Cooling can be challenging for some homes. Homes with older AC units, window units, or no air conditioning at all tend to experience unbearable discomfort. For these homes, a new central AC installation is an excellent option. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions that come with these types of systems.
In this article, we dispel some myths about central AC and offer your valid air conditioning facts. This way, you can make an informed decision about choosing a new AC system for your home.
Myth #1: Air Conditioner Installation Requires Significant Remodeling
A lot of people avoid central air conditioning because they think that they will have to spend a fortune on remodeling for the installation. For example, older homes may not have the air ducts needed for this system to work. Remodeling to install ducts may compromise structural integrity. It would also be extremely disruptive for the household.
While it’s true that central ACs used to involve this kind of procedure, that is no longer necessary today. Models that use smaller ducts and high-power circulators can fit into the existing house more easily.
Myth #2: Central Air Conditioning Is Expensive To Run
There is no truth to the assertion that central air conditioning is an expensive form of home cooling. Its energy consumption is comparable to other AC configurations for the same coverage area. This myth may have been fueled by the idea of leaky ducts. These plague older installations where ductwork holes may develop over time. However, now of days, they are rarely found especially if the owner gets regular professional maintenance service. Furthermore, newer installations with mini ducts are less likely to develop holes because of their improved construction. This results in a more reliable system with high efficiency and low operational cost.
Another misconception is that central air conditioning units are always noisy. People may be basing this from experience with their own cooling system or someone else’s. Again, this problem mostly affects the older models. Technology advances over time and solves common issues along the way. The constant racket made by ancient central AC units is now just a distant memory. If you get a system with built-in soundproofing, then you won’t have to worry about this. You will be able to sleep at night without any worries.
Myth #4: Every Cooling System Performs The Same Way
You need to be careful when choosing your next cooling system. Don’t just pick blindly because there are significant differences between various options. Some might provide higher efficiency and, thus, consume less electricity. Others might be better at controlling indoor humidity. Indeed, air conditioners do not simply cool home interiors. They also remove moisture from the air through condensation. This makes the room feel colder. The compressor doesn’t need to work as hard so it consumes less energy. Homeowners benefit from the smaller energy bills.
Myth #5: Air-Conditioning Components Ruin The Aesthetics Of Your Home
The aesthetics of a home is understandably important to the owners. They will guard against anything that would destroy the interior’s design. Many think that central AC is not acceptable because of this. However, the reality is that the system can be nearly invisible with competent professional installation. Outlets can be positioned in ways that do not draw attention. They will not clash with the décor but just function quietly in the background.
Myth #6: Centralized HVAC Systems Cannot Be Dual Purpose
In the early years, centralized HVAC systems could only do one thing. They might heat the house but they can’t cool it, and vice versa. This meant that homeowners had to install two separate systems even if one is idle for half the year. That is not how it is today. Central HVAC units can now do both heating and cooling so you can depend on just one system for the whole year. Dual-purpose systems are very convenient and easy to operate. They are also fast and inexpensive to install. Most of these are able to run at high efficiencies for further savings.
As you can see, prevailing myths are not always true. Innovative solutions banish old problems. Before you dismiss central air conditioning, learn more about the newest models from a competent HVAC supplier and contractor.
Call Point Bay Fuel For Your Cooling Requirements
Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, New Jersey. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.
Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. Our maintenance services can improve your comfort, increase your energy efficiency while reducing your home cooling costs. If you happen to need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. We back all of our work with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. To schedule a heating or cooling tune-up or service appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today. We offer free, in-home estimates.
Imagine waking up on a beautiful summer day and heading straight to the garage to do some work, only to roll open the garage door and instantly feel a rush of muggy hot air. That is not something you want to experience right before you get some work done. Maybe you were thinking of re-potting some of your plants, doing some woodwork, or you wanted to simply polish your car. High temperatures in enclosed spaces can really make it difficult to focus on any kind of work, even if you have a working fan.
The best way to ensure that you have a cool and comfortable workspace is by installing a garage air conditioner. In this article, we discuss why homeowners should opt for the best ductless for garage Toms River NJ. We also discuss why a window AC unit or a centralized air conditioning system does not work as well.
People use their garages for various reasons apart from storing their vehicles. Many use them as a game room, gym, or even workshop. If you are going to be spending time in your garage, the last thing you need is an uncomfortably hot space. Plus, opening the windows is not exactly a sure way of cooling your garage. If you are going to choose an air conditioner, it is important to note that this option has its own drawbacks.
Drawbacks
In the event that you already have a central air conditioning system in your house, make sure that you don’t use it to cool the garage. The reason for this is that there are gases that come from chemical substances you keep in your garage such as gasoline and pesticides, as well as from running engines that can enter the ductwork and end up in the rest of the house.
You might think that by using a ductwork extension to your garage, you will easily solve the heat problem. However, this is not a good idea and you will be in violation of the housing inspection code. If you use the extension, there will be an immense strain on the central AC system because there is a huge volume of air that requires cooling.
The Issue Of Volume
Volume is another issue that needs to be taken into account. To begin with, chances are that your garage is the biggest space in your home when compared to other rooms. Plus, not many garages come with complete ceilings; meaning air volume is inclusive of space from the rafters to the roof. So, the garage can have up to fifty percent more air volume when compared to another room with a complete ceiling and of the exact same size.
It is very hard to keep garages cool as they are not insulated. This is the case even if you use state-of-the-art air conditioning systems. Before you attempt to use your central HVAC system in your garage, it is important to insulate the door, walls, and ceiling. This helps by reducing the volume of air that will require cooling. You should also consider indoor air quality.
Indoor Air Quality
If you link the central AC system in your house to your garage, you could end up with poor indoor air quality. It is important for the air conditioning unit to have balanced airflow. The basic guideline when it comes to airflow is that for each cfm that goes in, there has to be a cfm that goes out. Therefore, if the air conditioning unit pulls 1200 cfm from your home and puts back 800, the 400 will have to come from somewhere. The 400 cfm can be pulled from the garage, gas water heater flue, or under the walls.
The second one can be lethal. If the AC unit pulls air down that flue when firing the water heater, the fumes will not be moving up the flue. This is what is referred to as back-drafting. This can release carbon monoxide into your home, and that gas can enter your lungs with fatal consequences. You can also put pressure on your garage and reduce pressure in the rest of the house even when the gas water heater is not back-drafted. The result is that all those toxic air particles in your garage will find their way into your home.
If you use the garage frequently and an air conditioner is absolutely necessary, make sure that you opt for a system that is not linked to the central unit; it has to be for the garage only. Your best choice, in this case, would be a mini-split air conditioner or ductless heat pump. This is a good option because it saves energy, can be switched off easily, it is small and ducts are not necessary. The other inexpensive option is the use of window units. But, be prepared for reduced effectiveness and more noise; it is not the preferred choice for most people.
Various Ways To Use Air Conditioning To Cools Your Garage
Window Air Conditioner
Although this is the least viable method when it comes to air conditioning, it is the most affordable. That is the reason why a lot of homeowners go for it. If your intention is to cool your garage by just a few degrees, then this choice will work. However, if you want more in terms of efficiency and comfort, this is not the best method to opt for.
Practically, making use of a wall or window unit is not the best way to cool the garage because you will need to cut a big hole in the garage wall. Cutting that hole will definitely look unappealing, especially considering that most garage walls are located in the front of the house. Your biggest worry, however, should be the issue of security. If a burglar wants to get into your house, they can simply push the unit through the hole.
Window units are also known to be very inefficient as well as noisy. It is also not easy to find a technician or repair parts in the event that they develop a problem. Basically, they will not give you the desired result.
The Benefits Of A Window Air Conditioner
They are very cheap when compared to portable systems and state of the art units.
You can easily install the unit yourself.
You can plug it into a typical wall outlet, but there might be a circuit overload if you use more than a single unit.
Window Air Conditioner Drawbacks
You have to cut a big hole in the wall.
If you want to replace the unit with a different one, the size of the hole might become problematic — the hole might be too large or too small for the new unit.
You will have security concerns.
The truth is that they are noisy and unattractive.
You might not get the expected outcome.
You will have poor indoor quality because these units contribute to the creation of mold.
If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions, a ductless unit should be your first choice when it comes to heating or cooling your garage.
A ductless mini-split system is quite similar to the central air conditioning unit. The only difference is that it is smaller in size. The smaller unit comes with a heat exchanger that is placed outside the garage. Lines in the wall will be used to transport cold liquid. That liquid will in turn cool the air inside a tiny output unit. The cut where the lines run across will be a couple of inches. The output unit can be placed at a position that is most effective.
Ductless Air Conditioner Advantages
They are more durable than many central air conditioning systems.
They are ranked as one of the most effective methods of air conditioning.
Ductless systems offer noiseless operation
They are small, meaning they don’t use up a lot of space on your wall.
You will not have any security issues. There is no need to cut a big hole in the wall.
It’s not only a cooling system, but it also comes as a heating system.
Well designed to provide the optimum temperature.
Ductless Air Conditioner Drawbacks
Of all the various types of units available, it is the priciest option.
Only an expert HVAC contractor can handle the installation. Make sure that you do not purchase these contraptions online thinking that you are saving, you might regret it.
Although you might have a reason for wanting it removed, usually it ends up being a permanent fitting.
Conclusion
Having a ductless split unit in your garage means that you will be able to transform your garage into a comfortable workspace all year round. A good quality unit also has the added advantage of providing safety and great indoor air quality during all seasons of the year. To get more information regarding energy saving ductless systems, you can simply contact a licensed HVAC contractor. With the correct information, you will be in a better position to choose the right unit for your home.
Ductless FAQs
How Does A Ductless Unit Work?
A ductless unit is made up of an outdoor heat pump as well as an indoor air handler. The function of the air handler is to distribute conditioned air straight into your garage.
Is It Simple Or Hard To Install A Ductless Heat Pump?
Installing a mini-split unit is relatively simple to do. The contractor drills a tiny hole through the garage wall and connects a duct between the heat pump and the air handler. This is done prior to installing the other equipment. The entire process is quick and simple. For a skilled installer, the entire process can be completed in a single day.
Where Can You Use A Ductless Unit?
Apart from the garage, these units can be of use on patios, with room additions, in sheds, and in newly built rooms.
How much you will pay for purchasing and installing ductless HVAC units will depend on a number of factors. The factors are the size of the unit, the price of the outdoor and indoor units, and the unit capacity. It’s important to note that the installation will also cost more if you use more air handlers.
Why Are Ductless Systems So Efficient?
One of the main benefits of installing these systems is that you can customize the temperature. What that means is that you can only switch them on when you are actually in the garage or wherever they are installed. The fact that there is no ductwork makes this unit more efficient as well. According to the experts, because of leaks in the ductwork, an average of 30 percent of energy is lost. You will not have these kinds of problems with the mini-split version. Also, they come with high SEER and HSPF ratings.
Can I Use A Ductless Heat Pump In The Winter?
You will find that all HVAC unit manufacturers design heat pumps that operate well in cold climates. Such pumps are typically referred to as extended capacity units. There are types that offer quality performance at low temperatures.
How Durable Is A Ductless System?
Generally, a ductless model works for up to twenty years. However, this can only happen with regular maintenance. With the assistance of a professional, potential issues can be identified and fixed.
Call Point Bay Fuel To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems
Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.
Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. If you happen to need an HVAC replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today for a free, in-home estimate.
Ductless heat pumps retain their efficiency for many years with correct installation and regular maintenance. This means that you will need a ductless heat pump contractor Toms River NJ who can perform the proper job to keep your system in top shape. Learn what to look for in a contractor to ensure that you get the best service and reduce any problems with your heat pump system. This article discusses some key things to look for.
What To Look For In A Ductless Heat Pump Contractor
Below, we share some important aspects to look for when you need to hire a ductless HVAC expert in your area.
HVAC Contractor Reviews
A ductless heat pump is a very complex piece of equipment. In unskilled and untrained hands, the system may be damaged irreversibly. It is important that you hire only a reputable HVAC contractor so you are assured of safe and accurate ductless installation and repair work.
One of the best ways to find a reputable ductless installation company is to read online reviews. Many businesses thrive on word-of-mouth marketing because clients who are satisfied with their contractor’s performance will often leave high ratings and offer recommendations. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, and acquaintances. You could also check online review boards for information about local contractors. The most reputable contractors encourage this because positive reviews help promote their businesses. Look for reviews made on independent third-party boards or websites for more objective opinions. To get a better perspective, though, check multiple review sources. Also, if a company received a negative review, be sure to see how they handled it.
Industry awards are an indication of excellent performance. These awards are only granted to companies that meet the standards of service performance set by the awarding body or organization. As such, only the best-performing contractors receive recognition. In the heating and cooling industry, these recognitions are only given after HVAC companies pass through stringent qualifications.
If you want to find the best HVAC contractor, look for awards and certifications such as:
Contractor award from ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America)
NATE certifications
Brand-specific awards
County Chamber of Commerce Business Award
Authorized dealership from specific brands
Best Pick awards
Proper HVAC Licensing
Many home and business owners do not realize the risks that unlicensed HVAC contractors pose. True, they tend to offer cheaper services but they cannot assure you of accurate and safe installation and repair work. As a result, you may have to contend with a damaged system or safety issues. The small advantage of having to pay less for an unlicensed contractor could cost you more over the long term. Furthermore, HVAC manufacturers will void their warranty agreement if you have an unlicensed person service your system. This includes tune-ups, repairs, and installations.
A licensed ductless heat pump contractor, on the other hand, can offer safe and correct services in ductless heating and cooling systems. The client is also protected since a licensed contractor can offer a job warranty and is covered by their own insurance. To find the best ductless heat pump contractor, ask if the company is a licensed business. Licenses are only granted to contractors who have trained and skilled technicians, and who can demonstrate excellent knowledge in the performance of a procedure related to HVAC systems.
Reputable HVAC contractors will only offer HVAC products from trusted brands. Good contractors have years of experience in the industry and they know which brands offer topnotch performance. Trusted contractors, for example, will recommend HVAC systems with a high SEER rating to ensure that their clients enjoy high efficiency and the resulting savings energy costs. Some reputable contractors specialize in one or two HVAC brands but there are also other contractors who have a partnership with multiple brands who can offer excellent services as well.
Prioritize Customer Needs With Superior Customer Service
The best HVAC contractors will always put their customers’ needs above everything else – at least, up to a reasonable level. These contractors offer customer service that offers assistance and support to their customers right from the beginning of the project and even after the installation job was completed. Customer service is often a major indicator of how well your HVAC contractor will treat you, so it is a good idea to pay attention to how they deal with you.
Common Ductless FAQs
What Is A Ductless HVAC System?
A ductless HVAC system is a type of heating and cooling system that does not require ductwork to deliver warm or cool air. Since HVAC ductwork is unnecessary, ductless systems tend to be more efficient and cost-effective.
What Are The Best Applications For A Ductless System?
Ductless systems are best for multi-level buildings, room additions, buildings with underserved areas, new constructions, and older homes where ductwork installation is not possible.
What Is HVAC Zoning?
Zoning is one feature that a ductless HVAC system can offer. The HVAC zoning system is a system that allows the distribution of conditioned air to certain areas in a building. This system makes it possible to customize temperatures independently in each zone.
How Much Does A Ductless HVAC System Installation Cost?
There are several factors that affect the final cost of an HVAC system installation. These factors include the size of the home or building, the type and capacity of the HVAC system, even the brand of the system. Keep in mind that you do get what you pay for, so expect more efficient and feature-rich systems to cost more.
Are Ductless Systems Better Than Central HVAC Systems?
Ductless systems do not require ductwork, making them easier to install. They also provide better control of the temperature and are considered better options for older homes and structures with underserved spaces.
Are Ductless Systems Durable?
Ductless HVAC systems are quite robust and can last for about 20 years, with regular upkeep and maintenance.
What Type Of License Does An HVAC Contractor Need To Install A Ductless Heat Pump?
License types vary by state. Some states require an HVAC board license while other states require a Mechanical Administrator license. Certain types of licenses are also required by the state in order for the contractor to perform a certain type of work or specialization.
Conclusion
A reputable ductless HVAC contractor is not just a company you hire to perform installation or repair services. They are actually your partner in ensuring that your home has an HVAC system that works properly. The best HVAC contractor can offer you excellent service that will match your goals and budget. Choosing the right contractor is critical because it will not only ensure your comfort and cost considerations, you will also be assured that your home will be safe and comfortable.
Call Point Bay Fuel To Learn More About Ductless HVAC Systems
Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in the area. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.
Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. If you happen to need an HVAC replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. As always, we prioritize energy efficiency, comfort, indoor air quality, and more. To schedule an appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today for a free, in-home estimate.
No matter how clean you maintain your home, there is always room for making it cleaner and safer. If you have never thought about how to improve indoor air quality, now may be the time to take a closer look. Certain household products you may be using that are actually doing more harm than good. They lead to indoor air pollution within the home. This article discusses some of the most common household products that significantly reduce indoor air quality and what you can do instead.
Indoor air quality or IAQ is the condition of the air inside or around a structure, such as a residential home or a commercial building. It is related to the comfort and health of the occupants of that structure. With good indoor air quality, indoor air is easier and safer to breathe.
IAQ is a major concern for a home, especially where there are elderly residents, very young children, or people who are immuno-compromised. If indoor air has high levels of moisture and/or indoor air pollutants, it could lead to an increased risk of health issues. Such issues allergies and respiratory problems. This is the reason why homes and commercial buildings need to meet indoor air quality standards.
To eliminate indoor air quality issues, learn how pollutants invade the air inside your home. You might actually be using household products that significantly reduce the cleanliness of the air indoors.
Household Products That Affect Indoor Air Quality
Below, we share some pollutants that affect the quality of your indoor air at home.
Cleaning Products
Many commercial cleaning products are formulated with chemicals that can be harmful both to one’s health and the environment. Cleaning supplies may contain bleach, ammonia, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and strong synthetic fragrances that reduce residential indoor air quality and cause a strong reaction, especially if they are mixed with other chemicals.
Solution: Learn how to improve indoor air quality naturally by choosing cleaning products that contain environmentally-friendly ingredients. You can also avoid those that contain harmful chemicals. If possible, learn how to use natural cleaners such as vinegar or baking soda.
Many products are sold as aerosol sprays – hairspray and hair treatments, deodorant, shaving cream, and fragrances. Even cooking oil in aerosol spray cans is a little suspect, thanks to the addition of chemicals such as artificial flavoring, propellants (including propane, isobutane, and butane), and a type of silicone to prevent the oil from foaming.
Aerosol sprays are designed to propel tiny droplets of liquid through the air. When this liquid contains harmful ingredients, it is unsafe to use. Aerosol sprays were exposed over 30 years ago as polluting substances and are considered a threat to the environment as well.
Solution: To avoid irritants in the air through aerosol sprays, limit their use, or avoid them if possible. Many products are available in other forms and you can use them safely with little to no effects on the indoor air quality of your home.
Paint
If you could smell fresh paint, then you are likely breathing in something that is not safe for your health. Paint, at least many that are still being sold and used, contain VOCs. VOCs contain carbon compounds that can easily turn to vapor. When they mix with the air, they react with other elements and produce ozone, which can increase air pollution. This is the pollution you breathe in because the paint will continue to release VOCs into the air as it dries.
Solution: Learn how to keep indoor air clean by choosing low-VOC paint. In fact, go out of your way to look for zero-VOC paint. Your lungs will thank you for it.
We have all grabbed a can of air freshener before to get rid of a bad smell but did you know that it also contains harmful ingredients? Some air fresheners can emit more than 100 different types of chemicals, many of which are toxic or harmful to health. These chemicals can also react with other elements in the air found inside the home and in turn produce more harmful compounds. Inhaling even a small amount of air freshener can even cause some people to cough or sneeze. If the mist comes in contact with the skin, it could even lead to redness, itchiness, and irritation.
Although it may seem contradictory that a product that supposedly “freshens” air can actually cause indoor air quality issues, it is not surprising. Air fresheners contain propellants, fragrance, and different types of additives that all contribute to the reduction of indoor air quality.
Solution: Improve indoor air quality by using natural ingredients to eliminate bad smells.
Candles
Candles may seem innocent enough but they do pose a risk to health. The good news is that not all candles are bad – only those that contain paraffin wax. Paraffin is a by-product of petroleum, shale, or coal oil. On their own, candles are probably harmless but when someone burns them, they release carcinogenic compounds into the air. In various studies, it has been found that candles made with paraffin wax can emit fumes that are linked to asthma and lung cancer.
Solution: Avoid regular use of paraffin wax candles. If using candles regularly, consider more natural ingredients such as beeswax or soy.
Dry cleaning uses a type of organic solvent to remove stains, dirt, and unpleasant smells. Unfortunately, dry cleaning solutions can be quite harmful especially to people who have pre-existing health conditions that involve the lungs, kidneys, heart, or liver. The most worrisome type of ingredient that dry cleaning uses is PERC (perchloroethylene), which is a type of VOC. It is especially worrisome if exposure to the chemical occurs over a long period.
Solution: If dry cleaning is not avoidable, then unwrap dry-cleaned clothes outside your home. Leave them out to ventilate. This gives you the opportunity for your dry cleaning to release the harmful chemicals outdoors. Always go to a reputable dry cleaning business and do not hesitate to complain if you notice a strong smell on dry-cleaned clothes.
Conclusion
Proper indoor air quality management should include active awareness of the types of products that could lead to problems with indoor air quality. Maintaining safe indoor air is not only good for your health and safety but it is also a necessity for the proper upkeep of the environment. Small steps can make a huge difference and taking an active part will ensure that you can keep your home and its occupants safe and comfortable.
Call Point Bay Fuel For Superior Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Point Bay Fuel offers superior heating and cooling services in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, New Jersey. We hire the best NATE certified technicians who can provide you with excellent HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Each of our techs has the knowledge and experience to service your HVAC system correctly.
Point Bay Fuel guarantees the most competitive heating and cooling service costs in the area. Our services can improve your comfort, increase your energy efficiency while reducing your home cooling costs. Likewise, we can find practical solutions to improve your indoor air quality.
If you happen to need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can recommend the best one for your home while staying within your budget. We back all of our work with a guarantee to ensure your satisfaction. To schedule a service appointment, give Point Bay Fuel a call today. We offer free, in-home estimates.
If you use the garage frequently and an air conditioner is absolutely necessary, make sure that you opt for a system that is not linked to the central unit; it has to be for the garage only. Your best choice, in this case, would be a mini-split air conditioner or 
