Tips for Minimizing AC Strain During the Hot Summer Months

Summer is here, which means you can expect to run your AC virtually nonstop. It's necessary to beat the Oklahoma heat, but it also puts a lot of pressure on your system, which can wear it out more quickly, causing frequent breakdowns and shortening its life span. How can you keep that AC strain to a minimum while still keeping your home comfortable? Read on for a few tips.

• Keep the sun out. Close the curtains and blinds during the day to keep the hot sun out. Then, at night, consider opening a window or two to let cool air in that will linger into the next day, keeping the heat at bay.

• Avoid peak hours. Any hot activities you have to do, such as cooking, baking, and taking hot showers or baths should be saved for evening, once the sun is down. This will keep your home from getting too hot during the day and, thus, reduce AC strain.

• Replace filters. As dust and other contaminants build up in your air filter over time, they restrict airflow from your system. The less cold air you have, the longer it takes your home to reach your set temperature and the harder your AC has to work, which causes AC strain. Check the filter every month and replace it every three to six months.

• Perform ductwork maintenance. Ductwork leaks also reduce airflow. Look for holes, tears, and other damage to your ducts and repair them with metal tape or mastic sealant — or call your HVAC technician to do it. Also make sure that your ducts are properly insulated. If they're not, the cold air will gain heat as it travels from the system to your home, causing it to take longer to cool your home properly.

• Get a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can be programmed in coordination with your schedule and automatically switch to a more energy-efficient setting when you're not home. Your AC's workload is reduced, and you don't pay to cool an empty house.

For more help reducing the AC strain in your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We keep Broken Arrow's HVAC systems running at peak performance and efficiency.

Does the Summer Make HVAC Plumbing Issues Worse?

HVAC plumbing issues can occur in both the heating and cooling seasons. In winter, high-efficiency, two-stage furnaces produce condensation in the heating process. During summer, however, it’s the central air conditioner that generates the most condensation and the greatest potential for HVAC plumbing issues. 

Condensation forms as warm, moist indoor air flows through the AC evaporator coil inside the indoor air handler. During hot summer weather, a typical air conditioner produces between 5 and 20 gallons of condensate daily. Water from the coil drips into the condensate drain pan that's installed beneath the air handler, then flows into a household drain line. In some installations, a condensate pump removes water from the drain pan.

Condensate-Drainage Issues

Plumbing issues caused by condensate may originate at several points in the air-conditioning process:

• A crack or hole in the condensate drain pan

• A clogged drain line, often caused by algae or mold growth originating in the drain pan, which causes the pan to overflow

• A defective condensate pump

Coil Icing

Icing forming in the AC evaporator coil reduces system airflow and may eventually trigger an automatic system shutdown. Ice accumulation often extends outside the coil. As melting occurs when the system shuts down, water may not be contained by the pan, causing water damage around the indoor air handler. 

Preventing HVAC Plumbing Issues

To minimize the potential for water damage due to plumbing issues, take these preventive measures:

• Schedule annual professional maintenance by a qualified HVAC contractor. This service includes checking proper function of the AC drain components, including the condensate drain pan and drain line. If mold or algae growth is causing clogs, the pan and drain line can be cleaned and treated with germicidal solutions to kill mold and algae, as well as prevent recurrence.

• Resolve causes of evaporator-coil icing. These include maintaining proper system airflow with regular monthly air-filter replacement. Because low refrigerant charge may also trigger coil ice, annual AC preventive maintenance, including checking and verifying the refrigerant level, is also recommended.

For more advice about HVAC plumbing issues, contact the professionals at Air Assurance.

How to Prevent Your AC Freezing Up in Summer

An HVAC freezing up in summer is a unit that needs prompt attention. While air conditioners are supposed to produce cold air, ice formation is definitely not part of this process. No component in a properly functioning central AC should generate temperatures that drop below freezing. 

Most everything about an HVAC freezing up in summer is bad news:

• First, a frozen air conditioner will not produce cool comfort anymore. Often, the unit may shut down entirely. Because freeze-ups often happen when outdoor temperatures are excessively high, this can mean very uncomfortable living conditions until the problem is resolved.

• Ice forming inside indoor evaporator coil passages gradually obstructs system airflow. This, in turn, causes the system to run longer cycles. As airflow becomes increasingly obstructed, the system runs nearly nonstop. By that time, severe, permanent damage to the compressor — the most costly component in a typical central AC — may have occurred.

What Causes AC Freeze-Ups?

• Low system airflow. When airflow through the indoor evaporator coil drops below specifications, the temperature of refrigerant circulating through the coil may plunge below freezing. Condensation naturally forming on the coil then freezes, eventually obstructing the coil. The best insurance to support optimum HVAC airflow is replacing the system air filter every month all summer long. This is an effective, affordable measure to help avoid an HVAC freezing up in summer.

• Refrigerant leaks. When the AC refrigerant charge drops too low, coil icing is a common early symptom. Air conditioners don’t consume refrigerant, so if the amount circulating through the system is insufficient, that usually indicates a leak somewhere. A qualified HVAC technician has the equipment to track down and repair these small refrigerant leaks. Then, the system's refrigerant charge can be restored to proper specifications.

If your HVAC freezing up in summer threatens your indoor comfort, ask the cooling professionals at Air Assurance about qualified HVAC service to resolve the problem. 

Which Kind of Ductwork Material Should You Use for Your HVAC System?

Your ductwork plays the critical role of directing heated or cooled air from your HVAC system to different parts of your home. It's also the channel through which air is returned to your furnace or air handler to be treated. You can choose between different ductwork materials, with each having its own perks and quirks. Let's explore the different types of ductwork material to help you identify the best one for your heating and cooling needs.

Sheet Metal

This type of ductwork is made of aluminum or galvanized steel. It's very durable, and its nonporous surface makes it the least likely to develop biological growth. The smooth interior surface usually traps particles like dust. If you choose sheet metal for your home, it's advisable to have the ducts cleaned by a professional occasionally to maintain good indoor air quality.

Fiberglass

Some sheet metal ducts have an internal or external fiberglass lining to insulate against heat loss. The lining lowers the HVAC system's sound, making it a popular option for offices and commercial buildings. With a sealed interior lining, the fiberglass ducts will need intense cleaning, which can reduce durability. Fiberglass ductwork can also be contaminated with mold and bacteria.

Fiberboard

Fiberboard ductwork is usually the most inexpensive ductwork system to install. It's constructed with resin-bonded fiberglass strands. The exterior has foil that serves as a water retarder and air barrier. The strands make the interior textured. Consequently, the crevices can trap dust and debris, posing an indoor air-quality concern. The rough surface can affect airflow and efficiency.

Flexible Ducts

Flexible ducts comprise a steel spring coil encapsulated in thick plastic. They're lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. Their flexibility makes them ideal for installation in tight spaces that can't accommodate rigid ductwork. Flexible ducts have inner ribs that cause more airflow restriction than sheet metal ducts.

Kinks, turns, and bends should be minimized during flexible duct installation, as they can hurt HVAC performance. Therefore, it's essential to work with a quality HVAC installer. Flexible ductwork is good for indoor air quality.

The best ductwork material for your home will depend on its overall design and your specific circumstances, such as the need for noise reduction or heat retention, as well as your budget. An experienced HVAC professional can give you proper guidance on ductwork material. Contact Air Assurance if you need assistance with any HVAC-related issues in the Broken Arrow area.

Safety Tips If You Have an Emergency Power Generator

Power outages can be inconvenient and pose a risk to your health, as essential appliances like a heating and cooling system, medical equipment, and refrigerators stop working. While an emergency power generator can power all your necessities and provide comfort and safety, they pose life-threatening risks like electrocution and carbon monoxide poisoning. Here are some crucial safety tips to help you avoid potential dangers.

Use Outside Only

When your run an emergency power generator inside your house, shed, or garage, the carbon monoxide levels in its exhaust can become lethal in minutes. Don't run the generator indoors, even with an open door. Choose a location that's 20 feet or more away from your house. Also, ensure the exhaust doesn't blow against a neighbor's home or your home.

Purchase the Right Outdoor Extension Cords

Buy and use outdoor extension cords that match the generator outlet you want to connect them to. Use a 20-amp extension cord for a 20-amp outlet. Use 3-wire cords.

Don't Back-Feed

Back-feeding occurs when electricity flows in the reverse direction. When using an emergency power generator, back-feeding occurs when you use a generator power cord to plug into appliance outlets, such as your range or dryer. Back-feeding energizes your whole house, and the generator most likely can't handle that type of load. Electricity can also travel back through the main panel to the transformer.

Back-feeding poses a safety risk to you, your family members, neighbors, and utility workers. Therefore, don't back-feed.

Place It on Level Ground

The lubrication systems of many small generators scoop oil and then splash it onto the moving parts. Placing the generator on a slope can make some parts of the engine run dry because of the crankshaft dippers not reaching all the oil. Place the generator on a level spot.

Allow the Generator to Cool Down Before Refueling

A minor spill when refueling a hot generator can cause a fire. Wait for 10 or more minutes before refilling to allow the generator to cool down.

Unsafe use of an emergency power generator can lead to a tragedy. For your generator to be the lifesaver it's supposed to be, make sure you always use it correctly. If you're looking for an award-winning HVAC and plumbing contractor in Broken Arrow, contact us at Air Assurance.

How Do You Handle Mold in HVAC Systems During the Summer?

Mold colonies can damage property and possessions and cause health problems for those in your home. Significant mold growth will emit a foul, musty, and earthy odor. During the summer, mold in HVAC systems can also become a substantial problem that affects your home's indoor air quality, the health of its occupants — and your pocketbook. Read on to learn where to look for mold in HVAC systems and how to go about mitigating mold problems.

Mold in the HVAC Filter

The HVAC filter is an important device that protects vital parts and ductwork from dirt and grime buildup. However, the air filter also traps mold spores that can develop into mold growth. Check the filter and surrounding area each month for mold in HVAC filters. If you do see mold, remove the filter, clean the affected area, and install a new filter.

Mold in the Evaporator Coil

One of the vital components of the HVAC system that the air filter helps protect is the evaporator coil. Mold spores that aren't trapped by the air filter can collect and grow on the coil. If you see mold on the evaporator coil, use a spray-on foam coil cleaner to destroy the mold and to remove dirt and grime.

Mold in the Condensate Pan and Line

The condensation that collects on the evaporator coil drips into a condensate pan. From there, condensation flows through a condensate drain tube. If you want to find and remove all mold in HVAC systems, you'll need to check the condensate pan and line. For mold removal, pour a quart of a 50/50 concoction of water and bleach into the pan.

Mold in the Ductwork

The air ducts are the lungs of your HVAC system, and they are just as susceptible to mold growth as the other HVAC parts are. Mold growth in the air ducts should be mitigated by a professional duct cleaning done by a professional, such as your HVAC contractor. Duct cleaning and mold removal will improve your indoor air quality only if it is done correctly.

If you need help mitigating mold on the HVAC parts and in the drains and ducts in your Broken Arrow home, please contact the HVAC professionals at Air Assurance right away.

What Are the Best Energy Saving Tips for Summer?

With summer on the horizon and warmer weather on the way, it's time to get your Broken Arrow home more energy-efficient. Maybe you already use energy saving tips for summer, such as turning the thermostat up at night and during work hours and checking your HVAC filter each month. You can add to those two great energy savers with the following six energy saving tips for summer.

Prepare Meals Outdoors

When you prepare meals in the oven and on the stovetop, a substantial amount of heat is generated, warming your home. The thermostat senses the rise in temperature and your AC system turns on. Consider cooking more meals outdoors on the grill. Not only will you save energy, you can have a great time with family and friends.

Dry Laundry Outdoors

The higher temperatures of summer can be of service. Air dry your laundry outside. You'll save energy, your clothes will smell fresh, and the clothes dryer won't be generating heat inside your home.

Water Heater Energy Savings

Did you know that only your AC and heating systems use more energy than the water heater? Another point to ponder: Your water heater runs and uses energy around the clock all year. Your AC and heating units probably don't run 24/7/365, so turning back the water heater temperature on the thermostat to 120 degrees can save a lot of energy.

Seal Up Your Home

Sealing air leaks in your home's envelope helps reduce the cooling load on your AC system, making it one of the best energy savings tips for summer. Ensure the hatch or door to the attic is well sealed with foam weatherstripping. If you have drafty windows and doors, seal them with caulk and weatherstripping.

Schedule AC Maintenance

If you want your AC to operate at peak efficiency, it needs to be serviced each year, one of the essential energy saving tips for summer. Schedule AC maintenance with your HVAC contractor. Professional maintenance locates and fixes small problems before they become expensive problems, and it helps keep your home more comfortable for less money.

Start off with your list of energy saving tips for summer by contacting Air Assurance and scheduling professional AC maintenance.

What Is the Best Whole House Air Purifier?

We might not have to worry much about urban smog around Broken Arrow, but dust, allergens, and harmful microbes are still common air-quality issues. By using multiple air-cleaning methods, the best whole house air purifier models help protect you from all these pollutants.

Choosing Air-Purification Methods

Some in-duct systems use a prefilter, such as a HEPA filter, to trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other particles. Those that include an electronic ionizer catch particles too small for filters to handle. Air purifiers do more than just trap particulate pollutants, though. Many include ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lamps that neutralize even the smallest viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. Rather than physically trapping these microbes, the light breaks them down to prevent them from reproducing. Systems that use a gas-phase air filter, such as activated carbon, absorb harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors that slip through particulate filters and are among those that are the best whole house air purifier.

Relatively new on the market are photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) systems. These systems neutralize organic air contaminants by shining UV light at a catalyst (usually titanium dioxide), which breaks down organic pollutants in the air passing through. These systems handle both microbes and gaseous contaminants.

The Best Whole House Air Purifier Options

REME HALO In-Duct Air Purifier. Using proprietary Reflective Electro Magnetic Energy technology, this system safely oxidizes and neutralizes mold spores, bacteria, viruses, VOCs, and smoke particles. It was originally designed to correct sick-building syndrome.

D200 Dual Lamp Air Purifier. This PCO system neutralizes viruses, bacteria, and mold spores as well as VOCs. It also includes an activated carbon filter to absorb gaseous pollutants and odor-causing compounds not broken down by the PCO light.

REKO Lighting R2000 Air Purifier. This easy-to-install UVGI light system neutralizes bacteria, viruses, and mold spores but doesn't work against any other type of pollutant. If mold is your main problem, though, it's a good choice. 

If you could use some help finding the best whole house air purifier for your needs, contact us at Air Assurance.

What Advantages Are There to a Home Plumbing Diagram?

For most homeowners, your pipes tend to be a bit of a mystery. You know they're there, but if your plumber asked you to show them the locations of specific pipes and what they do, would you be able to do it? This is important information, especially when having extensive work done on them. That's why it's essential to have a home plumbing diagram. Here's what you need to know about them.

What Is a Home Plumbing Diagram?

A home plumbing diagram is a rough blueprint of your home, showing exactly where all of the pipes are and what they do. If you're doing work on your home, such as adding an extra bathroom, the plumbers will need to have that diagram to know how and where to connect the new pipes to the old. Likewise, if your plumbing needs major repairs, your plumbers may need to know where to access which pipes.

You can usually obtain your home plumbing diagram from your local county clerk or registrar for a nominal fee. Once you have it, keep it in a safe place with your other important documents so you're ready to show it in a plumbing emergency.

Types of Pipes on Your Home Plumbing Diagram

What will your diagram show? There are four basic types of pipes, which, on your home plumbing diagram, will be color-coded for differentiation. First is the fresh water supply. This denotes the pipes that carry water from the municipal water supply to your faucets, spigots, etc. There are also hot-water lines, which bring water from your water heater to most of the same places.

Then there are the waste pipes. They carry the water which flows down your drains and into the sewer. Finally, the venting pipe takes the sewer gases that build up in your pipes and vents them out through the roof. If your venting pipe is poorly installed, it may cause your home to smell like sewage.

For help with these and other home-plumbing needs, contact us at Air Assurance. We provide quality repair and renovation solutions to Broken Arrow.

What Is a Thermostatic Expansion Valve and How Does It Work?

Your HVAC system has a host of complex components, all of which serve essential functions in heating and cooling your home. Take the thermostatic expansion valve (TXV), for instance. What does it do and why is it important? Let's take a look.

What Is the Thermostatic Expansion Valve?

The TXV is designed to improve AC efficiency. Simply put, it controls the flow of refrigerant as it flows into the evaporator. I.e., as it turns from a liquid to a gas. By limiting the refrigerant flow, the thermostatic expansion valve allows for more efficient heat transfer.

It also helps keep your AC system from breaking down. The controlled release ensures that all the refrigerant has been turned to vapor when it leaves the evaporator and enters the compressor. If liquid refrigerant is allowed to enter the compressor, it can cause serious damage to your unit.

Problems With Your Thermostatic Expansion Valve

In order to regulate refrigerant flow properly, your thermostatic expansion valve must open a specific amount at a specific time. If it opens too wide, then too much refrigerant flows through the evaporator. If it doesn't open wide enough or doesn't open at all, then the refrigerant won't reach the evaporator.

This is usually caused by moisture or other contaminants in the system which jam the TXV, causing it to stick. It's a simple-enough problem to fix, though it's not always easy to diagnose. This is because the symptoms of the problem look similar to those of a low refrigerant charge. A technician may see the problem, assume the system needs more refrigerant, and recharge it. However, this will typically only damage the TXV further.

This is why it's important to hire an HVAC technician who knows what they're doing and can diagnose issues properly. An expert knows what signs to look for and how to tell the difference between low refrigerant and a broken TXV, ensuring a proper diagnosis.

For expert help with your thermostatic expansion valve and any other HVAC components, contact us at Air Assurance. We know how to keep Broken Arrow's home-comfort systems running smoothly and efficiently.

How an HVAC Zone Control System Can Save You Money This Summer

Does your family fight the Thermostat Wars? One side thinks it's too hot and turns down the thermostat. The other thinks it's too cold and turns it up again. It's a long, drawn-out battle that can last all summer — and drive your energy bills up in the process. Fortunately, HVAC zone control lets everyone in the house have their ideal temperature without disturbing anyone else or wasting energy.

What Is HVAC Zone Control?

There are several reasons for Thermostat Wars. The first is biology. On average, women prefer temperatures around 77 degrees, while men prefer temperatures around 71 degrees. The other reason is physics. Heat rises, so if you have multiple stories, the top floors will be hotter than the ground level. Likewise, if one side of the house gets direct sunlight, there will be a significant temperature difference.

HVAC zone control splits the house into zones according to their individual temperature needs. Then, each zone gets its own thermostat that the occupant of that zone can set to his or her preference. If one zone is warmer, the system sends more air there. If another is cooler, air is diverted from that zone. This way, everybody's happy and comfortable.

How HVAC Zone Control Saves Money

While a regular HVAC unit blows full blast all the time, your HVAC zone control system uses a variable-speed air handlerto control the amount of air each room gets. Only giving each area what it needs ensures no air or energy is wasted.

You can also set which rooms are occupied at any given time. If the whole family is downstairs, you can turn off the upstairs zones, saving air and money. You can even program the thermostat according to your sleep schedule. The living room gets more air during the day, but at night, that zone turns off and the bedrooms get the air instead, thus saving money and bringing a peaceful end to the Thermostat Wars once and for all.

To install an HVAC zone control system in your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We provide energy-efficient home-comfort solutions to the Broken Arrow area.

AC Unit Freezing Up in Summer? Learn What to Do.

If your AC suddenly stops working, then the unit may be freezing up. Why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Here's what you need to know about your AC unit freezing up in summer.

Why Does My AC Freeze Up?

There are several possible reasons for an AC unit freezing up in summer. Most common is lack of airflow. If not enough cold air is flowing from your vents, it likely also means not enough warm air is flowing across your coils, causing them to freeze.

Or, rather than the airflow, it may be the coils themselves that are blocked. If a lot of dust accumulates on them, it acts as insulation. Warm air blows across the coils, but it's absorbed by the dust, so the coils themselves stay cold.

You also may be low on refrigerant. This interferes with the compressor's conversion of the liquid refrigerant into a gas. As a result, too much cold is generated, causing ice to build up on the coils.

How to Fix It

In all these situations, the results are cumulative. If left unchecked, ice continues to build up over time, damaging your system. If you see your AC unit freezing up in summer, check for ice crystals on the evaporator coil of the outdoor unit. Ice may accumulate in other places too. Shut the system off completely and let it thaw. This may take several hours. If it continues freezing repeatedly, you may need to take additional steps to get to the root of the problem.

How to Stop It

First, see if something is blocking your HVAC airflow. It could be a clogged filter or damaged ductwork, or the fan or blower motor might be broken or running too slowly. If it's the latter, call your HVAC technician.

To prevent dust building up on your coils, clean them regularly with a brush and a hose. Finally, call your HVAC technician to check your refrigerant level and recharge it if necessary.

For help stopping your AC unit freezing up in summer, contact us at Air Assurance. We keep Broken Arrow homes comfortable year-round.

Learn How to Compare Energy Costs

Heating and cooling systems, such as central air conditioners and furnaces, account for some of the highest energy costs in homes. That’s why it’s so important to compare energy costs when you need to get a new HVAC system. Keep the following tips in mind for comparing energy costs for different kinds of HVAC systems.

Consider the Energy Source

One of the first factors to consider when you compare energy costs is the source of energy an HVAC system uses. For example, some furnaces use natural gas to produce heat, while others use electricity. In this case, you would need to compare energy costs for natural gas vs. electricity as an energy source.

Gas vs. Electricity

Will it cost you less to get an HVAC system that uses natural gas or one that runs on electricity? You’ll need to find out the average costs of these utilities in your area to determine this. While these costs can vary, natural gas usually costs less than electricity overall. This means you’ll likely pay less when you heat your home with a gas furnace compared to an electric one. Keep in mind that both gas and electric costs fluctuate, so the cost of heating your home with either option could go up at times.

HVAC Needs

In addition to considering the cost of natural gas vs. electric, think about how much you normally use your heating and cooling system. This depends on local weather conditions, which can change drastically at times, as well as your individual comfort. If you usually turn your thermostat up quite a bit in winter, going with a lower energy source, such as gas, could save you money compared to running an electric furnace often.

If you need to compare energy costs for a new HVAC system, please contact the experts at Air Assurance. We can assist you with choosing the most cost-efficient HVAC system for your Broken Arrow home.

Make Sure to Get a Quality Air Duct Cleaning

You might not think too often about the ductwork in your Broken Arrow home, but it could be affecting your indoor air quality (IAQ) and HVAC efficiency. When you have air ducts that are filled with dust or other debris, you could be breathing in these particles when your heating or cooling system is running. Learn more about quality air duct cleaning, including how it’s done, so you can have healthier indoor air and a more efficient HVAC system.

How Quality Air Duct Cleaning Works

Since your air ducts are hard to get to, it’s not a good idea to attempt to clean them on your own. While you can wipe down the outer surfaces of vents and registers on your own, you should have professional duct cleaning done. When you have this type of cleaning done, professional HVAC experts come to your home and use the right tools and equipment to remove debris from your ductwork. In some cases, this might require the removal of mold or other harmful particles. These professionals generally start by using tools to loosen dirt and other debris inside air ducts. Once this debris is loosened, they typically use a high-powered vacuum cleaner to remove it from your air ducts. This helps prevent these particles from contaminating the air inside your home.

The Importance of Quality Air Duct Cleaning

When you have professional air duct cleaning done, it’s important to ensure it’s done properly. Professional HVAC technicians should clean every component that is part of your ductwork, along with any other HVAC components that could be contributing to debris buildup in your ducts. Cleaning all of these components helps lower the risk of having contaminants or pollutants build up inside your air ducts again. This helps keep the air inside your home cleaner when your cooling or heating system is running.

If you need quality air duct cleaning for your Broken Arrow home, contact Air Assurance today. We can thoroughly clean your ductwork to help improve your IAQ.

What is AFUE and How Does It Work?

When you’re looking at new gas furnaces, you might notice that they have an AFUE rating. What is AFUE? This refers to the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, which measures how efficient a gas furnace is. Knowing what is AFUE can help ensure that you choose the best gas furnace for your home in Broken Arrow.

How Does the AFUE Rating Work?

What is AFUE? The AFUE rating lets you know how well a gas furnace is able to turn natural gas into energy. You’ll see the AFUE rating as a percentage on descriptions of gas furnaces. The percentage tells you how much of the energy that a gas furnace uses turns into actual heat. For example, an AFUE rating of 85% would mean that 85% of the energy a gas furnace uses is turned into heat. What happens to the remaining energy? The other 15% is energy that the gas furnace consumes during the process of heating your home. A higher AFUE rating indicates that a gas furnace is more energy-efficient compared to furnaces with lower AFUE ratings.

What AFUE Rating Should a Gas Furnace Have?

New gas furnaces must have an AFUE rating of at least 78%, so you won’t see any that go below this amount. AFUE ratings can vary considerably, but what is AFUE (and what value is it?) if you can't get a furnace with a higher rating. For example, a gas furnace with an AFUE rating of 95% will provide much better energy efficiency than a gas furnace with an AFUE rating of 80%. In general, gas furnaces with AFUE ratings between 80% and 85% are considered mid-efficiency furnaces. Those that range between 90% to 97% are considered high-efficiency furnaces. Keep in mind that a higher AFUE rating results in more energy savings, since your new gas furnace will be heating your home more efficiently.

Now, you won't have to ask "What is AFUE?" ever again. If you’re looking for a new furnace for your Broken Arrow home, please contact Air Assurance. Our HVAC experts can help you choose a new furnace with a higher AFUE rating so you can save on energy costs.

Programmable Thermostat Installation Doesn't Have to Be Hard

With a programmable thermostat, you can set your home's temperature higher or lower (depending on the season) when nobody's around to save money on energy bills. But as easy as it may look, programmable thermostat installation is a process you shouldn't take lightly. Even the smallest error can affect your entire HVAC system and cause costly damage. Let's take a look at what installation entails and why DIY installation isn't a good idea.

Programmable Thermostat Installation Requirements

To install a programmable thermostat correctly, you'll need basic electrical knowledge and a good understanding of your HVAC equipment.

Some types of programmable thermostats are incompatible with some HVAC equipment. For example, the common smart thermostats are not compatible with line voltage HVAC systems. What's more, even if a programmable thermostat is compatible with your equipment, you'll need to ensure that you have enough wires for proper installation.

If you lack expertise in wiring when setting up newer programmable thermostats, you risk electrocuting yourself. You could also send excessive current through the device and damage it. Other consequences of incorrect programmable thermostat installation include:

• Blowing your circuit breaker

• Poor thermostat location, leading to HVAC inefficiency

• Damage to the electrical system or HVAC system

Warranty

Manufacturers usually protect themselves from user negligence. Therefore, installing the thermostat yourself and causing damage in the process is likely to result in the loss of warranty coverage. Some manufacturers even void the warranty if a professional doesn't install the device. Consequently, you'll pay for damages out of pocket if the thermostat malfunctions unexpectedly.

Installing a thermostat incorrectly could lead to damage worth hundreds or thousands of dollars. To avoid damage and injury, you should hire an HVAC professional. If you need programmable thermostat installation or repair services in the Broken Arrow area, contact us at Air Assurance. We've helped our satisfied residential and commercial clients efficiently meet their comfort needs since 1985.

PSO Air Conditioning Tune Up Rebate

SCHEDULE A PROFESSIONAL AC 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.

PSO AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP REBATE

As a PSO account holder you could be eligible for a $75 instant rebate when you have your air conditioning system tuned up this spring and summer 2021. There are some specific qualifications to be eligible for the PSO AC Tune Up rebate that must be met, including a Pre and Post assessment of the data. Call Air Assurance for details and either way, having your air conditioning system professionally serviced is always recommended for peak performance optimization, and staying ahead of any breakdowns.

For help with residential air quality testing in your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We help keep homes comfortable, efficient, and breathable in Broken Arrow.

What Would Require an AC Hose Repair?

You may be surprised that one of the most frequent, damaging, and expensive AC fixes is an AC hose repair or a condensate line repair. What often happens is the AC hose becomes clogged or the pump fails, and then water spills over inside the home. This water could damage ceilings, walls, flooring, and other areas where the AC is located. To help prevent that from happening to you, we've put together common reasons for an AC hose repair and fixes for you to keep handy.

How an AC Condensate Hose Works

Your central AC system is designed to keep your home cool by removing heat energy from circulating air. During this process, moisture and humidity are also removed. This moisture collects on a coil and drips into a condensate pan. The condensate flows into a hose or pipe. The hose may lead to a pump, where the water is pumped out of your home, or the hose may lead outside and drain the water out by gravity. When something goes wrong with either process, you need AC hose repair.

Nesting Place

You don't use your AC all year long. During the months that it's not in use, the AC hose makes a perfect place for bugs and tiny critters to nest. Nests and other debris can cause a blockage in the AC hose, which would require an AC hose repair by your HVAC technician. The hose needs to be blown or sucked out to clear the line.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

Another problem that would require an AC hose repair is a problem with the condensate pump. The condensate pump should be located by the indoor AC unit. There is probably a 1-inch PVC pipe extending into the pump to drip condensate. Check the pump to see if it is cracked and leaking water. Next, if the pump is full and not working, it's best to replace the pump. Turn off your AC and call your technician.

If you need professional HVAC assistance with an AC hose repair in your Broken Arrow-area home, please contact the pros at Air Assurance!

What Is the History of HVAC?

Have you ever wondered about the history of modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)? It's actually quite interesting. The history of HVAC spans 180 years. It travels from its roots in Florida to the first inkling of a modern system in New York. Then, it heads west to its first well-designed system located in a Los Angeles theater. Relax, grab a snack, and read about the history of HVAC.

History of HVAC: A Physician's Vision

Dr. John Gorrie was a Florida physician and inventor. He envisioned a machine capable of cooling entire cities. This cooling machine would keep hospital patients comfortable and keep malaria at bay. So, he wanted a cooling machine to improve the health of people.

Dr. Gorrie invented a machine that created ice using a compressor powered by water, sails, a horse, or steam. He was granted a patent. However, his financial backer passed away — and so did Dr. Gorrie's dream.

History of HVAC: Willis Carrier

In 1902, an engineer named Willis Carrier invented a machine that could control indoor humidity using cooling coils. This "Apparatus for Treating Air" could humidify or dehumidify a room. As he continued working, testing, and refining his invention, he designed and patented an automatic control system, which could regulate temperature. It was the first modern air conditioner.

The first time this new concept of comfort cooling was introduced to the public was in 1904. The mechanical refrigeration technology was used to cool the Missouri state building. However, it wouldn't be until the 1920s when the first well-designed HVAC system was made and used in the Metropolitan Theater in Los Angeles.

History of HVAC: HVAC Comes Home

It took another 20 years, during the 1940s, before HVAC systems were designed small enough and affordably enough to be installed in thousands of homes. By the close of the 1960s, new-home construction mostly included central HVAC systems. Today, more than 87% of all U.S. households use HVAC.

While the history of HVAC is interesting, you may be more concerned about HVAC service, so when you need help with your HVAC system, please contactAir Assurance.

How to Make Sure You Get Energy Efficient AC Motors

With warmer weather just around the corner, you may be wondering if your utility bills are going to be as high as last year's. It's true that your energy bills have a lot to do with the HVAC system. So, maintaining energy efficient AC motors will certainly help keep energy usage lower and while also keeping your home cool and comfortable. Here's what to know about getting your AC motor ready for summer.

Energy Efficient AC Motors: AC Maintenance List

When speaking of an "AC motor," we're referring to the blower motor that drives the indoor blower fan. One of the things that helps the blower motor run more efficiently is to be free from dirt and grime buildup. That means staying on target with air filter changes. You don't want your air filter to become totally clogged up with dirt. It will slow down air movement and cause the blower motor to work harder and use more electricity.

Another task on your DIY AC maintenance list is clearing away debris and vegetation that may be hindering airflow at the outdoor unit. Keep at least 2 feet of free and clear space between the outdoor unit and any other vegetation or barriers. Spray the unit off with a garden hose to clean the fins.

Last on your list is keeping the supply air vents and return air grilles free of dirt buildup. This too can hinder airflow through the AC system, which uses up more energy and can degrade indoor air quality. 

Energy Efficient AC Motors: Upgrading Your AC Unit

AC systems typically last about eight to 12 years. It depends on how well energy efficient AC motors are maintained, both pro and homeowner maintenance, and how often the system is used. If your AC is getting up there in years, you may be better served with energy efficient AC motors via upgrading to a new AC unit with a variable-speed motor. Variable-speed motors save energy and boost home comfort!

If you would like to schedule AC maintenance to promote energy efficient AC motors in your Broken Arrow home, contact us at Air Assurance today.