating comfort in the the coming winter.

Schedule professional maintenance.

All gas furnaces should receive an annual inspection and preventive maintenance by a qualified HVAC professional. The service includes verifying the integrity of critical components such as the heat exchanger as well as sensors that detect overheating and safety switches that shut down the system automatically. Tests to detect hazardous carbon monoxide gas in the system airflow are also included. Professional maintenance also supports furnace performance and efficiency for optimum heating comfort and lowest operating costs.

Keep the furnace area clear.

Don’t utilize the furnace closet or immediate vicinity to store flammable items such as boxes or clothes. Also, keep combustible liquids in a separate part of the house or garage.

Change the Filter

Change the furnace air filter at least every other month. A clogged filter impedes airflow that may overheat the furnace.

Inspect the Vent Pipe

Visually inspect the furnace vent pipe for deterioration, loosening joints or possible obstructions such as bird’s nests at the roof where the vent terminates.

Verify that the removable front cover of the furnace is securely installed.

New furnaces incorporate a safety interlock to prevent operation without a panel, which could pose a fire hazard. However, some older units do not have this protection.

Check the supply and return vents in each room.

To prevent overheating of the furnace, no more than 20% of the vents in the home should be closed at the same time.

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors.

If you don’t already have them, install carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home and outside every sleeping area. Replace the battery twice a year.

For more furnace safety advice, as well as annual furnace inspection and maintenance, contact the pros 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.

Insulation Costs - Winter Attic Safety and Savings

Tulsa Insulation Costs

Getting your attic sealed and insulated can boost your family's comfort and help you save energy both winter and summer. In our climate, temperatures in an unfinished attic can climb too high for safety many months of the year, so winter is the ideal time to have more insulating R-value added. Attic safety should still be a primary concern even when there's less risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, so be sure to take these steps before you or a hired pro begin insulating:

Always Wear Protective Gear

Your attic can contain all sorts of injury hazards, so anyone going up there to work needs to wear proper protective gear. This means durable clothing that fully covers the arms and legs, and head protection such as a sturdy hat or helmet. Gloves and safety goggles to protect hands and eyes are needed too, and a respirator to prevent inhalation of insulation fibers.

Set Up Walking Paths

Creating walkways in your attic can make it safer and easier to access areas that need sealing and insulating. First, move any obstacles so you have clear paths to different areas, then lay down 1x4 boards to form a one-foot wide walkway. To keep the boards from slipping and wobbling, screw or nail the ends of each one to the attic floor joists.

Prevent Accidental Shocks

Do a detailed check of your attic to find any obvious or hidden electrical hazards that may cause shocks or electrocution. Check for loose wiring at floor level, gnawed or damaged wires, and open junction boxes. If you find any problems, have them fixed by an electrician before you insulate.

Light Up the Space

Good visibility is paramount for safely working in an attic. If yours only has one or two single-bulb lights, one option is to have your electrician install more. Alternately, you can put a couple of appropriately-rated extension cords and movable work-lights up there so there's plenty of illumination to safely air seal and insulate the entire attic.

For more advice about attic safety 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.

January HVAC Maintenance To-Dos

Now that the new year is upon us, it's time to start thinking about January HVAC maintenance that will help improve your household. To help you out, we've compiled some quick tasks that you can add to your to-do list:

Replace the Air Filter

Now that the holidays are over and your guests have returned home, there's a good chance that your air filter has become a bit clogged and needs to be replaced. Some models can be cleaned instead, but the main point is to get an operational filter in your system so that it runs more smoothly. This will save you both energy and money on your monthly utility bill.

Contact an HVAC Technician

January is a great month to hire a qualified technician for the annual HVAC maintenance of your system. He or she will perform a tune-up of the system and pinpoint any problems that currently exist or could be an issue later on down the road. This maintenance will keep the unit running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, it will prolong the system's operational longevity.

Seal Air Leaks in Your Home

Air leaks throughout your home force your HVAC system to work harder in order to maintain a good comfort level. Find these air leaks and get them sealed with either weather stripping, caulk, or spray foam depending on the location and size. Around the edges of your doors and windows are a great place to start, and checking for tears in your home's ductwork is a good idea, too.

Check Your Registers

If you had a bunch of activity in your home over the holidays, there's a good chance that your registers have become blocked by furniture or simply gotten clogged up with dirt or debris. Make sure that the registers are clean and unobstructed to ensure proper airflow throughout your home.

For more expert advice on January HVAC maintenance or any other issues related to home comfort, reach out to the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving Broken Arrow and the surrounding area for over 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.

Questions to Ask During an HVAC System Estimate

If you're planning to update your home's HVAC equipment, you'll likely research reputable local contractors and get estimates from at least three. Before you obtain an HVAC system estimate, ask each contractor the following questions to help judge their industry knowledge, installation expertise and service quality:

How Do You Size New Equipment?

To ensure that the new equipment capacity matches your home's square footage and characteristics, a skilled HVAC contractor will advise you that they'll do a load calculation with Manual J, then select the right equipment using Manual S.

Will My Duct System Need an Upgrade?

Your existing ductwork has a big impact on how well your new equipment performs and your comfort. Experienced HVAC pros know this, so they will tell you they thoroughly inspect the installed ductwork to determine if its design and condition is up to par, based on Manual D guidelines.

Should I Compare Efficiency Ratings?

When you're getting an estimate for new HVAC equipment, a good contractor should willingly provide you with information on the upfront and lifetime costs of models at different efficiency levels. If you ask, a dependable HVAC pro will help you weigh your options to decide if you should invest in higher-rated equipment that gives you long-term savings on energy.

Do You Offer Preventive Maintenance Agreements?

Trustworthy HVAC contractors don't just install new equipment, they also offer expert preventive maintenance and repair services to keep your system working efficiently and reliably. An installer worth hiring should offer extended service protection plans that cover semi-annual planned maintenance, priority service, and savings on parts, labor and after-hours and weekend emergency assistance.

Are There Financing Options Available?

Well-established HVAC companies understand that new equipment is a major purchase for most homeowners, so they team with reputable local financial institutions to provide a range of financing options for their customers. If you ask about financing, you should expect your HVAC installer to give you good alternatives along with advice on how to apply.

When you need a customized HVAC system estimate on new equipment for 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 HVAC systems and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Whose Responsibility are Apartment Maintenance Requests?

If something breaks, leaks or stops working in your apartment, how do you know whether to handle it yourself or submit a maintenance request? The best course of action is to email or phone your landlord to ask who's responsible for making repairs. Here's a look at some common apartment maintenance issues and who generally takes care of them:

Malfunctioning Appliances

Appliances like the stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, washer/dryer and hot water heater get a lot of use, so they're bound to malfunction or break down occasionally. If the issue is with an appliance that came with the apartment, your landlord needs to get it fixed or replace it.

Carbon Monoxide/Smoke Detectors

A landlord should test safety devices like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in between tenants to make sure they're working properly. While you're living there, you're responsible for replacing the detector batteries if they die, and you'll want to put in fresh ones right away so you're fully protected.

Plumbing System Problems

Who handles plumbing repairs really depends on whether you, the tenant, caused the problem. For example, if you're not careful with the garbage disposal and it seizes up, or you flush something bulky that clogs the toilet, you'll probably have to hire a plumber. If a supply line or water pipes starts leaking, or the fill valve fails on the toilet, fixing it is your landlord's responsibility.

Defective Window and Door Locks

If the entry door lock breaks or a window lock comes apart, put in a maintenance request right away so your landlord can get it repaired or replaced so your apartment stays safe and secure.

Heating or Cooling Issues

If your apartment has an individual heating and cooling system, and it freezes up, stops producing conditioned air, or won't start at all, don't hesitate to contact your landlord. They'll likely have it looked at by the maintenance crew to determine if an experienced HVAC professional should be called in.

If you need expert advice about an apartment maintenance problem that involves the heating or cooling equipment, contact the Broken Arrow comfort pros 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 apartment maintenance and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Free-Photos/Pixabay”

Back-to-School Maintenance Tips

Now that summer is near its end, there's a good chance that your kids are all set to go with back-to-school supplies. What many homeowners forget, though, is that their HVAC equipment needs attention, too. Here are a few of our favorite maintenance tips to get done before we enter a new season:

Perform an Annual Check

If you want your HVAC equipment to last longer and run better, an annual check by a professional technician is definitely something you don't want to skip. By keeping up with a yearly maintenance schedule, your system will run more efficiently and you'll extend its overall operational lifespan.

Clean or Replace the Filter

Air filters are resilient pieces of equipment, but they don't last forever. It only takes 1-3 months, on average, for a filter to become clogged up with enough dirt and debris that it hurts the system's performance. Some filters can be cleaned and used again, while others must be replaced. No matter which type you have, consistent attention will keep your HVAC system in tip-top shape.

Maintain the Outdoor Unit

Your HVAC equipment's outdoor unit will get clogged up over the summer with things like dirt, leaves, and all sorts of other debris. Some homeowners even go out to discover a fallen bird nest! You can easily clean up the obvious stuff by hand, and then grab a hose and spray it down to get rid of anything that's left over.

Seal Holes in Your Ductwork

No matter how well you take care of your home, problems such as holes, gaps, and tears are likely to occur in your ductwork. This leads to a waste of energy as your heating or cooling system is forced to run longer to get the same results. Sealing these problem areas to keep things running smoothly.

For more expert advice on back-to-school maintenance, or if you have any other concerns related to home comfort, please don't hesitate to contact the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the HVAC 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 maintenance and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Wokandapix/Pixabay”

Ways to Protect Your Home Until Next Winter

While it may seem a little odd to be worrying about your furnace and heating system during months when you don't typically need them, the truth is that it's necessary. To get you started, here are a few tips that will help you protect your home until next winter:

Schedule Maintenance

If you've ever scheduled maintenance on your heating system after winter had begun, you already know that those days of waiting due to backed-up service contractors can be horrible. This is why your annual maintenance should be done during the warmer months. Even if you have to wait a few days, you won't be freezing during that time.

Check and Replace Your Air Filter

It's easy to forget about your furnace's air filter once the heating season has ended. This is the best time for you to take a look at the filter and see if it's ready to be replaced. This will ensure that once winter arrives, your furnace's efficiency will already be ready to provide you with exceptional service.

Upgrade Your Furnace

If you walk into a home appliance store during the late spring or summer and tell them you're looking for a new furnace, you're probably going to get a funny look or two, but that's okay. Since you're not in any hurry to warm up your home with a new system, you can take your time and find the best deal possible. If you need help in selecting the best one for you, seek the assistance of a professional.

Maintain Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

When your furnace is up and running in the winter, you must be sure that your home is protected from possible carbon monoxide leaks. This can be done by changing out the batteries of your current detector or installing a new model, if needed.

If you'd like more expert advice on ways to protect your home, or if you have any other home comfort concerns, please don't hesitate to contact the friendly professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the HVAC needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas since 1985.

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 maintenance and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “ArtsyBee/Pixabay”

Why it Pays to Invest in Preventive Maintenance

Everyone wants to save money, and when it comes to your HVAC systems, the more you save the better. One way in which you can save money, frustration and even wear and tear on your system is with preventive maintenance. Here are three reasons why investing in maintenance for your system is a wise choice.

Help Your Equipment Last Longer

If there's one thing you can do to ensure your air conditioner or furnace lasts as long as possible, it's preventive maintenance. Regular maintenance reduces stress and wear and tear on your unit, and helps ensure all of the parts stay in good working order. By investing in preventive maintenance, you can ensure you get the longest possible life out of your system.

Help Keep More Money in Your Pocket

Preventive maintenance saves you money in two ways. First, it lowers your energy bills by keeping your systems running at their most efficient levels. Maintenance will remove obstructions, oil moving parts and check all system components for signs of wear. By taking care of these small problems, the maintenance check can help improve the system's overall efficiency.In addition, regular maintenance helps save money by lowering your repair costs. At your annual maintenance check, your HVAC technician will catch small problems that you can address before they grow. This prevents the risk of a bigger, more costly breakdown later.

Help Protect You From System Failure

Finally, investing in maintenance will help protect you from system breakdown. Breakdowns are almost always at the least convenient time, and when you know your system's well maintained, you don't have to worry about it going out in the middle of the hottest or coldest day of the year.

Invest in Preventive Maintenance Now!

The bet time to have your maintenance done is in the spring before the cooling season and in the winter before the heating season.

If you are due for a maintenance check for your Broken Arrow home, the Air Assurance team is here to help. Contact Air Assurance to schedule a maintenance check 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 preventative maintenance and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “PeteLinforth/Pixabay”

How to Find Reputable HVAC Contractors

When you're in the market for an HVAC contractor, the process can become quite vexing. After all, you need to find a company that you can fully trust with essential systems that ensure a high level of home comfort. Our goal here is to make the process easier for you by providing a few simple tips.

Ask Around for Recommendations

If you can get a recommendation from someone you know -- family member, friend, or co-worker -- your search may be over only a few moments after it's begun. This is definitely the first step you should take.

Check Out Referrals

The first time you contact a new contractor, ask for a list of referrals of past clients. You can receive a fair sampling by choosing one or two letters from the alphabet, and then asking for referrals with last names that correspond to your choices.

Ensure NATE Certification

NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification provides testing on technicians to ensure vast knowledge of various HVAC systems and topics. If a potential company doesn't utilize certified technicians, go somewhere else for service.

Make Sure They're Attentive

While it's true that HVAC contractors typically have a lot of customers to deal with at any given time, that's certainly no excuse for providing bad service. You should always expect to be treated respectfully and responded to in a timely manner.

Check on Industry Knowledge

We're not talking about basic industry knowledge -- every HVAC company will obviously employ technicians who know their jobs. What you should look for, though, is a contractor that keeps up with evolving technology and techniques.

Take a Look at the BBB Website

The Better Business Bureau website is a great way to get a feel for the quality of an HVAC contractor. You can use the site to check out a company's ratings and see how they handled any complaints against them.

For more expert advice on how to find a reputable HVAC contractor, or any other home comfort concerns, contact the professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding area since 1985.

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 contractors and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “PeteLinforth/Pixabay”

Here's How to Know You're Working With a Quality HVAC Company

When your furnace is on the fritz, a dozen doubts and questions may run through your mind. "What's wrong now? How do I get it to work? Who do I call? How much will it cost?" and more. Suddenly, the quality and integrity of the company you invite into your home to assess and solve the HVAC problem becomes a principal factor. Use the following tips to narrow your field of companies and ensure you receive the quality customer service you deserve.

Testimonials and Reviews

You can find out a lot of information about companies these days with a few simple searches on the Internet. Many companies with websites may have a "Testimonials" page to browse. There are other Internet resources to research, such as Google reviews and Angie's List, that offer customer reviews. Your local Better Business Bureau provides reviews from actual customers, in addition to their popular rating system.

Years of Service

Quality matters, but so does quantity in terms of years in business. Why go with a rookie company when there are many veteran companies to choose from?If pricing is a factor when considering hiring a newer company, bear in mind that your HVAC system is only going to work as well as the quality of skills and customer service your HVAC company and technician bring to the table. Invest your time and resources in an HVAC company with a proven track record.

Business Best Practices

There are a few red flags to watch for. If a company asks you to pull permits, buyer beware! The individual may not be licensed. If an HVAC company doesn't provide you contact information to confirm that their insurance policies are up to date, move on to the next prospect.

The Fine Print

From the free estimate to the work order contract, get everything in writing! It's for your own protection and clarification of work to be performed, replacement parts, workmanship guarantees and manufacturer warranty.

For the best results, contact the experts at Air Assurance. We've provided superior customer service for our Broken Arrow customers 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 quality HVAC companies and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273. Credit/Copyright Attribution: “tumisu/Pixabay”

A Timeline for HVAC Maintenance and Replacements

HVAC systems are sophisticated machines that, hopefully, keep your home comfortable year-round. If you are like many homeowners, you may have questions about maintaining your system, how long it should last, or even how often you should change your furnace filter. That's normal. Read on to get a clear picture of the suggested HVAC maintenance timeline and the average service life.

HVAC Service Life

The service life of an HVAC system depends on many factors. The first factor is the quality of the installation. Installing an HVAC system entails calculating your home's load, sizing the HVAC units, and a ductwork evaluation for sizing, repairs, or replacement.The second factor for estimating service life is the manufacturing quality of any HVAC unit. In the long run, it's best to stick with a reputable, factory-authorized HVAC contractor that offers a good warranty and workmanship guarantee.

Lastly, the quality and frequency of HVAC maintenance determines how long your HVAC system lasts before you need to replace it. Following are widely accepted estimates of expected service life for common HVAC units:

• Central air conditioner: 10 to 15 years

• Central heat pump: 10 to 15 years

• Geothermal heat pump: Indoor components 25 years and outdoor ground loop 50 years

• Furnace: 15 to 20 years

• Ductless mini split: 20 to 30 years

• Ductwork: Metal ducts may last a lifetime

HVAC Maintenance Timeline

Scheduled professional HVAC preventive maintenance is a win-win situation to boost your comfort and save money by minimizing repairs and lowering energy bills. Your HVAC technician should visit your home in the spring and fall so you don't have to call him or her for repairs in the summer and winter!Following is a suggested HVAC maintenance timeline:

• Central air conditioner: Every spring

• Central heat pump: Every spring and fall

• Geothermal heat pump: Every spring and fall

• Furnace: Every fall

• Ductless mini split: Every spring or fall

• Ductwork: Every spring or fall

Don't push back your HVAC maintenance timeline or you may be replacing it sooner rather than later. Contact Air Assurance in Broken Arrow to schedule regular service 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). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “Clker-Free-Vector-Images/pixabay”

How Duct Maintenance Helps Ensure A Cool Home

There is nothing more frustrating than knowing that your air conditioner is running full blast, yet your home remains stuffy and hot. You may be surprised to learn that your ductwork could be the culprit for the inadequate or uneven cooling throughout your home. Duct maintenance is key for the efficiency and effectiveness of your air conditioner.Duct sealingBefore moving forward with any other type of duct maintenance, you must work with an HVAC contractor to inspect your ductwork for any cracks or leaks. It has been estimated by the federal Energy Star Program that an average of 20 percent of conditioned air is lost through leaky ductwork. This means your air conditioner must work considerably harder to keep up with your cooling needs, both increasing your energy bill while decreasing your home comfort. All leaks should be sealed by a professional for optimal performance.Duct cleaningEvery time your air conditioner cycles on, your ductwork takes on yet another layer of sticky dust and debris. Over time, this dirt and grime builds up, slowing the passage of air through your ducts. Not only will this decrease the amount of cool air that can reach each room of your home, but it will also lessen the amount of air that can be dehumidified in your space. This aspect of duct maintenance should be performed by a trained HVAC professional on an "as-needed" basis.Return ductsWhile your HVAC technician is performing duct maintenance, have him evaluate your current return-air ducts. Many homes do not have an adequate return path for air that needs to be cooled again. As your air conditioner pumps cool air into a room, there has to be a way for warmer air being pushed out to get back to your air conditioner to be cooled again. Without adequate return-air ducts, your home may experience uneven cooling. A contractor can work with you to add ductwork in your wall's cavities, through closets, pantries and other areas.For more expert advice on duct maintenance contact the experts at Air Assurance.  We're proud to serve Broken Arrow and surrounding areas.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). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Troubleshooting Tips For When Your Air Conditioner Doesn’t Cool

If your air conditioner isn't cooling down the house, or seems to be cooling at a slower rate than usual, there are a few things you can check out to see where the problem may be. Some of them are quite simple, others may require a bit of time or the help of a professional.

The most common and easily fixed problem is improper usage of the air conditioner. Have you ever had the air conditioning at full blast, only to walk into a room where your spouse or children have the window open? Leaving windows or doors open can lead to the air conditioner not working to its full potential. Be sure to close all windows and doors before operating.Other problems you can potentially solve on your own include the air conditioner completely failing, or a central air conditioner's compressor stopping. Should the first problem arise, you can check the fuses or the circuit breaker. Be sure to wait for the air conditioner to cool down before touching the breakers. Should the compressor stop working, check the high-pressure limit switch. If it is flipped, press the button in the compressor's panel.You can even prevent problems by making sure your air conditioner is properly maintained. Be sure to regularly clean filters and coils so your unit has a long life.By checking up on the above problems, you can have your air conditioner running smoothly on your own without having to make a call. Other issues such as refrigerant leaks or electric control failure (when the compressor and fan controls stop functioning properly) will need the service of a professional. In fact, a trained technician should be called in to service your A/C annually.If you would like more information on troubleshooting your air conditioner, contact us at Air Assurance today. We serve the Broken Arrow area.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     

Get The Dirt On Geothermal Cooling Alternatives

Summer brings with it heat surges and extremely high temperatures, which can be very uncomfortable. This warrants the use of a good quality cooling system to maintain comfort in your home. Geothermal cooling works by transferring heat collected from your home to the earth's crust. This is done using a refrigerant, which extracts the heat from your indoor air and circulates into a loop in the ground (or into a nearby water source), where the heat is released. Because geothermal cooling loops are placed under ground or under water, they don't experience the same wear and tear that an outdoor unit of a typical central air conditioner might. In fact, geothermal loops usually carry a life expectancy of 50 years, with a warranty to match. Indoor units usually have a life expectancy of approximately 25 years.While some may be hesitant to consider geothermal cooling due to the initial price tag, it's important to consider the year-round and long-term savings these systems offer. Since a geothermal heat pump simply moves heat energy from place to place to either cool or heat your home, it doesn't require the same level of energy as a typical A/C or furnace. Using the constant temperatures of the earth's surface, these systems can sometimes provide efficiencies of 300-600 percent during the winter, a significant improvement over even the highest efficiency furnace.In addition, tax incentives are still available from the federal government for geothermal installations. If you're considering geothermal cooling and heating for your Broken Arrow-area home, you could qualify for a credit of 30 percent of the total cost, with no upper limit.For more information on geothermal systems, or for expert advice, installation, maintenance or repair, contact us today at Air Assurance.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     

There's No Need For Electricity When Using An Absorption Heat Pump

Conventional heat pumps are energy efficient but not energy free. A large proportion of electricity is utilized by the compressor to pressurize the refrigerant that’s the lifeblood of the heat pump system. The absorption heat pump, a new technology that requires no compressor and has been previously used in large commercial installations, is now finding its way into some residential applications. Absorption heat pumps deliver efficiencies in the range of 140 percent. Only the first stage of the absorption process, where a water/ammonia mixture is heated, requires an energy source such as natural gas or propane. Solar heating can also be utilized to heat the solution, as well as energy transfer from underground geothermal sources.The solution of water and ammonia is boiled into a vapor that duplicates the heat-exchange properties of refrigerant. As the ammonia vapor passes through the condenser coil, it condenses back to liquid, rapidly shedding heat into the air. When the heat pump’s in heating mode, the indoor coil is the condenser and heat shed by the coil warms the interior of the home. In cooling mode, the ammonia solution reverses and the outdoor coil disperses heat extracted from the interior into outside air.The pressurized liquid passes through an expansion valve that rapidly drops the pressure, converting the liquid into a frigid vapor as it enters the evaporator coil. In the evaporator, the vapor absorbs heat from air passing over the coil. In heating mode, the outside coil extracts heat from outdoor air; in cooling mode, the indoor coil takes the heat out of room air. The heat-loaded ammonia vapor then begins a re-absorption process where it is dissolved back into a weak solution of ammonia and water, then conveyed to the generator for heating, and the process repeats.With 27 years in the community and the largest full-service HVAC fleet in Tulsa, Air Assurance is your premier source for heating and cooling products and service. For more information on the latest in cutting-edge HVAC technology, contact us today.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     

Energy Savings Tips For When You're Away From Home

It is finally time for a much needed vacation. You have planned your trip to the last detail, and you cannot wait to get out the door and on the road to your vacation destination. But wait, you might not realize your electronics and appliances need a vacation, too. Here are some energy-saving tips that can ease your mind and lower your energy bills while you are away from home:

• Turn off your air conditioning unit or set the thermostat on 85 degrees. You can save approximately one percent per degree you raise the temperature, provided that temperature change lasts for eight hours or more. This tip can save you beyond your vacation, as you can use these energy-saving settings while you're at work each day, or even while you're asleep. Install a programmable thermostat, and you won't have to lift a finger to save energy.

• If your trip will last longer than three days, turn off your hot water heater. Just set a reminder to turn it back on when you return. It should only take a few hours to reheat the water. Consider lowering the temperature on your hot water heater to save energy all the time. Chances are you won't even notice the difference.

• Turn off all the lights. Security lights can be set on a timer if necessary.

• Unplug all of your electronic devices. Televisions, DVD players, computers and most coffee makers suck up to 10 percent of your total electric usage by using energy when plugged in but not turned on; this is known as phantom energy. Many gadgets like cell phone chargers and most appliances are also culprits.

• Close curtains to keep the heat of the sun out.

• Fill your refrigerator with full bottles of water. Refrigerators are more efficient when full.

• Turn off the hot tub, as well as water fountains and outdoor pumps.

Now you are ready for that much needed and anticipated vacation. You deserve it. Contact us at Air Assurance today for more expert advice about energy savings in the Broken Arrow area.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!