Author: Gee! Heating & Air

A Guide to Stopping Ductwork Condensation and Why It’s Important

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on January 10, 2023. Posted in Duct Cleaning. No Comments on A Guide to Stopping Ductwork Condensation and Why It’s Important

During the hotter summer months, it is quite common for condensation to begin forming on and/or in your air ducts whenever your AC is running. While this may not sound like a big deal, it is definitely something that you want to prevent. Otherwise, it could lead to poor indoor air quality. With that in mind, let’s take a look at why condensation forms on air ducts and what you can do to prevent this problem.

What Causes Condensation to Form on Air Ducts?

Condensation forming on air ducts is mostly a problem during the summer when your air conditioning is constantly running. The main reason that condensation forms is due to the temperature difference between the air flowing through the ducts and the air that surrounds them. This temperature difference causes much of the moisture in the air to condense on and inside the ducts in the same way that condensation forms on a cold glass of water during hot weather.

The more moisture there is in the air, the more condensation will form. This is why ductwork condensation is an especially common and sometimes serious problem in Georgia and other southern states due to the hot, humid weather.

All central HVAC systems have two separate duct systems. The return duct system is what draws warm air in from the home so that it can be cooled by your AC. Once the air is cooled, it then travels through the supply ducts and out of your vents. Since the supply ducts carry cold air, condensation most commonly forms on the outside of them as the air surrounding them is warmer than the ducts. A much bigger issue is with the return ducts, as condensation will often form inside of them since they carry warm air.

The Importance of Preventing Ductwork Condensation

Any time condensation forms anywhere in the home, it creates the potential for mold and mildew to start growing. The biggest issue is that condensation could allow toxic black mold to grow, and this can potentially lead to serious health issues. While most mold isn’t toxic, it still isn’t something you want inside the home.

Any mold in the home will constantly reproduce and give off spores, and these spores will then be circulated throughout the entire building every time your air conditioning runs. Mold spores are one of the most common allergens, and constantly breathing in mold will also worsen any respiratory issues and breathing problems. This is why it is important that you take steps to prevent condensation from forming on your ductwork and anywhere else in the home.

Why Controlling Indoor Humidity Is Essential

The most important thing you can do to prevent condensation from forming on your ductwork and elsewhere in the home is to ensure that the indoor humidity level never rises too high. Ideally, your home’s humidity level should always remain constant at around 45 to 50%. Anything over 60% relative humidity greatly increases the chances of condensation forming and potentially leading to both water damage and mold growth.

If you’re unsure what your home’s humidity level is, we recommend purchasing a portable hygrometer so that you can measure the moisture concentration in the air. Alternatively, you could upgrade to a Wi-Fi smart thermostat, as most of these units will also measure indoor humidity in addition to temperature.

Running your air conditioner will always help to keep your home less humid. When your AC is on, the blower constantly draws warm air in and forces it over the AC evaporator coil. Cold refrigerant constantly flows through the coil, and this works to absorb much of the heat from the air as it passes over the coil. Since the refrigerant makes the evaporator coil much colder than the surrounding air, much of the moisture in the air condenses into water on the coil.

The only problem is that in humid climates, your air conditioner alone often isn’t sufficient to keep the humidity level from rising too high. This means that you may need to take additional steps if your home frequently has issues with high humidity.

Running your AC when the indoor humidity level is high puts a lot of extra strain on the system and will always force it to run more frequently and for longer periods of time. This is because the more moisture air contains, the harder it is to remove heat from the air. Controlling your indoor humidity level will not only improve your comfort and help to prevent condensation, but it will also reduce the time that your AC needs to run and thus help to lower your cooling costs.

The best and easiest way to manage and prevent high indoor humidity is to install a whole-home dehumidifier. These units are mounted inside your duct system, and they work to remove most of the moisture from the air as it travels through the ducts. A whole-home dehumidifier will typically run whenever your AC is running. However, you can also program the unit so that it only runs whenever the humidity level is above a certain percentage.

We also recommend keeping your windows and doors closed throughout the hotter, more humid parts of the year. If you leave your windows open, all of the humidity from outside will get in. Once inside, the moisture will soak into your floors, walls, and furnishings, which makes it even more difficult to keep the humidity level in check. Making sure that your home’s envelope or exterior structure is well sealed and doesn’t have any cracks or gaps where air can seep in from outside can also go a long way toward making it easier to control your indoor humidity level.

How Insulating Your Ducts Can Prevent Condensation

The other important factor in preventing condensation from forming on your air ducts is to make sure that your ductwork is properly insulated. The ducts located in the main part of a home typically aren’t as big of an issue since the temperature in these areas usually remains much more consistent. However, any ductwork that runs through an unconditioned part of the home, like an attic or crawlspace, should definitely be insulated, as these areas can get extremely hot and humid during the summer.

Insulating your ductwork will help to prevent condensation as it makes it so that the hot air doesn’t come into contact with the ducts, and it can also help to make your AC more effective and thus lower your energy costs. If your ducts aren’t insulated, the hot air that surrounds them will quickly cause the metal to warm up. In turn, this leads to the cold air from your AC beginning to warm up as it travels through the ducts and thus lessening the effectiveness of your cooling system.

If you’re having issues with duct condensation or need any other HVAC service in the Gainesville area, [company_name] is here to help. We install, maintain, and repair air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, ductless mini-splits, and ductwork, and we work on both residential and commercial HVAC systems. We also install and service whole-home dehumidifiers, air purifiers, and a range of other indoor air quality equipment. If you have any questions about preventing ductwork condensation or need to schedule a service appointment, give us a call today.

Holiday HVAC Tips

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on December 20, 2022. Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Holiday HVAC Tips

Essential Holiday HVAC Tips To Keep In Mind

During the holidays, your regular to-do list fills up with family get-togethers, shopping trips, and mini-vacations. Often, vital household responsibilities can accidentally fall by the wayside. Don’t let your busy schedule impact your indoor comfort this holiday season. Make sure your loved ones and guests are warm and comfortable in your home, no matter how cold it is outside. Here are a few helpful HVAC tips to get you through the upcoming holidays.

1. Replace Your Air Filter

The primary purpose of your air filters is to protect your HVAC system from dust and debris. When your filters fill up, they allow more particulates to enter your furnace. They can also impede healthy airflow in the system, making it harder to produce warm air. A dirty, overused filter could leave your guests sneezing, coughing, and feeling uncomfortable.

Most experts recommend switching out air filters every one to three months. If you live in a home with pets, your filters will fill up faster. Consider investing in pleated options that last longer and can more easily remove smaller contaminants.

2. Seal Window Gaps

Drafty windows and doors can quickly skyrocket your energy costs during the winter. These gaps allow your precious heated air to escape, wasting your money and comfort. If your home isn’t efficiently heating up, your furnace can short cycle or run for an abnormally long time.

Changes in your furnace’s cycles have a huge impact on your system’s efficiency. The more your system strains to produce heat, the more wear and tear it will endure. Protect your temperature control by correcting leaky windows and doors with sealants. You can also utilize draft stoppers, thick rugs, and thermal curtains wherever possible.

3. Program Your Thermostat

Your daily schedule is likely to change dramatically when the holidays roll around. You may be in the home more often than usual, increasing your need for heat. There may also be more people around, making it necessary to heat rooms that you usually don’t. Attempting to keep track of your settings can be complicated and confusing.

Instead of remembering to change your thermostat every day, make full use of its programmable features. Most modern thermostats allow you to set your temperature needs for certain times of the day or week. Some smart devices even give you access to your settings while in bed or out of the home running errands.

4. Switch Ceiling Fan Settings

Don’t underestimate how valuable your ceiling fans could be to your temperature control. Hot air always rises, which often explains why the upstairs is much warmer than the downstairs during the winter. Rather than having all that valuable heat go straight up, you can use your fan to disperse it evenly in your home.

You should see a small switch right on the base of your fan below the blades. Set this switch so that the fan is spinning clockwise. During the summer, you can switch it the other way to force heat up and away from you. Using your fan can lower your energy costs and keep air moving in your home.

5. Cover Your Outdoor Air Conditioning Unit

With the summer in the rearview, you’ve likely turned your full focus to maintaining your furnace. However, your external air conditioning unit still needs preventative care to protect it from the coming weather changes. Take the time to clear away any nearby debris, foliage, underbrush, or twigs. These objects can bang against your unit during harsh winter winds.

Brush off the external cover and rinse it down with your hose. It’s best to call for a quick tune-up to minimize the spread of any new system damage. After cleaning and maintaining your air conditioner, consider grabbing a ventilated AC unit cover to prevent moisture damage or pest issues.

6. Check Smoke Detectors

The holidays often come with long days of cooking, eating, and celebrating. You’re likely to be constantly using your gas furnace and stove. Your home needs at least one fire alarm and carbon monoxide detector on every floor. Consider installing more of these devices near your furnace, in your kitchen, and outside your bedrooms.

These detectors should be checked weekly to ensure they’re still working as intended. If your devices use batteries, be sure to switch them out every six months. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are vital to protecting your family’s well-being and your property throughout the year.

7. Monitor Vents and Registers

The more people in your home, the easier it is for accidents to occur. Suitcases may be accidentally placed over a vital air vent, or a couch might be moved over to make room for an inflatable bed. A misplaced dresser or rug could drop the temperature in the room by several degrees.

Make it a habit at least once daily during your busiest weeks to check that every vent in your home is unobstructed. Watch for any hot or cold spots or strange temperature inconsistencies. Along with making your home uncomfortable, a closed vent could increase harmful static pressure in your HVAC system. This pressure makes it harder for your furnace to distribute warm air evenly.

8. Closely Monitor All Space Heater Use

It’s possible a few of your extended family members may be a little more susceptible to the cold. You may be inclined to use space heaters to add warmth to those distant guest rooms. While these heaters are a great way to complement your furnace, they should be monitored regularly to prevent fire hazards.

Be sure there are at least three feet of clearance around the entire heater at all times. Never leave these devices unattended when operating, including when you’re sleeping. Never use them to warm your blankets or dry your clothes. When you’re not using your space heater, unplug it from the wall and store it away from children and pets.

9. Schedule HVAC Maintenance

Minimize your chances of running into a heating emergency by scheduling HVAC maintenance before the holiday season begins. Heating and cooling systems should be inspected every spring and fall. Doing this helps to minimize damages and regular wear and tear. It also improves the system’s efficiency, keeping your monthly utility costs low.

Older systems are particularly susceptible to short cycling and sudden system shutdowns. Don’t risk leaving your family cold and uncomfortable during the holidays! A professional tune-up gives you assurance that your heating system will last another winter.

Leading Local HVAC Team

[company_name] is dedicated to offering trustworthy and reliable heating and cooling services in Gainesville, GA. For more than 30 years, our family-owned business has strived to exceed your expectations. All our highly skilled and certified technicians receive a background check upon employment. We also offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Trust our expert team to repair and maintain your heating and cooling systems. We can also replace your old furnace or air conditioner with a new, state-of-the-art model. Don’t forget to ask about our indoor air quality services, ductwork cleanings, and commercial HVAC options! Make [company_name] your HVAC company of choice in Gainesville today.

Issues That Can Cause Furnaces to Blow Cold and How to Fix Them

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on November 18, 2022. Posted in Heating. No Comments on Issues That Can Cause Furnaces to Blow Cold and How to Fix Them

When your furnace is running, you obviously expect hot air to blow out of your vents. If you notice that cold air is blowing out of your vents when your heating is on, this typically indicates that there is a problem with either the furnace, thermostat, ductwork, or gas supply. Here is everything you need to know about the different issues that can cause a furnace to blow cold air and how they can be fixed.

Thermostat Isn’t Set Correctly

If you notice cold air coming from the vents, the first thing to do is make sure that you have the thermostat set to “Heat” and not “Cool.” This one is usually obvious since you should hear your air conditioner running and not your furnace.

You should also make sure that the fan is set to “Auto” and not “On.” If the fan is set to “On,” it will run constantly even when the furnace isn’t on. When the furnace is on, the fan is constantly drawing in cold air through the return vents and blowing hot air out of the supply vents. If the fan continues to run after the furnace shuts off, it will start blowing cold air since the air being drawn into the ductwork is no longer being heated. For this reason, it is recommended that you always leave your fan set to “Auto” whenever your heating or your air conditioning is turned on.

Dirty HVAC Air Filter

HVAC air filters should always be replaced at least every three months or potentially more often. You should make sure to check the filter regularly and replace it whenever it starts to look dark and gray or is covered in a thick layer of dust and debris.

If the filter isn’t replaced regularly, it will get extremely dirty, and very little air can flow through it. A clogged air filter will prevent sufficient air from being able to flow into the furnace. If no cold air can be drawn into the furnace, then there won’t be anything for it to heat. As a result, you will feel very little airflow coming out of the vents, and the air coming from the vents might be cold or not as hot as usual.

Leaking or Poorly Insulated Ductwork

Small duct leaks typically aren’t a major issue. Any leaks in your ductwork will contribute to energy waste and increase your heating costs, but they won’t always affect how much hot air is coming out of your vents. Large air leaks can allow cold air to get inside the ductwork. This will obviously lower the temperature of the air inside the ducts and can result in the air coming out of your vents being colder.

A similar issue can occur if your ductwork runs through the basement or crawl space and is not fully insulated. Basements and crawl spaces typically stay quite a bit colder, which is why ducts in these areas always need to be insulated. If the ducts aren’t insulated, the cold air can cause the ducts to become extremely cold and lower the temperature of the air flowing through them.

Dirty or Clogged Furnace Burners

Furnace burners should always be cleaned at least once a year, and this is one of the many things involved in professional furnace maintenance. If you don’t have your furnace maintained regularly, the burners will soon become coated in dirt and grime. When the burners are dirty, it can prevent the gas flowing through them from fully combusting. If the gas doesn’t fully combust, much less heat will be created and the air that comes out of the furnace may remain cold. The solution to this issue is to have a furnace technician clean the burners. This problem can also easily be prevented by having your furnace professionally maintained every fall.

Insufficient Gas Supply

The cold air coming from your vents could also be a sign that there is an issue with the gas supply coming into the furnace. If not enough gas flows into it, the furnace will obviously produce far less heat. This issue can be caused by gas leaks, a kink in the gas line, or because the gas shut-off valve is not fully open. It could also be that there is an issue with the gas supply coming into your house, and this will affect both your furnace and any other gas-burning appliances.

Gas leaks are easy to detect because you will notice a rotten egg smell near the furnace. If the furnace is fed with a flex gas line, you need to make sure that there is not a bend or kink in the line. You also want to check that the gas valve is fully open. When open, the handle on the valve should be parallel with the gas line. If the handle is at an angle, it means the valve is not fully open.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

This is the most serious of the possible causes and could lead to carbon monoxide seeping out into the rest of your home. The heat exchanger in a furnace serves two main purposes. The first is to transfer heat energy from the combustion chamber into the cold air flowing into the furnace. As the furnace burns gas, it heats the heat exchanger. Cold air is drawn over the heat exchanger and the heat energy naturally flows from the exchanger into the cold air.

The second purpose is to seal off the combustion chamber so that combustion fumes like carbon monoxide can’t escape. If the heat exchanger is cracked, it will allow the hot gases to escape from the combustion chamber. This prevents the heat exchanger from getting hot enough to warm up the air flowing into the furnace, and it can also allow carbon monoxide to escape into the ductwork and be circulated throughout the home.

The most common reason that heat exchangers crack is due to the furnace overheating, but it can also happen simply due to aging and normal wear and tear. If your furnace is still under warranty, you can hire an HVAC technician to replace the heat exchanger. If your furnace is older and no longer covered by a warranty, you are usually advised to have a new furnace installed.

Furnace Isn’t Running

This last problem isn’t all that common and typically means that there are issues with both your furnace and your thermostat. There are numerous issues that can cause a furnace to either not turn on or quickly shut down. This can happen due to issues with the gas supply, the pilot light or electric igniter, the flame sensor, or the furnace burners. If the furnace shuts down soon after turning on, it usually means that there is some issue that is causing it to overheat. All of these are things that you will need to have repaired by a professional HVAC technician. However, they still shouldn’t cause your heating system to blow cold air unless your thermostat isn’t working correctly.

The thermostat is what controls both the furnace and the blower fan and signals them to turn on and off, and it should automatically signal the fan to shut off if the furnace doesn’t light or shuts off for any reason. If the fan continues to run even when the furnace isn’t on, this usually indicates that the thermostat isn’t working correctly for some reason. In some cases, it may simply be that the batteries in the thermostat don’t have sufficient charge for them to work correctly.

At [company_name], we specialize in furnace inspections, maintenance, and repairs. Our team can quickly determine what is causing your furnace to blow cold air. We also work on and install air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, and indoor air quality equipment for customers in Gainesville and the surrounding areas. To schedule a furnace inspection or any other HVAC service, give us a call today.

How to Know If a Heat Pump Is Right for Your Home

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on October 17, 2022. Posted in HVAC. No Comments on How to Know If a Heat Pump Is Right for Your Home

Are you looking for ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and lower your monthly utility bills? If so, upgrading your HVAC system with a heat pump might be the perfect choice. To understand why this is, here is a quick guide on how heat pumps work and how they compare to other HVAC units.

An Introduction to Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are a relatively newer type of HVAC unit that can keep your home cool in the summer and warm during the chillier winter months. At first glance, you would probably think that it is a central AC unit as the two look almost identical. They also function the same way when cooling your home, and the only real difference between the two is that heat pumps have the ability to run in reverse to also heat your home.

The most common type of heat pump is an air-source unit, and this is the type that looks and performs just like a central air conditioner. However, there are also geothermal heat pumps that take advantage of the natural heat in the ground. Air-source heat pumps capture and release heat from the air, whereas geothermal or ground-source heat pumps use the ground for heat transfer.

This type of system works by using refrigerant lines buried deep under the ground. Once you go a few feet under the surface, the temperature remains steady at approximately 55 degrees. Geothermal heat pumps take advantage of this by capturing the heat from the surrounding soil and using it to warm the home. During the summer, the system functions like a central air conditioner. The only difference is that the heat from inside the building is released into the ground instead of the air outside.

How Does a Heat Pump Compare to a Central Air Conditioner?

In terms of cooling effectiveness and energy efficiency, there is virtually zero difference between a heat pump and a central air conditioner. If you were two compare two units of the same size with the same SEER rating side by side, they would use the exact same amount of energy and be equally as effective at ensuring your home stays cool.

All that being said, heat pumps are more expensive to purchase and install. This makes sense considering the fact that a heat pump will provide both heating and cooling. That being said, purchasing a heat pump is far cheaper than having to buy separate air conditioning and heating units. Opting for a heat pump can potentially save you a few thousand dollars compared to buying an AC and a furnace or other heating unit.

The fact that heat pumps are used throughout the year also means that they have a slightly shorter lifespan. While the average life for a central AC unit is around 15 years, heat pumps will typically only last for somewhere between eight and 12 years at the most. Again, this factor is offset by the fact that heat pumps eliminate the need for a separate heating source.

If you’re considering replacing your air conditioner, we highly recommend that you think about opting for a heat pump instead. On the other hand, if your AC is only a few years old, it generally makes more sense to wait a few years before you replace it.

How Heat Pumps Compare to Furnaces and Other Heating Options

Gas furnaces, electric furnaces, baseboard heaters and any other type of heating source can’t even come close to matching the energy efficiency of an electric heat pump. Conventional gas furnaces generally have a maximum AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating of around 90%. High-efficiency condensing furnaces can have an AFUE of up to 98.5%. This percentage refers to how much of the heat energy is created by burning gas that the unit can capture.

For electric furnaces and other electric heat sources, the energy efficiency is measured in terms of how many units of electricity the unit converts into heat energy. Most electric heat sources are one-to-one or 100% efficient, which means that none of the electricity is wasted. Heat pumps, on the other hand, are often two-to-one or even three-to-one. This means that every unit of electric energy the unit uses is turned into two or three units of heat energy.

When comparing heat pumps to other types of electric heating, it is easiest to look at the total BTUs (British Thermal Units) of heating the unit produces and compare it to how many kilowatt-hours of electricity it uses. To sufficiently heat a 2,000-square-foot home in Georgia, you need somewhere around 60,000 to 70,000 BTUs of heating. This equates to approximately a 20,000-watt electric furnace.

Let’s say that you only need to run your heating for two hours a day. In that time span, your furnace would run for around 35 to 40 minutes an hour and use a total of around 26 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. During the same time, a heat pump would use quite a bit less energy while providing the same or better level of heating.

A 60,000-BTU heat pump with an HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Rating) would typically use around 15 kWh or potentially even less in milder weather. If you upgraded to a 13.5-HSPF, you could cut the electricity consumption down to around 9 kWh or less. Even the most basic heat pump can potentially lower your heating costs by nearly 40% while a high-efficiency unit could cut your costs by nearly two-thirds.

Why Heat Pumps Are Perfect for Georgia

Since the heat pump unit sits outside the house and absorbs heat energy from the surrounding air, its energy efficiency varies depending on the outdoor air temperature. Heat pumps can continue to function at their peak efficiency as long as the air temperature remains in the upper 30s to low 40s. As the temperature continues to drop, so does the unit’s efficiency.

Heat pumps can still be effective and fairly efficient even in temperatures well below freezing. This is why they are still so common in many colder European climates like Norway and Sweden. However, in colder climates, it is often necessary to supplement the heat pump with an additional heating source whenever the weather gets too cold.

This obviously isn’t an issue in places like Georgia since we very rarely experience extremely cold winter weather. As a result, heat pumps are by far the best heating choice since they use very little energy, provide extremely effective heating and don’t produce any combustion fumes or carbon emissions.

As an added bonus, if you have a new heat pump installed any time after January 1, 2023, you will automatically qualify for a 30% tax credit up to a maximum of $2,000. This tax credit is set to last until at least 2033 so you can still claim it even if you don’t upgrade to a heat pump until sometime in the future.

Gainesville’s Heating and Cooling Experts

At [company_name], we install all types of heating and cooling equipment including heat pumps, furnaces, central air conditioners and ductless mini-splits. We carry a wide range of energy-efficient heat pumps and other HVAC units, and our team can help you determine what is the best choice for your home. Our certified HVAC technicians also repair and maintain all models of HVAC equipment from all manufacturers. We also install a range of IAQ equipment to help improve your home’s air quality. We happily provide free estimates on all of our services as well as financing for new equipment on approved credit. To learn more about the benefits of upgrading to a heat pump or if you need any HVAC service, give us a call today.

How to Prepare Your HVAC System Before a Vacation

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on September 20, 2022. Posted in HVAC. No Comments on How to Prepare Your HVAC System Before a Vacation

If you’re planning on taking a vacation, there are a few steps you should take before leaving to ensure your home will be fine while you’re away. This is true whether you’ll be gone for a few days or a few weeks. Setting your water heater to vacation mode is definitely something you should do if you’ll be gone for more than a day or two, as it prevents energy waste by ensuring the unit isn’t constantly heating while you’re away. You should also take all of the following steps to prepare your HVAC system before you leave.

Leave Your HVAC System On and Adjust Your Thermostat

No matter what time of the year your vacation is, you should always leave your HVAC system turned on when you’re away. You’ll obviously want to have your heating turned on during the colder parts of the year and leave your AC running during the hotter summer months.

If you don’t leave your heating on during the winter, the temperature inside your home could quickly get cold enough for your pipes to freeze. The temperature inside your home doesn’t even need to drop below freezing for ice to form in your pipes. Pipes can often freeze when the temperature inside drops below 55 degrees since the water temperature in your pipes is often only a few degrees above freezing in the winter.

In the summer, the bigger issue is indoor humidity. If you don’t leave your AC on, the temperature will quickly rise, and this will also result in much higher indoor humidity. Even if you’re only gone for a few days, the humidity level could easily get high enough to create major issues with mold, mildew, and water damage. To prevent this, you should make sure that the temperature never rises above 85 degrees.

While you should always leave your HVAC on when you’re away, you should still adjust the temperature so that the system isn’t constantly running. If no people or pets will be at the house when you’re away, there is really no point in keeping your home as hot or cool as you would normally. All this will do is waste energy.

Turning your thermostat up or down will help save money on energy costs while you’re gone while still ensuring that the temperature remains warm or cool enough to prevent issues with frozen plumbing and high humidity. During the summer months, it is recommended that you set your thermostat to 80 degrees any time you will be away for more than a day or two.

In the winter, you should leave your thermostat set to 60 degrees. You should also make sure to open up the cabinets underneath your sinks as this will help to circulate warm air and prevent pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes aren’t usually a major issue in Georgia. Still, there is always the chance of an extreme cold snap occurring while you’re away, which is why you should always be prepared by leaving the heat on.

Make Sure All of Your Vents Are Open and Unobstructed

You should also make sure that all of your supply and return vents are open and not clogged or obstructed. If any of the vents are closed, it will reduce the effectiveness and energy efficiency of your cooling or heating system. This will result in higher energy bills and your HVAC system running much more frequently.

If the vents in any room are closed, it will prevent the hot or cold air from flowing into that room. In the summer, this can lead to condensation forming on the walls and create the potential for water damage and mold growth. In the winter, it can result in the room becoming cold enough for any pipes in the wall to freeze.

Close Your Curtains and Window Coverings

It is always a good idea to make sure that you keep all curtains, blinds, and other window coverings closed whenever you’re away. This is not only for security purposes but also because it can reduce the strain on your HVAC system. Keeping your windows covered in the summer prevents sunlight and heat from streaming into the home and raising the temperature. If your windows aren’t covered, this heat gain will cause your air conditioning to need to run more often.

Keeping your curtains and drapes closed during the winter has the opposite effect and will help to keep the cold air out. Window coverings can essentially act as a layer of insulation that helps to trap any cold air leaking in around your windows from penetrating into the room. It also helps to keep all of the hot air from leaking outside. As a result, your furnace won’t need to run as often since the temperature will remain more consistent.

Have Your HVAC System Professionally Maintained

If you want to make sure your HVAC system won’t break down while you’re away, you should schedule a tune-up before you leave. You should have your heating system maintained every fall, and your AC maintained every spring to make sure they are ready once the heat or cold really sets in.

A tune-up includes a full inspection of your entire system and all of its components. This is important as it allows you to know if there are any issues that may need to be repaired. If you neglect to have your HVAC system professionally maintained, it greatly increases the chances of your heating or AC suddenly failing when you’re away. Should this happen, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise when you get back home.

Consider Investing in a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are great for a number of reasons. For starters, they can greatly improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and lower your energy costs. They also offer the convenience of being able to monitor and adjust your HVAC system remotely using the connected app on your phone or tablet. This is always useful, but especially so when you’re going to be gone for an extended period.

With a smart thermostat, you can have the peace of mind that your home’s temperature isn’t too high or low since you can easily check it whenever you want. What’s better, you can remotely return your thermostat to its regular temperature when you’re on your way home, so it’s comfortable the minute you return.

While you’re away, if any issues cause your HVAC system to stop working, a smart thermostat ensures that you will know long before you get home. This way, you can have a friend or family member go check on your house to see why your heating or AC isn’t running. You can then take steps to prevent the temperature from getting too high or too low.

At [company_name], we specialize in air conditioning and heating maintenance. Our technicians work on all furnace and AC models and can help ensure your HVAC system is working as it should before you leave for your vacation. If there are any issues, we can also repair your system before you leave. We have more than 30 years of experience in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair, and we proudly serve customers in Gainesville, GA and other nearby communities. To schedule an HVAC tune-up or any other service, give the experts at [company_name] a call today.

8 Main Benefits of Investing in a Ductless Mini-Split

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on August 16, 2022. Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on 8 Main Benefits of Investing in a Ductless Mini-Split

Controlling your home’s temperatures is an important part of your day-to-day comfort. However, your AC unit might be hurting more than helping. Inefficient and outdated systems can leave you burning up in the warm summer months. If you want to replace your cooling system, consider installing ductless mini-splits. A mini-split is a modern HVAC engineering development with an outstanding ability to cool and heat your living space. They are a good choice for multi-family housing and small apartments, and room additions where installing or extending the distribution network for a central conditioning unit is not feasible.

Ductless mini-splits are the ultimate solution for different types and sizes properties, offering customizable and flexible options. These units offer multi- and single-zone styles that you can install high on your wall, near the floor, or on ceilings. Mini-splits have become popular, offering many advantages for business owners and homeowners alike. Here are the common reasons many homeowners consider ductless mini-splits for their heating and cooling needs.

1. Easy Installation

Ductless mini-splits are easier to install than other residential cooling and heating systems. You can connect the outdoor and indoor units by inserting a 3-inch hole through the width of one of your walls. Manufacturing companies supply customers with conduits of varying lengths, allowing you to place the outdoor unit as far as 50 feet away from your indoor unit. That’s especially helpful when you want to install the condenser/compressor on the exterior side wall of your house while cooling the rooms or spaces in the back or front parts of your residential property.

2. Energy Efficiency

Since mini-splits do not need ductwork, they don’t experience the degree of energy loss ducted systems allow. According to research studies, ducts in traditional air conditioning units account for more than 30% of energy consumption in a home. Over time, your ductwork can separate or tear at some joints, causing heated or conditioned air to leak. As a result, your system will have to work harder to keep up with the air leaking. Ductless systems directly supply air to the specific rooms they are heating or cooling. Therefore, they do not lose efficiency to leaky ducts. According to research, a mini-split unit uses around 60% less energy to run.

3. Ductless Heating

Once you replace your existing system with a ductless mini-split, you’ll update your air conditioner and heater. The same benefits of energy efficiency, comfort, and personal control will also apply to heating your home. Not only will ductless heating systems and air conditioners save you a lot of cash on your summer energy bills, but they’ll also save you heating costs when the temperatures go down.

4. Improved Air Quality

Your home’s air quality plays a major role in the comfort level of your living space. Small and invisible particles in your house can lead to poor air quality, significantly affecting your family’s health and wellbeing. These air contaminants can spread illnesses, encourage respiratory problems and worsen allergies and asthma symptoms. Many traditional duct systems encourage the aggravation of these issues, and you need to clean your ductwork frequently to avert them. Besides, regular ductwork cleanings can be costly and require a lot of time and effort. The good news is that ductless mini-splits come with extensive filtration features that eliminate many air pollutants that contaminate indoor air, enhancing your home’s air quality. Additionally, ductless systems are easier to clean and maintain.

5. Cost-Effectiveness

Ductless mini-splits provide homeowners with a cost-effective option to replace inefficient air conditioning units, electric baseboard heaters, and space heaters. You can remotely and individually control every indoor air handling unit of your ductless mini-split, allowing you to lower or raise room or zone temperatures depending on your personal preferences and needs. Instead of cooling or heating the entire house, mini-splits effortlessly and conveniently cool or heat the frequently-used rooms in your home, lowering your monthly energy bills. Also, if you don’t plan to spend the money necessary to cool or heat all the zones during the initial installation of your mini-split system, you can cool or heat one or several zoned areas, adding the other zones later.

Apart from saving money on utility bills, homeowners can also become eligible for some utility rebates or even tax benefits for the year they install ductless heating and air conditioning units. Many local, federal, and state programs allow businesses and homeowners to take advantage of these additional cost savings.

6. Quiet Operation

The earlier models of mini-split systems were a bit noisy, particularly when set to high cooling levels. Modern models and brands, on the other hand, offer quiet operation. The fans of these current systems operate at lower speeds than those of earlier models while providing optimum cooling and heating levels throughout every zone. Besides, HVAC technicians install the condenser or compressor outside your house, which means you’ll have less noise to deal with indoors. Generally, ductless split systems provide quieter and smoother operation than most traditional AC systems.

7. Flexibility

You can install ductless mini-splits in new constructions, home additions, apartments, and condominiums. These units are also suitable for homes or buildings that do not use ducted forced-air systems. You can also install mini-splits high on your wall, near the floor, or ceiling. Many brands and models offer up to four air handling units, each connecting to one compressor and outdoor unit. The four air handlers can cool your home’s separate areas or rooms. Every zone or room will have an individual thermostat to help you adjust the temperature easily. Besides, you can re-position these air handling units to provide cooling or heating for other rooms.

There are many custom features that you can also use with your mini-split system, giving you greater control of how and when to heat your living space. Most systems come with timers and inbuilt sleep functions that you regulate accordingly. Conventional heating systems don’t support customization, leading to decreased energy efficiency and unnecessary costs. The custom features of a mini-split system and the ability to install the units in different home areas make these systems versatile and more desirable to many homeowners.

8. Environmental Friendliness

The other benefit of investing in a ductless mini-split is its eco-friendliness. Ductless systems utilize R410A refrigerant, which doesn’t deplete the ozone layer. That means mini-split air conditioners and heat pumps make less impact on the environment in every lifecycle. Besides, ductless thermostats are programmable, allowing you to adjust energy usage depending on your cooling or heating needs. These systems’ increased energy efficiency also helps significantly reduce carbon footprint.

Contact the Cooling Experts Today!

Ductless mini-splits are completely customizable, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly. They enable you to achieve the exact indoor temperatures you want, providing reliable year-round comfort. If you are considering installing a ductless mini-split system, our experts at [company_name] understand that choosing a suitable cooling and heating system for your residential property is important. These HVAC professionals will help you decide and select the most appropriate mini-split system to match your home’s cooling and heating needs.

Our company supplies quality ductless mini-splits that provide good air conditioning and heating while keeping your operational and energy costs low. We also offer AC, heating, new system installations, and air quality services throughout Gainesville, GA, and its surroundings. Contact us now to learn more about mini-split systems and their benefits.

What Is a Thermostat’s Recovery Mode?

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on July 19, 2022. Posted in Thermostats. No Comments on What Is a Thermostat’s Recovery Mode?

Have you looked at your thermostat and noticed that it was in recovery mode? While it might sound like your system is recovering from a disaster, many people can find this common setting on those newer thermostats. When you see the thermostat in recovery mode, don’t panic. Here are a few things you should know about programmable thermostats and the recovery mode setting.

What Is Recovery Mode?

Heating and cooling technicians are frequently asked about the recovery mode setting. When homeowners see those words on the thermostat, they may think that their thermostat is in trouble. However, that is not the case. A recovery mode is usually found on these modern thermostats. This setting is helpful, and it can make your system run more efficiently.

From Honeywell to ecobee, you can find this recovery mode setting in various manufacturers’ thermostat products. Depending on your model, the setting might be known as either “Recovery” or “Smart Recovery.” Many newer thermostats will have a small icon or light designating this function on the display.

When the thermostat is in recovery mode, it is “recovering” from an energy-saving mode. During this time, your thermostat will work toward achieving a lower or higher temperature for the room. When you see your thermostat in recovery mode, it is running to ensure that the room reaches the desired temperature according to your schedule and settings.

Reasons Your Thermostat Reaches Recovery Mode

When you see the thermostat in recovery mode, there may be any of several reasons for it. Of course, if you set the thermostat to that mode, it will enter that setting throughout the day. In most cases, recovery mode is displayed on the thermostat about an hour before the system needs to reach a specific temperature. This recovery mode setting is typical. You should not be concerned when it appears on the thermostat’s display.

For many homeowners, the recovery mode can come as a surprise. Even if you have not set your system to turn on or off, you could still see the recovery mode on the thermostat’s display. If that occurs in your home, it could be tied to a problem with the thermostat. Before you start to worry, you might want to troubleshoot the issue. Often, you may have changed the setting without realizing it. In some cases, smart thermostats will automatically adjust their settings.

Why does that happen? These thermostats will accommodate the various temperature patterns and switch to your ideal setting. If there was a power surge or glitch, the thermostat may have reset itself, reversed your previous settings, and returned to those factory-set default ones. You might have programmed the thermostat to a specific setting for a certain day or date. With that in mind, the recovery mode could appear at those specific times.

Finally, you could see a recovery mode if your HVAC system malfunctions. While this is not a common cause, the recovery mode can occur when the system tries to reach a specific temperature. When your HVAC is not operating optimally, your heater or air conditioner will struggle and not keep the home at the right temperature. With some systems, recovery mode could flash on the display.

How to Get Your Thermostat Out of Recovery Mode

You should always look at the settings if you do not want your thermostat in recovery mode. Go into the preference section and disable the recovery mode. For some programmable thermostats, it can be tricky to find this setting. If you cannot locate it, take time to consult the manual. When all else fails, you should call the manufacturer’s customer service line to get guidance on this setting.

You can program your heating and cooling system to operate in recovery mode at certain times. All you have to do is adjust your schedule. For example, you may want the room temperature to reach 72 degrees at 8 PM. With recovery mode, the system will start to turn on and work toward reaching the optimal 72 degrees. For a thermostat with the recovery mode features, your system will operate as normal and enter recovery mode an hour or two later. As a result, the recovery mode starts later, ensuring that your HVAC will be more energy efficient.

Unfortunately, you cannot take all thermostats out of recovery mode. If the thermostat malfunctions, you may need to call an HVAC company. First, you can contact the thermostat manufacturer and report the problem. They may have a fix to get the thermostat back to normal functionality.

Smart thermostats can be tricky to navigate. The manufacturer could offer solutions for those common problems, but sometimes, you need experienced local help. You might want to call an HVAC technician if there are complex issues. These professionals understand common thermostat problems. They will come to your home and help you set up the thermostat to get the most out of your heating and cooling system.

How to Tell If Something Is Wrong

In most situations, recovery mode is a harmless setting. It just means that your programmable thermostat is ready to switch to another temperature. However, the recovery mode can show up when your HVAC system malfunctions. If you notice that your system switches to recovery mode for no reason, it might be a cause for concern. Take a look at the thermostat setting to ensure that the system is not in the “Off” mode.

If everything looks fine, then you might have a problem with your thermostat. When the thermostat unexpectedly goes to a lower or higher temperature when not programmed, you could have a problem with the system. You might want to check the outside fan to see if it is spinning. In some cases, the HVAC could work but struggle to cool or heat your home.

Recovery mode is normal, but it can happen when the heating and cooling systems are not maintained correctly. When you have any doubts about your HVAC system and its settings, you will want to call out a professional to inspect the unit.

There are times when you need a professional opinion. For the most part, you do not need to be concerned about recovery mode. However, if there are fluctuations in the temperature or the unit does not operate efficiently, there could be more issues behind that setting. A trained technician will work to inspect the system and make sure it is running as efficiently as possible.

Trust Our Heating and Cooling Team

For the most part, you should not worry about those recovery mode settings. If you have any questions, reach out to us at [company_name]. Our team offers unrivaled heating and cooling service throughout Gainesville and the surrounding areas. You can count on us. We have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and our technicians and staff members work hard to deliver an exceptional experience to all our customers. We have over three decades of experience as a family-owned and -operated business.

Along with offering heating and cooling repairs, maintenance visits, and installations, you can trust us to provide your home with indoor air quality and ductless mini-split solutions. Plus, we have technicians on hand to handle those emergency repairs. If you need help in Gainesville, make sure to call [company_name] today!

Why Is My AC Blowing Out Warm Air?

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on June 13, 2022. Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Why Is My AC Blowing Out Warm Air?

When you turn your air conditioning on, you expect to feel refreshingly cool air come flowing from your vents. It is a surprise, and makes your stomach sink, when the air coming out is warm, especially on the hot and humid days of summer. Discover what makes your system produce the cool air, and why you may have warm air coming out instead of the cool air you crave.

How Your Air Conditioner Works

Before jumping into specific reasons why your air conditioner could be blowing hot air, it is helpful to know how it works. Air conditioning doesn’t actually produce cold air but rather removes heat from the air moving through it, thus making it colder.

It does this using the refrigerant in the system, making it cold enough to absorb heat inside and then making it hot outside to exhaust that heat. When the refrigerant’s pressure drops, it gets exceptionally cold. Conversely, when you compress it, it gets hot. To continue working properly, your system must be able to regulate the refrigerant’s pressure.

Likewise, it must also have enough air moving through it. If there’s an airflow restriction somewhere in the system, it could prevent enough air from circulating to effectively cool it. Now that we understand the concepts that make your system work, let’s explore the specific things that may make it blow warm air.

Your Thermostat’s Set Improperly

Let’s start at the easiest and most common issues and ones that you can easily fix. Start by checking your thermostat. It is actually easy to change settings, and then wonder why you are feeling warm air move through your system.

There is a fan setting on your thermostat, usually with two options that include “Auto” and “On.” Changing the setting to “On” keeps your circulating fan running all the time, regardless of whether the compressor is on or not. Without the compressor running, the air coming from the vents will feel warm rather than cool.

Clogged Air Filter

As your air filter removes contaminants before they can collect in your system, it gets dirty and slowly clogs. This prevents air from flowing through the system at the volume needed. The result is less air coming out of your vents, plus that air will feel warmer than you normally expect.

Plan to check and change your filter regularly to prevent your filter from clogging. Most filters need replacing anywhere from every 30 days, for flat 1- and 2-inch filters, to as much as 9-12 months for pleated 5- and 6-inch filters. Plan to check your filter monthly to catch it before it causes strain on your system. Give it an efficiency boost when you check it by gently vacuuming off the intake side.

Low Refrigerant

As previously discussed, your refrigerant plays a critical role in conditioning your air. A lack of refrigerant in your system prevents it from reaching the proper pressure, which means it will never exhaust the heat it has absorbed from within your home, creating a perpetual cycle. This leads to warmer air coming from your vents as it runs.

Additionally, low refrigerant also means you’ll likely experience freezing in the system. As refrigerant pressure drops, it gets cold. When this happens in places where it is not intended and to a greater degree than is normal, it will cause freezes. This can lead to frozen refrigerant lines, plus frozen evaporator and condensing coils.

Failing Compressor

A failing compressor will also produce warm air from your vents for much the same reasons as low refrigerant results in this problem. It will fail to raise the pressure in your condensing coil, leaving too much heat in the system. Depending on the problem with your compressor, it could also lead to a refrigerant leak, compounding the problem.

Outdoor Unit Lost Power

Your condensing unit sits outside your house and houses the compressor. If this unit loses power, it will fail to compress the refrigerant. If it is working properly, your system should prevent any part of the system from initializing if the compressor doesn’t work. However, once you check your thermostat switch and air filter, you may want to double-check your unit.

While the system inside is running, go outside and see if the fan on the condensing unit is spinning, and see if you hear the compressor humming. If not, turn the system off, and then check the circuit breaker inside.

Dirty Evaporator Coil

While your air filter will remove most of the airborne contaminants, the smallest particles will still get through. They will settle on the evaporator coil, slowly building a type of insulation. This prevents the refrigerant from absorbing the heat as the air cycles through the system.

Faulty Expansion Valve

The component that makes the refrigerant’s pressure drop at the evaporator coil is called the expansion valve. While it is not a common issue to see, failed expansion valves do happen. When they fail, they may allow too much refrigerant into the evaporator coil, preventing the pressure from dropping enough. With a higher pressure, the coil doesn’t get cold and fails to absorb heat from the air.

Blocked Condensing Unit

Even with enough refrigerant in the system and the compressor working properly, your condensing unit may fail to vent the heat. This can easily happen when there’s debris blocking air from circulating through the outside unit. You should keep the area around your unit clear to prevent this restriction. Keep at least 12 inches clear, but 2 to 3 feet is more ideal. This includes keeping brush, bushes, and trees trimmed back. It also means keeping weeds under control so that they don’t grow up around the outside of the unit.

Duct Leaks

Even with your air conditioner working well, leaks in your ducts may also allow warm air to come from your vents. If you have substantial leaks in your system, it can cause several potential problems. First, it can allow that conditioned air to leak out, reducing what is actually coming from your vents. It could also allow warmer air in as it heads to your vents, warming what is coming out.

Keeping Your AC Blowing Cold Air

Attending to a few simple tasks will help ensure you keep your AC blowing cold air for its full service life. As mentioned previously, keep a close eye on your air filter and change it regularly.

Next, plan to get routine maintenance for your system every year. A technician will perform a deep clean, including your evaporator coil. They will also tighten mounting hardware and electrical connections to prevent system strain. Finally, they’ll test your system, including your compressor and refrigerant level, to ensure that it can maintain the proper pressure.

For over 30 years, people around Gainesville have trusted [company_name] to keep their homes comfortable and safe. Our expert technicians provide heating and air conditioning installation, repair, and maintenance. You can also turn to us for indoor air quality solutions. Call to schedule your air conditioning maintenance or repair with one of our friendly technicians today.

Managing the Humidity Level Inside Your Home

How to Manage the Humidity Level Inside Your Home

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on May 19, 2022. Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on How to Manage the Humidity Level Inside Your Home

Are you concerned about the humidity level inside your home? Both high and low humidity can impact how comfortable your home is, the status of your HVAC system, and potentially your health. High indoor humidity makes the air inside your home feel much warmer and can allow mold to start growing inside your ducts, walls, attic, basement, and other areas.

High indoor humidity also forces your air conditioner to work much harder as AC units work much less efficiently in humid conditions. Although low indoor humidity usually isn’t much of a problem in Georgia, it can still cause numerous breathing issues, especially for people with asthma and other respiratory problems. With all this in mind, here is everything you need to know about managing the humidity level in your home.

What Is the Ideal Indoor Humidity Level?

Most experts agree that the ideal humidity level inside a home or other building is somewhere between 40% and 50%. Any lower than this can lead to issues like dry, irritated sinuses, itchy or runny eyes, chapped lips, or static buildup. Low humidity can also cause wood floors and furniture to split or crack and even cause the paint on your walls to chip. On the other hand, the biggest issues with high humidity are that it can lead to water damage and create ideal conditions for both mold and pests to thrive inside the home.

In terms of your comfort, high humidity makes the air feel hotter, and low humidity makes it feel colder. This means that most people will turn up either their air conditioning or heating systems in order to compensate for these issues. This results in both increased energy costs and greater wear and tear on your HVAC equipment. Over time, the latter issue could lead to a more frequent need for heating and cooling repairs and could potentially shorten the lifespan of your HVAC equipment.

How to Measure Indoor Humidity

Measuring the level of humidity inside your building is simple. All you need to do is purchase a hygrometer from your local hardware store. These units work by measuring the concentration of moisture in the air and by allowing you to constantly monitor the humidity inside your home.

Another option is to consider upgrading your HVAC system with a smart thermostat since most of these units can also measure humidity levels. Still, the biggest benefit of a smart thermostat is that it can dramatically reduce your heating and cooling costs by automatically adjusting the HVAC system to ensure that it works at its peak efficiency level.

The Benefits of Whole-Home Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers

If you determine that the humidity level inside your home is either too high or too low, your best option for overcoming the issue is to install a whole-home humidifier or dehumidifier. Portable humidifiers and dehumidifiers can work, but you will need to use multiple units to manage the humidity inside the entire building. On the other hand, a whole-home unit works in combination with your HVAC system to humidify or dehumidify the air inside the entire home. These systems are usually installed next to the air handler and condition the air from your furnace or AC before it circulates throughout the home.

Whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers are relatively inexpensive, are easy to install, and require very little maintenance. All of this makes these units by far the most effective solutions for overcoming issues with either too high or too low humidity.

Other Methods for Managing High Indoor Humidity

The summers in Georgia tend to be extremely humid, which can make it much more difficult both to keep your home cool and to manage the humidity level inside the building. Your air conditioner doesn’t just cool the air inside the home, but it also removes excess humidity. If the humidity level inside your home is much above 50%, your air conditioning system will have to work much harder to eliminate the excess moisture from the air. Much of that moisture will also soak into your carpets and furnishings, which makes it even more difficult to get rid of.

One of the easiest ways to avoid issues with high humidity during the summer is to make sure to keep your windows and doors closed tightly. Opening your windows even for a short time allows much of the humidity from outside to get in and raises the humidity level inside the home.

The second thing you should do is make sure to keep your air conditioning turned on 24 hours a day throughout the entire cooling season. Many people turn off their AC at night in an effort to save money on their energy costs. However, the truth is that this really isn’t very effective in hotter, more humid climates since turning the AC off at night will raise both the temperature and the humidity level inside the home. This means that your AC will need to work much harder when you turn it back on.

Numerous studies have been performed looking at the effects of leaving your AC turned on at night versus opening your windows to cool the home. These studies have shown that turning off the AC at night can reduce annual cooling costs by around 30%. This is because approximately one-third of an air conditioner’s total energy consumption occurs from midnight to noon with the remaining two-thirds occurring during the hotter parts of the day.

However, in humid climates, the energy savings from turning the AC off at night are extremely minimal. The same studies showed that, on average, shutting the AC off at night led to more than a 20% increase in daytime energy use. This basically cancels out any savings received from the AC not running at night.

In addition to keeping your AC on and your house closed tightly, you should also make sure that your windows and doors are sealed and that there is adequate insulation in your attic and walls. Resealing or replacing your windows and doors helps to prevent air leaks that could allow the humidity from outside to penetrate into the building. Making sure that your attic is well-insulated and has adequate ventilation can also help to prevent condensation and humidity from building up inside the attic and the rest of the building. It also helps to prevent heat loss/gain and, in this way, can help to dramatically reduce your energy costs.

Professional HVAC Services and Solutions

If you’re experiencing issues with high humidity in your home, the team at [company_name] can help you to manage your humidity level and improve your home comfort. We have been providing exceptional heating and cooling services to customers in Gainesville and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years, and we can install whole-home dehumidifiers and a range of other HVAC equipment. We also specialize in indoor air quality systems and solutions, including air filtration systems, whole-home air purifiers, air scrubbers, and UV lights. Our team can also handle any of your heating and cooling repair or maintenance needs.

We take pride in offering outstanding customer service and support and provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all work we perform. All of our HVAC technicians are also highly trained and certified and have undergone rigorous background checks to give you added peace of mind. If you’d like more information about any of our services or need to schedule an appointment, give us a call today, and we’ll be happy to help in any way we can.

10 Common Plants That Improve Indoor Air Quality

Written by Gee! Heating & Air on April 18, 2022. Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on 10 Common Plants That Improve Indoor Air Quality

Most of us don’t think about the air quality inside our homes or offices until we start feeling ill. In fact, the EPA has stated that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than typical outdoor air concentrations. Poor indoor air quality can cause a number of health problems from asthma to allergies. Therefore, it’s important to have plants that improve the quality of air to help us breathe easier and fight allergies. Here are some plants that are known for their ability to improve indoor air quality.

1. English Ivy

English ivy (Hedera helix) is a beautiful, fast-growing vine that is often used as a decorative plant in homes and offices. In addition to its aesthetic value, English ivy can help to purify the air in indoor spaces. The plant is effective at removing harmful airborne pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide. English ivy is also known for its ability to reduce mold spores in the air, making it an excellent choice for people with allergies or respiratory conditions.

2. Chinese Evergreen

The Chinese evergreen, also known as the aglaonema, is a popular choice for indoor plants. Not only does it add a touch of greenery to any room, but it is also known for its ability to purify the air. The Chinese evergreen filters out harmful toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde, making it an ideal plant for homes and offices. Additionally, the Chinese evergreen is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in low-light conditions. For best results, place the plant in a location where it will receive indirect sunlight, and water it when the soil is dry to the touch.

3. Bamboo Palm

The bamboo palm is a popular indoor plant that is native to Southeast Asia and thrives in warm, humid climates. The plant gets its name from its slender, bamboo-like leaves, which grow up to 5 feet wide. The plant is an effective air purifier thanks to its ability to remove toxins from the air. In addition, the plant helps to increase humidity levels, which can be beneficial for people suffering from dry skin or respiratory problems. In addition, it is a low-maintenance plant that requires one to three waterings weekly. However, it should not be placed in direct sunlight or overwatered.

4. Dragon Tree

The dragon tree (Dracaena marginata) is a popular houseplant that is known for its ability to promote healthy indoor air quality. It is native to Africa and Asia, and it thrives in warm, humid climates. The plant is available in a variety of sizes and colors, making it a versatile option for indoor spaces. What makes it stand out is that it’s an excellent aesthetic addition to many homes and offices. In addition, the dragon tree helps to improve airflow and humidity levels. During the process of photosynthesis, the plant can help to remove chemicals and allergens from the air.

5. Mother-in-Law’s Tongue

When it comes to choosing plants for indoor spaces, many people opt for mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata). Not only is it an attractive plant with its long, strap-like leaves, but it is also known for its ability to promote healthy air quality. Mother-in-law’s tongue is especially effective at filtering out toxins such as formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides. Additionally, the plant releases oxygen into the air, making it a refreshing addition to any home or office. While mother-in-law’s tongue does best in warm climates, it can tolerate a wide range of conditions, making it an easy plant to maintain.

6. Gerbera Daisy

The Gerbera daisy is a beautiful flower that has a long history. It was first discovered by Robert Jameson in South Africa in 1884, and it was named after German botanist Traugott Gerber. The flower is characterized by its large, brightly-colored petals. The most popular colors are yellow, orange, and pink, but the Gerbera daisy can also be found in white, red, and purple. Besides being an excellent air purifier, this flower is also a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements, and it’s also a common gift for Mother’s Day. In addition, the flower has a long blooming season, and it is relatively easy to care for. As a result, the Gerbera daisy is a popular choice for both home gardeners and professional florists.

7. Peace Lily

The peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) is a tropical plant that’s also known as the closet plant because it’s often grown indoors. While it is known for its beautiful white flowers, the peace lily is also an excellent air purifier. In addition, the plant can also help raise humidity levels, making it ideal for rooms that are dry or have little ventilation. For best results, place the peace lily in a bright room with moderate temperatures. It will thrive in humid environments and can even tolerate low levels of light. With proper care, this plant can provide many years of enjoyment.

8. Flamingo Lily

The flamingo lily gets its name from its showy pink flowers that resemble the plumage of a flamingo. In addition to its delightful appearance, the flamingo lily has some unique benefits. For example, it is known to improve indoor air quality by filtering out air pollutants. The plant does best in bright, indirect light and high humidity, making it an ideal choice for a bathroom or kitchen windowsill.

9. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is native to Africa. The plant has thick, fleshy leaves that are filled with a gel-like substance, aloe. This gel is often used in cosmetics and skincare products because it is thought to have numerous benefits for the skin. In addition, aloe vera gel has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it effective in treating conditions like acne. But did you know that aloe vera can also help to promote healthy indoor air? This plant is very effective at absorbing air pollutants that are often found in household cleaning products. Note that aloe vera does best in warm, dry climates.

10. Rubber Plant

The rubber plant (Ficus elastica) is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for and versatile in its placement. The plant can grow to be quite large, reaching heights of 10 feet or more. The glossy, dark green leaves are what give the rubber plant its name, as they are thick and rubbery to the touch. The leaves are also oval-shaped with smooth edges. The plant is native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, India, and Malaysia. But this popular houseplant is not only pretty to look at — it can also help to purify the air in your home.

Improve Your Indoor Air Today!

Improving your indoor air quality today is as easy as giving [company_name] a call! We specialize in heating and cooling system installation, and we’re proud to offer financing for air conditioning and furnace installations, service, and maintenance for residents in Gainesville, GA area. We understand that the quality of your indoor air can have a profound impact on your health, so we’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible service. Call us today to learn more about our services.