Stand Alone Or Window Room Air Conditioners: Which One Is Right For You?

When the dog days of summer roll around, everyone finds themselves cranking up their air-conditioning in an effort to get just a little bit of relief from the heat. However if you do not have a central cooling system, or it is less than efficient, you may find yourself considering the purchase of room air conditioners in order to beat back the heat.

But are they the best choice for you? Which system will work best in your home? Let's take an in-depth look at some of the cooling options and which might work best for your cooling needs.

Stand Alone Units

Stand-alone units, or portable room air conditioner systems, are a great option for a few reasons. Their portability makes them a useful and effective method of cooling down one room or one larger space at a time. There are several types available that will fit into just about any budget; making them a good choice if you cannot afford the installation or the repairs of a broken central HVAC system.

However, these types of room air-conditioners are often heavy and large in size; they can take up a fair portion of a room. They also require that their condensation trays be emptied rather frequently; this can be a bit of work for someone who isn't in the best peak physical condition.

Overall, these portable stand-alone units can be a good option in certain circumstances; however, they are also not very energy efficient while can mean a huge drain on your utility bill during the hottest parts of the year.

Window Unit - The Improved Technology

In years past, people may have shied away from window units as a means of cooling one or more rooms in their home. These little box air conditioners have, in the past, been unsightly, noisy, and huge energy drains. However, with great strides in technology, window units can be a good option for a variety of situations.

• The climate in some regions simply doesn't require the install of an expensive central HVAC system; with just a few days of the year being hot, many people find that a window unit will ease them through the steamy days and balmy nights until temperatures drop


• With technology improving the efficiency and energy consumption of a window cooling system, they make a great unobtrusive addition to just about any room in your home


• The varying sizes of window units offers cooling for small bedrooms and even large living spaces


• Budget-friendly, easy to install, and easy to use, these are a great cooling choice for even the most DIY challenged individuals

Many homeowners associations and community groups do not permit the installation of window units; this can make the allure of a stand-alone system that much stronger. Be certain that you verify your community rules before investing in a new efficient window cooling system.

Room air conditioners are a great option for someone who has a limited budget or perhaps a limited use every summer for a cooling system. Do extensive research on each product that you are considering so that you select only the best products for your cooling needs.

Benefits of Portable Air Conditioning Units

Room conditioners and centralized air conditioning systems are a common way to get even with nasty summers. People working in malls and multinational companies are used to these appliances throughout the year. Summers can get quite harsh at times which increases the usage of all types of conditioners. Portable air conditioners are more popular in households due to the ease of their usage, while room air

With new varieties of portable air conditioners hitting the market quite regularly, many extra features are getting added to these devices. Before you buy anything, you need to analyze its benefits. Once you know the advantages, you can confirm your choice keeping your requirements into consideration. In terms of portable air conditioners, some important benefits are discussed below

Size Advantages

Portable conditioners actually helped to drown the notion that conditioners are bulky and take up a lot of space in your homes. Portable conditioners provide the same benefits like any other type of air conditioning system in spite of taking lesser space.

Portability aspects

These are light in weight and compact in size, hence its portability is boosted. Portability is the most important advantage of such units. Wheels are added for the ease of it.

Ease of Maintenance

As compact modules, they have less parts which makes it easy to handle and most importantly easy to maintain. Cleaning is as easy as cleaning a small box.

Energy Efficient

As compared to other air conditioning systems, it utilizes less electricity which reduces your overall electricity bill.

Changing Room Architecture

Unlike window conditioners or other type of conditioning systems, portable units do not require any changes to be made in the architecture of the concerned room. At times, even rebuilding of wall is required after installation of some air conditioning systems.

There are many other minor advantages apart from the above mentioned ones. Therefore, usage of portable air conditioning systems is highly recommended. Lastly, the benefits of air conditioning can be visualized by the following thought, "keep your cool and you will be the master of all."

Colocation Data Center - Carrier Hotel for Servers

A Colocation Data Center is also known as a carrier hotel which is a place where people allocate their servers, network and storage interconnecting to many different network service providers and telecommunications with a minimum fee and complexity depending on the customer's needs.

A data center plays an important role to many organizations in terms of security, fast network and better results for data transmission. A shared data centre infrastructure helps an organization to save cost and time management in the business. Colocation service providers provide you better network traffic and greater bandwidth for a better performance.

Potential customers are companies who are web commerce based who needs cost effective and redundant Internet connections, and safe environment, big companies who wants offsite data backup, disaster avoidance, and business continuity and telecommunication companies who needs to interexchange traffic with other service providers, and also to access to potential customers' data.

There are server racks that you can see from most server rooms, and facilities such as fire protection equipments or systems such as smoke detectors, fire sprinkler system and fire wall, 23 inches telecommunication equipments racks and 19 inches data equipment and server racks, cabinets and others and 24 hour air conditioning so that the room will not be overheat or humid.

Most colocation centres are built in with highly security systems like the 24 hour CCTVs and may be guarded so that unauthorized people are not allowed to enter the building. Other security equipments may be use such as voice recognition, security PIN and fingerprint recognitions.

In case of power failure, power generators running on diesel fuel are used as backup. Other than that, there are backup batteries available because generators are not able to start instantly. For some customers, they will have smaller version UPS installed at their racks.

An example of colocation data center is located Jacksonville, Florida. It is Northeast Florida's biggest colocation data centre that is connected to more than 50 telecommunication companies and 15 carriers.

Different Types Of Central Heating Systems

Gravity Fed Or Open Vent Central Heating System

The Gravity fed central heating system is considered the safest heating system as it does not involve any pressurized chambers. It has a very simple design which uses gravity to circulate water through the pipes.

It usually has two water storage tanks the bigger tank holds the cold water and the smaller tank the hot water. Gravity is used to push the water from the cold tank in to the hot water tank. Water is heated here with the help of a boiler and then this hot water is passed through the pipes which run through homes. The tanks are placed at a height thus gravity allows the water to be circulated through the pipes in the home.

Some places have a community tank where the municipality of the area is responsible for heating the water and then this water is distributed to the homes through the pipes. This is a much eco friendlier way of heating and also saves electricity as each home does not need a separate boiler to heat the water.

This water is in turn passed to radiators placed in room which exchange heat with its surrounding air. Warm air rises in the room and cold air settles at bottom as a result the cold air is reheated and thus this creates a cycle through which the air in the entire room is heated.

Combination Boilers

Combination boilers are popular with users around the world as everybody wants their water heated instantly. Combination boilers do not have a storage tank to store water. The combination boiler heats only the water which is required and thus makes it available for use. This also saves energy as heated water when not used can lose its heat while stored in the storage tank thus rendering it of no use.

Ground Source heat pumps

If you have ever touched the back of a refrigerator you must have noticed that it is hot to touch. A ground source heat pump works on a similar principle. They run cooling the surroundings of your home. Pipes which are buried in a trench around your home have a coolant running through it. These pipes are cooled using electricity and the heat thus generated is transferred to pipes that carry water around the home. This provides heat exchange in the rooms through the radiators while at the same time providing hot water for use at the tap.

Air Conditioning for Babies

Air conditioner is very helpful for all people. This device is claimed as one of the most helpful device in summer. It helps people to get their most convenient sleeping at night. You should know that heat will make you dehydrated quickly. Drinking much water in summer will be a good idea to maintain your health.

This occurrence can also be happened to your baby. You need to keep the environment in very comfortable condition. This condition will be worse in summer. The heat and the humidity level will make you feel more uncomfortable. Your baby and children should have a good sleeping quality every night.

You should know that baby also need the same comfortable temperature as yours. You should not place your baby in hot and stuffy room. It will make them feel uncomfortable. They might cry every night you leave them in their own room. You will feel the same thing when you sleep in hot and stuffy room.

You can place your baby in a room with air conditioning. You do not have to worry about their health. Some experts say that baby needs the same comfortable temperature as your body. You can install an air conditioner in their room. Most babies will sleep in their parents' room.

As a parent, you will be very careful especially if the decision is regarding your baby. Some people think that put the baby in a room with air conditioning could weaken their immune. Some people even think that they may get asthma when they are grown up.

For all parents who concern about their baby, they should place their children in a room with air conditioning system. If you are afraid that your baby will get sick, do not put your baby close to the air conditioner so they will not get the blow directly on their skin.

You should also consider about their comfort. It will be better if you put on light clothes that will cover their hand and leg rather than thick clothes. This cloth enables your baby to move freely and this is good for their skin since their skin will get the proper air.

The next thing that you should think is about the fan. Avoid using fan since fan could blow the air. As we know that baby has very fast breath. Fan will not good for them. You can use fan in very slow blowing fan. The last thing is set your temperature to 70 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit.

Guide to Purchase Central Air Conditioning System for Your House

Once you decide to install a central air conditioning system for your house, you should try to acquire as much knowledge as possible for making the right choice. Such knowledge will be a good guide when you do your research and make your purchase. But, if you fail to take this step, you may make a wrong choice and incur more expenditure unnecessarily.

The following few points may guide you appropriately when you want to purchase a central air conditioning unit.

• The central air conditioner you choose should be perfectly suitable for the size of your home. It is wrong to think that the benefits will be more if you buy a unit of a large capacity. In fact, having the air conditioner of the optimum size will benefit you more than having a unit with the highest capacity.

• You should consider the costs of the air conditioning units also. In general, the costs of these units will depend upon their sizes and their cooling capacities. The best way to choose the right air conditioner unit is to show your home to an experienced professional and seek his guidance. The professional will inspect the building, its orientation, etc.to give his opinion. The general climate that prevails in your place and the surroundings of your home will also be taken into consideration by the professional for suggesting the capacity and size of the central air conditioning unit for your home. From this, it is quite clear that costs alone should not be the sole criterion for buying a central air conditioning unit. Therefore, you are advised to have a flexible budget once you make up your mind to install a central system.

• Installation of a central air conditioner unit is a laborious process. If you get a central unit installed during construction of your house, the process will be simple. But, if you want to get a unit installed for an existing building, the process may be a little cumbersome. This process is called retrofitting and its cost may be higher.

• Apart from the cooling capacity and size, you should consider the aspect of energy consumption also. In general, a central air conditioning unit is quite energy efficient. But, if a warm weather condition is the general climate that prevails in your place, your energy bills may certainly be higher than those in cooler places. That is the reason you are advised to opt for an Energy Star certified air conditioner unit. Experts point out that you can save up to 30 per cent if you choose such a unit. Such Energy Star certified units are federally tested and hence, you can be certain of their quality also.

• Most importantly, your aim should be to provide the utmost comfort and the air of the highest quality to your family members. A competent contractor will certainly be able to guide you to achieve this aim by suggesting the right air conditioning unit.

Save Home Energy With the Wise Use of Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a popular room addition; comfort can be easily obtained with a flip of a switch. An immediate cooling breeze is created by an electric motor with rotating blades. That motor uses electricity. Ceiling fan motors are not large, but energy can be wasted. Read on for tips on operating your ceiling fans so that you can be comfortable and save home energy.

Ceiling fans have a cooling effect, but do not cool. Ceiling fans do not directly change the temperature of the air; therefore, they do not cool or heat. The benefit comes from how the human body cools itself. As air velocity increases across the skin, moisture (sweat) on the skin evaporates quicker. This cools the body faster; we feel cooler. As you increase you activity, you need to evaporate more sweat. The air blowing from a ceiling fan can provide great help.

Turn off air conditioning when using ceiling fans. The majority of energy cost savings comes from using ceiling fans instead of the air conditioner. Ceiling fans use from 50 to 90 watts (not including lights). Compare this to a central air conditioner using 2000 to 3000 watts; a window air conditioner can use 600 to 800 watts. The ceiling fan uses far less energy. As the temperature in your house rises, try to use ceiling fans to keep comfortable. But at some point the fans will not be able to keep you cool. Turn off the ceiling fans and start the air conditioner. The longer you can delay turning on the air conditioner, the more energy you save.

Exceptions to the above rule. Many websites suggest running the ceiling fan along with the air conditioner. This may or may not save energy. The thermostat must be set at a higher temperature when using ceiling fans. The exact amount is difficult to calculate due to many variables, but savings high enough to notice kick in at about 5 degrees. If you keep your cooling setting at 78 degrees without fans, then it would need to be set at 83 degrees. Is this acceptable? Only you can decide. Also you must continually turn fans on when walking into a room, and turn it off when leaving. See tip below.

Keeping either the fans or air conditioner off may be the more practical action to insure minimal energy use. During any situation you need short term cooling, the ceiling fans can help. When company is over, turn on the ceiling fan instead of turning down the thermostat.

Reduce fan speed when possible. If you have several people playing WII, you may need the fan blowing as much as possible. But if there is one person sitting reading a book, only a gentle breeze is needed. Many ceiling fans have multiple speeds. Adjust the speed depending on the activities in the room.

Turn off ceiling fans when not in the room. Only people are cooled by ceiling fans. Ceiling fans should be off when nobody is in the room. There is a surge in energy when starting the fan motor, but it quickly drops as the fan blades reach their full speed. However, leaving the fan on when not needed still uses far more energy than that short burst of startup energy.

Air should blow up in the winter. The only benefit to running the fan in the winter is to breakup warm air collected along the ceiling. In the winter, lighter warm air rises to the ceiling. If this air cannot go anywhere, it becomes a still layer of warm air. You are paying to keep the space near your ceiling warmer than the rest of the room. This is a waste of energy. Running the ceiling fan, blowing upwards, will drive that warmer air back down to the portion of the room you want warm.

At the first bead of sweat run to the fan switch and get a quick blast of air. Or just run the ceiling fan to eliminate a warming stuffiness. The use of ceiling fans can enhance the comfort in your home. By using the above tips, you can also save home energy.

Can I Use Stop Leak For My Vehicle's AC System?

When most people hear the words "air conditioning problems", it sends a shiver up their spine. That is because the air conditioning system is fairly complex. It has a lot of parts and when it is broken, it is expensive to repair.

The most common cause of air conditioning failure is leaks. When the Freon or refrigerant, the stuff that makes the air cold, leaks out, it reduces the efficiency of the system, making the compressor work harder to cool the air. Then there is the all important oil that lubricates and keeps the compressor from failing which is carried by the refrigerant. So you can see how important it is to keep your A/C properly filled with refrigerant to move the oil that protects the compressor.

When the cold air your vehicle puts out starts dwindling, you may be tempted to "try" a cheap, quick-fix like a leak sealing product. Sometimes this works-for a while. Sometimes it does not. I will explain...

Problem #1: There are two types of sealants available. And they each work differently. So for starters you will need to identify exactly the type of leak you have, and then purchase the right sealant for the job. Then you would probably stand a chance of stopping or slowing down the leak. However, more often it will end up costing you more money later on.

Problem #2: We have encountered systems with un-repairable restrictions and damaged compressors due to these sealants. Some systems sustained damage within a week of use!

The good news-these stop leak products are fairly inexpensive.

The bad news-most vehicles with sealant installed will require replacement of all the A/C components to do the job right with a warranty. This is because there is not an approved flushing solvent (at this time) that will remove hardened sealant. And A/C compressor builders and suppliers are scrutinizing returned compressors and may not warranty one if there is sealer in it, just as they have refused when they find evidence of unapproved refrigerants, oils, or flush chemicals present.

Most auto repair shops will not use their expensive A/C machines to recover and recharge your A/C if your system tests positive for an A/C sealant. They are reluctant to service a system with sealant because their machine WILL be damaged by these materials. So if you cannot afford to replace all of the refrigerant carrying parts in your A/C system, then we do not recommend using any sealant products.

What things can I do to prevent an air conditioning breakdown?

First you should run the air conditioner regularly, even during the winter, so that it lubricates itself and keeps the seals from drying out, which leads to leaks. Your owner's manual will have recommendations for how often to operate your air conditioner. Of course, if it is not working right, now is the time to get it checked.

Then have your air conditioning system serviced by your repair shop every other year to help it keep its cool. A quick inspection and sometimes adding a little refrigerant can help you avoid having to bring your air conditioner in for major repairs. It will pay for itself in the long run. So, if your A/C is just a lot of hot air, take it to an automotive service center for an inspection.

Auto Accessories - Air Conditioning And Heating Options

Have you recently purchased a brand new car? If yes, then you might be looking for some chic auto accessories in order to customize your vehicle. Well, if this is the case then this article could be of great help to you. The market of auto accessories is readily increasing due to the advent of technology. For this reason, a large number of automobile companies are manufacturing such auto parts. Further in this article, we are going to talk about air conditioning and heating auto accessories.

AC and heating systems are an integral part of automobile vehicles. Installing an efficient system in your car is very important. Now, given below are some of the popular heating and air conditioning systems that you can consider purchasing from the market.

• Heater / AC Climate Control Assembly for Dodge Daytona
This wonderful climate control comes for a price of 13 dollars. It is certainly quite nominal.

• MERCURY VILLAGER A/C HEATER CLIMATE CONTROL
This air conditioning and heating system comes for a price of 100 dollars. It has innumerable features and specifications.

• ALTEZZA SXE10 AUTO A/C HEATER CLIMATE CONTROL Lexus IS
This ALTEZZA heating and AC system is priced at 10 dollars.

• 1997-1998 Infiniti Q45 Heater AC Control OEM LKQ
The cost of this heating and air conditioning system is around 27 dollars.

• Chevrolet Impala AC/Heater Controls OEM LKQ
This air conditioning system for Chevrolet Impala comes for about 27 dollars.

• Ford Explorer Heater AC Control OEM LKQ
This 42 dollar AC system is meant for Ford Explorer.

• PONTIAC BONNEVILLE A/C HEATER CLIMATE CONTROL
This amazing climate adjustment system comes for about 100 dollars.

• LINCOLN TOWN CAR A/C HEATER CLIMATE CONTROL
This is an expensive air conditioning and heating system that is priced at 250 dollars.

• Tribute Heater Climate Control Unit OEM LKQ
This climate system comes for about 35 dollars.

• BMW 318i E36 AC heater control
This amazing system is meant for BMW. The price of this system is around 70 dollars.

• Continental Digital Heater Control Unit OEM
This is a digital heating control unit that comes for about 50 dollars.

• CORVETTE AC HEATER BLOWER MOTOR TPI 5.7l C4 V8
The price of this AC and heating system is about 30 dollars.

So, these are some of the most popular air conditioning and heating auto accessories available in the market. You can consider purchasing one of them for your car.

The Top 10 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Buying a Furnace or Air Conditioner

Purchasing a new heating, cooling or air quality system for your home is one of the most important buying decisions you and your family will make. Before committing to such a large investment, it's important to do your research and ask some serious questions so you can avoid making the following mistakes:

1. Choosing an Unqualified or Unlicensed Contractor

Picking the right contractor could be the most important part of the furnace or air conditioner buying process - yet most people don't ask enough questions to make sure the contractor is properly qualified and experienced for the installation. Always ask if they are members of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI).

Membership in HRAI, which represents over 1,000 contractors nationwide, shows that the contractor is qualified and reputable, as they must have the following credentials:

* All required trade licenses and provincial certifications

* Liability insurance up to $5,000,000

* Technical Safety and Standards (TSSA) registration

* Compliance with Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)

* Compliance with Dispute Resolution Process

* Compliance with Ontario Environmental Regulations

BBB members are part of a nationwide organization dedicated to upholding the highest level of integrity and ethics in customer service, communications, advertising and dispute resolution.

2. Getting Only One Estimate

When you're shopping for a new gas furnace or central air conditioner, you should always get more than one estimate. Ensure that each estimate is written on a proper form and always take the time to review and compare the quality of the equipment and warranties offered. Does the estimate include the removal of old equipment and materials? Are permits included in the estimate?

Be sure to pay attention to the Sales Consultant to see how knowledgeable and professional they are. How long have they been in the business? Did they explain all of the rebates that are available for your system? Your experience with the Sales Consultant could be a good indicator as to what type of service to expect from that contractor later on.

3. Always Going for the Lowest Price

You should always select a contractor that promotes the quality of their installation service and equipment at reasonable rates, rather than just picking the one that offers the lowest price. The lowest price does not necessarily mean the best value. For example, the less expensive contractor might not offer valuable services such as 24-hour emergency response or maintenance and service agreements after the installation.

4. Thinking Price is the Only Factor

The purchase price should not be the only important factor in your decision. The noise level of your new system is something you will have to live with everyday, while the energy efficiency of the system will determine how much your heating or cooling costs will be (energy efficiency is determined by the SEER ratings - be sure the Sales Consultant fully explains what these numbers mean). Choosing the right product for your lifestyle will allow you to live comfortably and save money.

5. Ignoring the Fine Print in the Warranty

It is important to fully understand the warranty that is being provided by each contractor. You should always inquire if the warranty covers parts only or both parts and labour. Also ask if there any extra charges above and beyond the warranty coverage, such as an after-hours service labour charge. Always ensure that the contractor provides you with a written warranty form for your records.

6. Forgetting to Ask About Insurance and WSIB Coverage

The contractor you deal with should always have public liability and property damage insurance. If sub-contractors are utilized, the contractor should also have the proper liability insurance. If the contractor isn't insured, you could be held fully responsible for any damages to the equipment or your home during the installation process as well as any medical costs if an installer is hurt on the job.

Always make sure the contractor is in good standing with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. For large jobs, you may want to request a copy of their latest WSIB certificate.

7. Making Too Big of a Deposit

Holmes Heating Inc. does not request a deposit, unless the equipment is unique and subject to re-stocking charges in the event of an order cancellation. If a deposit is required, it should never be more than 20% of the total job and all payments should be made directly to the company named in the contract.

8. Not Asking for References

Reputable contractors will be more than willing to provide you with the names and addresses of customers they have done work for. Ask neighbours, family, friends and co-workers their opinion of any contractor they've used in the past.

9. Believing Your System Will Never Break Down

In case something goes wrong with your system, it's always a good idea to make sure that the company you choose has after-sales service capability. Inquire if they have a full service department and ask how many service vehicles they have on the road. Do they respond to calls after 11 p.m. or on weekends? How quickly can they be there if you have no heat? Holmes Heating Inc. guarantees a 4-hour emergency no-heat response time to keep you warm in case your furnace quits in the middle of winter.

10. Lack of Proper Training or Instruction

Most contractors have a habit of installing the furnace or air conditioner and then leaving without explaining how to properly operate or maintain the system. This leaves you, the homeowner, with the task of trying to figure out exactly how to reset electronic thermostats and replace furnace filters (which can become quite costly if not done properly). Holmes Heating Inc. provides all of its customers with a free training DVD, which outlines these procedures, step-by-step, in a friendly and courteous manner.

Can I Make My Air Conditioner More Efficient?

As energy costs begin to rise, most homeowners are concerned with the amount of energy they consume. It is becoming apparent that using less energy will affect our communities in a profound way. Finding effective solutions to reduce energy usage while increasing comfort is no doubt, a hot topic. There are a variety of ways to Go Green without breaking the bank. One of most reliable means is to enhance the quality of your HVAC equipment. This will reduce energy costs and make your system environmentally friendly (due to the regulation of chlorinated refrigerants). If you opt to replace your HVAC unit, there is a cutting edge system being implemented into various buildings in the Northeastern United States that is making a big difference in energy consumption and personal climate.

What's being referred to as the "Soothing Comfort System" (patented by Zooling Industries), is an innovative approach that could forever change split system HVAC installations. The Soothing Comfort System uses a plate type heat exchanger, installed on your supply trunk line after the A/C coil. The heat exchanger works by creating a super efficient phase change of the moisture content (relative humidity) in the air. To reduce humidity levels, the water vapor in the air needs to be condensed and removed. More energy is needed to remove this humidity as the moisture content in the air rises. Common air conditioning systems are designed to lower the indoor (sensible) temperature not to remove moisture. The addition of a heat exchanger, using pre-cooled air from the A/C coil, will recycle the sensible heat from the return air by transferring it directly to the supply air. The net effect - the cooling coil sees a substantially lower temperature from the return air thus decreasing the amount of energy needed to remove humidity from the air. In the meantime, the normally chilling supply air (usually in the mid 50簞F range) is warmed by the return air, creating a more comfortable space and reducing energy consumption.

If you decide to purchase a Soothing Comfort System you will enjoy a noticeable difference in your home. The Soothing Comfort System will remove at least 30% more moisture from the air in your home, increasing system capacity by 20% in humid climates and up to 40% in dryer climates. The resulting increase in system capacity will therefore enable the homeowner to install smaller HVAC systems in their homes, which will decrease energy consumption and lower monthly electric bills. For example: If you live an area with high humidity levels and live in an 1100 square foot home that utilizes a 3 ton air conditioner, your HVAC system consumes an estimated 1734 - 2217 kilowatt hours of electricity per month. If you were to retrofit your current system with the Soothing Comfort System, you could not only reduce your system capacity to 2.5 tons, but save 285 - 396 kilowatt hours per month. These reduced kilowatt hours would be in addition the savings earned by updating the SEER of your equipment.

Living with humid air is both an uncomfortable and inefficient way of life. These days, anything we can do to decrease our carbon foot print will benefit both our present and our future. If we act fast and take advantage of new innovations put forth by forward thinkers, such as the engineers at Zooling Industries, the possibilities are endless. We are heading in the right direction. It's obvious that changes to our way of life are coming. It's the small moves we make in our daily lives that will eventually lead us to the bigger ones.

Avoid AC Repairs By Keeping Your Air Conditioning Unit Well Maintained

If you live in the south you know that the summers get very hot. Temperatures in the 100's are not uncommon and the humidity is very high. For this reason it is important to make sure your AC unit is working properly before the summer heat comes strolling in. So let's talk about what you need to do to make sure your air conditioning unit is maintained properly and is in good working order.

First you should look at a few things yourself. The first thing to always inspect is the filter. The filter in most AC units is located near the blower unit. These filters range in size and vary in price. You will need to remove the old one and check the size and then buy the exact same size for your unit. The costs of a new filter depend on how the quality of the filter and what you are trying to filter from the air. Generally you don't want to buy a filter that restricts the air too much. I typically buy the low cost filters and change them often, but if you suffer from allergies you might want to get a high quality filter. Whatever you do make sure you change the filter often. Also make sure the filter is put back in the proper place and the pay attention to the arrows on the side of the filter. The arrows point in the direction of the air flow.

The next thing you want to do is make sure there are no air restrictions to the outside units. Sometimes bushes and weeds can grow around the outside units and you want to make sure that there is plenty of room around the AC units. The other consideration in keeping your home cool is to keep your thermostat at the right levels. Let's say you want the temperature at night to be 72 degrees. Some people will turn their units off during the day in order to save money, and then turn the unit down low when they get home. This can cost you more money in the long run and cause your air conditioning unit to work harder. I recommend setting your thermostat no higher than 75 degrees during the day and then turn down at night. This way the air conditioner doesn't have to work as hard to get back to 72 degrees, and you most likely will not spend more money doing this way.

The last recommendation is to have a trained air conditioning repairman to service your AC unit before summer arrives. They will check the refrigerant levels and make sure they are at the optimum levels. They will also clean your evaporator coils which help your AC run at peak efficiency.

Sick of Being Too Hot in the Summer? Try a Battery Fan to Keep You Cool!

Do you get hot and sweaty as you go about your chores in the middle of summer? Are you trying to conserve energy by not using your central air conditioner? If you answered yes to these questions, you would definitely benefit from a battery operated mini fan. This allows you to cool off quickly and get some instant relief from the heat. It will also humidify the air making it less dry. You will feel instantly rejuvenated and able to get on with your day. You can even pour some essential oils into the fan and put it by your bedside as a diffuser for your personal aromatherapy session. The mini fan is quiet and will not disturb others in the room. All you have to do in order to activate the handy cooler is soak the filter in cold water (you can use ice water, or even put it in the refrigerator for maximum effectiveness).

The handy fan is completely mobile and portable. It runs on batteries, or electricity. It's great for when you are on the go, in the car stuck in traffic or anytime you want a quick burst of coolness on your skin. Think of how much you can save on your utility bills by cooling only yourself instead of your whole house. You'll save on gas too by not running the Air Conditioning in your car. This can be a significant savings, considering the price of gas these days.

This is no $2 piece of junk from the dollar store. This is a state-of-the-art handy air cooler that creates a powerful burst of air that relieves you and provides immediate results. On battery power, it can last approximately four hours. It comes in various mesmerizing colors that bring you a smile on your face whenever you look at it. You can purchase it online from trusted stores.

For those that suffer from hot flashes, or heat flushes, this handy air cooler is an excellent tool for instant relief. There is no need for expensive medications or herbal supplements that may have nasty side effects. You won't have to open windows in the middle of winter, making everyone else in the house uncomfortable.

Clinical studies have shown that this mobile air cooler can cool the outside air by as much as twenty degrees! Think about how much better you'll feel on a day that's over 100 degrees F. This is an absolutely essential tool to have if you live in a hot, dry climate like Las Vegas, Texas or the Middle East. The cooling effect is based on air temperature and the relative humidity and works best if the humidity is less than 20%.

Don't let the small size fool you - this is powerful enough to cool you and the people around you. It is an ergonomically designed handheld device that packs a powerful punch of cool air. It is also equipped with various speeds for maximum effectiveness. Once you have tried this mini fan, you won't want to leave the house without it. You'll want to buy one for your car, your home and your office.

The DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner - Cooling And More

The DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner is a very stylish little portable air conditioning unit that won't look like a monster in your house. In fact the Pinguino will keep you cool and yes, it does look a little like a penguin!

Not only is this amazing little portable air conditioning unit attractive, with a 11,000BTU/H capacity this little thing can not only keep you cool, but it will dehumidify the air and purify it via a special filter. No more nights during hot spells lying awake at night in damp sheets and watching the mold progress up the walls of a bathroom. The DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner can deal with all of that while running quietly in the background.

Use it on a hot day to cool down your living room, unplug it and let it cool down your bedroom at night. At maximum power, the DeLonghi Pinguino can cool down a medium sized room quickly, leaving you and your family comfortable and sweat-free.

If you have a newborn or an elderly member of your household, or those with asthma and breathing problems, the DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner can make their lives so much more comfortable. By eliminating mold, the air in your home can also be a lot safer, as black mold can cause many medical problems; including lung and nerve damage, besides making your bathroom look awful.

No more window shakers eating up your power and inefficiently banging away in the background, this air conditioner needs very little maintenance and never needs to be emptied as there is no water tank (how do they do that?)

The DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner features a special 3M Filtrete filter that takes dust and pollen out of the atmosphere, down to.003 of a micron, so your room will stay fresh, humidity-free and safe for your family to breathe. Those people with allergies can live much more comfortably with a unit in their home.

The DeLonghi Pinguino Air Conditioners are very efficient, and are very nicely designed. Turn it on when you need it and off when you don't, and it is compact enough to fit into even the smallest apartment.

Why cool an entire house down with central heat and air, when you only use three rooms in the house regularly? The DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner has the highest energy efficiency rating, which is an "A", according to European standards.

Nearly all of the DeLonghi units condition the air on all levels and are fully functional as dehumidifiers, including a programmable hydrostat, so the owner can set relative humidity levels. Use as a dehumidifier only on not so hot days and the DeLonghi will make a room feel comfortable and if you like to have the windows open, the Delonghi will extract the pollen and dust from the air, making life even more comfortable for you and your family. The fan on the DeLonghi Pinguino Portable Air Conditioner also runs on auto-function, which optimizes fan speed according to current room conditions, and there is a timer so that nighttime function can be set.

10 Seer AC Units For Efficiency and Economy

The word seer in the phrase '10 seer ac units' is an acronym for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, a ratio which represents the value attained by computing then total seasonal cooling output in BTUs with the total seasonal energy input in watt hours. The mention of the word seasonal in the acronym implies that the ratio is meant to take into consideration part local conditions as well instead of just measuring the performance at peak load. Hence, the expression '10 Seer ac units' means that these units are capable of removing 10 Btus per watt hour of energy input.

Seer is a performance rating which is used to measure the efficiency of the air conditioners and the unit Btu stands for British thermal unit. Since this performance rating is directly proportional to the efficiency of the air conditioning unit, the higher the rating the better is the air conditioner and vice versa.

Although Seer standards are different for different countries, the general perception in this regard is that the air conditioning systems which have a higher Seer are more efficient and hence more energy-saving as well. In this regard, the 10 Seer ac-units are popular because apart from their efficient performance they happen to be cost effective and do not require much investment of time and finances as regards maintenance as well.

The 10 Seer ac units are in accordance with the minimum mandatory requirements as per the regulations specified by the US Department of Energy while the maximum value can be as high as 20 Seers. This is due to the great improvement made in the field of air conditioners wherein the appliances which were manufactured in the 1980s' featured 6 seers rating due to which their energy consumption was very high and was often followed by long electric bills. Nowadays, apart from the 10 Seer ac-units, it is common to find ac units with a 12-Seer, 13-Seer, 16-Seer and 20-Seer ratings.

Hiring a Heating & Air Conditioning Technician

The best time to hire a heating and air conditioning technician is when one is NOT needed. That may sound a little odd, but read on. Most heating and air conditioning units do not need actual REPAIR work; rather, they need regular servicing. If the unit is a "central" type, the heating system and air conditioning system are contained in the same housing, but each system has separate parts. So, the homeowner needs to have the air conditioning part of the unit serviced BEFORE the heat of summer, and the heating part serviced BEFORE the bitter cold of winter sets in.

The best month to have the air conditioning part serviced is in April. Usually, it has not gotten hot enough to warrant having to run the air conditioner, and the heat is probably not getting as much of a "workout", either. September or the first two weeks of October are both good times to have the heating system serviced. By now, the weather has cooled enough that it is very possible that neither the air conditioning part nor the heating system have been necessary at all.  

Scheduling routine maintenance and service on air conditioning and heating units during these periods will ensure the homeowner that the soon-to-be-needed system is working properly. If it isn't, the problem can be fixed BEFORE the weather changes, so that there will be no chance that a system will not work when the time comes. 

Some heating and air conditioning contractors advertise service and maintenance "specials" just before the seasons change. Most of these companies are reputable, and it is just a matter of comparing prices before making a decision.  

Of course, the homeowner should still check to see that the business is properly licensed, the equipment is up-to-date, and that the technician who actually comes to do the work has and shows proper identification.

An Electric Gas Furnace Has Many Benefits to Your Home and Pocket Book

When it comes to purchasing an Electric Gas Furnace, the consumer needs to understand that there are three main choices available when it comes to heating their home. These choices include the use of gas, oil, or electric. When you need to decide which type of furnace to get, you need to take into consideration the condition that your windows are in, the size of your home, the climate that you live in, and how well insulated your home is. You also need to have access to gas, oil, or electric. With this type of furnace, you will be using gas as your main heating source with a very little amount of electric.

When heating your home with an Electric Gas Furnace, you will find that it will save a lot of money and will be helpful to your family budget. These types of furnaces do have their drawbacks. Instead of having an "all electric" furnace where you will know what the monthly cost is, you will have to deal with the fluctuations that are a common occurrence with gas. Even so, the AFUE rating that is given to the furnace that you purchase will help you to determine the amount of energy you will be saving despite these slight changes in price.

You will find that there are many different manufacturers of the Electric Gas Furnace but Carrier has been a well-known and trusted brand for many years. They have a very popular model of furnace called the Carrier Infinity Modulating Gas Furnace. This furnace has the capacity of between 60,000 btu and 120,000 btu. It contains a variable blower motor. Out of a seven to seven vote from consumers who have this furnace, the vote is positive on all counts. This model is very efficient, has a very low noise level, and is very durable.

There is also the Rheem Classic 90+ series from a popular manufacturer. This is an Electric Gas Furnace that has several model numbers that are distinguished by their air flow configuration. These model numbers include RGFD, RGJD, RGRK, RGRA, RGTA, RGGD, RGTK, RGRL. 90TS, and 90RS. This air flow configuration also helps in determining the output capacity variation as well. It is always best to review and compare the furnaces that are on the market today in order to make sure that you get the right furnace for your home and environment in order to give you and your family the utmost heating comfort.

Trane Air Conditioner - How to Find Your Own Air Conditioner Free Of Flaws

Are you looking to buy your very own Trane air conditioner? If you are, then you must have seen something you like. It's not a mystery. There are many homeowners, who prefer this brand over others. If you're wondering what the fuzz is all about, you can always try to look for some air conditioner reviews. These will tell you everything you need to know.

Basically, product reviews and customer evaluations will tell you these things:

1. Features and Benefits - When you pick out a brand, most probably, they have their own sites. Here, you can browse through their different products and find out the most basic information about them, such as their features and the benefits these can give you.


2. Customer Experiences - Because reading about features and benefits is a limited action, you may want to find out customer reviews. These will tell you the real deal about the product and what buyers recommend.


3. Where To Get Them For Less - Sometimes, there are helpful people who reveal where to buy products for less. For air conditioners and other appliances, the prices may be too much for you. By having a guide on bargains, you'll be able to escape those high prices.


4. Limitations - Customers who reveal their experiences about the product sometimes reveal the possible limitations one can encounter with the product. Always look for these because these accounts will tell you the real deal about the product.

Where can you find these reviews? The easiest would be to look up online shopping sites. Another great place to browse would be forums. The great part about this is that you can interact with fellow homeowners and ask them questions if you're lost. Now that you know how to find the best, you can use these resources to find your very own Trane air conditioner.

Central Air Conditioning Zones Explained

Central air conditioning systems (or ducted systems as they are also know) often contain a series of different zones. So what is a zone in regards to air conditioning? The following article describes what zones are, what they do and why they are so important to include in your air conditioning system.

1) What Zones Do - Zones are basically little junction boxes that can either open or close sections of the ducting. These zones allow the user to direct what rooms the air conditioner can blow into. Most air conditioners can only run about half the home at any one time, and zones allow you to choose which rooms to have on and which ones to have off.

2) Flexibility - The main advantage of zones is that they give your cooling system flexibility. Zones allow you to choose which rooms you want to heat/cool and allows you to turn off rooms that you don't want to be serviced.

3) Reduce Power Usage - By only running the zones you need, you can actually save a lot of money. Running rooms that have no one in is a waste of money. Zoning however lets you cool/heat only the rooms you are in which will save power.

4) Save Money - Saving on power means you are also saving money. Using less zones means you will have more money in your back pocket.

So that is what a zone is. Next time you get a hvac quote, be sure to tell the contractor that you want lots of zones because of the reasons outlined above.

What is Your Opinion of a Goodman Heat Pump?

There are many different heat pumps on the market these days. A Goodman heat pump is a product of the second largest manufacturer of heating and cooling products for residential use in North America.

A former air conditioning contractor named Harold Goodman founded the company. They aim to produce high quality and reliable products at a lower cost. They also indicate that installation is trouble free.

However, if you consult consumer reviews, you will find that many people who have purchased these units are not particularly happy with them. You will however, you will also find people that are very happy with their Goodman heat pump.

Besides a Goodman heat pump, the company also manufactures air conditioning units, gas fireplaces, air quality products and coils as well. If you do decide to purchase one of these heat pumps, you are likely going to want to know what is included in the purchase.

A total package purchased with a Goodman heat pump will usually include a compressor, an air coil, a fan and a heat exchanger. The air coil is quite large and it is used for condensation.

You can find a Goodman heat pump just about anywhere in the United States. There main distribution centers are located in California, Texas, Florida, Nevada and Arizona. However, you can purchase them from just about any local outlet or contractor.

If you have been reading the consumer reviews regarding a Goodman heat pump, then you will notice that some people have complained that the pump is loud. These pumps should operate quietly so that they do not disturb anyone. It your pump is noisy then it could require a service call.

Depending on the type of Goodman heat pump you purchase, it may come with a heavy-duty housing cabinet for the outdoor units. This is meant to protect the equipment if it located outdoors. The metal cabinets are thick and thus resistant to corrosion and rust.

All heat pumps and this includes the Goodman heat pump use a refrigerant that helps in the transfer of heat. Now the main reason people buy a heat pump is to save on their energy costs. These units are measured with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER), which measures how well the unit cools. The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) measures its efficiency to heat a room. The higher both of these ratings are the more energy efficient your unit is.

Central Air Conditioning System - The Best Way to Cool Homes and Offices

Central air conditioning system would be better to be installed in the offices and at homes than if you have installed a single AC system in every room of the buildings. When temperatures get too humid and hot inside a building, it means that the weather outside the building are more humid and hotter. In such conditions, you might feel less comfortable.

Accordingly, most people may begin to think about the best ways in making their homes and offices cool enough to live pleasantly and comfortably. This way, the employee could work more relax and more productive. As a result, deciding to install a central air conditioning system will be very good since it can dehumidify the air without consuming a lot of electricity.

More Comfortable

There are a few benefits to installing a central air conditioning system. You could get greater convenience in controlling the environment within a whole building and also provides you for greater efficiency of operation, specially when compared to using single air conditioners in every and each room of a building.

Most of the systems use what is known as a 'split system' of cooling in which the air is condensed and compressed with the assistance of an evaporator cooled. One part of the split central air conditioning system is being installed on the outside of the building, mostly on the outside of residential homes and on the rooftop of commercial buildings. It's also probable to adjust the climate in diverse rooms in a building by adjusting the system controls.

This way, everyone inside the buildings might not be able to hear anything that could be disturbed them. If you have a plan to buy a new central air conditioning unit or will like to replace the existing one, it's important to hire the professional to do the job for you in order to assure that you have the best installing process.

Don't make yourself in doubt, see more on central air conditioning system [http://airconditioningsolution.com/central-air-conditioning-system/the-importance-of-using-central-air-conditioning-system/].

What Cooling Capacity Do I Need From Air Conditioner Units?

There are several brands and types of air conditioner units in the market. Modern ones claim that they offer cool and quiet technology, power saving features and, most of all, efficient cooling. However, how can you be sure that you are choosing the best air conditioner unit for your home?

First, the AC units size matters but it doesn't automatically mean that a large unit is better than a smaller one. The cooling power of air conditioners is rated by a number called BTU. The BTU or British Thermal Unit is the measure of heating or cooling capacity of a heat pump or an air conditioner. If you have a small room, at around 300 sq. ft. floor are, you just need a 5000 BTU air conditioner. A higher rating will be inefficient in terms of humidity and power consumption. Excess BTU can cause a slimy, humid atmosphere inside the room.

You can estimate the appropriate BTU depending on the room's size. A 600-700 sq. ft. room requires 10000-12000 BTUs. However, requirements can be higher when the room has more appliances. For example, you need to add 4000 BTUs if AC units will be used in the kitchen. Factors that affect BTU requirement include shading of the room and insulation of the walls. There are free charts in the internet for sizing your air conditioner.

Next, it is not just about cooling capacity. Another important factor is the energy efficiency of the appliance. The Department of Energy has set a standard called SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating). The minimum SEER set by the government is 13. As of now, the highest SEER is 17. If your old AC has a rating below 13, it will be a good investment to buy one with a high SEER. The unit can be pricey but it will save you thousands per year on your electricity bill.

Centralized AC units can be a good choice if you have a large house with several wide rooms. One strong centralized unit is better than multiple small window type air cons. Centralized cooling is also less expensive to maintain.

Want to Start an Air Conditioning Business?

It's summer and very hot outside. Yesterday my air conditioning unit broke. Friday afternoon, 2 PM and this thing just decided to die on me. It was literally just blowing hot air. I checked the basics, but all I could see is that the fan on the outside unit had stopped spinning. I do have a service contract with a local AC repair company and receive preferred treatment on repair calls and when in need of a quick repair job. I also receive 10% off labor and parts. Still, in the end it was a painful and very expensive experience with a price tag of close to $500. Afterwards I spent some time thinking through the entire situation. I do run my own business and I am always trying to analyze the business side of things to see if there is something I can learn and use in my own business. Running an AC or Heating related business is definitely a very interesting idea as for at least 8 months of the year you can dictate how things go and the customer has not much choice to shop around. Why? Read on.

Most often when people call an AC repair business they do not a choice, they need someone who is willing to come out and they make decisions under the pressure of knowing that shopping around might delay the repair for a long time. Their Air Conditioning unit or their furnace is broken and they need help fast as they feel cold or very hot and uncomfortable. As mentioned, they do not have much choice or time to really shop around for better prices. You do not argue too much, when it is 98 degrees outside and 90 degrees inside and all you want is your AC to be running again. You already know that the repair guys are extremely busy and that you will be lucky to get someone out the same day if at all. The businesses know this and accordingly their repair prices always end up to be in the upper range even if the damage does not seem so dramatic.

So, does it eventually make sense for you to start your AC repair and service business? As an example, if you are a talented technician it might be time to stop making money for the man and to start putting your great talents to work for yourself. Or if you know a really good and talented AC repair technician, you can team up - he runs the technical side of things while you take care of business in regards to sales, accounting and all the white-collar items associated with running a business.

Conclusion: This article cannot go into all the details of what is involved in starting an AC repair business, but it is rather an idea igniter. Something that makes you think. Go, and start a business. Now.

The HVAC Industry Turns to Green Investments

The HVAC industry is roaring back from the recession, just a little bit late. Commercial real estate and is starting to move again, and that means more large-scale HVAC jobs. The HVAC industry tends to lag behind the general contractor economy. However the tight credit market is making it hard to invest in large contracts. The heating and air conditioning industry may take over a year to catch up two the economy. As HVAC companies look for alternative business models and the economy recovers, this is the prime time to invest. Consumer financing is the traditional driving force for business recovery, but government incentives for green buildings can be tapped as well.

Colorado has ridden out the recession better than other states because of its diverse economy. However, the turndown rates for financing have been high, according to some Denver HVAC contractors. Financing for large scale projects needs to go through before the industry goes back to just furnace repair and air conditioning parts from reputable ac parts suppliers. However there is one area in the HVAC industry that still has a lot of movement. This is the green certification movement.

As inventory goes down, the lag time for the industry catch up goes down too. It may require some investment to push units out of the warehouse not associated with the green industry. Contractors are wary of stocking up too much on HVAC parts and supplies. On the other hand, you do not want to run out of air conditioning parts in the middle of summer. Otherwise the industry can get into a cycle of the self-fulfilling prophecy as production steps down as inventory falls right in the middle of summer, when air conditioning service is most needed.

For the green industry, the Denver HVAC certification system is a fortress of strength among the economy. The eco focus in Colorado is not going to stop. Denver furnace repair companies are switching from simple repairs to complete energy saving refits. In a slowdown, green technologies are marketed as a way to save money. Going into green cooling, energy efficiency, and eco centric living are a good way to market HVAC.

Government subsides for green certified buildings will only increase in the future, so it is imperative that good air conditioning service companies take advantage of the situation early.

Air Conditioner System Benefits - Room Air Conditioning Systems

If you have difficulty in sleeping at night because of the heat, why not install an air conditioner in your home. Having one can provide a more comfortable sleep.

Air conditioning is a way of cooling a room in the form of a refrigeration cycle. It was first invented by Stuart Cramer but actually the term was coined after Willis carrier. It is available in various sizes and also with various cooling capacities and prices.

Air conditioning systems reduces the humidity of the air and it maintains the quality of the air. There are also some that would dry the air without cooling it. It is usually composed of a condenser, evaporator and a compressor component in it.

It also uses a chemical that could convert the liquid to gas and vice versa. Most air conditioning systems also uses the split system and a package system. In the split system, the condenser and compressor are placed outside the room and the evaporator is placed inside the room.

The evaporator is used in circulating the air throughout the room. In the package system, all components are placed outside the room.

An air conditioner can give you comfort through the day and it can help you in many ways. For instance when the air cooler was invented and first installed in the Houston theatre, a vast difference is seen. The number people who visited the theatre gradually increased after the installation.

In hot climatic weather as in summer, no one could concentrate on the work or can satisfy their work. So the scientific invention helps people in many ways. Air conditioner also makes a vast difference in the transportation.

There are also industry grade air conditioners used in many manufacturing sectors for various purposes.

Air conditioner from the time of its invention has been a beneficial one till now. It has been almost used in all commercial residential and industrial sectors. Most of the commercial sectors use centralized air conditioner which performs same as the regular one.

The advantage of using the centralized air conditioning is that it produces less noise in indoor as the unit is placed outside the room.

Getting Regular Check-Ups From Air Conditioner Service Helps

Heating and air conditioning repair can be as much a part of our lives as our car repair is, although to somewhat lesser extent. After all, air conditioners have a complex system consisting of compressors, piping and ducts, heat exchangers, and electrical components that need to work in unison efficiently at all times. Unfortunately, they don't and therefore, we need an efficient air conditioner service conveniently located near our neighborhood, which can fix our system professionally and in a short period of time.

What can go wrong in an air conditioner?

It is a gadget that removes hot air from your room and recycles back cooler air. Although in a generalized way, we perceive conditioning to be cooling of the air, in fact, the term air conditioning-in a broader sense-refers to controlling of temperature, humidity, and dust to provide optimum human comfort. Hence, such a system needs a complex maze of electrical, mechanical, and various other components to keep it working properly. Minor faults and defects can possibly be fixed at home, but only if you a repair nut; otherwise, you need help from a qualified air conditioner service to get to the root of the problem.

Umpteen number of things can go wrong in an air conditioner. Typical concerns include:

* Failure of air conditioners to start or keep running
* Inadequate cooling
* Compressor and blower assembly creates a noise
* Reduction in air conditioning output temperature
* Electrical wiring, thermostat, fusing, and over-current issues

Trouble-shooting problems

Your system may not be working because of some simple issues. For example, power may be off or control switches may not be properly set, or even the thermostat may not be set to "on" and "cooling" options. You can sort out these issues on your own. But remember, problems in the controls and switches system, which is an intricate network, will require a thorough investigation by a professional air conditioner service.

If your system seems to have lost cooling capacity, there could be many concerns that require attention. For example, the air conditioner blower unit may not be moving enough air, so you may need to hire ac repair services to get the blower unit checked thoroughly. Sometimes, a blocked condensing coil can make the unit run improperly and make it noisy. If you notice that it is running well but not cooling properly, a possible cause could be blocked air filters. Clogged air filters lead to lost cooling capacity because of reduced air flow through the system. Repairing these will require assistance from heating and air conditioning repair personnel.

Very often, you may notice that the compressor is short-cycling-turning itself on and off at much shorter intervals than what it usually does, which is at 10-minute intervals. Here, an improperly set thermostat could, of course, be one of the problems, but getting to the root of the problem requires a thorough examination of the entire system.

Here is one piece of important advice. Many people abandon their air conditioning units, if they find it not working for apparently any reason whatsoever. More often than not, the cause of malfunctioning is electrical rather than mechanical. It is best to check switches and controls thoroughly, before disposing it off.

An air conditioning unit provides the much-needed comfort during those hot and humid days. Naturally, you would not want your air conditioning unit to squeak during those harrowingly uncomfortable days. Therefore, the importance of regular maintenance cannot be over-emphasized. The best way to ensure trouble-free operation of your A/C unit is to get it regularly checked by a professionally competent air conditioner service.

The Air Handler Motor - The One Thing That May Save You a Ton of Money

Saving money is the one thing that we all have in common. We all are looking to save where we can. There is a component to some hot air furnaces and air conditioning air handlers that will save you a lot of money! With electricity prices rising greatly in the next few years, this is one thing that you must consider when purchasing anew hot air furnace or air conditioning system.

If you are purchasing or are considering the purchase of a new hot air furnace or central air conditioning system in the near future you will want to take a serious look at buying a system the uses a ECM motor to move the air. The ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor) is an ultra high efficiency programmable brushless DC motor utilizing a permanent magnet rotor and a built in inverter. DC motors are significantly more efficient than AC motors and are easier to control. To put it simply, the DC motor will save you money all the time!

The DC motor will save you money and it will likely make your environment more comfortable. Better air flow and less noise will likely be a side benefit of this motor. The motor maintains its torque through all speeds so that you get better air flow. The adjustability of the motor makes it easy to control and find the air flow settings that are right for the application. This will give great air flow with less noise. The soft start feature of these motors is also great. Instead of the motor starting out with full force, these motors will start slowly and build speed, often making it hard to tell when they start.

There are even more technical benefits that I will not go into here. The main thing to remember is that the ECM motor is a great investment when purchasing your next hot air furnace or central air conditioning system. Sure the system will cost a bit more up front, but the benefits of the ECM motor will be well worth. And, how much more would you pay for better comfort and less noise? Make sure that you insist that your quote gives you this option. With the money savings and the comfort you will experience with this option, the upfront extra money will soon be forgotten.

Guide on Installing Air Conditioning

We're all familiar with air conditioning units, at least as far as usage goes. As time passes, they become easier and easier to operate. Many come with thermostats that adjust everything for you to maintain your most comfortable temperature. They come with timers and turn themselves on and off. If you want to change settings manually, you don't need to stand up and approach the unit; that's what the remote control that comes with a lot of air conditioner models are for - although with all the self-regulating mechanisms these units have available, you'd hardly ever need the remote controls in the first place.

So yes, as we said, operating an air conditioner is easy. It's installing it that could be complicated.

There are a good number of things you should consider during the installation, and it is critical everything is done right to ensure proper and safe usage of your air conditioner. Here are the steps to the installation: selection of the location, installation of the unit, connection of wires and pipes, and the final step testing.

Selection of the location

When selecting a location, the first thing you should consider is whether you're installing an indoor or an outdoor unit.

For an indoor unit, make sure there are no obstacles to installation within the vicinity. Ideally, the unit should be installed two meters above the floor, and it goes without saying its location should allow for good air circulation, meaning, its vents should not be closely positioned to anything that could block air flow to the rest of the room.

For an outdoor unit, the base and housing should be securely installed on a level surface. No plants or animals should be positioned near it, as the heat coming from the condenser will adversely affect these. Lastly, if you plan to place a canopy or a similar cover on top of the unit, to protect it from the elements, make sure the canopy will not impede the dispersion of heat of the outdoor unit.

Installation

The outdoor unit should be firmly fixed on its cement base. This becomes increasingly important as you go higher up, because the strong winds in high elevations can physically move both the base and the air conditioner and cause damage to your unit, not to mention increase the risk of accidents. For the indoor unit, it should be levelled properly after it has been installed, to prevent water from dripping into the interior of the building.

Aside from safety considerations, another reason why the air conditioner should be firmly installed is because an unstable unit would create vibrations, leading to a noisy fixture that will produce an annoying sound the whole time your unit is operating.

Connection of pipes and wires

The pipes that come with the air conditioner all have to be connected securely to prevent leaks and other malfunctions. Usually, you would hear a clicking sound once the pipe is installed properly. Wires, on the other hand, should be covered with insulating material, especially the connections. Afterwards, both pipes and wires should be wrapped up and securely fixed into the wall to prevent accidents.

Testing

Once the unit is firmly in place and all pipes and wires are connected, it's time to test. Plug the air conditioner into an independent power socket and turn it on. Test the remote control if you have one. Let the unit run for half an hour or so on cooling mode, to see if everything is working as it should. If not, see if you can find the problem and fix it. If you can't find the problem, then maybe it's about time you get an air conditioning installation professional to help you out.

Portable Air Conditioners - What's a BTU and Why Do I Care?

People have a strong need to simplify things, especially when it comes to long technical terms. Simplification often involves the use of acronyms or abbreviations. Such is the case with air conditioning. Those in the business throw out terms like BTU's and EER like everyone knows what they mean. But that's not the case. The purpose of this article is to help the reader understand what a BTU is, and what it means to them when choosing a portable air conditioner.

BTU is short for British Thermal Unit, defined as the amount of heat necessary to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit at one atmosphere of pressure. So it's a measurement of energy, specifically heat. So what does that have to do with air conditioning? Well, it's really a misnomer, since what it refers to is the power of an ac unit, which requires a time reference. So with air condition we really mean BTU's per hour, but everyone just shortens it to "BTU," and it refers to the ability of an air conditioner to change the temperature of air.

The higher the BTU rating, the greater the ability to change air temperature. So a 12,000 BTU unit will be able to cool more air than a 10,000 BTU unit in the same amount of time. Now we're getting somewhere. How much more? The ability to cool air is fairly linear with changing BTU (other factors come into play), but that's not the only consideration. Manufacturers of portable air conditioners often have a chart showing what size room a given btu rating should be able to cool adequately. But remember, they didn't test this in your home! Things like sun exposure, obstructions to air circulation, how cool you want the room, outside temperature, insulation, duct length, and whether or not you are supplementing central air, all come into play. Here's the next potentially confusing thing. Rooms are measured in square feet, which is really the size of the floor only. But rooms are three dimensional, they have height too. Air conditioners don't cool the floor, they cool the air, which occupies the entire room. The volume of a room depends also on the ceiling height.

So what is this all about? OK, finally I'll get to "what it means to you." Let's say you have ten foot ceilings in your home, and you have a 289 square foot (17 x 17) room that is too warm. By the charts, a 10000 BTU unit would be recommended for 300 square feet. But that's for standard eight foot ceilings. With ten foot ceilings, the volume of air is 20% higher, meaning the volume is equivalent to a 346 square foot room with eight foot ceilings. So a unit designed for 350 feet will probably be a better choice to cool your room efficiently, i.e. 11,000 BTU instead of 10,000.

Now that is a useful tidbit! The "other factors" mentioned above should also be considered when determining how many btu's to get. Basically, it's not a bad idea to upsize the unit a little over the size charts if you can afford it. I've seen many arguments both ways on this, but in my opinion, upsizing should allow the unit to cool more quickly, allowing it to run less. It also gives the option of using it in a larger room if needed

What Are the Efficiency Ratings of Heat Pumps and Air Conditioners?

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. It is calculated by dividing the cooling capacity of a continuously operating air conditioner by the electric power input. The higher the SEER, the less your unit will cost to operate. The currently mandated minimum SEER is 10, although most consumers tend to purchase systems achieving efficiency ratings of 13 or higher.

Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). This measurement is similar to SEER, but it measures the efficiency of the heating portion of your heat pump. Like the SEER, HSPF industry minimums have risen in recent years. The current industry minimum is 6.80 HSPF.

Sound ratings - In recent years, HVAC equipment has not only become more energy efficient, it has become quieter. Although sound does not affect the efficiency of a unit, it can certainly affect your comfort. If your unit has a low sound level, you (and your neighbors) will hardly notice when it is operating.

db (Decibel) - A term to describe the relative loudness of a sound. Typically, heat pumps and air conditioners are between the sound of a human voice (70 db) and a blender (88 db).

Sound Rating Number (SRN). A way to measure how loudly a unit operates, based on ARI tests. Average sound ratings range from 74 to 80 decibels, or db. The lower the SRN rating, the quieter the unit. In recent years, HVAC equipment has not only become more energy efficient, it has become quieter. Although sound does not affect the efficiency of a unit, it can certainly affect your comfort. If your unit has a low sound level, you (and your neighbors) will hardly notice when it is operating. Typically, heat pumps and air conditioners are between the sound of a human voice (70 db) and a blender (88 db).

Why Isn't My Air Conditioning Unit Cooling My Home?

If your home isn't cooling down one reason could be because your house is too hot. It takes a long time for the home to be cooled down when the temperature is hotter than 80 degrees. The quickest time to cool your home down is when the temperature of the home is already low. Otherwise expect it to take a while to cool down.

Also, your home can take longer to cool down if it is sitting down in the full sun. When the AC unit is too warm it can affect the AC unit. This is only in very extreme weather, however.

The water may need to be changed as well. Window units need water to cool the air. Check to make sure your Utah air conditioning unit has enough water to work.

Filters also need to be changed regularly. Dirty filters make your Utah air conditioning unit have to work much harder. Be sure your filter is cleaned or replaced every month.

The AC line could also be frozen. If it is frozen, obviously the AC unit wouldn't be able to work. Normally if you let it sit for a few hours it will thaw out and work just fine.

The ducts might also be the issue if the AC unit isn't working. Ducts can get clogged, which makes the AC unit work incorrectly. Be sure to check to make sure the duct is clear.

When you have to heat up all the rooms in your large home, your Utah air conditioning unit might take a while to cool it off. If there are rooms that do not need to be cooled turn off their vents. Normally the basement is a lot cooler than other areas of the home, so close the basement vent.

There are many reasons why your AC unit might be acting up. Investigate to see what the problem could be. Remember to call your Utah air conditioning professionals if there are any repairs that need to be made.

The Benefits of Repairing Your Leaky Air Conditioning Ducts

Prevent Wallet-Drain Due to Leaky Home Cooling Duct Systems

Leaky air conditioning ducts result in poor home cooling, extended waste of energy and costly gulps of wallet-drain. Yet inferior air conditioning duct connections are common in homes throughout the nation.

Efficient home cooling involves more than merely pumping refrigerated air into a hot house. It is a process of heat exchange that corrects rather than conquers the internal living space. To be effective, a home air conditioning system must circulate the existing air while stripping heat and humidity from the enclosed environment. A home with leaky air conditioning ducts fails to perform the task effectively.

A 20 Percent Waste Factor

According to federal Energy Star reports, the average home air conditioning system looses as much as 20 percent efficiency through leaky ductwork. Here is a full range of benefits you can gain by correcting the problem:

** Lower energy bills
** Lower repair costs
** Fewer repairs
** More efficient system
** More comfortable rooms due to better system distribution of air flow
** Cleaner indoor air due to reduced intake of irritants and allergens
** A sense of personal environmental stewardship
** Peace of mind in having an HVAC system that functions at peak efficiently and safety.

The Process of Sealing Your Home's Leaky Cooling System Ductwork

Simple as it may sound, inspecting and repairing your home's air conditioning duct system can be hot, sweaty and risky. Most likely, you will be required to enter the crawl space. In some events, you will also need to enter the attic. Furthermore, you may have to work with home insulation materials, restricted maneuvering space and darkness.

Before beginning the process, take a flashlight and poke your head into your home's crawl space. On some houses, this space is so tight that even air conditioning repair professionals groan before entering. If you are scared of snakes, hate spiders or have certain closterfobic responses to tight places, just close the hatch and call your local air conditioning service center.

Still want to do the work yourself? Here goes:

1) Proper Clothing - Pull out or buy a mechanic's jumpsuit. A cheap one costs around $15.00, but better protection comes from heavy duty equipment. A jumpsuit gives you full body protection against dirt, grime and creepy crawling things. It also provides an extended range of pockets for carrying choice tools.

2) Tools - Sealing air conditioning ductwork doesn't take lots of tools. You need:

** Closable box cutter with extra blades.
** Flashlight equipped with a focus adjustable base.
** One-inch wide, extended-reach paint brush.
** A standard dust mask
** Tin snips and tie-down straps, the first for trimming back joints and the second for re-hanging fallen ductwork.
** Backup flashlight for emergency exit.
** A roll of two-inch wide or three-inch wide, cold weather HVAC Aluminum Foil tape.
** A four foot length of one-inch PVC pipe with an elbow on one end - this is for moving fallen insulation, left behind debris and if necessary an aggressive snake.
** HVAC certified sealant that meets the following testing procedures: ASTM E84, NFPA 255 or UL 723. The flame spread rate must be less than 25. The smoke development rate must be less than 50. These products can be purchased in a caulk-tube format, but you should also use a brush to settle the sealing.

3) Sealing Process - Making Your Air Conditioning Ducts Airtight

This is visual process. In the event of holes in flex duct - often created by critters seeking to stay warm during the winter - you need to apply cold weather HVAC Aluminum Foil tape. If the insulation is missing, you may need to acquire additional flex duct, make a cut and then connect and reseal the finished work.

To seal connections and split-joints apply tape and/or sealant as seems best for the situation. In the event that the joints are not cut correctly, use box cutters or tin snips as suits the circumstances to create a better fit and then apply tape or sealant.

To seal vents at the room entry point, apply certified HVAC sealant. Take your time. Make certain that the caulk spreads fully and retains contact with the point of application. Be sure to seal the outside of the floor joists where the return air connection passes through the flooring. It also never hurts to cap-off the inside wall cavities where the flashing passes through.

If necessary, perform the same processes in your attic and/or garage.

Additional Notes on Sealing Home Air Ducts

Perhaps all this seems overkill. Think about what type consequences would come about if lungs developed a series of pin-holes. It wouldn't take long for breathing to become labored and inefficient. Every small leak adds to the accumulated home cooling losses and expenses.

** Special Warning: If you encounter water or any other signs of sewage leakage, get out from under the house. Find a professional plumber to deal with the situation, and get safety issues cleared up before continuing with your air conditioning duct system repairs.

So get dressed for the occasion. Gear up with the right tools. Seal your leaky air conditioning ducts. Isn't it time you put an end to unnecessary wallet-drain.

Central Air Conditioners - 5 Major Brands

The majority houses in this country are equipped with heating and cooling equipment, which obviously makes life nice: cooling, filtering, and dehumidifying the air our family breathes. Choosing the correct combination of equipment can be quite a task since you need to take into account factors like initial cost, energy efficiency rating and other factors before you buy one. Capacity of the unit is an important factor to consider, as you need equipment the is not too small or large for the home or office to be cooled or heated. A qualified contractor can make the necessary load calculations.

Another point to consider before buying HVAC equipment is the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings. It will tell you the efficiency of the air conditioning unit. Buy law, the latest models have a minimum 13 SEER rating.

There are many brands of a/c that are known for their high-quality available throughout the United States. Five of the top brands include Carrier, Bryant, Trane, Lennox, and Amana. All of these manufacturers offer excellent heating and cooling equipment through numerous and sometimes confusing options that will fit every budget.

The fact is that price is a major constraint while choosing a brand. But choosing a system purely on price could cost you more over the next decade of ownership. All of these brands are high quality and extremely reliable.  The better known brands will of course cost more but they will always be around when you need service. The equipment with high efficiency ratings will also add to the front end cost, but they will save you in the long run.

It is safe to make the assumption that an old air conditioning unit should be upgraded it to a more efficient one. You may even qualify for tax credits. You should also consider a regular maintenance program for your air conditioning unit to keep it optimum efficiency and so you wont have to call for air conditioning repair any sooner than necessary.

Is Central Air Conditioning Right For You?

All of us are experiencing the result of the environmental abuse. This is why we suffer from the excruciating heat of the sun. Thanks to the man made wonders, like air conditioning systems, we are able to stay comfortable. You have to pick the right air conditioning system though, to maximize its use. Many want to have a central air conditioning system. However, there are different considerations to be made.

The first thing you need to check is the structure of your home. If you plan to install a central AC, you have to make sure that there are ducts or vents where the air can freely travel to cool the entire area of your home. You also have to find the best place to install the AC so that it will not affect the architectural design of the house.

You should also check the heat exposure of your home. Some home are more exposed to the sun than the others. You have to study the temperature in your area, to decide if the central AC is indeed the best for your home. This can also be affected by where your house is facing and the amount of shade it is getting from the trees around your home.

You should also consider the type of home you have. If it is located in a historic district, consult your building department. You will be required to acquire permits before you install anything in the house. You should be careful not to damage or alter the look of the property. It is best that you have your property evaluated by an AC technician to check if a central AC is right for you.

Choosing the right AC for you:

You have to understand that there are two different types of AC system. One is the unit system, which is a box installed on the window. This only cools one room. This is best for studio, apartments and small homes.

The other one is the central AC. As mentioned earlier, this cooling system cools the entire house using vents.

This is preferred for bigger homes as it distributes cool air effectively. It does not create a lot of noise too. It is also energy efficient. There is also central AC that pumps out warm air during the winter.

Before you purchase a central AC, ask a pro to make the necessary calculations to your home. He will consider the size of your property as well as the number of rooms. These are necessary to determine the cooling power of the device you will get.

Inquire about the moisture performance of the device as well. This affects your comfort level. The device should be effective in removing moisture in the room. Check the SEER ratings as well or the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The rating of most new units is 13 or more while older units have 7.

Central AC is a great choice. However, you have to check your property first before deciding to purchase one.

The Lowdown on a Mitsubishi Air Conditioner

A Mitsubishi air conditioner is a leading name in the air conditioning industry. The brand has been successfully providing supreme quality systems for industrial, commercial and residential use. The brand is a paragon of world class cooling and it is an excellent money saver on energy bills. The primary efforts made by the company are towards making indoor life comfortable for their customers.

The company started serving the industry way back in 1921 with the introduction of an electric fan. The concept was a huge hit among consumers and this encouraged the company to introduce coolers in to the market ten years later. This was just a way of telling the world that the company has embraced advanced technology.

Later, the company proved its' worth via introducing the Mitsubishi air conditioner to the market. The brand's prime motto was to create air conditioners that suit wide ranging climate conditions of Japan. The result was the introduction of rugged machines that can with stand consistent usage under any condition on earth.

The best part is that the Mitsubishi air conditioner proved it's' worth in all the tests. It is an efficient and environmental friendly unit. In case, you are looking for an air conditioning unit in your office use or residential purpose, look no further than Mitsubishi. This is a symbol of reliability and quality assurance. Another reason to trust these systems is the laudable efficiency and outstanding reliability.

The brand uses one of the most famous and well-balanced DC driven rotary compressors available on the market. These compressors are equipped with the latest heat pump design and in-control features. Mitsubishi air conditioner incorporates the latest and most advanced technology at an affordable price. Consumers would be delighted to know that all their equipment is available with a three years warranty on their parts.

Here are some of the most famous air conditioning units manufactured by Mitsubishi:

• SRK-HD wall fixed speed series.


• SRK-ZD wall invert series.


• ZFX Hyper inverter wall range.


• SRK-ZE wall invert series


• FDEVA ceiling


• FDEVA floor


• FDEVA cassette range


• SCM Multi systems


• Mr. Slim.

Mitsubishi Mr. Slim is one of the most famous models available, very powerful and loved for its hi-tech utility and outlook. Mitsubishi air conditioners are specifically designed in a fashion to provide you the best of quality and true value for your hard-earned money. This is the reasons millions of people across the globe have shown confidence in the products endorsed by the company.

A Mitsubishi air conditioner is truly efficient and promises premium quality. All you require to do is to take proper care of these units to ensure their longevity.

Which Gas Furnace is Best?

Buying a gas furnace these days has become slightly more complicated when compared to a few years ago because there are many varying and comparative factors which play a huge role in determining which brand and design is the best gas furnace for you. The key here is to find a furnace which best suits your needs and home. With market competitiveness comes technical differences in each and every furnace unit hence the reason why the best gas furnace for one person might not be the ideal furnace for another person.

While advertising on the television and elsewhere affects many people's opinions the only real proof of which furnace is best lies in the experience of owning a few brands and knowing which ones or one has served you best. Of course there are many brands that claim all the best benefits at the lowest prices but we all know most of that is just marketing hype.

So what do you look out for and what determines which gas furnace is best? To answer this question we have to investigate the most important factors to look out for when shopping, comparing and reviewing the best gas furnace. Some of these factors include the following:

• Efficiency - Probably the most important. Basically put this determines how much fuel per dollar is burnt. Always buy a furnace with an EER (Energy Efficiency Rating) that rises above 14.1.

• Spare Parts - Are spare parts easily available for your furnace? Always make sure that parts are easy to come by or else you're going to run into problems when you do need replacements.

• Location - Where you live determines how hot, cold or humid it's going to be year round. This is important because if its humid then this could corrode the metal parts in the furnace is a shorter amount of time.

• Standards - Make sure the furnace meets the standards set by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). They require all furnaces to have at least a 78% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). With this in mind shop for furnaces with an AFUE rating above 90% which translates to the furnace burning about 90 cents of fuel for roughly about every dollar that you spend.

Bands like a Goodman gas furnace are pretty good brands to look out for. They are definitely one of the more affordable options that range in price around $800 to $2700 dollars. Good features include variable speed multi-position models as well as down flow multi-speed models.

Also keep an eye out for a RUUD gas furnace because they feature handy two stage furnaces which mean you have two firing options. One can be set for slightly chilly days and the other fires up on very cold days for maximum heat.

Apart from the above two options there are many more brands that offer great value for money but as you can see you have to see what suits you best. Remember that the best gas furnace is not always the most expensive it's a matter of accommodating your personal needs and demands.

Hydronic Vs Forced Air Heating and Cooling

Hydronic, or hot water, heating has been standard for years in many parts of the U.S. It is seeing a surge in popularity at present, mainly because of the increasing use of radiant floor heating, which is known for providing even, comfortable heat. Yet contrary to popular belief, not every home in the free world needs hydronic heat to achieve this level of comfort.

Apples to Oranges

Hydronic heat is sometimes touted as more comfortable than forced-air heat. But since the typical hydronic system is significantly more expensive than the typical hot-air system, especially if cooling is included, this is an apples-to-oranges comparison. Customers willing to invest in a quality hot-air system, rather than a bare-bones package at the lowest price, will find that forced hot air can be as comfortable as hydronic heating. Unfortunately, if the heating system is hot water and the home owner doesn't spend the extra up front to cool their home, their finished home may be still too expensive to add the cooling system later and probably imposable to even install without doing even more expensive and inconvenient remodeling to accommodate such an install. Or the homeowner may have to add a window air conditioner instead to each of the rooms in the home. Another system maybe a ductless system that is not as efficient as the central split system design on a standard forced air install.

The least expensive forced-air system usually includes a single-stage furnace with a single-speed blower motor. The entire house is ducted as a single zone, and therefore has just one thermostat. If the system is sized by a contractor who uses a rule-of-thumb formula to estimate heat loss and heat gain, the homeowner can end up paying higher-energy bills for a noisier, less efficient system that provides uneven temperatures from room to room.

A quality forced-air system would probably include a Coleman two-stage furnace with a variable-speed blower motor.

The house would be separated into several zones, I recommend Arzel Zoning Systems, with separate thermostats, and the air would be distributed through well-sealed, insulated ducts. In many cases, such an upgraded hot-air system will still cost less than a hydronic system.