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Does Humidity Affect My Air Conditioner?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC.

During the summertime, the outdoors can feel muggy and uncomfortable thanks to an average humidity level of 61% in Hanover and the surrounding areas of Maryland. There may be no escape indoors, though, if the humidity levels are too high in your home. Many people believe that AC reduces moisture in the air, but that is not always the case.

Signs of Too Much Indoor Humidity

It’s easy to tell when humidity is high outdoors. You perspire and feel sluggish, and the air just feels heavy. Noticing high humidity indoors, though, is not as easy. Some of the more common signs of too much indoor humidity are:

  • Wet, moist skin all over your body
  • Mildewy, musty smell
  • Water condensation on your windows
  • Mold growing in your bathroom, kitchen, and other rooms

Humidity not only takes a toll on your comfort, but it also affects your AC system.

1. Oversized Units Run More Often

The size of a residential cooling system is based on the cooling capacity, not the physical size. At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we service many AC systems that are too big for the interior space. Many homeowners attempt to maximize their budgets by purchasing the largest unit they can afford. The end result, though, is that the unit runs in short cycles that are not long enough to remove moisture from the air. Not only do oversized systems add to a humid environment, but they also cannot cool the air properly.

2. Humidity and Single-Stage Systems

Modern AC systems come in single-stage and two-stage designs. A single-stage system is either on or off, whereas a two-stage system adjusts airflow based on the temperature difference. On humid, cooler days of the summer, a single-stage unit will run a shorter cycle compared to warmer days. This means that the humidity levels in your home remain high, and you feel uncomfortable.

3. Indoor Humidity and Older Units

Many of the homes that we service in the Hanover, Maryland, area have older air conditioning systems. Dehumidifiers are a modern update to cooling equipment. When it’s humid outside, your older unit does not remove the moisture from the air before distributing it throughout your home. No matter how low you set the thermostat, you simply cannot feel comfortable. You will also notice that certain areas of your home feel warmer. Older systems will run longer and more often to reach the desired temperature, and this results in more wear and tear on the parts. Over time, you may find that you’re paying for frequent repairs to keep the system running.

4. Humidity Reduces Cooling Capacity

Outdoor humidity causes condensation on the evaporator coil of your AC system. The moisture mixes with dirt and dust to create a sludge that covers the coil. When air flows over the coil, the dirt prevents proper contact with the coil, and the system cannot cool the air. Your AC unit will continue to distribute the moist, warm air into your home, and the system will likely run longer, costing you more in energy use.

5. Negative Air Pressure and Humidity

Your HVAC system runs with a bit of physics. In ideal conditions, the air pressure inside your home is neutral. This allows for a closed space for circulating air. If your AC system is pumping out too much cooled air, this creates a negative air pressure situation. Your AC unit attempts to regain balance by pulling in more air from the outside, and this outdoor air is muggy and humid. A cycle begins where the AC unit draws in more air that makes your house warmer, and then the unit runs longer and more often to cool the space. More air comes through the ducts, and a second negative pressure situation is created. Eventually, you feel incredibly uncomfortable, and you also face a higher utility bill at the end of the month.

AC Units With Built-In Dehumidifiers

Removing excess moisture from the air inside your home helps your air conditioner work more efficiently, and efficiency equals cost savings for your utilities. Although some newer units come with dehumidifiers, this feature is not intended to maintain healthy, comfortable humidity levels.

The Best Way to Manage Indoor Humidity

If your home feels muggy during the summer, the best option is to get a whole-home dehumidifier. The unit installs onto your existing HVAC equipment. You can set the dehumidifier to a specific humidity level that feels comfortable to you. The recommended level of healthy indoor humidity is 30% to 50%, and you can work within that range to find a comfortable personal level. Another tool for managing indoor humidity is to install a thermal expansion valve. The device increases the amount of humidity that your AC system removes from the air.

Should You Remove All Humidity in Your Home?

If humidity only makes us more uncomfortable during the summer, why not eliminate it completely? Moisture in the air does have some benefits, though. First, it helps to keep our sinuses and mucous membranes moist, and this reduces allergies, sinus infections, and breathing problems. Second, humidity in the air helps to keep plants thriving. Third, the wood furniture in your home benefits from a bit of moisture in the air. Fourth, humidity helps to control static electricity and protects your electronics. The key is to have the humidity within the normal range.

Other Tips for Managing Indoor Humidity

Once you install a whole-home dehumidifier from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, there are a few more things that you can do to keep the indoors nice and comfy. Keep the windows closed on the most humid days. Open doors and windows draw in the outdoor air that has more moisture. You should also avoid running your AC system on “fan only” during the summer. Even though the movement of air helps you feel more comfortable, it actually brings in more humidity. Ceiling and floor fans are a better option to improve air flow. You should also check for cracks around doors and windows. These little spaces are just enough for humidity to creep inside. You should also check your attic space for any openings where air can get inside.

AC Maintenance for Cool, Comfortable Summers

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating offers routine maintenance services for your air conditioning system. We recommend that you schedule the service in the spring before you need your AC. During the appointment, our expert technician checks to make sure that your air conditioning is ready to handle the higher temperatures and humidity levels. We also check the coil and filters for dirt, refill the refrigerant, and check all the connections. We can measure the level of humidity inside your home and recommend improvements, too.

Residential Cooling Experts

If your home is uncomfortable during the summer no matter what you try, it may be time to call Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating to speak with a member of our expert team in Hanover. We can schedule an appointment with one of our technicians to evaluate your AC system and the humidity level inside your home. Call us today, and be sure to ask about our heating, cooling and indoor air quality services.

Common AC Problems in Maryland

What Are the Major Parts of an Air Conditioner?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC.

When it’s sweltering hot in summer, your air conditioner keeps your home cool and cozy. For your AC to be reliable and efficient, several components have to work together in harmony. In this article, we will look at the critical parts of an AC and how they function.

1. The Refrigerant Fluid

One of the most critical parts of your air conditioner is the refrigerant. The fluid is compressible, meaning you can pressurize it to increase its temperature. It also moves from the indoor and the outdoor unit to dispense heat outside.

The refrigerant cycle depends on two stages of the fluid. When it is in the form of vapor, it absorbs heat from the evaporator coils. In the liquid form, it transfers its energy to the condenser.

There are many types of fluids that manufacturers may utilize in a cooling system. Regulators have banned some coolants due to their toxic or flammable properties. That means when you have a refrigerant leak; a technician may not be in a position to refill it.

The two most popular refrigerants are R-12 (Freon) and R22. Several countries have banned R-12 versions, including the U.S., since 1996. Modern cooling systems use R22 refrigerants, which are safer than their predecessors.

2. The Evaporator Coils

The evaporator coil primarily consists of copper tubes with a liquid coolant. When indoor air passes over the tubing, they absorb heat. The amount of heat it can absorb depends on the pressure of the coolant. When it’s hot, the pressure is low. On the other hand, when it’s cold, the pressure is relatively high.

A fan inside the AC’s air handler facilitates the continuous movement of air through the coil. When the refrigerant absorbs heat, it turns into vapor under low pressure. In its vapor state, the fluid will use energy to return to its liquid form. The last stage of the process cools the interior further.

The evaporator coil can also capture some of the humidity inside the interior of your home. When vapor heats the coil, condensation takes place, and it then turns into water. The water flows into the condensate pan and then dispenses it away from your home.

3. The Condenser Coil

The condenser coil is responsible for the second half of the cooling cycle. When warm air leaves the evaporator coils, it is pressurized in the compressor. The compressor has a fan that blows air onto the condenser coil to absorb energy from the refrigerant.

The condenser’s tube material is copper to facilitate the absorption of heat energy. The assembly also includes multiple coils to increase the surface area in contact with the moving air. Once the refrigerant cools down, it turns into liquid and returns to the indoor unit.

For the evaporator and condenser coils to work effectively, they need to be clear of debris and dust. Otherwise, the dust will act as an insulation that hampers the transfer of energy to the refrigerant. The best way to avoid such issues is to organize for cleaning during routine maintenance. Cleaner components enhance efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of your system.

4. The Expansion Valve

When the refrigerant returns from the condenser, it first goes into the expansion valve of your indoor air handler. The expansion valve can optimize the system’s cooling effect by limiting its pressure before it enters the evaporator coils.

As a result, the liquid refrigerant getting into the evaporator coils is at low pressure and cool enough to absorb heat. The expansion valve is, in turn, controlled by a sensing mechanism that adjusts the pressure according to indoor temperatures. That way, the air conditioner can regulate temperatures more effectively.

5. The Compressor

Compressors perform two critical functions: pressurizing the refrigerant and moving it through the system. It can pressurize gas coming from the evaporator coils as it goes into the condenser. The higher pressure increases the energy of the molecules, and it gains heat. The high pressure is cooled in the condenser coil before it can absorb heat in the interior.

There are different types of compressors with varying features. But most will include a motor that requires routine lubrication. The motor bearings can succumb to friction, which may cause technical problems within your AC unit.

It is worth noting that ACs use a special kind of lubricant that does not react with the refrigerant. Other types of oil can be hazardous when it comes into contact with the coolant. That is why you should leave tasks such as troubleshooting intricate parts of ACs to professionals.

Some compressors are hermetically sealed, which means you cannot repair their internal components. In such instances, you may have to replace it to restore the efficiency of your air conditioner. If you suspect your AC has an issue, you can talk to Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating’s certified technicians in Annapolis.

6. Thermostat Devices

A thermostat is an essential device for efficient air conditioning systems. It takes the temperature of the room and sends that information to the cooling system. An inaccurate thermostat can overwork your AC and negatively impact the comfort of your home.

Your system may not regulate temperature properly if the device is in an inappropriate location. Areas with lots of ambient heat can change the temperature reading on your device. As such, the system can record incorrect temperatures and cool temperatures more than is necessary.

In the past, most devices were manual or electric but with a few features. Today, thermostats have many features such as wi-fi and programmable capabilities. A smart device can adjust your AC depending on your schedule or daily habits.

For example, you can turn down your AC when your leave home. You can then program it to turn on just before you get home. Wi-fi capabilities allow you to make adjustments on your smartphone or portable devices. That way, you can check on your AC when in your room or when you are away from home.

Heat Pumps and Variations in Cooling Systems

The parts of a cooling system may vary considerably depending on its working principle. One type of system that is becoming popular with homeowners is the heat pump.

A heat pump can heat and cool your home within the same unit. It has an indoor and outdoor air handler and a refrigerant that transfers heat from the indoors to the outdoors. In the cold season, it can reverse the cycle to heat the interior.

The heat pump can cool primarily by changing the pressure of the refrigerant in the indoor unit. That means heat pumps do not use resistance heating present in most conventional air conditioners. As such, it is a good option for low-cost cooling.

A heat pump efficiency can be up to four times higher than a regular AC. They can also provide warm water with temperatures of up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit. Even in the chilly winters in Annapolis, a heat pump can provide adequate and efficient heating.

Whenever you suspect there is an issue with your air conditioner, it is always wise to seek prompt repairs. Our BBB accredited team is always ready to inspect and fix your system. We can install heat pumps, furnaces, ductwork, and indoor air quality solutions. Consult Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating’s staff today and discover our A+ rated AC solutions.

UV Light indoor air quality

How Do UV Light Indoor Air Quality Products Work?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

The beautiful flower blossoms of spring increase the presence of particles in the air. When your indoor air is not given the proper attention, it could increase the risks of respiratory illness and allergic reactions. Most households depend on the HVAC system to improve indoor air quality. Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget about HVAC unit maintenance until it malfunctions at the least expected times. When neglected, contaminants can multiply within your unit and recirculate them through the house.

Adding UV lights into your HVAC system is a solution that keeps your unit clean to circulate healthy air throughout your home. Here is a detailed guide that explores UV light facts to clear up some of your concerns and help you make an informed decision.

1. What Is an Indoor Air Quality UV Light?

This is an air-purifying technology that utilizes ultraviolet light to inactivate airborne pathogens, kill viruses, and remove mold and bacteria. There are various UV light indoor air quality products in the market today. Some come as standalone devices, while you can install others directly on your HVAC unit.

Although there might be concerns due to UV rays’ adverse effects, the technician fits UV-based air purifiers deep into the ductwork system away from human contact.

2. How Does It Work?

Convectional air conditioner filters work well in trapping large contaminants particles. However, some microorganisms may slip through the filters into your indoor air. The UV lights help eliminates such pollutants. An HVAC technician installs the UV lamp within the ductwork near the evaporator coil. It then emits germicidal light to act on the air that goes through the ductwork.

The UV light works by attacking and destroying the microorganisms’ DNA. It disrupts their reproductive cycle, which leads to germs elimination. Note that bacteria contain a single cell that relies on DNA to live. If the UV lights destroy the DNA, then it sufficiently damages the bacteria cell rendering it harmless. An efficient cooling system circulates air throughout the home several times. Therefore, the air will receive a disinfection treatment severally each time it passes through the UV lamp.

The indoor coil condenses moisture to lower humidity levels. It creates a perfect breeding site for both molds and bacteria. UV light can sterilize the coils in your air conditioning unit to prevent microbial growth.

Although some UV lights operate on a 24/7 basis, it’s a good idea to invest in the automated UV disinfection system. It enables you to control the amount of UV light applied to lower costs. Such a system efficiently works when installed near the air handler cooling coils. It quickly sterilizes the coils and the air passing through the cooling system. You only turn the UV lights on when needed to save on energy.

3. How Effective Are UV Air Purifiers?

The effectiveness of the UV light air purifying product will depend on various factors. It might vary based on whether the contaminants come into contact with the UV light. Other factors include the bulb’s material, the required light dosage, and the pollutant’s exposure time to the light. If properly designed and correctly fitted into the HVAC unit, the UV can deactivate most bacteria and render the remaining ones inert once they enter the body.

The rays also attack viral cells, eliminating the potential of contracting contagious diseases. Additionally, they eliminate mold and spores. However, bacterial and mold spores are usually very resistant, and you might need high UV light levels and longer exposure time to destroy them entirely.

4. Benefits of Using UV Air Purifiers

Installing UV lights in your HVAC unit helps reduce the threat of airborne illness. The UV lights act as a cleaning agent that eliminates microorganisms in the air, promoting wellness and overall health. It also helps keep the coils in your AC sterilized to prevent re-circulation of airborne pathogens so your household members will experience fewer instances of flu or cold. The ultraviolet light eliminates irritants in the indoor air lowering chances of asthma or allergies. When properly placed, the UV light significantly reduces fungal levels.

It also helps eliminate foul odors in the house. Volatile organic compounds are the primary sources of odors at home. They often lead to eye, nose, or throat irritations, and prolonged exposure can result in dangerous respiratory illness. Some primary VOCs sources in the house include tobacco smoke, cleaning products, paint, and perfumes. UV light can help eliminate volatile organic compounds from your indoors to freshen the air and improve comfort levels.

UV lights also help improve airflow and efficiency. When contaminants clog the parts of your HVAC unit, it will have to work extra hard to maintain the required temperature. It will therefore result in increased wear and tear in your system and higher utility bills. With the proper UV light, it helps eliminate such contaminants to restore your HVAC unit’s capacity. The smooth airflow also translates to fewer repairs, cleaner air, and prolonged HVAC unit lifespan.

5. How to Implement and Maintain UV Light Air Purifiers

Although UV lights can help kill numerous microorganisms, they are only effective when installed correctly. Note that improper installation could cause injury and substandard performance. The installation process involves accessing the ductwork or the coil cabinet. Hence it’s a good idea that you have an experienced technician handle it.

You also need to ensure that your AC undergoes the necessary repair and maintenance before UV light installations. Other times, you might need to replace the AC or add extra components before installing the UV lights into your system. Consult a professional, and they will advise you on the best possible cause of action.

An experienced technician will assess your needs and determine the best area to install the UV light, either at the air handler, ductwork, or the return air. Even after installing the UV light, you should maintain it periodically. The bulbs loosen and lose efficiency after some time, and you should have them checked and replaced annually to preserve the protective benefits of the UV lights.

Also, you should keep the air filters clean to improve your UV light’s performance. When dust accumulates and covers the bulb, it limits the amount of light cast on the flowing air, which reduces its effectiveness. Therefore, change or clean the filters after every three months. If you reside in extremely dusty areas or have a heavily shedding pet, change the filters every month.

Bottom Line

The use of UV light indoor air quality products has increased in recent years due to the desire to maintain safe indoor environments. If you or your house members suffer from breathing issues, allergies, or when you notice higher than usual rates of colds and other viruses, consider installing UV lights. They effectively eliminate pollutants in your HVAC unit or indoor air to create a safe home.

If you need professional help in improving your indoor air quality, reach out to Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating. We have a team of highly trained and experienced technicians serving the Hanover, MD, area. Our company offers a wide range of services, including heating systems and AC installation, repair, and maintenance. We also deal with dehumidifiers and custom ductwork installations. Call us today and schedule an appointment to enjoy our top-notch services.

What Are The Most Common Indoor Air Pollutants?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

The air you and your family breathe in your home can be quite hazardous to your general health. That is especially true during the cold winter months when doors and windows are kept firmly shut and homes are made airtight to conserve energy. Indoor air pollutants have been linked to various health effects, including respiratory problems, chronic cough, lethargy, frequent colds, headaches, eye irritation, memory lapses and dizziness.

Once you identify or suspect the real culprits, you can significantly reduce or probably prevent many indoor pollutants. Here are some of the most common pollutants you can find inside your homes and ways to prevent them.

1. Mold

Mold refers to forms of fungi that can grow outside and indoors. Some types are usually harmless, while others are hazardous. Mold can easily trigger some allergic reactions in some individuals. The symptoms of these allergies can include headaches, skin irritation, nasal stuffiness, swelling, coughing, wheezing, throat or eye irritation. Mold might also trigger severe asthma attacks in some people.

According to experts, the key to eliminating mold in your home is keeping humidity and moisture levels in check. Clean up any spills and fix leaks in your house as soon as possible. Keep your bathroom windows open or keep your fan on when taking showers. Also, ensure that you vent all the appliances that generate moisture.

2. Asbestos

Asbestos refers to mineral fibers that occur naturally in soils and rocks. Due to its heat resistance or strength, asbestos is used in many construction materials, including roofing shingles and insulation. Asbestos is also used in cars’ friction products and as a fire decelerator.

Exposure to asbestos for extended periods can increase your risk of developing asbestosis, mesothelioma, or lung disease. If you have products in your home that contain asbestos, keep them in good condition or have them removed by trained professionals near you.

3. Secondhand Smoke

Environmental tobacco smoke or secondhand smoke refers to a mixture of smoke generated by burning tobacco products like cigars and cigarettes. Experts refer to secondhand smoke exposure as passive smoking. Short-term exposure to smoke can lead to throat, eye, and nose irritations. You can also experience various health issues like wheezing, bronchitis, lung cancer, and pneumonia due to long-term exposure.

Secondhand smoke exposure might also trigger asthma attacks in some individuals. To avoid this air pollutant in your home, avoid smoking cigars, pipe tobacco, or cigarettes inside your house. You can have a smoking zone outdoors in your yard, away from the main living area.

4. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)

NO2 is a corrosive and toxic gas from the nitrogen oxide family. It’s released from burning fuel, especially from power plants, trucks, and cars. When high levels of nitrogen dioxide combine with water, it can eventually form acid rain. This toxic irritates the respiratory tract, nose, eyes and throat. Moderate exposure to nitrogen dioxide can lead to chronic or acute bronchitis. People can also get lung injury or pulmonary edema when exposed to high levels of this reactive gas.

In low levels, nitrogen dioxide can lead to impaired lung function in vulnerable people like children, asthmatics and those with chronic lung disease. According to the EPA, it’s vital to ensure that all combustion appliances in your home are installed correctly, kept in good condition and used as directed by the manufacturers. Ensure that the air emitted by these appliances can easily flow outdoors to avoid indoor pollution.

5. Carbon Monoxide (CO)

CO refers to an odorless gas emitted whenever fossil fuels are incompletely burned. Gas heaters and kerosene lamps are the greatest indoor contributors of carbon monoxide, while vehicles are the main sources of this gas outdoors. CO prevents your body from utilizing the oxygen it requires to function normally. This invisible gas can lead to a fast heart rate, nausea, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue. If CO concentration is high, it can significantly reduce the oxygen being transported to critical organs, leading to death.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a threat to enclosed indoor areas with poor ventilation because the gas is unlikely to occur in high levels outside. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your residence, have all your heating systems inspected and maintained by a professional annually. You can avoid using gas stoves to heat your home, and don’t use any combustion appliance without vents inside. Also, ensure that all your combustion appliances are installed correctly by a professional.

6. Particulate Matter

Particle pollution or particulate matter refers to a combination of some solid particles present in the air. Some of the particles are so big that you can easily see them with your naked eyes, while others are too small, and you can only see them using a microscope. Most often, particulate matter results from complex chemical reactions from various contaminants produced by burning fuels. It can also be produced directly from other sources like beaches or construction sites.

In the long term, particle pollution exposure can cause severe health complications such as aggravated asthma, irregular heartbeats, increased respiratory symptoms, and even heart attacks. People with preexisting allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses are at a higher risk of suffering from the adverse effects of particulate matter. Work with a professional to determine the exposure level to this contaminant, and take the necessary actions to eliminate it from your home.

7. Wood Smoke

Smoke refers to a complicated composition of gases and particulate matter or fine microscopic particles generated when you burn wood and any other organic matter. As discussed above, the biggest health risk from wood smoke originates from the smoke’s particle pollution.

According to statistics, many people still utilize wood stoves for cooking their meals and warming their homes. These stoves provide the benefits of warmth and food, but they can also emit toxic smoke, especially if your house is not properly ventilated. Switching to newer technology will help minimize health risks caused by wood smoke and enhance the quality of air in your home.

8. Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs

VOCs refer to gases released by certain liquids or solid substances. They include an array of chemicals that can lead to long-term and short-term health effects. VOCs can result from various products used in our homes, such as aerosol sprays, wood preservatives, pesticides, moth repellants, and stored fuels. Other items that emit VOCs include disinfectants, cleansers, dry-cleaned clothing, preservatives, paints, and air fresheners. Volatile organic compounds can lead to various health issues like headaches, throat, eye, nose irritations, and damage to the central nervous system, kidney, and liver.

Bottom Line

There are many sources of indoor pollutants, but this article has only highlighted some of the common ones. These air contaminants can affect your comfort and health. Some health complications can show up years later after long-term exposure or immediately after short-term or single exposure. If you suspect air pollution in your house or poor indoor air quality, it would be best to contact professionals from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating to carry out an air quality assessment. We will also create customized solutions to clean your indoor air and restore your comfort.

Our company offers other services, too, including quality custom ductwork, AC and heating repairs, installation, and maintenance services. If you live in Hanover, MD, and you’re experiencing air quality issues, call us today, and our reliable team will help restore safe and breathable air in your home.

Ductless Mini-Split

How Does A Ductless Mini-Split System Work?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC.

If you are looking for flexible heating and cooling options for your home, ductless mini-splits can be an ideal choice. They are very efficient, especially for controlling temperatures in hard-to-reach areas. Ductless mini-splits are popular in regions where many buildings don’t have HVAC systems. Before installing mini-splits, you need to understand how they work, their benefits, and their disadvantages.

What Are Ductless Mini-Split Systems?

Unlike a conventional HVAC system that distributes air throughout the house from one unit, a ductless mini-split system serves an area of the home or a single room. Every system has a separate evaporator coil and fan. They are known as split because they have different outdoor and indoor systems. “Mini” refers to the fact that the system consists of individual units that are smaller than standard HVAC equipment.

Many homes in Hanover, Columbia, Ellicott City, and the surrounding areas without existing ductwork could benefit from the ductless mini-split system. Most commercial and residential property owners don’t want to cut through walls and floors to install new ducts. Since mini-splits circulate air directly through the indoor units, you can use them in situations where HVAC systems cannot fit.

How Do Ductless Mini-Split Units Work?

The heating/cooling combination system works like a heat pump in that it functions using electrical power. That is why the units are very efficient. Mini-splits have two parts; the outdoor condenser and the indoor handling unit. The indoor equipment is mounted on a high wall and transfers air directly into the room. It connects to an outdoor compressor through a refrigerant instead of a complicated duct system.

Besides the refrigerant tubing, the indoor system links to an outdoor unit with a condensate drain line, a power cable, and suction tubing. You can connect several indoor units to the outdoor unit and control them independently, even though they share an outdoor heat pump for dispensing or absorbing heat. The operation is far from a traditional central air system that sends air from the indoor element through the ducts.

Air from the indoor unit goes through a series of pipes to the condenser, where it comes into contact with the coils containing the coolant. The hot air transfers the heat to the coolant, turning the liquid into gas—the gas transfers to the compressor, where it is recycled and converts into a liquid again. The newly cooled air gets into the air handler, from where it goes back to the room. The cycle repeats itself to attain the desired temperature.

It’s easy to control a ductless mini-split system because most models have remote controls for setting the desired temperature.

5 Benefits of Ductless Systems

Here’s why you should consider using mini-splits in your home or commercial property.

1. Quick and Easy to Install

Installing a conventional HVAC unit is a large operation that might interfere with your regular activities. The ducting must pass along the walls or sometimes inside them to connect to other parts of the unit. It takes days or weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

Ductless systems are easier to install. Since the work can be divided on a room-by-room basis, the installation can be completed in a day. The units have small holes, so you don’t have to repair plasterwork or rebuild walls. Most holes have a diameter of 3 inches at most, which has an insignificant impact on the building’s structure.

2. Highly Flexible

Ductless systems are flexible, unlike traditional heating/cooling systems. With a mini-split unit in your home, you can change one room’s temperature without affecting other parts. For instance, you may want to cool your living area during the day while maintaining your bedrooms’ temperature. Also, different family members have varying heating and cooling preferences. With mini-splits, you can adjust the temperature of any room independently.

Ductless systems are also flexible because you can install them in many places as opposed to regular HVAC units. They are ideal for condos, garages, period properties, home additions, basements, small apartments, and old office buildings.

3. Better Air Quality

Traditional HVAC systems require intensive clean-up and don’t prevent pollution from coming into the house. They blow in bacteria, allergens, vehicle exhaust fumes, and pollen without discrimination. Some traces of these contaminants remain even after cleaning.

Ductless mini-splits feature problematic filtration cartridges that are easy to clean and replace. The multi-stage filtration systems help to get rid of most airborne particles from contaminating your office or home.

4. “Green” Solution

The ducts used in regular HVAC systems risk air leakage, which can be very inefficient. When the temperatures are high, warm air might seep into the room, thus forcing your AC to work harder than it should. The same applies to cold temperatures. Since the ductwork stays in unconditioned places, it is exposed to summer heat or freezing winter temperatures. The HVAC equipment works extra hard to counteract the exposure.

Ductless systems are efficient because they don’t use ductwork. Therefore, your HVAC unit doesn’t have to work extra hard, and you pay fewer energy bills. Mini-splits also use inverter technology, which is more efficient than conventional HVAC units. The technology eliminates sharp fluctuations and extends the life of the unit’s parts.

5. Affordable Solutions

Ductless mini-split units use less power than conventional alternatives. They are smaller than forced-air systems, and air doesn’t have to travel along with lengthy distances. Since mini-splits don’t use ducts, heat loss reduces significantly. You can also use them to target specific areas or rooms within a building. It helps to develop temperature-controlled zones. When you go green, you might enjoy tax credits and utility rebates from local governments and federal administration.

Disadvantages of Mini-Split Systems

While mini-splits have a host of benefits, they may not be an ideal solution because of these disadvantages:

  • Higher upfront costs than traditional systems
  • You may not like the aesthetic of the indoor units
  • Requires professional installation

Who Should Consider a Mini-Split System?

If you have an older building or a slab home with no ductwork, the cost of installing pipes might exceed that of the furnace and AC. Therefore, a ductless option might be ideal in this case. People who have already installed conventional HVAC units but have “nuisance” spots in their homes might be better off installing mini-splits in those rooms.

Homeowners who want to downsize without relocating can resort to ductless mini-split units to help reduce the running costs. If you run a commercial property, and every tenant has differing needs, you may consider installing mini-splits to keep everyone comfortable. Ductless systems are also perfect for those looking to extend their homes and don’t want to redo the ductwork.

If you are considering installing a ductless AC unit in your home, our experts in Hanover, Columbia, Ellicott City, or the surrounding areas will be happy to help. At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we are invested in ensuring that our clients are comfortable. We will survey your home or commercial property and advise you on the best air conditioning or heating unit to install.

How To Make An Old Home More Energy Efficient

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Energy Efficiency.

Old homes don’t get the love they deserve. Although they may present more repair and maintenance needs than newer homes, old homes are often cheaper than their newer counterparts. Whether you rent or own the old home you’re living in, you probably struggle with high utility bills. To improve your home’s energy efficiency, try integrating the tips mentioned below.

Water Heater

Water heaters have been around for more than a hundred years. In fact, the prototype for the modern tank water heater was developed in the late 1800s, more than 130 years ago.

Although tankless water heaters have grown in popularity over the past couple of decades, tank-type water heaters are still the most popular variety.

If you have a tanked water heater, consider increasing the insulation on your water heater. You can find insulating jackets made specifically for water heater insulation. Buying one of these is much simpler than crafting makeshift insulation on your own. It’s also affordable, especially considering how long it’ll insulate your water heater.

After fitting the jacket to your water heater, it’s time to insulate your home’s hot water pipes. You may find a few feet of hot water pipes around the heater itself. However, most hot water pipes will be located in your home’s crawl space. Although nobody likes spending time in crawl spaces, you should bite the bullet and insulate your pipes while you can.

Before visiting the next energy efficiency tip, turn your water heater’s temperature down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping your water temperature higher wastes energy and can lead to scalding when washing dishes or showering. On the other hand, dropping the water temperature below 120 degrees can encourage unwanted bacteria growth.

Consider a Geothermal Heat Pump

Although they’ve been around nearly as long as tank-type water heaters, geothermal heating systems aren’t as well-known as furnaces or air conditioners.

These systems can take care of your year-round heating and cooling needs, not to mention substantially reduce your energy consumption. Better yet, you probably won’t need to make major home renovations to make room for a geothermal heat pump.

As long as your home already has a central HVAC system, you can connect the heat pump to the home’s ductwork. If you can afford to install a geothermal heat pump in your home, don’t bother doing it yourself. Getting something wrong could lead to poor system performance or expensive repairs and requires extensive technical knowledge and equipment plus knowledge of the proper zoning and permitting for your region.

Rather, have a professional HVAC contractor like Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating of Hanover, Maryland, install it for you. Our NATE-certified technicians know the ins and outs of modern geothermal heat pumps. Here at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, our Marylander HVAC professionals take pride in doing jobs right the first time around.

Invest in an Energy Audit

It’s hard to know whether you’ve improved without a baseline to compare your performance to. You also won’t know whether your home is energy efficient or not. Investing in an energy audit is a great starting point for any energy efficiency project.

Many local and state government agencies offer these home energy assessments. You can also get them from qualified HVAC providers such as us, Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating of Hanover, Maryland.

Home energy audits look at things like your windows, insulation, locations where air is escaping your home, holes in your ducts, the age and efficiency of your appliances and the type of heat source that you’re using. In addition to energy efficiency ratings, you’ll receive personalized recommendations for improving your home’s energy efficiency.

Find and Seal Air Leaks

Although homes do a good job of insulating you from the outdoors, they’re still full of tiny gaps. These gaps allow air leaks to flow into your home, which makes your energy bills higher.

Unlike full-scale heat pump installation or performing a home energy assessment, locating and sealing air leaks is a project you can reasonably take on. Still, it never hurts to get help from a professional HVAC contractor like us for any heating and cooling project.

While air leaks can come from anywhere, common sources of air leaks include:

  • Fireplaces
  • Phone line, internet, and cable line entry points
  • Wall outlets
  • Gaps in foundations or brick walls
  • Outdoor water faucets
  • Attics
  • Window and door frames

The easiest way to close air leaks is by closing fireplace dampers or attic doors, for example. Of course, most leaks won’t be as easy to address.

Weatherstripping is ideal for sealing door and window frames. You can also use draft snakes, or rolled towels in a pinch, below doors to block drafts.

In general, you can use caulk to seal most remaining air leaks. Be careful to apply it carefully because excess caulk can look ugly. For best cosmetic results, find hardware stores with a wide range of caulk tones. Get clay-colored caulk for sealing holes in red brick, for example, and white or eggshell caulk for plugging up air leaks around wall outlets.

Get Some Newer Windows

Assuming they don’t shatter, windows can last many decades. Even if they don’t open well, it’s easy to put off window replacement.

If you’re serious about improving your old home’s energy efficiency, it’s time to buy some newer windows. As long as they have the Energy Star label, you don’t need to search for a specific brand. Make sure your new windows fit snug, too. Although you can temporarily compensate for small windows, they’ll eventually make way for major air leaks that’ll haunt you in the future.

Windows aren’t cheap. Gas-filled, two-ply or three-ply windows are the most efficient but are also the most expensive. High-quality windows can cost several hundred dollars per unit. Large picture windows can cost even more. Despite the cost, windows can save you more money than many other energy efficiency upgrades.

Before finishing your window replacement project, don’t forget to insulate them. This simple step can prevent air leaks from forming in the future, saving you worry and energy in the process.

Change Your Light Bulbs

Revamping your home’s energy efficiency isn’t entirely heating and cooling related. Changing light bulbs is a simple, effective way to reduce your home’s energy usage.

Compact fluorescent bulbs, also called CFLs, are the cheapest energy-efficient bulbs on the market. CFLs use less energy and last many times longer than traditional light bulbs. You can also replace your home’s light bulbs with LEDs. Light-emitting diodes cost much more than CFLs or incandescent bulbs but will save you more money in the long run because a single bulb uses less energy and can last 3-5 times longer than a CFL or incandescent bulb.

Whichever type of bulb you choose is up to you. Either way, you’ll save money on utilities and help the environment in the process.

If you’d like professional heating and cooling help, look no further than Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating of Hanover, Maryland. We also have another location in Annapolis, giving us easy access to clients across the Old Line State. Some of our many HVAC services include AC repair, furnace replacement, and all-around HVAC maintenance. For more information about our services, give us a call today!

How Often Should You Get HVAC Maintenance?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC.

You know your HVAC system requires regular maintenance, whether it’s because you installed a new system or have seen the ads. How often should you have your system maintained, and what does it include? Understanding the why and how behind these tasks makes it easier to make this a priority every year.

How Your System Works

To start understanding why your system needs regular maintenance, it’s important to first understand the basics of how it works. In a single state, it operates on the simple premise of circulating air through your home and your system.

When your system is operating at peak efficiency, it easily draws air into your system through the return vents. It then moves this air through the system, heats or cools it, and then pushes it back out into your home. The process of drawing air in and pushing air out helps the air in your home circulate.

The first major issue you can have with your system, regardless of whether you are heating or cooling, is an airflow restriction. These restrictions can happen in a number of places in the system.

The goal is to keep your system working as close to peak efficiency as possible. This both keeps your heating and cooling bills low. It also reduces the overall repair costs and helps extend the service life of your furnace.

Why Your System Needs Maintenance

Your system works itself into needing maintenance just by operating regularly. First, as it circulates air, contaminants that make their way past your filter will settle on your evaporator coil, heat exchanger and circulating fan. As these contaminants collect, they restrict proper airflow through your system.

Further, your system works with a number of motors, which create a lot of vibration as they spin. This vibration eventually loosens some mounting bolts and screws in the system.

When you have airflow restrictions or loose parts, the result is ultimately the same: increased electrical resistance. This increased resistance creates additional heat in sensitive areas of your furnace.

When you have electrical components that experience additional heat, it makes connections brittle and causes wires to wear. If the resistance is enough, some components may burn out or create shorts.

The goal of regular maintenance is to reduce the extra resistance in your system by catching the causes early. By completing a series of preventive maintenance tasks and cleaning, your technician helps your system run smoothly and efficiently.

Ideally, you should have your system maintained twice annually. During each visit, your technician will perform some common preventative, inspection and cleaning tasks. However, each visit will also have some tasks specific to the season.

Preventative Tasks

Preventative tasks are a bulk of what a properly trained technician will focus on during a regular maintenance visit.

One of our technicians will check the mounting bolts and screws on your circulating and induction motors. These will loosen over time from the vibration of normal operation.

A technician will also lubricate the bearings in the circulating fan motor. If these are not properly lubricated, they will eventually wear and cause the motor to seize.

The fan is also a wheel, and like the wheel on your car, it needs to be balanced. If it is off-balance, it causes extra wear on the motor and increases the resistance in the electrical components. All of this leads to premature motor failure.

System Inspection

While technicians are working on your system, they will be inspecting the unit as well. Mechanical and electrical parts will eventually fail, and they usually give early warning signs when they do. When you can detect them early, you reduce the strain on your system and the broader impacts of a failing component.

Our technicians will inspect the wiring and electrical components, including the control board. During this inspection, they will be looking for melted insulation and singe marks. These indicate a problem with either arcing or a short.

They will also test components like capacitors to ensure they’re working properly. If a capacitor is failing, you may experience issues with your circulating fan starting consistently.

The circulating fan wheel is also something to pay attention to in order to replace it if it becomes damaged. There are additional components specific to the two maintenance visits our technicians will also inspect, detailed below.

System Cleaning

In order to keep air moving through your system freely, you have to continue areas that collect airborne contaminants. Our technicians will clean these areas during their visit.

During both visits, our technicians will also clean the circulating fan wheel. This ensures it will move the maximum amount of air while it spins.

Additionally, they will clean your heat exchanger, which allows the air to be heated correctly. When contaminants collect on the exchanger, it will produce a slight burning smell when it first lights up.

Another common area to collect airborne contaminants is the evaporator coil. This is what cools your air in the summer. The evaporator coil does not warm up like the heat exchanger; it will not naturally resolve itself.

Lastly, our technicians will check your condensate drain. As your system runs, it will produce condensation, whether it is the heat or air conditioning. This condensation drips down and collects in a drip pan. That pan then has a pipe to allow the condensation to drain off.

While the condensation collects, it will also pick up small metal particles and dirt. This will cause your system to trip and stop running to prevent damage.

Spring Maintenance

During spring maintenance, our technicians will want to ensure your system is ready to run for the summer. They will inspect your compressor, condenser and the area around your outside unit. They will also clean the outside of your unit and ensure it is clear of debris that may restrict airflow.

In addition, they will check your refrigerant level and offer to recharge your system if needed. A system with too little refrigerant is prone to freezing, which damages the compressor.

Fall Maintenance

During your fall maintenance, the focus is primarily on your heating system. A major part of this visit is the inspection of your furnace burners and heat exchanger. If your exchanger is cracked, you’re more prone to having a carbon monoxide issue. So, ensure it is solid before you light it off for the year.

Another important area to check for your furnace is the gas flow to your system. Your regulator, igniter and heat sensor can all malfunction. When they do, they cut the fuel flow to your system. You want to find these issues before the winter season arrives.

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating offers trusted HVAC services to Hanover, MD, residents and residents in the surrounding area. Our team provides heating and air conditioning installation, maintenance and repair services. We also have expertise in indoor air quality to help you breathe more easily and keep your system clean of contaminants.

How to keep snow out of a furnace vent

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC.

Updated: September 18, 2023

Routine maintenance is essential in upholding your heating system’s efficiency. Keeping the snow out of the furnace vent is one of the critical maintenance tasks you can’t afford to ignore. The buildup of condensation can wreak havoc on your HVAC system. In this article, we’ll explore steps on how you can keep snow from out of your furnace vent.

Condensation in High Efficiency Furnaces

A modern condensing furnace utilizes two combustion stages to attain up to 90% AFUE fuel efficiency. Unlike conventional heating systems, condensing furnaces have a second heat exchanger. When the exhaust gas passes through the element, it absorbs much of the remaining heat.

Because they can absorb most of the heat from the exhaust, it prevents waste and is much more efficient. However, condensing furnaces have one drawback: the discharge of exhaust gases is hardly ever warm. The cooler fumes allow faster condensation. For that reason, high-efficiency units should have a specialized venting system in place during installation.

how to keep snow out of furnace vent

In a conventional system, the flue can be metal since the gases are still hot when they exit the exhaust. On the other hand, modern condensing furnaces have a plastic vent pipe in place of metal. The fact that the vent is plastic is an indication of the low temperature coming from the exhaust.

Typically, mid-efficiency furnaces are not as prone to condensation. However, if the flue’s placing or sizing is incorrect, it will trap vapor, and moisture will accumulate.

Give Your Furnace Space

A clogged vent pipe can cause problems within your furnace and may pose a health risk in your home. That’s why it’s important to clear the area around your outdoor unit of snow and debris. Homes with the vent pipe going through the exterior walls rather than the chimney are more vulnerable to condensation.

When the vent pipe is blocked by snow, it will shut down your system as a safety measure. You may have to call a furnace emergency service in the middle of a cold winter. Furthermore, when the blockage is around the exhaust pipe, it may introduce harmful gases into your home.

At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we recommend checking your carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide detectors before winter. During the cold season, your furnace will be running most of the time. You want to ensure that the safety alarm will alert you if there is a risk of a hazard.

Debris and Ice Formation

When the system expels exhaust fumes from the furnace, it meets the cooler air outside and condenses. The process is much faster for higher-efficiency heating systems because of the cooler fumes. However, other factors, such as debris obstructions, can accelerate the process of condensation.

Remember, once the twigs and leaves sticking from the vent pipe come into contact with vapor, condensation happens to form water vapor. For that reason, you should clear the area around the exterior unit of any debris. Children like to push sticks into the pipes, so it is advisable to ensure there is a barrier around it.

Improper Vent Pipe Installation

Clearing the area around the outdoor unit will minimize snow accumulation and prevent blockages. However, a substandard installation process can create chronic issues that could eventually damage your furnace. High-efficiency furnaces can be prone to condensate buildup unless the installation is thorough.

During furnace installation, the system must discharge exhaust fumes efficiently. Otherwise, the intake vent can draw the gases into it, which can cause ignition problems. The warm air will melt the snow and pull in vapor, which will end up freezing inside the pipe.

Excess moisture may also cause the condensate drain to clog. This will trip the pressure switch. The pressure switch ensures the right amount of air gets into the unit for combustion. If there is a blockage, your furnace will produce an unstable flame.

During installation, components that produce condensate should be on a slope to allow the moisture to drain. Such components include hoses connected to the furnace, the condensate drain and vent pipes. Your central air conditioning system can also generate moisture that may travel to the furnace.

In high-efficiency furnaces, the trick is to ensure the discharge of exhaust is as fast as possible. The plastic vent pipes must be of the right size to minimize the amount of condensation. Therefore, it is essential to have a terminating hub to direct the flow of exhaust fumes.

A hub at the end of a vent pipe should point downwards to ensure there is no risk of exhaust intake. Snow buildup will trigger a lockdown mechanism. Routine maintenance of your furnace before winter should unearth potential installation issues or equipment faults.

Inconsistencies on the venting material may develop due to poor installation. An opening in the PVC piping will impact the exhaust’s discharge, which may allow toxic gases to accumulate. Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating ‘s staff in Hanover will perform thorough tune-ups and repairs to keep your home safe.

Steps to Prevent Snow Buildup

There are several steps you can take to minimize the accumulation of condensation in your heating system. Besides clearing the area around your outdoor unit, you can install a canopy to protect it from the snow.

You can also use a vent screen to keep snow away from the unit. But the screen should be of the right size and grade. If you happen to use one with thick material, it could have the opposite effect. The spacing of the mesh openings needs to be at least half-an-inch wide. Our factory-trained technicians can offer reliable solutions based on the manufacturer’s specifications.

However, you shouldn’t place a cover right on top of the condenser. Always keep the clearance at least two feet from the unit by removing obstructions like shrubs or branches. Also, to maintain airflow within the system, change or clean the filter at least once a month.

It is also advisable to ensure that any exposed piping has insulation. When the water freezes, it can burst your pipes, causing leaks that release moisture. Inspect the insulation on outdoor plumbing or in areas such as the attic, and ensure it is not worn out.

When clearing snow, do not use boiling water to melt the ice. When the temperatures are in the extreme, the hot water will freeze faster than warm water. You could end up increasing the amount of snow around the outdoor unit. You may use warm water as long as it is not cold outside.

Professional Furnace Vent Installation and Maintenance in Hanover

You need to schedule a routine checkup of your furnace to ensure its drainage system is working. Your heating system generates condensation that should be drained away to prevent faults within the system. Our technicians will clean components and check for any anomalies that may promote moisture buildup.

We offer quality custom ductwork in Hanover, MD. The ductwork has a huge impact on the airflow and efficiency of your furance. Our certified technicians can troubleshoot air quality concerns, energy losses, leaks, and moisture accumulation. Our HVAC company also offers comprehensive heating services and cooling services.

You can depend on the furnace service from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating for fair pricing and quality craftsmanship in Hanover. Call us today to schedule an appointment with our top-rated team.

Air purifiers vs Plants

Written by Kevin on . Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

Indoor air quality is a concern for many homes today. Modern furnishings and materials are responsible for up to 90% of the contaminants. But how can you manage your indoor air quality? In this article, we compare plants and air purification systems.

Can Plants Clean the Air?

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of some of the 1970s trends. One such trend is the use of houseplants to purify the air. Using plants may seem like a great idea since they accentuate your interior design choices. Gardening is also a healthy hobby that can be fulfilling for many homeowners.

Unfortunately, the idea that plants can capture toxins and allergens from the air is hardly true. Several studies have already debunked the myth. When compared to home purification systems, their ability to clean the air is negligible.

Plants can get rid of toxins but at such a low rate that they cannot compete with conventional purification systems. The surface area of a plant’s leaf is too small to take in significant quantities of air. You will need 10 of them for every square foot. That translates to about 5,000 plants for a five by five-foot space.

Why the Confusion?

The reason the myth is so prevalent is that the claims usually rely on old studies. Research by NASA from 30 years ago indicates that plants can indeed remove some pollutants like VOCs.

The level of Volatile Organic Compounds indoors can be up to two to five times the concentration outdoors. VOCs can cause respiratory problems as well as eye and nose irritation after a short duration of exposure. Unfortunately, they cannot be removed by your average electrostatic purifier.

That is why studies showing some plant’s ability to remove VOCs have generated so much interest. However, the NASA study was done in a lab, where the experiment does not match your indoor environment.

Why Plants Are Impractical for Air Purification

Plants may seem like an economical option for addressing indoor air quality concerns in your home. They take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen and humidity. That is in contrast to a home purification system that consumes considerable amounts of energy to remove toxins.

But there are several reasons why plants are impractical. Unlike in a hermetically sealed lab environment, your home allows air to get in from the outdoors. The incoming airflow will introduce new pollutants as soon as the plant completes its purification cycle.

The rate at which the houseplant can remove pollutants in your home is too slow to be useful. Since you’ll need at least 10 plants per square foot, you’ll be effectively turning the room into a garden. Even then, the capacity to purify is marginal in comparison to a purification system.

Additionally, houseplants cannot remove pollutants that a basic air purifier will capture. For example, pet dander, allergens and dust will only settle on the plan’s leaf, unlike the VOCs it can process.

Plants also require a lot of upkeep. You’ll need to water, weed and prune them every now and then. That translates to more resources and time spent on indoor gardening. The amount of care the houseplant will require will depend on the species. Some houseplants require a consistent interior temperature, which may consume the energy you’re trying to save.

The Challenges of Removing Volatile Organic Compounds

VOCs are a group of toxic compounds found in skincare products, paints and adhesives. You could have a significant concentration of VOCs if you’ve done some renovation work recently. The toxin gases could also be coming from vehicle traffic from a road close to your home.

One problem with VOCs is that electrostatic and HEPA filters cannot capture the toxins. Even though HEPA filters can stop particles as small as 0.3 micrometers, they still won’t capture VOCs. Gases are even smaller than that and will require a specialized air purifier.

Another challenge is that the source of VOCs may continue releasing the toxic gases indefinitely. How much they continue to introduce contaminants will depend on the material. Some of the VOCs, such as those from paint, will emit toxins after six months. But other items in your home like the particulate board or MDF can continue releasing the gas for two decades.

Therefore, you must locate the pollutant before you think of installing a filtration system. An indoor air quality monitor can help track hazardous contaminants in your home. Removing the material that releases VOCs is the best first step to take to make your home safe from toxins.

Activated Carbon Filter Versus Plants for VOCs

Although plants can filter VOCs, their capacity is marginal and impractical. Also, a regular filtration system cannot capture the toxic gas due to the small size of the particles. So how can you eliminate volatile organic compounds from your home?

One of the most effective solutions is to use activated carbon filters. Activated carbon has minute pores with a low volume. The structure of its molecules allows for a large surface area that can capture different types of compounds.

The filter works by adsorption, where molecules from a fluid adhere to the surface of activated charcoal. Some studies show that it can capture between 60 and 80% of gaseous toxins. One of its applications is to control hazardous nuclear waste.

Air Purifiers and Managing Indoor Air Quality

Many types of pollutants can pose a risk to your home. They include particulate matter, ozone, radon, Asbestos and biological contaminants. You should understand the type of contaminant you are dealing with before you take any remedial steps.

You should also note that indoor air quality issues can create more complicated problems if not resolved on time. For example, high levels of humidity can cause biological contaminants to thrive in your home. Vapor combined with warmth can encourage a bacterial or mold spore infestation.

Understanding the nature of the pollution will help you determine the best course of action to take. For instance, species like the Jade Plant can humidify the room. But the extra moisture may be destructive if humidity levels are already high in the building.

The EPA suggests improving ventilation in the interior to address indoor air quality concerns. When the air from the outdoors gets into your home, it dilutes harmful toxins. Enclosed spaces allow for particulate matter and VOCs to accumulate.

Unfortunately, plants cannot remove significant amounts of pollutants, especially where there is ventilation. It is also much harder to determine the plants you’ll need to remove pollutants in a given space.

Another approach to indoor air quality is to use monitors to detect contaminants in your home. The process is much more verifiable and scientific. Plants can enhance aesthetics and complement other air purification systems. You can talk to Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating ‘s certified technicians for effective air quality solutions in Hanover.

The condition of your ductwork and AC system can have an impact on your indoor air quality. Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating ‘s BBB-accredited service has a team of experienced professionals who can install whole-home humidifiers. We offer installation services for cooling and heating systems. Our team can also provide dependable custom ductwork and metal fabrication solutions.

If you need dependable indoor air quality solutions you can rely on, consult Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating ‘s team in Hanover today.

How Does a Heat Pump Work in the Winter?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC.

If the upcoming Hanover winter has got your wallet bracing for the worst, the good news is there’s a more efficient option for keeping your home warm this winter. That better option is the heat pump. Although they’ve been widely available since the 1970s, heat pumps continue to rise in popularity as more and more people realize the exceptional efficiency gains that can be had when using a heat pump from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating. To help remove the shroud of mystery that sometimes surrounds heat pumps here is some basic information about how they operate.

Creating Heat

In a typical heating unit, the air is warmed using heat created by the furnace. Most furnaces utilize either electricity or natural gas to create this heat. Although this process is time-tested, it lacks efficiency, both due to energy being wasted and energy being lost as light instead of being converted to heat.

Even in newer gas furnaces that reclaim some of the heat in the exhaust gases, there is still some energy that’s wasted. When it comes to electric furnaces, they tend to be less efficient because the heating coils can’t get as hot as the flame from a gas furnace, meaning that the system has to run longer to produce the same amount of warm air.

Moving Heat

Rather than creating heat from a fuel source, a heat pump’s sole purpose is to move or “pump” heat from the outside to your home’s interior. A heat pump does this by lowering the temperature of a refrigerant until the refrigerant is colder than the ambient air. Then, thanks to the second law of thermodynamics, the heat in the ambient air moves naturally from the air to the refrigerant.

The system then pumps the refrigerant into your home. There, the indoor unit, serving as a condenser, sends the refrigerant through a long series of tubes that allow the refrigerant to begin to cool. At the same time, the blower fan in your indoor unit is blowing cool air over the warm condenser, warming the air in the process. After that, the warm air is sent through your ducts to the rest of your home to provide comfort throughout the winter.

An Efficient Process

While the mechanics of heat pump operation sound complicated and inefficient, the heat transfer process is surprisingly efficient. In fact, most of the process happens without any energy input, thanks to the refrigerant’s thermodynamic properties. The few components that do require energy, mainly the compressor and the blower fan, use far less energy to do their work than is required to create heat in a furnace.

This increased efficiency has numerous benefits. One of the most obvious benefits is a lower utility bill. In addition to using far less energy, a heat pump uses the energy it does need far more efficiently. Therefore, you get a much greater volume of heated air for your home for every dollar that you spend on utility costs.

Another benefit of increased efficiency is less wear and tear on your system. Creating heat in an enclosed system puts a lot of stress on a heating system’s components. Therefore, most furnaces have shorter life expectancies than heat pumps from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating.

Different Backups

One problem with extracting heat from the outside air is that sometimes the outside air is quite cold. This means that the refrigerant has to get even colder in order for thermodynamics to take over. Given that the refrigerant tubes are made from metal, these sustained cold temperatures can cause ice to form on the tubes, which can greatly reduce your heat pump’s efficiency.

To overcome this problem, most heat pumps have something called a defrost cycle. This cycle pulls heat from inside your home into the refrigerant so that the warm refrigerant can defrost the outdoor refrigerant lines. As you can imagine, though, this will quickly cause your home to become cold. Therefore, heat pumps have a backup heating system to ensure that your home never dips below your desired temperature.

The type of backup heating system that’s used is one of the main differences between the various heat pumps that we sell at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating. Some heat pumps use a basic electric heater, while others use a gas heater. The efficiency of the backup heater you choose will ultimately determine the overall efficiency of your heat pump.

An Underground Option

Thus far, the discussion has been focused largely on air-source heat pumps. Although these heat pumps make an excellent option, they are not the most efficient type of heat pump available from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating. That honor belongs to the ground-source, or geothermal, heat pump.

Similar to an air-source heat pump, a geothermal heat pump uses electricity to move the refrigerant through long tubes to pump heat from outside your home to its interior. Instead of coming from the air, though, the heat that a geothermal heat pump sends to your home comes from the ground. This is accomplished by burying long refrigerant tubes in the ground and attaching them to an indoor pumping unit.

The best part about using a geothermal heat pump is that the ground stays at a fairly constant temperature year-round. Therefore, even if it’s bitterly cold outside, you’ll be able to easily extract heat from the ground without having to worry about a defrost cycle. Plus, a geothermal heat pump operates during the summer, as well, to provide cooling to your home in a much more efficient manner than a typical air conditioner.

Impressive Operation

When thinking about installing a heat pump from Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, one of the biggest concerns of homeowners is that their heat pump won’t work when the temperature gets really cold. The good news, though, is that heat pumps can operate in a wide variety of conditions. As mentioned, geothermal heat pumps can operate in just about any weather because of the consistent underground temperatures.

Even air-source heat pumps, though, can operate in frigid conditions because the refrigerant’s ability to extract heat isn’t dependent on the ambient air temperature. Instead, the temperature of the refrigerant can be controlled by changing its pressure, which is the sole purpose of the compressor in the outdoor unit.

We Have What It Takes

Installing a complex mechanical system, such as a heat pump, really separates the HVAC amateurs from the pros. An incorrect installation will result in inefficient operation and sudden breakdowns. Luckily, at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we’ve got the experience necessary to install any type of heating system, whether it’s a heat pump or a more conventional option.

Plus, we can take care of all of your air conditioning needs, such as repair, maintenance, and installation. We can also take care of custom ductwork installations, commercial projects, and more. Our five-star customer reviews and our A+ Better Business Bureau rating serve as a testimony to our customer-first focus. For more information about various heating options for your home, contact us at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today.

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