Air Scrubber vs UV Light Purifier

Air Scrubbers and UV Lights both purify the air inside our homes. So what’s the difference? Our HVAC contractors address this question a lot. Though both options improve indoor air quality, they are not identical in the way they work or the results they achieve. Understanding the differences between the two will help you choose the right equipment to address your needs.

UV Lights

When included as part of your HVAC system installation or added to your existing system, UV light purifiers effectively remove harmful household contaminants like  mold spores, bacteria and viruses, smoke, and odors from the air entering your spaces through the ductwork. These purifiers use the UV-C light to harm the microorganisms present in air and their cells by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, which either kills them or leaves them incapacitated. With an air purifier with UV-light technology, air is pulled into the appliance and passes through a fine filter, such as a HEPA filter. The air then passes through a small internal chamber where it is exposed to UV light. After prolonged exposure to UV light, these cells are unable to perform their vital functions thus rendering them harmless to humans. In the entire process, the UV-C light is not released into the room, so you won’t see it nor will you be exposed to it.

Air Scrubber

Air scrubbers are installed in your ductwork, working with your HVAC system to clean the air throughout your home. Aerus air scrubbers dispatch invisible, supercharged submicroscopic particles at tremendous speed into your indoor spaces. These particles collide with viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants, neutralizing them and turning them into harmless byproducts. It has been proven by independent FDA compliant lab tests to reduce up to 99.99% of airborne pathogens and contaminants after 60 minutes of treatment. This includes a broad spectrum of clinically significant viruses, bacteria, and fungi, such as:

SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19)

Avian influenza

Swine flu

E. coli

MRSA

Hepatitis

Legionella

Norovirus

Staph

Candida

Mold

And more.

Our knowledgeable heat repair companies know what truly sets this air scrubbing technology apart, however, is its ability to eliminate 99.9% of surface contaminants as well. Because air scrubbers can continuously clean and protect surfaces and air 24 hours a day, like invisible personal protective equipment (PPE) for you and your family, they are a favorite for remodelers and mold remediation companies, as well as in commercial/industrial settings.

Which Is Better – A UV Purifier Or An Air Scrubber?

Both UV air purifiers and air scrubbers do an excellent job of improving indoor air quality. However, air scrubbers are capable of removing more contaminants from the air and surfaces faster. Air scrubbers are affordable, easy to install, and require little maintenance (catalyst cell needs replacement every two years) They come in portable and whole house built-in units suitable for any space. This makes an air scrubber the optimal choice for those happy to invest a little more in making sure the air within their home is as clean as possible.

Ensure a safe, healthy home with help from the experienced heating and air contractors at H & H Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us to schedule an indoor air quality test and discuss ways to improve the air quality in your home today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/air-scrubber-vs-uv-light-purifier/

Are Your Heating Problems Caused by Your Thermostat?

When your heating system is not behaving the way it should, it is easy to assume the worst. Yet oftentimes, the solution to your HVAC system woes is right in front of your face. Our emergency HVAC repair technicians respond to many calls in the winter. And many of them are due to the thermostat. Some of the problems are what we jokingly refer to as “operator error,” while others are from thermostats that have just reached the end of their useful life. Is your thermostat causing your heating problems? These scenarios could point to thermostat troubles.

Insufficient Heating Or No Heat

If your system is not running or it is not warming your home as well as usual, the first thing to check is your thermostat settings. The on/off switch may have been bumped, or your children or significant other may have adjusted the settings on your home heating installation unit.

Heater Frequently Cycles On And Off

While frequently turning on and off – dubbed “short cycling” – is common in extremely cold weather as your system works to maintain temperature, a faulty thermostat could cause your HVAC unit to cycle on and off repeatedly. In this case, damaged wiring resulting in a poor connection may be the culprit.

High Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed your energy bills are higher than usual, your thermostat could be to blame. A thermostat that is not correctly reading the temperature could cause your home heating unit to overwork. The more it cycles on and off, the more energy your heater consumes. To head off high electric bills, schedule a seasonal maintenance check, including a thermostat evaluation from your local HVAC technician to identify issues before seasonal temperature extremes take a toll on your finances.

Blower/Fan Runs Constantly 

A fan setting in the “ON” position will cause your blower/fan to run constantly. If the blower/fan on your heating and cooling system will not turn off, check your thermostat settings and make sure the fan setting is set to “AUTO” so your fan will only run when your system is heating your home.

Constant Operating Problems

If your furnace is over or underheating your home despite thermostat settings, you could have a mismatched thermostat and furnace. These two devices must be properly paired. Having your local heating repair contractor verify your furnace is compatible with your millivolt, low voltage, or line voltage thermostat is an easy way to correct frustrating operational issues.

Thermostat issues can be frustrating to diagnose. Fortunately, we’ve got the tech support you need to quickly get to the heart of thermostat issues. Contact the HVAC repair services experts at H & H Heating & Air Conditioning and schedule a system evaluation today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/are-your-heating-problems-caused-by-your-thermostat/

Top 7 HVAC Myths – Busted!

Have you fallen for these common HVAC myths? Don’t suffer the consequences of these common misconceptions. Get the facts from knowledgeable HVAC contractors.

Myth #1: Using A Heating & Air Conditioning System Is Always Expensive

While you can’t run a system for free, that doesn’t mean maintaining comfort in your home with a heating and cooling unit can’t be done affordably. HVAC system installation of a new, high-efficiency Energy Star-rated system can offer substantial savings over units 8-10 years old. Take advantage of the latest ductless heating and cooling technology, which offers higher SEER and eliminates energy loss via leaky ductwork, and savings can be even more substantial.

Not ready for an upgrade? A smart programmable thermostat can also help you keep costs under control.

Myth #2: You Should Only Run Your System When You Need It

Systems utilizing variable speed technology run more efficiently at lower, steady speeds rather than being cranked on/off for immediate temperature control. Worried about the costs of running your system when you don’t need it? A smart thermostat can help you avoid heating and cooling your home when you’re away.

Myth 3: Heating And Cooling Systems Recycle Dirty Air

Modern HVAC systems actually help clean the air of pollen, dust, dander, smoke, and more – especially those with high-quality home air filters. Heat repair companies recommend filters with higher MERV ratings for trapping smaller particles. Looking for even better air quality? Consider incorporating a whole-house air purifier or air scrubber to boost your air cleaning capacity.

Myth 4: You Only Need To Change Your Air Filter Once A Year

Air filters should be replaced every three months, at a minimum. Your home air filter keeps the air in your home clean. Dirt buildup also restricts airflow through the system, decreasing performance and causing your system to work harder.

Myth #5: All HVAC Systems Are Noisy

If your older unit is loud and distracting or you are sensitive to noise, researching before investing in a new model could save your sanity. Shop carefully for models with the lowest decibel ratings, which include sound-reducing features like variable speed operation, a compressor sound blanket, more aerodynamic fan blades, and vibration-reducing hardware.

Myth 6: An Investment In A New HVAC System Won’t Last Long

A heating and cooling system can provide lasting comfort, operating for 10-15 years when properly sized, professionally installed, and regularly serviced. If your system is making odd noises or operating it is draining your bank account, calling for emergency air conditioning service is essential to ensuring it reaches this ripe, old age.

Myth 7: When Choosing An HVAC System, Bigger Is Better

Oversized units cycle on/off more frequently, doing a poor job controlling humidity and putting excess stress on costly system components.

Reliable, affordable heat and air is not a myth. Ensure you get the most out of your HVAC investment. Contact the heating and air contractors at H & H Heating & Air Conditioning for help servicing or upgrading your system today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/top-7-hvac-myths-busted/

The High Cost of Improper Furnace Installation

Trying to save money on new furnace installation? Choosing the cheapest HVAC installer could cost you dearly. Correct installation is as crucial to the performance of a heater as the quality of the unit you choose. Proper HVAC system installation is essential to ensure monthly energy savings and a lasting investment.

Wrong Sized Furnace That Fails To Meet Your Needs

HVAC contractors must accurately calculate the Manual J load or heating capacity of a furnace based on factors like square footage and the leakiness of a home’s building envelope. Without this essential information, you could end up with an over or under-sized HVAC system, causing:

• Reduced performance and efficiency

Trustworthy heat repair companies often know there’s something wrong when they get complaints of high energy bills, especially with new, high-efficiency systems. Sizing issues are common with systems that frequently cycle or run longer than they should. The right size system keeps temperatures even and constant.

• Uncomfortable home temperatures

If your unit’s output capacity doesn’t match the size of your ducts, you could suffer air distribution issues that cause uneven indoor temperatures and hot and cold spots. Furnaces also need to be fine-tuned following installation, from the blower fan to ductwork distribution and exhaust pressure, to run well. This process is called commissioning, and if it’s overlooked, you’ll never achieve the maximum performance and energy savings your system is capable of achieving.

• Premature furnace failure

A properly installed furnace should last 15-20 years – or more. However, excessive wear-and-tear caused by a poorly sized system that cannot meet your home’s demand could rob you of your investment, leading to premature failure.

Serious HVAC Safety Issues From Poor Furnace Installation

Performance issues aren’t the only problems you’ll suffer from because of an improperly sized system. Serious safety issues can occur with a furnace that is not the right size, such as:

• Gas leaks

Issues with overly long or improperly angled vent pipes and gaps between joints could prevent furnace gases from exhausting outside and lead to carbon monoxide buildup in your home. This colorless, odorless gas can seriously impact your health and even cause death. If you have even minor concerns about gas leaks, don’t wait – call for emergency air conditioning service ASAP.

• Electrical problems

Bad wiring jobs by inexperienced contactors can cause a host of problems, draining excess power, inflating energy bills, tripping circuit breakers and preventing proper operation, and increasing the risk of a home fire.

• Poor indoor air quality

The performance of your furnace heavily influences the air quality in your home. Systems with poor drainage designs can lead to water accumulation and structural damage, including mold and mildew growth that could negatively impact indoor air quality.

Ensure proper furnace installation from licensed, NATE-certified heating and air contractors. Don’t fall victim to unscrupulous or inexperienced installers. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning to get a quote on a professional furnace installation today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/the-high-cost-of-improper-furnace-installation/

5 Reasons Why DIY AC Repair is Never a Good Idea

Searching online for DIY AC repair video tutorials? Everything looks easy when you watch someone else doing it. But real life is often drastically different. When it comes to heating and air conditioning repair, you’re usually better off avoiding DIY solutions. Why should you avoid DIY AC repair?

You Don’t Have The Right Tools Or Training For AC Repair

Air conditioner repair requires specialty tools, diagnostic equipment, refrigerants, and more.

Professional AC technicians have the equipment and training to handle these issues, with a truck (or warehouse) offering fast access to all the specialty parts and equipment they need to fix your system. When you attempt to repair your AC yourself, you’ll often end up spending more in tools and aggravation than you would’ve to have your system addressed by a 24-hour HVAC service.

Mistakes You Make In DIY AC Repair Could Damage Your System

Air conditioners are made from a lot of parts – most of which will be foreign to you. If your system components work just slightly different from those in the internet video you watched, your repairs could rapidly multiply from accidental damage. If you do manage to find the correct part, you may not know what to do – Should you repair the part, replace it, or does the broken component point to bigger issues or more complicated repairs? Hiring a knowledgeable HVAC contractor is far faster and easier than studying and researching and potentially causing more damage.

You Could Suffer DIY AC Repair Injuries

AC units pull a lot of juice (electricity) and are chock-full of gases. If you don’t know what you’re looking at, you could find yourself electrocuted by faulty wiring or exposed to toxic chemicals. Instead of adding an emergency room bill to go with your AC repair bill, consider calling a trained technician rather than repairing it on your own.

DIY AC Repairs Void Your Warranty 

Professionally installed air conditioners come with a warranty. For many components, coverage is offered for parts and repair at little or no cost to you. But these warranties are voided in the event of DIY maintenance. If nonauthorized individuals perform any repairs during the warranty period, you’ll no longer enjoy the benefits of free or discounted repairs and maintenance when your unit breaks down.

Professional AC Repair Is Faster

Professional HVAC repair technicians have years of training under their belts and experience working with a variety of systems. They can quickly identify everything from common issues to weird problems that defy description but are common to certain brands and styles of units. They have fast access to parts and chemicals, such as refrigerants, that homeowners cannot obtain. Professional AC repairman can not only fix your problem faster but often improve performance in the process.

Avoid creating bigger issues with DIY AC repair. Contact the professional air conditioning contractors at H & H Heating & Air Conditioning for fast, affordable AC repair services today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/5-reasons-why-diy-ac-repair-is-never-a-good-idea/

Wi-Fi Thermostats are a "Smart" Choice. Here's Why!

Are you intrigued by the idea of a new smart thermostat and shopping for a replacement? A Wi-Fi thermostat may make a better choice. Our central heating installation technicians know these two products slightly different, and people often confuse the two products, using the terms interchangeably. What’s the difference between smart and Wi-Fi thermostats?

Smart Thermostats Don’t Like To Be Questioned

Many homeowners purchase smart thermostats, hoping to be able to turn the system on/off and adjust temperature settings from anywhere. But sometimes our residential air conditioning repair experts get support calls from homeowners struggling to use this function. Why? Sometimes the “smart” thermostats think they’ve got your schedule figured out, it wants to make temperature adjustments on its own, without help from you, making the process difficult. If your schedule changes frequently and you want the autonomy to freely adjust thermostat settings without needing to convince your thermostat, or tech support from a 24-hour HVAC service, a smart thermostat is probably not the best choice for you.

Wi-Fi Thermostats Offer Flexible Operation For The Tech Savvy

Wi-Fi home thermostats let you change your thermostat settings using an app from your compatible mobile device. It is not “smart” and does not attempt to modify settings based on your schedule or energy savings, but offers the same key features:

• A sleek, modern look
• Quick, easy installation and setup
• App-driven control via your smartphone or mobile device
• Voice-command capabilities
• Customizable settings
• The ability to save you money on your electric bills

But there is another added bonus to choosing a Wi-Fi thermostat: They cost less – about $100 less than smart thermostat models. Paired with potential energy savings and available incentives from your local utility provider, Wi-Fi thermostats offer a rapid return on investment.

Avoid Thermostat Adjustments That Inflate Your Energy Bill

Regardless of whether you choose a smart or a Wi-Fi thermostat, it’s essential to avoid frequent thermostat adjustments that cause your AC system to consume energy rapidly. Adjusting the temperature up and down repeatedly causes your system to work harder, inflating your utility bills and putting unnecessary stress on your AC system that could shorten its lifespan. The beauty of smart and Wi-Fi thermostats is setting your temperature to maintain home comfort while achieving optimal AC performance. To accomplish this, it’s best to put your thermostat on a schedule and only change it if your schedule varies from day to day.

Get smart. Save energy and make operating your heating and cooling system more convenient with the addition of a Wi-Fi home thermostat. Learn more about available Wi-Fi thermostat models from the knowledgeable air conditioning contractors at H & H Heating & Air Conditioning, or schedule the installation of a new, high-tech Wi-Fi home thermostat today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/wi-fi-thermostats-are-a-smart-choice-heres-why/

What's a Good SEER Rating?

What’s a good SEER rating? If you feel lost in a sea of HVAC statistics and acronyms, you’re not alone. Shopping for a new heating and air conditioning system can be an overwhelming task. But the residential air conditioning repair and installation experts at H & H are here for you, breaking down SEER ratings into information you can understand so you can make the best possible home investment.

SEER Ratings Explained

SEER ratings measure how efficiently a heating and cooling system works. Air conditioning contractors often refer to it as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit is in certain conditions. For you math experts, it’s the output of a system over the entire cooling season and the energy it uses to maintain a specific indoor temperature throughout seasonal temperature fluctuations (from 60-100+ degrees), divided by the energy consumed in watt-hours.

How SEER Rating Impacts Performance

HVAC systems just 10 years old typically offer SEER ratings around 8-9. Most of today’s heating and air systems have a SEER rating between 13 and 21, though some high-efficiency ductless mini-split systems offer ratings far higher. The higher the number, the more efficient the system – but keep in mind this is the maximum possible efficiency based on near-ideal operating conditions. Like the gas mileage rating on your car, depending on conditions, performance may vary. As our 24-hour HVAC service techs can attest, like city traffic and excessive idling, a dirty air filter and leaky ductwork can impact efficiency.

What SEER Rating Should I Choose?

There is a wide range of SEER ratings, from a minimum of 13 to a max of 26 for traditional central AC units and up to 38 for ductless mini-split style systems. Higher SEER units typically cost more – but they also offer the most efficient performance, saving you energy over the long run and offering a fast return on investment. When determining the best option for your home and budget, our central heating installation experts recommend that you meet the minimum SEER requirements set by the US Department of Energy for your region, which is a minimum SEER rating of 13 for the northeast. This ensures the purchase of a system suited for your area’s climate.

When it comes to bang for the buck, the SEER sweet spot is around 17-18 SEER. Unlike lower SEER systems with a single-stage compressor and blower, these higher SEER systems usually offer added features such as a 2-stage/variable speed compressor and a variable-speed blower, providing better humidity control and improved comfort without breaking the bank.

Still Unsure What SEER Rating You Should Choose?

We can assess your needs and help you find the right size system for your home and budget so you can be comfortable year-round. Contact H & H Heating & Air Conditioning at 610-546-7123 and talk to one of our experienced HVAC installation specialists today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/whats-a-good-seer-rating/