Orange County HVAC Tip: How Electronic Air Filter Works

April 2nd, 2012

For a long time, the most frequently used kind of air filter has been the mechanical variety, and it probably what you already have in your Orange County HVAC system. This is the kind you probably think of when you hear the terms air filter, air cleaner or air purifier. They use pleated fibrous filters in-line with an air handler to trap particles in the air before circulating it back out into the home.

Many models of these work very well and have for many years. They have the added benefit of being flexible because you can put in whatever filter you need depending on what size particles you need to trap.

However, these traditional devices are not the only option. A second kind of air filter exists for trapping particles in the air– one that does not use a fibrous filter that physically snags them out of the air on the way through.

These electrostatic — or electronic — air cleaners work in a different way to produce a similar result. The filtering component is still a fibrous sheet, but the difference is that the fibers are made of plastic, which becomes charged when air passes through it and causes friction.

(Think something like when you rub a balloon and stick it to the wall.)

These friction-charged fibers carry an electronic charge, which attracts the ions in the air around it. These ions — and the particles that they are a part of — get trapped in the fibers and stay out of your air supply.

 Electronic air filters are generally very good at trapping particles that are 1 micron in size or higher, putting them about on par with a mechanical air filter that carries a MERV rating of 12. The electrostatic method works well for many common household air pollutants, such as dust, pollen, mold and pet dander.

As with many ventilation-related decisions, the choice of what kind of air filter is right for your Orange County air conditioning and heating system depends on your needs and those of your family. If you are having trouble deciding, then an air quality assessment and consultation with Saddleback Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning can be a good way to reach a decision.

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$500 Off HVAC Installation!

March 30th, 2012

Give us a call today to take advantage of this amazing deal! Receive $500 Off the installation of a new HVAC system between now and June 15th, 2012.

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Corona Del Mar Heat Pump FAQ: Why is Steam Rising from the Outdoor Unit of my Heat Pump?

March 28th, 2012

In the winter months, we often get calls from Corona Del Mar customers about steam rising from the outdoor unit of their heat pumps, which is often mistaken for smoke. Steam rising from your outdoor unit is a normal during the heat pump defrost cycle. The defrost cycle prevents ice from accumulating on the outdoor coils.

Under normal conditions, heat pumps in Corona Del Mar should run without needing a defrost cycle. However, if temperatures drop to near freezing, a sensor will set off the defrost cycle, during which the outdoor coils will heat up and melt any ice that has formed on the coils. During this cycle, you may see what can look like puffs of smoke, but it’s actually the steam caused by the coils melting the frost. The steam can appear to be denser if there’s excessive humidity or moisture in the air.

It is important to note that the defrost cycle should not last more than ten to fifteen minutes, and each cycle should only run every two hours or so. If you notice that the cycles last longer, run more often, or if you see ice on the outdoor coils of your heat pump after the cycle is finished, you may need a heat pump repairs. Another concern is cooler temperatures in your home, which could indicate that the heat strips are not working properly during the defrost cycle.

Once the cycle is finished, the fan motor should come on again, but if it doesn’t come on several hours after the cycle, you should call us to send one of our HVAC technicians to inspect your heat pump. There could be an issue with airflow, or a potential motor failure. When there’s a lack of adequate airflow, it can damage the compressor and other components. Call us any time you notice anything other than the normal steam rising from your heat pump during the winter.

There are some ways to prevent excess wear and tear on your heat pump during the winter. For instance, strong winds can greatly affect the performance of your heat pump and may cause abnormal defrost cycles. Make sure the outdoor components are protected from heavy wind by placing some type of natural or manufactured barrier around your heat pump, but be sure not to block the airflow. If you are buying a new heat pump, look for a model that has demand-defrost control. This feature helps to save energy by minimizing the defrost cycles.

Feel free to call Saddleback Plumbing if you have questions about your heat pump or Corona Del Mar heating.

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Thank You For Your Feedback!

March 24th, 2012

“Your tech Ken has been providing plumbing service to me for 11 years. I am a Home Club Member. I have recommended Ken to several neighbors. Ken is a real asset to Saddleback Plumbing!”

-VM

 

We always appreciate your feedback to ensure that we are providing the best possible service to all our customers. Let us know how we are doing by taking our easy to use online survey!

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Why Orange County Residents Should Get a Energy Audit Before Installing a New Heating Upgrade

March 21st, 2012

Yesterday was the first day of spring, so if you can’t feel it already, warmer temperatures are on their way to Orange County.  When you envision the warm days of summer, do you picture staying cool with an energy efficient cooling system, without any worries about high energy costs?  Or are you concerned that your older air conditioning unit won’t make it through another hot summer?  Well right now is the perfect time for an air conditioning installation, not only because Saddleback Plumbing can save you money on your purchase, but because there have been so many upgrades to the technologies of cooling systems.

Before you take the plunge on new equipment, though, you may want to get a home energy audit. What you find may help you choose the right system.

A home energy audit is essentially an inspection by a professional of the materials used to insulate your home. This includes not just the insulation in the walls, but also the walls themselves, along with windows, doors and so on. The idea is to figure out how much heat is escaping your home to the outside, so an audit may also include looking at ducts, vents or anywhere else where air could flow through.

So what does an energy audit have to do with a heating upgrade?

Think about it like this. There are two ways to make your home warmer: increase heat gain (e.g., get a more efficient heating system) or decrease heat loss. If you are able to do the latter, you may find that the former is unnecessary.

For example, you may get an energy audit and discover that by installing new windows and resealing your doors, you can increase heating efficiency by 10%. This could have big implications for your decision to get a new heating system, as you may decide that you can save money by getting a smaller capacity furnace. Getting the right size furnace is very important; one that is too small will not be able to heat your home to the desired temperature and one that is too large will short-cycle, which leads to uneven heating and wears down your system quickly.

A home energy audit is the first step to getting a new heating system, and one that is sure to save you money. Give Saddleback Plumbing a call to set up an energy audit today!

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How to Increase Your Water Pressure in Huntington Beach

March 15th, 2012

As a Huntington Beach resident it’s no fun when you are in the middle of taking a shower and your bathroom plumbing slows to a trickle. The most logical thing to blame the loss of water pressure is a toilet being flushed or a washing machine being filled. It is not uncommon for losses in water pressure to be associated with simultaneous water usage in other parts of the home.

But if low water pressure seems to be a constant problem when only one source is being used and there are no other appliances using water at the same time, you may have a bigger problem on your hands.

The first thing to do is to check the source of the water supply to your outdoor faucets. Turn the hose bibs to the fully open position and run the water. Is the pressure okay? If so, you probably have a problem indoors. While you are outside, check for any leaks in the hose bibs or faucets. A leak can cause a loss of water pressure in other plumbing circuits.

Now check the hose bibs on the lines leading to interior fittings, like faucets or showerheads, etc. Is the hose bib turned to the fully open position? Someone may have been playing with the bib and turned it down or off. If that checks out okay, take a look at all of the fittings in your plumbing fixtures. Are there any leaks? Is there standing water anywhere, indicating a leak?

If so, tighten up the affected fittings. If you need to remove any fittings to inspect or replace (i.e. a worn out washer or bushing), make sure you turn off the water line to the fitting first.

If there are filter screens in your faucets check them for an accumulation of debris and clean if necessary. A clogged screen can greatly reduce water pressure.

Many new homes now come with a pressure regulator, which governs the water pressure going into the home. The regulator is located above ground, usually where the pipes enter the home. The pressures are usually preset by the regulator manufacturer but may not always be compatible to the local environment. If you think that may be the problem, contact Saddleback Plumbing for a professional opinion.

A disruption in the piping that feeds water into the home can also affect water pressure, such as tree roots in the pipes or a break in the line. These problems can only be diagnosed and corrected by qualified plumbing professionals. Please do not attempt to find and fix these problems as the result may be costly or even dangerous to your health.

Low water pressure can be a drag but it may also only require a quick fix.

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Orange County HVAC Tips: The Differences Between SEER and HSPF Ratings

March 7th, 2012

When it comes to heat pumps in Orange County and across the country, there are two different ratings you’ll often see – the SEER and the HSPF. So, what does each of them mean and which rating is more important when purchasing your new device? Here are a few things to consider:

SEER

The acronym SEER is short for “seasonal energy efficiency rating” and is used most commonly to measure air conditioner efficiency or in this case, the cooling capacity of your heat pump.

HSPF

The HSPF is short for “heating seasonal performance factor” and is a measurement of how efficient the heat pump is in producing heat during the cooler months of the year.

The Difference Between the Two

Every heat pump will have both of these ratings, allowing you to see how efficient each is. This is important because you need to know for certain how well your heat pump will perform under certain situations – both in the winter and summer.

However, if you live in a colder climate where the summer rarely calls for air conditioner, your focus should be on the HSPF first. And if you live in a warmer climate where your heating needs are minimal, the SEER is most important. Another thing to consider is your supplemental heat. If the cost of your supplemental heating system is high, you’ll want an HSPF that is as low as possible to balance it out.

Choosing an Efficient Heat Pump

Heat pump efficiency directly impacts the price of the device you purchase but is almost always worth the difference. The key is to find a device that provides what you need based on where you live. Keep in mind as well that, like most HVAC upgrades, you won’t immediately recoup the cost of the device in your energy savings, so if you plan on moving soon, you should purchase a more affordable device now and upgrade later.

Purchasing a heat pump is an important step in making your home more energy efficient. If you are unsure which rating you need or how to analyze their meanings, contact Saddleback Plumbing to learn more.

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How to Calculate Duct Size for an AC System in a Los Alamitos Home

February 22nd, 2012

Duct sizing in Los Alamitos is a complex process using one of three methodologies. The goal of duct sizing is to provide the perfect space through which heated and cooled air can travel around your home. Ducts should provide ample air flow to keep you comfortable without overworking your HVAC system or costing you an arm and a leg on your energy bill.

Methods Used for Sizing

There are three methods used for most modern duct sizing. The first is the Velocity Method. The velocity method takes into account the speed at which air flows through the ducts based on their general size. A series of equations is used to determine this, including duct cross sectional area, air flow rate and air speed. A much more detailed breakdown is available on the EngineeringToolbox.com for those interested in the math behind the process.

In general though, the velocity method allows contractors to determine the appropriate size and layout of ducts based on their application (residential, commercial, industrial or high speed) and their position (main or branch ducts).

Contractors may also use the Constant Pressure Loss and Static Pressure Recovery methods to design ductwork for your air conditioning installation. The constant pressure loss method tends to result in more components but provides a more accurate reading of the actual pressure loss in the system based on the materials used and the layout of your ductwork.

Static pressure recovery focuses on ensuring the same pressure level is achieved at all vents and inlets for the system. It is probably the most complicated sizing method, however, so it is rarely used for air condition system installations.

Simplifying the Process

Were we to break down the process into its core components, this is what a contractor would do when sizing your duct work:

  • Determine CFM for Each Room – using the Manual J for load calculations, they would determine the CFM. This is based on the (Room Load/House Load) x Equipment CFM. The entire house must be measured and load calculations completed before this can be done.
  • Friction Loss Rate – Friction loss rate is the (Available Static Pressure x100 / Effective Length).
  • Duct Sizing – Finally, the contractor will use a chart or software to select ductwork based on the friction loss and CFM calculated in the first two steps.

The goal of all of this math is to ensure that the HVAC system installation is exactly as large as is necessary to distribute heated or cooled air to the entire house. Incorrect measurements result in improper delivery of that air and a system that doesn’t quite get the job done.  If you have any questions about this process please contact Saddleback Plumbing.

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The Room by Room Benefits of Ductless Splits AC For San Juan Capistrano Homes

February 17th, 2012

Ductless splits air conditioners are designed to eliminate the need for ductwork in a San Juan Capistrano home where space is at a premium. Usually homeowners with older homes – those built before the 1970s – have very little space to work with when it comes to installing the ductwork a traditional central air conditioning system requires. These homes are often heated with radiant boiler systems and have window units to provide cooling in warmer weather. As a result, cooling costs can be extremely high each summer and the house usually isn’t comfortable during these months.

Ductless air conditioning offers a solution to most of these problems. Not only does the technology not require ductwork to be installed; it allows for multiple in-room units on a single compressor and it costs significantly less to operate compared to window AC units.

Ductless System Specifications

Ductless air conditioning systems consist of two major components: a compressor which is placed outside and indoor evaporators. With the use of inverter technology, these systems can support multiple evaporators – usually as many as four to a single condenser. This means you can have a single outdoor unit supporting cooling four separate rooms of your home at the same time.

Each of those indoor evaporators acts as a heat pump, allowing you to both heat and cool the room year round. And because the only connection needed between evaporator and condenser is a single refrigerant line, the cost of installation is significantly lower than it would be for a ductwork based central AC system.

Room by Room Benefits

While the primary benefit of a ductless system is the fact that it allows you to install air conditioning in multiple rooms of your house without the need for ductwork, there are other benefits. Not only do you get a much higher energy efficiency rating than you would with traditional window units (many ductless systems are rated at 16 SEER or higher while window units are frequently as low as 10 or 11), but you can control each unit individually. So if a room upstairs doesn’t need to be cooled during the afternoon hours, simply turn off the thermostat in that part of the house and save money.

There are some factors to consider when installing a ductless system. How many rooms do you need cooled? How warm does it get in the summer? Will the system be used for heating in the winter? These are all things you may want to discuss in greater detail with your contractor when you call for an estimate.  To Answer these questions please call Saddleback Plumbing ASAP.

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Happy Valentine’s Day from Your Orange County Plumbing Experts

February 14th, 2012

Everyone at Saddleback Plumbing wishes you a Happy Valentine’s Day! Valentine’s Day is all about showing your appreciation for your loved ones. Whether it is your significant other, your family, or your friends, today is a great day to let them know how special they are to you. A handmade card, a bouquet of flowers, or even a simple phone call can make someone’s whole day.

If you are thinking about a big gift for your family, an upgrade to your kitchen plumbing might not be the most romantic gift, but it is a gift that keeps on giving! A new garbage disposal will make doing the dishes much easier, or new faucets could give your whole kitchen a bright new look. Give your kitchen an upgraded feel that your whole family will appreciate!

Call Saddleback Plumbing to learn more about how some plumbing upgrades could improve the comfort level in your home. And to make your Valentine’s Day a little sweeter, here is a recipe for Chocolate Covered Strawberries

INGREDIENTS:

16 ounces milk chocolate chips

2 tablespoons shortening

1 pound fresh strawberries with leaves

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries.
  2. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate and shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth. Holding them by the toothpicks, dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture.
  3. Turn the strawberries upside down and insert the toothpick into styrofoam for the chocolate to cool.

For more details, visit allrecipes.com.

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