Author: Kevin

The Importance of Proper Air Duct Installation

Written by Kevin on November 13, 2024. Posted in Energy Efficiency.

If you are a homeowner in the Hanover, MD area and are thinking of installing a new HVAC system, please do not neglect the importance of your air ducts. Air ducts are an integral part of a typical HVAC system, and their proper installation is too often an afterthought.

You need your air ducts installed correctly in order for your system to work properly, maintain the desired temperature, and have the rooms in your house heated or cooled evenly. For these reasons, and a number of others, having a local, trusted professional at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating to handle both your HVAC system and air duct installation is the smart move.

Let’s go through all the reasons why proper air duct installation is so important in greater detail.

Energy Efficiency

Your ductwork plays an important role in the optimization of your system’s energy consumption. If air ducts are not installed correctly or if a non-professional overlooks a design flaw, a notable amount of air can escape before it gets to where it should go. This winds up costing you more energy than it should and also reduces how effectively and efficiently your heating and cooling system is performing.

Compromised Indoor Air Quality

If there are holes or gaps in your air ducts due to poor installation, outside air can work its way into your home through these openings. This is problematic because this outside air can carry pollutants, allergens, dust, bacteria, and a wide range of other contaminants. When properly sealed, these particles are kept outside, preserving your indoor air quality. Not having your air ducts installed correctly so that they are well-sealed can affect your system performance and be detrimental to your health and that of your loved ones.

Comfort Consistency

Ductwork that has not been correctly installed can lead to the rooms of your home not being heated or cooled evenly. It can be blazingly warm in the kitchen, while it stays cold in a bedroom. That is because air ducts that are not expertly installed can lead to hot and cold spots throughout your home. This is due to an inability of your system to distribute the conditioned air properly. Expertly installed ductwork ensures that the airflow is balanced, keeping you and your family comfortable in every area of your home.

System Lifespan

An HVAC system is a major investment. When you spend money on a new system, you want to make sure that it is going to last you as long as possible. One of the problems with air ducts that are not installed the right way is that it forces your system to work harder. There is a strain on the system from having to compensate for any loss of conditioned air. Having to put in a greater effort than necessary to maintain a temperature can wind up shortening the lifespan of your system. This means more repairs and the need to replace your system sooner than you should have to.

Noise

Have you ever been in a home with air ducts that are noisy when the HVAC system is first engaged? A small amount of noise in ductwork is normal at the beginning of a cycle, but imagine your air ducts regularly making a racket at any time during your HVAC system operating. This could become highly disruptive and irritating.

Poorly installed air ducts can make a variety of sounds. These can include whistling, rattling, and even banging. They can be prominent and regular enough to even make it difficult to sleep. Correctly installing air ducts ensures that they are properly sized, sealed, and secure. This allows for optimal airflow and a minimum of restrictions, preventing strange sounds from occurring and allowing for a quieter and more peaceful home experience.

Signs of Poor Air Duct Installation

If you already have air ducts installed and are thinking they might be problematic, there are some clear signs to look out for to confirm your suspicion. Should you be experiencing one or more of the following symptoms of a poor air duct installation job, give our team a call and we can help remedy the situation.

High Energy Bills

If you have noticed excessive energy bills that appear to be unexplainable, it is worth having your air ducts looked at. It has been found that up to 20% of conditioned air can escape through leaks in improperly installed air ducts. This can translate to your HVAC system having to work harder and you winding up with higher energy bills.

Excessive Noise

If you are experiencing a large amount of the noises described earlier—ratting, banging, whistling, or other noises from your air ducts—this can be attributable to improper installation. These noises can result from poor connections and can end up causing a great deal of vibration that can accelerate wear on different components of your system.

Weakened Airflow

Improper air duct installation can cause a significant reduction in airflow. You can actually do simple and non-obtrusive tests for this at home on your own. Take a sheet of paper and place it over one of your vents. This will give an indication of how strong the air is that is blowing from or into the vent. When there is barely any movement or appears weak, this shows that there is an imbalance in your system. The root cause of this can be gaps in air ducts or bends that restrict airflow. You can repeat this test in all of the vents throughout your home.

Temperature That Is Uneven

Another way you can test the possibility of improperly installed air ducts is to engage your HVAC system, wait a couple of hours to give a chance for the whole home to get up to temperature, and see if there are hot or cold spots throughout. If this is the case, check to make sure all the vents are open, windows are closed, the shades are shut, and so on. There is also the possibility of this being an insulation issue. If it turns out that none of these other factors are contributing to the uneven temperature, your air ducts could be the reason.

Regular Breakdowns

As mentioned earlier, poorly installed air ducts can put major strain on your HVAC system. Not only does this cause a spike in your energy bill, but it can also cause enough damage to your system to necessitate constant repairs. If you have had to get repairs more often to your system and the reason appears to be unexplainable, it is worth having your air ducts inspected for an installation issue.

Your Hanover Air Duct Installation Experts

At Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating, we want to make sure that your home is as comfortable as possible. That is why we have dedicated ourselves to ensuring that each home that we install air ducts for has the job done right. This commitment to quality customer service has made us the go-to for heating and cooling services in the area.

In fact, our experienced technicians have serviced thousands of homes in the community over the years. If you are not in Hanover and want to experience our exceptional services, do not fret. We bring our expertise in the areas of repairs, installations, and maintenance to the good people from Annapolis to Towson. We also provide duct cleaning services! We would love to hear from you, so give us a call today to find out if we serve your neighborhood.

11 Ways to Reduce Your Heating Bill This Winter

Written by Kevin on November 4, 2024. Posted in Heating.

Winter heating is crucial in the Hanover area as temperatures drop below freezing. In order to maintain a comfortable climate inside your home, you need a heating system that works properly without breaking the bank. Here we explore a variety of tips, tricks, and services designed to help keep your system more efficient while keeping your heating bills within an affordable range.

1. Close Doors and Windows

Keeping the heat in and the cold out is imperative in regulating the temperature inside your home. Make sure all windows and doors are shut tight and seal any that allow cold drafts to come in. Even a single open window can make your furnace work harder to warm the house.

2. Use Window Coverings

Believe it or not, curtains and blinds can make a noticeable difference in your heating system’s efficiency. Be sure to draw the shades when the sun goes down, blocking out cold that can seep through the windows. During the day when the sun is shining into your home, open the shades and let the sun warm your space.

3. Utilize Your Ceiling Fans

Once the weather turns chilly, you need to flip the switch on your ceiling fans. Changing your ceiling fans to turn in a clockwise direction helps create an updraft, moving cold air that has risen to the ceiling and mixing it with the cold air down below. This helps keep the area you occupy at a more comfortable temperature without creating a breeze that could cause a chill.

4. Dress in Layers

You can keep the thermostat set to a lower temperature and save money on heating by wearing extra layers when lounging around the house. Wear a warm, snuggly sweater and long pants, and don’t forget the fuzzy socks. Grab a blanket for extra warmth while you relax on the sofa.

5. Schedule Professional Duct Cleaning

Dust and debris buildup inside your heating system’s ductwork can cause insufficient heating. Our top-notch crew of technicians offers preventative duct cleaning services to remove these contaminants, leaving a clear path for hot air to travel. We recommend scheduling duct cleaning every three to five years to stay ahead of the debris and prevent blockages that could hinder airflow.

We clean your air ducts using a high-powered vacuum that we attach to your vents to suck dust and dirt out of the ducts. We also use compressed air to force more stubborn debris out of the ducts, sending these particles to the vacuums.

6. Consider Duct Repair and Sealing

Your ductwork is crucial for transporting hot air throughout the house. Over time, the structural integrity of your air ducts may weaken, causing holes or gaps. If you’re fighting against the furnace to heat your home, you may need a professional to look over your ductwork system and make repairs. Even small holes allow heat to escape before it reaches the vents, causing your system to work harder and longer to get your home up to an ideal temperature.

Duct sealing is also helpful to eliminate small spaces where hot air may escape. Duct sealing is much easier than repair and can be done for small holes and loose connections.

7. Schedule Annual Maintenance

Heating maintenance is essential to keep your system efficient and reliable and should be scheduled each year for maximum benefits. We offer comprehensive maintenance services, helping minimize your risk of unexpected breakdowns while allowing your system to operate without added stress that can cause your utility bills to skyrocket.

Maintenance includes a visual inspection, tuning of certain parts, and testing the system for proper function. Our skilled technicians look for signs of excessive wear and tear that can cause a problem in the system, allowing us to make repairs before winter sets in. We also clean out the inside of your furnace to remove dust and debris and lubricate moving parts to prevent damage from friction. During the test run, our technicians look for proper airflow and ensure there are no strange sounds or unusual odors.

Not only does routine maintenance help with energy efficiency, it also lowers your risk of system failure in the middle of winter and adds seasons to the lifespan of your heating system.

8. Try Zoned Heating

Zoned heating allows you to control different parts of your home through separate thermostats. This means that you can keep the temperature lower in areas you use less often while maintaining warm and cozy comfort in other areas. Zoned heating utilizes dampers in the air ducts that respond to changes in the designated thermostats. This may help you curb heating costs by only heating the rooms you need to keep warm.

9. Switch to a Programmable Thermostat

With a programmable thermostat, you can program settings to match your schedule or routine. For example, you may wish to lower the temperature in your home when you go to bed at night. Using a programmable thermostat, you can set the device to raise the temperature just before you rise in the morning. Similarly, you can use the program function to use less heat when you are away at work during the day and schedule a time for the temperature to rise so that you can come home to a comfortable space.

10. Install a New Furnace

If you have an aging furnace, it may be time to consider having it replaced. Most heating systems give you 10-20 years of efficient heating before you start seeing an increase in energy use. When your system reaches this age, talk with our technicians to see if replacement is best.

You may also want to consider replacing your furnace if your home’s size or layout has changed. If you’ve added rooms or space to your home since your last furnace purchase, it may not be able to keep up with the heating demands of your additional area.

11. Swap Your Furnace For a Heat Pump

Heat pumps work by removing cold air from inside your home and replacing it with hot air pulled from the ground or warmth created during the system’s operation. Heat pumps are more environmentally friendly than traditional furnaces and can save you money on utilities by using natural hot air rather than gas or a heating element.

As an added bonus, heat pumps provide air conditioning as well, allowing you to upgrade both your heating and your cooling systems with a single new setup.

Top Heating Specialists in Hanover

Our top priority at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating is helping our customers stay comfortable inside their homes. We provide a variety of heating and cooling services to help keep your system reliable, efficient, and safe throughout the year. Count on us for all your furnace repair and air conditioner repair needs, replacement services, and maintenance and tune-ups. Additionally, we offer heat pump and ductless mini-split services to help boost the comfort of your home. We also offer duct cleaning, indoor air quality services, and a long list of home plumbing services. Count on us to keep your home comfortable and convenient and we’ll work diligently to give you the best service in the region.

7 Common Myths About Air Purifiers

Written by Kevin on October 18, 2024. Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

Air purifiers can be a great way to improve the quality of the air inside of your Hanover, MD home. Portable units exist and can be moved from one room to another. However, there are also whole-house air purifiers that address all the air inside your home at one time. Air purifiers are a piece of equipment that is often misunderstood. This leads to many people choosing not to use them. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about air purifiers.

1. Air Purifiers Eliminate the Need to Dust

While air purifiers can do a great job at removing particulate matter from your indoor air, there will still be some degree of dust and particles that remain on the surfaces of your home. It’s a good idea to keep up with regular cleaning of your interior, including dusting and vacuuming. These cleaning methods, combined with air purification, can help promote a much healthier environment in your Hanover residence.

2. Air Purifiers Kill Germs

This myth isn’t entirely incorrect. There are some types of filtrations and technology that can reduce bacteria, viruses, and pathogens that are in your home. However, more basic units may lack this ability. If you’re concerned with germs, opt for an air purifier that uses HEPA filters. Because of how tightly woven these filters are, they remove up to 99.97% of particulate matter in your indoor air. This includes bacteria and viruses, which become trapped in the filter.

You can opt for an air purifier that includes UV-C light technology. As air passes through UV-C light, microbes are inactivated by destroying their genetic material. This can help reduce the number of illnesses that are passed throughout your home.

3. Air Purification and Ventilation Are the Same

Air purifiers are designed to remove particulate matter from the air. Ventilation refers to the process of air exchange between the inside and outside of your home. Some degree of ventilation is necessary to maintain healthy indoor air quality. A home that has a very airtight seal will allow particulates, carbon monoxide, moisture, and volatile organic compounds to build up over time. As we are exposed to these contaminants, our health can be affected. Poor indoor air quality caused by reduced ventilation can lead to symptoms such as allergic rhinitis, coughing, fatigue, headaches, inflammation, and more.

If your home would benefit from increased ventilation, there are several changes that can be made. Aside from just opening your windows for a period each day, you can utilize the exhaust fans that are in your bathrooms and kitchen. These fans expel air from the interior of your home to the outside, allowing for fresh air to replace it. A ventilation system can be installed in your home. Through a series of mechanical fans and vents, old air is removed while fresh air is brought in.

4. Air Purifier Size Doesn’t Matter

Many homeowners assume that an air purifier will reduce particulate matter regardless of its size or how powerful it is. Portable units remove a minimal amount of particulate matter because of their size. Also, it’s inconvenient to have to move this unit around from one room to another. A whole-house unit should be selected based on the square footage of your home.

Other considerations include the contaminants that you’re dealing with. If your home has many volatile organic compounds in it, there are smokers living in your home, you have several pets, or pollution in the area is a concern, it will likely be beneficial to upgrade your purifier to something that’s powerful enough to handle all these concerns. Our team at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating can help you determine what type and size of whole-house purifier you need based on an indoor air quality report and the specifics of your home.

5. Air Purifiers Filter Everything

With so many different potential contaminants affecting the inside of homes, it can be difficult to decide what kind of air purifier to invest in. It’s important to note that not all purifiers do the same thing. Some are very effective when it comes to removing particulates from the air. This includes pet dander, dust, mold spores, pollen, etc. Standard filtration won’t remove things like volatile organic compounds. To remove VOCs, you’ll want to invest in air purification that uses things like activated carbon filtration. Formaldehyde and other chemicals are absorbed by the activated carbon, preventing it from circulating in your home.

6. Air Purifiers Are a One-Time Investment

A lot of homeowners justify the cost of an air purifier because they think it’s a one-time investment. While this is a very smart investment to make for your health and well-being, there is a certain degree of maintenance and upkeep that your purifier will require over time. Depending on the type of system that you have, you’ll likely need to replace its filters periodically. Some filters are much more expensive than others. HEPA filters tend to be more expensive than a traditional pleated filter, but they do a better job at promoting healthy indoor air. Activated carbon filters are also pricey, but they’re a great way to reduce your exposure to VOCs.

Extremely advanced purifiers can result in hundreds of dollars being spent on filters each year. If this isn’t something that you can keep up with, it’s a good idea to choose a purifier that uses more affordable filtration. We can help you determine what kind of unit will remove the specific contaminants in your home while also helping to stick to a reasonable household budget.

There are some purifier units that utilize washable filters or electrostatic plates that need to be cleaned and dried before re-inserting them into your air purifier unit. This is a great way to reduce maintenance costs over time.

There may also be repairs and maintenance that are needed along with the routine maintenance of your HVAC system. You can have our team look at your air purifier when we’re at your residence for annual maintenance. We can clean the interior components of your purifier, inspect everything, and make repairs as needed.

7. Air Purifiers Address Indoor Humidity

Unfortunately, air purifiers aren’t an effective tool to use if you’re dealing with too much or too little moisture in your home. In this situation, you’ll want to investigate having a whole-house humidifier or whole-house dehumidifier installed onto your HVAC system. This is another great way to promote healthy indoor air. Air that is too moist can hang on to a greater amount of particulate matter. Dry air can cause your sinuses to feel dry and irritated.

If you would like to learn more about using a whole-house air purifier in your Hanover home, reach out to our team here at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating. We offer the installation, maintenance, and repair of air purification and filtration equipment. We also service all types of heating and cooling equipment. We perform duct cleaning, indoor air quality testing, thermostat service, and more. Contact Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today to schedule an appointment.

12 Reasons It’s Worth it to Invest in a High-Efficiency HVAC System

Written by Kevin on October 11, 2024. Posted in HVAC.

If the time has come to replace your home’s old HVAC system, there is a wide range of options. In fact, there are more options now than a decade or more ago when you purchased your current system. That includes modulating furnaces, dual-fuel heat pumps, and high-SEER air conditioners. These high-efficiency systems do cost more up front but provide many benefits. Let’s explore those to see why the added investment may be the right choice for your home.

1. Suitable for All Homes

There are no special requirements to upgrade to a high-efficiency system. If you have a traditional furnace, you can upgrade to a high-efficiency furnace with little to no modifications. You may need condensate drainage for a condensing furnace, for instance. That said, if you already have a drip pan for the AC, we can often use it. If you currently have a furnace and AC pairing, upgrading to hybrid heating is simple. Upgrading to a modulating blower is simple too, and if your home lacks ducts, there are ductless solutions. Those include mini-splits and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems.

2. Enhanced Comfort

High-efficiency systems foster a more comfortable home and more consistent comfort. Temperature readings and control are much more precise. These often allow for relative humidity (RH) adjustment and “feels like” temperature settings. High-efficiency systems provide greater airflow and give you finer and more robust control over it. The industry has also come a long way in manufacturing efficient, high-output systems. Modern high-output HVAC systems are much better suited to larger homes, including those with multiple levels.

3. Improved Indoor Air Quality

Modern high-efficiency systems generally run cleaner. This is particularly notable with fuel-burning systems, such as gas and oil furnaces. High-efficiency HVAC units don’t have to cycle as long and minimize the impact to air quality. They also allow for high-efficiency air filters. Most systems support a minimum efficiency reporting value of at least 13. At that level, filters trap a minimum of 90% of household allergens. Some systems allow up to 16, which is the highest rating on the MERV scale. There are even systems that support high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which filter at least 99.97% of all particulates.

4. Reduced Operating Costs

The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that the average home can reduce its annual HVAC costs by at least 30%. Doing so requires proper insulation and sealing of your home and a programmable or smart thermostat. You must also upgrade to an HVAC system that meets DOE standards, which are lower than Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. High-efficiency equipment can increase that savings to 50% or more.

5. Lessened Household Carbon Footprint

The DOE estimates that 40% of the country’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions come from heating, cooling, and hot water. AC alone accounts for 15% of the world’s energy consumption and will likely reach 25% by 2050. A high-efficiency system will reduce your household’s environmental output by at least 20% and as much as 50%.

6. Longer Lifespan

High-efficiency HVAC equipment will typically have a longer lifespan. It’s not unusual for these systems to last 25 years or even longer. One reason is that they don’t cycle as often and are subject to less wear and tear. Another reason is that component quality and sophistication are generally higher as well. Warranties also reflect these expected longer lifespans.

7. Lower Total Cost of Ownership

While high-efficiency systems cost more initially, they usually cost less over the life of the equipment. There is a range of factors to this. Some we’ve already discussed, such as lower operating costs and extended lifespan. There are others, such as rebates and tax credits, which we’ll discuss next.

8. Rebates and Tax Credits

Whether a high-efficiency HVAC system is worth it comes down to whether the long-term savings outweigh the added initial cost. Energy incentives help to offset that added cost and make the investment more appealing. Rebates are available through manufacturers, utility companies, federal, state, and local governments, and other groups. You can claim multiple rebates if they’re available, and there are few requirements other than the model you select. Typically, you do need to buy a unit with the ENERGY STAR label. It’s a certification awarded by the EPA for appliances among the most efficient in their class.

Choosing an ENERGY STAR heating, cooling, or ventilation system or accessory may also make you eligible for a federal tax credit. The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit has existed in one form or another for decades. It lets you claim an annual nonrefundable tax credit up to $3,200. The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate provides you either a $4,000 or $8,000 reimbursement for a heat pump depending on household income.

9. Safer Operation

It’s important to note that all modern HVAC systems are incredibly safe, including hot water and steam boilers. Still, high-efficiency fuel-burning furnaces and boilers are even safer than their standard counterparts. One reason is that they have sealed combustion chambers. That upgrade makes it even less likely that carbon monoxide (CO) will mix with your air supply.

10. Quieter Operation

High-efficiency HVAC systems are generally quieter for several reasons. They don’t have to cycle as often. When they do cycle, they don’t have to run at full bore. They can throttle down as needed. Noise-reducing blower fan blades are common as well.

11. Future-Proofing

Upgrading your home now will prepare you for a future inevitability. Consider that the DOE has already updated annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) requirements for the future. By 2029, you won’t be able to buy a furnace with an AFUE rating of less than 95. That means you’ll need a modulating blower and condensate drainage system for your furnace.

12. Increased Property Value and Home Appeal

Another way high-efficiency HVAC systems provide an excellent return on investment is by increasing your property value. If you may sell or rent your home in the future, these upgrades will make it more appealing and move faster.

Other Considerations

High-efficiency systems open up a broad range of additional options. Manufacturers often use green refrigerants with their high-efficiency air conditioners, heat pumps, mini-splits, and VRF systems. Higher efficiency systems are a better option for HVAC zoning. Zoning is where we organize your home into discrete zones that you can adjust independently. You can use a programmable or smart thermostat with any HVAC system, but high-efficiency systems often have integrated smart features. That includes predictive analysis for lower maintenance and repair costs. High-efficiency systems often have integrated humidity control or at least provide better support for HVAC add-ons like humidifiers and dehumidifiers.

Would You Like to Install a High-Efficiency HVAC System in Hanover?

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating is an HVAC company that serves homeowners and businesses throughout Hanover and the surrounding areas. Our team installs furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, and ductless mini-splits. We perform conversions, including electric and oil to gas. Our team installs, repairs, cleans, and seals ductwork. We install and service thermostats, CO detectors, humidifiers, and air purifiers. Our Juuust Right Service Club can save you money while keeping your equipment serviced on schedule. We’re available 24/7 for emergencies, including plumbing repairs. Our plumbing services include sewer and well system maintenance and repair. We also hook up appliances and install and repair kitchen plumbing, bathroom plumbing, water heaters, water softeners, and sump pumps. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a service appointment or on-site consultation.

The Hidden Dangers of a Leaky HVAC System

Written by Kevin on October 4, 2024. Posted in HVAC.

When you hear the word “leak,” you probably start to panic. Whether you’re dealing with a plumbing leak or a leak in your Hanover, MD home’s HVAC system, these are household problems that can lead to expensive issues. There are several locations and ways that your HVAC system can leak, including a leak of refrigerant or leaky ductwork. Let’s look at the hidden dangers associated with these leaks and the ways that you can address the problem.

HVAC Condensate Drain Leaks

There is a certain amount of condensation coming from your HVAC system as part of its normal operation. However, this condensation must be able to move away from your HVAC equipment and home. A condensate drain line allows for this process, but clogs and leaks can occur. This is usually a minor repair job if you spot the problem early on. A sign of this issue is pooling water around your heating or cooling equipment.

Leaks in Your Ductwork

The ductwork system in your home is designed to distribute conditioned air to your various living spaces. Holes, gaps, and cracks can occur in your ductwork, leading to air leaks. This can cause a big loss of efficiency. It can also impact your indoor air quality by introducing particulate matter into your circulated air.

Refrigerant Leaks

Refrigerant is a material that allows for a heat exchange to occur when you are running your air conditioning equipment. The design of your HVAC system typically keeps refrigerant in a sealed system, but leaks can occur because of damage or routine wear and tear. It’s dangerous to expose yourself to refrigerant. Low refrigerant levels can also cause your HVAC system to run more frequently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Refrigerant levels can be checked as part of annual routine maintenance.

What to Look For

There are some subtle, and not so subtle, signs that you can watch for that indicate there are leaks in your HVAC system.

Pooling Water or Dripping

It’s normal for a little bit of condensation to form around your air conditioning unit, especially if it’s located outdoors. However, pooling water or water stains around your furnace or other areas of your HVAC system is not normal. You may see an increase in the amount of water that is pooling if your system has been running more frequently than normal, as would be the case with extreme temperatures.

A Decrease in Efficiency of Your Equipment

If you have leaking refrigerant or leaking air, this can cause your HVAC system to run more frequently. This decreases the efficiency of your unit and can increase your utility bills. Keep an eye on your energy usage, which can indicate HVAC issues if there’s no other known cause for the increase.

Odd Sounds

Do you hear a rattling sound when your HVAC system is on? What about grinding, gurgling, or rattling? Odd sounds can indicate that you have leaks in your HVAC system.

Bad Smells

Gaps and cracks in your ductwork can introduce moisture into your system. This can quickly lead to mold growth. When mold spores circulate around your home, this can cause a musty odor. Not only is this smell unpleasant, but it’s dangerous to your health and wellbeing.

Hot or Cold Spots

Do certain rooms or areas of your home feel hotter or colder than others? These uneven spots can point to several HVAC issues, including ductwork leaks, refrigerant leaks, thermostat problems, and more.

HVAC Leak Dangers and Concerns

We touched on the dangers of mold growth in the home, which can lead to an increase in allergies, asthma attacks, and respiratory issues. There are other dangers that you should be aware of.

HVAC Equipment Damage

If you have HVAC leaks in your equipment or ductwork system, this can cause damage. This damage can lead to costly repairs. In some cases, this can shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. Ductwork usually lasts for about 10 to 15 years. Furnaces and air conditioning devices last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Eventually, our team may advise that you will need to replace your equipment or ductwork because repairs to them are becoming more frequent because of cumulative leak damage.

Household Damage

You may also see damage occur to areas of the home like your flooring, walls, ceilings, etc. when HVAC leaks are present. This can be expensive and inconvenient to repair.

Dangers to the Environment

Certain HVAC leaks can be dangerous to the environment. For example, refrigerant that escapes your closed system can release harmful gas into the air. Whenever work needs to be done to your air conditioning system that requires us to work on the refrigerant, there is specific protocol we must follow to prevent leaks.

Preventing HVAC System Leaks

While repairs can be made to fix the leaks in your HVAC system, routine maintenance and annual inspections can spot problems early on. This allows for minor repairs to be made before the issues get out of hand and become much more expensive. Maintenance can also prevent these leaks from occurring in the first place, keeping your energy bills low and helping you save money.

Other things you can do to minimize the risk of leaks in your HVAC system include having your ductwork sealed. Various products are available that will close any gaps, cracks, or holes that are in your system before they become larger. This is a relatively simple procedure that we can perform in one day.

Having our team monitor your furnace and air conditioner can help us spot problems with your drain lines, filter, coolant, etc. We can clean out your condensate line if it has a buildup of mineral deposits or sediment.

There are various seals that close your furnace, air conditioner, and ductwork. These seals can break down over time, causing leaks. Routine maintenance includes replacing these seals as needed.

It’s common for the bends and connections of your ductwork to break down over time. You can look for cracking, peeling, or other signs of damage that indicate the material is compromised and needs to be replaced. If you’ve recently had any remodeling work done in your home or you were moving items around the area of your furnace or ductwork, you may have inadvertently crushed areas of the ducts. Repairs or replacements should be completed before leaks cause problems.

If you would like to learn more about the potential dangers of leaks in your Hanover HVAC system, reach out to our team here at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating. We can help diagnose any problems that are present, as well as provide HVAC repairs. We also install, repair, and maintain different types of heating and air conditioning equipment. Our services also include plumbing assistance like pipe repairs and unclogging pipes, commercial HVAC, indoor air quality assessments, ductwork cleanings, thermostat installation, and more. Contact us at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today to schedule an appointment.

Understanding Different Air Duct Materials

Written by Kevin on September 19, 2024. Posted in HVAC.

If you want an efficient and high-performing central HVAC system in your Hanover, MD home, you need efficient and high-performing ductwork to support it. HVAC air ducts are the distribution channels that deliver conditioned air to every room. With the right duct materials, you can minimize heat loss and heat gain during air delivery, protect your indoor air quality (IAQ), and limit HVAC noise. Read on to explore the different options in air duct materials and the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Sheet Metal Air Ducts Are the Most Popular Choice

Hands down, sheet metal air ducts are the most popular choice in the nation. They allow for a customized approach to ducting. Sheet metal workers can streamline these features to suit the needs and nuances of individual houses and HVAC equipment types. Some sheet metal materials are lightweight and flexible enough to bend around sharp corners. Flexible sheet metals can also be custom-fitted to suit tight spaces.

Research performed by the University of Florida found that HVAC air ducts can be responsible for the loss of up to 40% of an HVAC system’s heating and cooling energy. Fortunately, with tight fittings and professional duct sealing and insulation, sheet metal air ducts can experience minimal heat gains and heat losses. However, they aren’t without their drawbacks.

All sheet metal air ducts expand and contract when subjected to dramatic temperature and pressure changes. These movements often produce loud popping or banging sounds. If you want whisper-quiet HVAC operation, you might not get it with sheet metal ducting. Proper installation and quality insulation both have sound-dampening benefits, but movement-related sound invariably increases as sheet metal ducts near the end of their lifespans.

Stainless Steel Air Ducts

Stainless steel air ducts are chemical- and corrosion-resistant. They’re strong, highly rigid, and easy to maintain. They work well in hostile environments and in spaces where moving large volumes of air is required. Although stainless steel air ducts are an increasingly common choice for new homes, they’re most often used in commercial construction.

Stainless steel air ducts are the most expensive sheet metal duct type. Their high levels of rigidity also make them unsuitable for tight spaces, sharp corners, and sharply sloped ceiling areas. This is especially true when installing, modifying, or extending HVAC air ducts post-construction.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is the most durable and longest-lasting option for sheet metal ducting. It’s also significantly cheaper than stainless steel and a bit easier to adapt to tight, cornered, or otherwise awkward spaces. The smooth interiors of galvanized steel ducts are resistant to mold, mildew, and other fungal growths. They also allow for smooth, unimpeded airflow.

Among the many benefits of galvanized steel is its impressive fire rating. Galvanized steel has an A1 fire rating. Thus, these ducts can play an important role in slowing the spread of fires from room to room.

Unfortunately, galvanized steel is prone to rust and other corrosion. If you have consistently high humidity in your home, galvanized steel ducting could have a relatively short lifespan. To keep galvanized steel ducts in optimum condition, homeowners must:

Schedule annual HVAC service for all heating and cooling equipment
Perform regular air filter changes
Keep the perimeters of their outdoor condenser units clear
Regularly remove built-up debris from HVAC air vents

These and other ongoing maintenance tasks ensure good airflow and limit significant rises in humidity. Although they’re important for all HVAC systems, they’re critical for preserving galvanized steel ducting.

Aluminum Ducting

Though much less durable than galvanized and stainless steel, aluminum air ducts are valued for being both lightweight and flexible enough for easy installation in tight corners and small spaces. Aluminum ducts are also significantly cheaper than both steel types, and they offer good thermal conductivity. With professional duct sealing and insulation services, homeowners can limit their costs for HVAC air duct replacement and still enjoy high levels of HVAC efficiency.

Like galvanized steel, aluminum is prone to corrosion when installed in humid environments. Moreover, although it’s cheaper than galvanized and stainless steel, it’s more costly than fabric, plastic, and other non-metal ductwork materials. Due to its high malleability, aluminum ducting also requires special tools for installation, especially when this material is used for longer runs of ducting.

Mild Steel Air Ducts

Mild steel (MS) air ducts are often referred to as galvanized mild steel ducts. Like galvanized and aluminum ducts, they have low levels of corrosion resistance and aren’t suitable for humid environments. However, the high rigidity of MS air ducts allows for limited air resistance and promotes even and consistent air distribution.

This metal is incredibly ductile when heated. This makes it perfect for shaping, cutting, and otherwise altering to suit awkward or tight spaces. When used in residential HVAC systems, it’s typically for aesthetic purposes, such as when post-construction air duct installation results in exposed duct sections in visible areas. MS ducting also works well in non-load-bearing walls and other interior frameworks.

Flexible Air Ducts

Often referred to as flex ductwork, flexible air ducts are made from flexible metal, durable plastic, reinforced fabric, or fiberglass. These air ducts are easy to install, low in cost, and flexible enough to suit a broad range of applications. They work exceedingly well in tight spaces and corners. They’re also virtually soundless. Flex ducts are an excellent choice for affordable and all-around quiet HVAC installations. However, flex ducts have shorter lifespans than most rigid ducting. They’re also more difficult to clean.

Fabric Air Ducts

Also known as textile air ducts and air socks, fabric air ducts are porous, lightweight sleeves installed instead of metal or fiberglass ducting. Textile ducts are customizable, easy to install, and significantly less expensive than sheet metal. They also allow for even air distribution by preventing radical changes in static pressure. Given that fabric doesn’t expand or contract when exposed to temperature extremes, it’s also among the quietest ductwork materials currently available.

The drawbacks of fabric air ducts make them unsuitable for some homes and building areas. For instance, they’re less durable than most HVAC air duct types. They’re also more easily entered by pests and damaged by moisture, UV rays, and other exposure.

Fiberglass Air Ducts

Fiberglass air ducts have a lightweight sheet metal construction and a thick interior lining of fiberglass. This offers superior insulation and sound-dampening. Fiberglass air ducts work well in highly corrosive environments due to their excellent corrosion resistance. They’re also mold-resistant. As an inorganic material, fiberglass is less susceptible to mold problems, although not entirely invulnerable.

When the fiberglass lining in these ducts gets wet or contaminated with mold or other fungi, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends replacing all affected materials. The intensive cleaning that wet or moldy fiberglass ducts require can shorten their lifespans. It can also dislodge micro-fine particles of glass that enter HVAC systems.

PVC Air Ducts

For high-humidity and corrosion-prone environments, PVC air ducts are an excellent choice. PVC has impressive insulating properties and high levels of moisture resistance. Though not as affordable as flex ducting, it’s less expensive than all sheet metal types. The primary drawback of PVC ducting is its limited heat resistance. Thus, you can’t use PVC if you have a gas-fired furnace for winter heating. However, it does work well with the lower operating temperatures and radiant heating supplied by heat pumps.

We’re proud to offer exceptional heating, cooling, plumbing, and indoor air quality services. We also provide high-quality custom ductwork. If you’re in need of duct cleaning or HVAC maintenance, look into our maintenance program. If you need new ductwork in your Hanover home, get in touch with Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating today!

How Does Humidity Affect Indoor Comfort?

Written by Kevin on September 12, 2024. Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

When it comes to interior comfort, humidity is a major factor. We are all vulnerable to the negative effects of excessive or inadequate humidity on our health, our homes and our quality of life. If homeowners are aware of these effects, it becomes easier to make a home healthier and more pleasant place to live.

Dry Skin and Irritation

Keeping our skin supple and healthy requires a specific amount of moisture. Skin dryness and irritation are two of the most noticeable symptoms of low indoor humidity. Extremely dry air, especially in the winter when heating systems are running, can even cause skin to become flaky, dry, and cracked. This can be especially problematic for people with sensitive skin or skin problems like eczema.

Increased Risk of Respiratory Issues

Air humidity is an important factor in lung health. Mold, mildew, and dust mites — all of which can cause allergic reactions — grow easily in environments with too much moisture. Allergies to these substances can set off episodes of asthma and other respiratory difficulties and allergic responses. Conversely, when relative humidity is low, nasal and pharyngeal mucous membranes become less lubricated and less effective at capturing and expelling airborne pathogens. As a consequence, respiratory problems are more likely to arise, making infections and diseases more prone to spreading easily.

Dehydration

The use of heating systems during the winter months can cause low indoor humidity, which can lead to dehydration. Increased fluid loss through the respiratory tract and skin occurs when air becomes drier because it takes moisture from our bodies. Symptoms include dry mouth, headaches, and exhaustion. Neglecting to treat dehydration can lead to more serious health complications, such as kidney issues or, in the worst circumstances, heat-related diseases.

Worsened Cold and Flu Symptoms

When breathing dry air, the nasal passages can become inflamed and dry, making it more difficult for the body to ensnare and eliminate germs. Not only can this prolong the effects of common colds and flu, but it can also make them worse. A dry throat, for instance, can cause itching and pain, while a dry nose can cause stuffiness or even bleeding. Improving the relative humidity in your house can help reduce these symptoms by maintaining moist mucous membranes, which are better equipped to fight off illness.

Increased Risk of Static Electricity

When there isn’t enough moisture in the air, electrical charges can accumulate on surfaces and garments, a phenomenon known as static electricity. Because of this, touching metal items or other people might cause unintended shocks. It can be annoying since it messes with gadgets and makes managing things like clinging clothing or frizzy hair a real pain. The presence of static electricity is a key sign that the humidity level in your home might be too low.

Difficulty Sleeping

Humidity levels, whether too high or too low, can impact how comfortable and pleasant sleep is. Because perspiration takes longer to evaporate in damp air, being in a humid environment hinders the body’s ability to cool down. As a result, the air may feel warmer than it actually is, which can cause discomfort, restlessness, and trouble falling asleep. Low humidity can cause dry airways and nasal passages, which in turn can also make it uncomfortable and difficult to breathe easily when sleeping.

Increased Perspiration

You might perspire more than normal if the relative humidity in your home is high. Sweat is the body’s natural way of cooling itself, but when the air is too humid, it can’t evaporate as quickly. In addition to adding to the risk of overheating, this can cause an unpleasant, sticky sensation. When combined with physical exertion, it can lead to heat stroke or heat exhaustion in the worst-case scenario.

Dry Eyes

When relative humidity is low, it can irritate and dry out the eyes, which is bad for eye health. This is because the tear film, which typically covers and protects the eyes, can evaporate more quickly in dry air, leaving them vulnerable and uncomfortable. A gritty sensation, redness, and itching are signs of dry eyes, which can make it feel like something is in the eye. Low humidity can also make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable and can potentially raise the risk of eye infections for some people.

Damage to Wood Furniture and Floors

Wood has a natural tendency to absorb and release moisture, depending on the humidity of the air around it. Cracks, splits, and warping can occur when wood dries out due to low humidity. This can cause major problems with wooden furniture, flooring and other home furnishings. Wood, particularly flooring, can swell and buckle in extremely humid environments.

Increased Energy Bills

Because humidity determines how pleasant a particular temperature is, it can have an impact on your energy bills. You may need to turn on the air conditioner more often to stay comfortable indoors when the humidity is high because it makes it seem hotter than it actually is. The opposite is true during the winter months when low humidity could make the air feel chillier and cause you to crank up the heat. In both cases, energy use and associated expenses rise. Keeping the relative humidity in your home at a steady level will help you save money on your energy bills and make your house more energy efficient.

Whole-Home Humidifier

Adding moisture to the air that circulates through your home’s HVAC system is how a whole-house humidifier works. The standard installation method entails integrating it into your HVAC system and linking it to the ductwork. Humidifiers work by evaporating or dispersing water before distributing the resulting humidified air throughout a home. All whole-house humidifiers, whether steam, bypass, or fan-powered, work toward the same goal: a constant relative humidity within the house.

Whole-Home Dehumidifier

When installed in a home’s HVAC system, a whole-house dehumidifier can remove up to 80% of the moisture from the air. Once installed in the ductwork, it takes in humid air, cools it down to make it condensation, and then releases the collected water through a drain. The system then reheats the dried air and distributes it back to the living areas. By regulating the relative humidity within a space, this system not only improves air quality and decreases allergens, but also helps keep mold, musty smells and structural damage to wood at bay.

Humidity Control for Ductless Homes

The lack of central ducting makes humidity management more difficult for ductless dwellings. On the other hand, there are workable answers. Some ductless HVAC systems, including heat pumps and mini-split air conditioners, include dehumidification capabilities that allow them to control the relative humidity in a room. Another option for managing high humidity is to install independent dehumidifiers in strategic locations. You can even get whole-house humidifiers in the form of freestanding units that you can put in any room you like.

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating is here to answer any questions you may have about indoor humidity control or indoor air quality. We offer a wide range of HVAC services in Hanover, MD, including installations, repairs, and maintenance. We also offer plumbing services, duct cleaning and air purifiers. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and speak with an expert about humidity control.

Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini-Splits

Written by Kevin on September 5, 2024. Posted in HVAC.

One type of HVAC system that’s gained a lot of popularity over the past 20 years is the ductless mini-split unit. This type of system allows you to enjoy all year-round comfort without the need for any traditional ductwork. If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, it can be helpful to understand both the benefits and drawbacks of this type of system.

Heating and Cooling

Probably one of the most significant benefits of a ductless mini-split system is that it offers both heating and cooling capabilities. You no longer have to invest in two different types of HVAC systems to keep your family comfortable throughout the year. Now, you can purchase one system to handle all your comfort needs.

No Ductwork Needed

One of the biggest problems with older homes is that they don’t always have ductwork. It can be extremely expensive to have ductwork put in your home after it is finished. This is because flooring and walls will need to be removed in order to gain access to the appropriate areas to install your new ductwork. When you opt for a ductless mini-split system, you won’t need to worry about any of that invasive installation.

All these systems require is a small hole on the exterior wall of each room that gets a mini-split unit. This makes them the perfect heating and cooling solution for home additions where you can’t connect onto existing ductwork.

Energy-Efficient Operation

Ductless mini-split systems offer energy-efficient operation. In the summertime, they tend to operate more efficiently than traditional central air conditioning systems. This is mainly because they don’t lose any of their cold air through gaps in ductwork since they don’t use it.

In the wintertime, these units can be extremely energy-efficient when they operate in mild climates. Unlike traditional heating systems, the ductless mini-split unit does not create heat. It simply transports heat from one location to another. This can allow it to reach efficiency levels of up to 300 to 400%.

Federal Tax Rebates

Because ductless mini-split systems are so energy efficient, they qualify for a federal tax incentive. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, homeowners can receive 30% of the total cost of their mini-split system back in the form of a tax rebate. They can claim amounts up to $2,000. Even some local municipalities and state governments are offering their own tax incentives for homeowners who invest in these energy-efficient products.

Zone Temperature Control

If you have a mini-split system installed in your home, you will have individual units in each main room. Each unit will come with its own remote that will allow you to set individual temperature settings. This gives you the ability to enjoy zone temperature control throughout your entire home.

Instead of relying on just one thermostat for your entire home, you can enjoy setting a specific temperature for each room. This not only will go a long way in enhancing your overall comfort, but it can provide other benefits as well. You can enjoy fixing hot and cold spots throughout the year. This also gives you the capability to be more efficient with your energy usage.

Quiet Operation

One of the more annoying parts of forced air heating systems is the movement of air through your ductwork can be quite loud. When you get a ductless mini-split system, you don’t have to worry about the noise. These units operate at a noise level similar to a whisper.

Better Quality Air

Another area where ductless mini-split units outperform traditional forced-air HVAC systems is when it comes to air quality. Systems that rely on ductwork tend to experience more buildup of airborne debris that can reduce the quality of air inside your home. On the other hand, ductless models don’t have to deal with that excess buildup. Rather, each unit has its own filter that removes contaminants from the air as air circulates through the unit. This leads to better overall indoor air quality than with a traditional forced air heating or cooling system.

Dry Mode for Humidity Control

One feature that many new ductless mini-split units come with is dry mode. This works to remove excess humidity from the air without exerting the normal amount of energy to cool your air. It does this by pulling air over the evaporator coils at a much slower operating speed. By removing excess humidity without running your system at full speed, this system can allow you to be more comfortable in your home. Traditional central air conditioning systems must be running in cool mode to offer any sort of humidity control.

Not Efficient in Cold Climates

One major drawback of ductless mini-split units is that they don’t function efficiently at below-freezing temperatures. When temperatures get too cold, they’re unable to extract heat from the air outside. Instead, these units switch to their auxiliary heating mode, which works very similarly to a heating element inside an electric furnace.

Unfortunately, when in auxiliary heating mode, these units are going to be quite expensive to operate. One alternative that a lot of people use in colder climates is a backup heating system. This system will allow you to enjoy all the energy efficiency that comes with your ductless mini-split system when temperatures are above freezing. However, when temperatures dip down below freezing, you can switch to using your backup furnace to enjoy more affordable operating costs than if you were to rely solely on auxiliary mode.

Wall Units Can Be Ugly

Traditionally, ductless mini-split units were only available in wall-mounted models. These are a decent size box that is about one to two feet long by around eight inches high. Unfortunately, they’re not the nicest thing to look at as they stick out from your walls. This can be a big drawback for some people. It’s important to note that modern-day mini-split units are also available with floor-mounted and ceiling-mounted units, with the latter being the more discreet of the two.

More Maintenance

Another drawback of mini-split systems is they do require a little bit more maintenance than your traditional forced-air heating and cooling systems. The main difference in maintenance has to do with the filter. Each mini-split unit will have its own built-in washable filter. This will need to be washed every few weeks to ensure optimal efficiency. With traditional HVAC systems, you only need to change out one filter every two to three months.

Bigger Rooms May Need Multiple Units

Another known disadvantage of mini-split units is they can only handle so much square footage per unit. Your HVAC technician will have to determine the square footage of each room and pick a unit that matches that. Unfortunately, there may not be units big enough to cover the entire square footage of your bigger rooms. In this case, you may have to purchase more than one unit to handle your larger rooms.

Reliable Ductless Mini-Split Service

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating offers reliable ductless mini-split service to the entire Columbia, MD community. We can even help with all your air conditioning, heating, plumbing, commercial HVAC, indoor air quality, ductwork, duct cleaning, and thermostat installation needs. Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment.

13 Factors That Affect HVAC Efficiency

Written by Kevin on August 20, 2024. Posted in HVAC.

HVAC efficiency refers to how efficiently your system converts energy into the cooling, heating, and ventilation you require. The more efficient your system is, the cheaper it is to run. There’s also the matter of environmental impact. HVAC is the number one contributor to the average American household’s carbon footprint. Let’s explore 13 factors that shape your system’s efficiency.

1. Efficiency Ratings

There are three core energy efficiency ratings that the Department of Energy (DOE) uses to set standards for the American consumer. In all cases, the higher the number, the more efficient the system.

Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) indicates how much fuel a furnace or boiler wastes in the conversion process. An AFUE 81 furnace wastes 19% of the fuel it converts into heat energy.

Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) measures cooling efficiency over an entire cooling season. You can use SEER not only to compare air conditioners but also heat pumps in cooling mode.

Heating seasonal performance (HSPF) is like SEER but measures heating efficiency. This is necessary for heat pumps, which transfer heat energy rather than generating heat as a furnace does.

2. Climate

In general, extreme temperatures will negatively impact HVAC efficiency. This is why the DOE sets the minimums for energy efficiency by region rather than nationwide. It’s also why northern homeowners have been slower to adopt air-source heat pumps, which run less efficiently in very cold temperatures.

3. Building Envelope

The building envelope of your home refers to its seal. A home with a tight seal will be very efficient. Homes with loose seals will waste more heating and air conditioning. Aspects that make up a building envelope include the roof, doors, windows, insulation, foundation, and so forth. One way to assess your building envelope is to schedule a home energy audit. You can then use this information to target the aspects of your home that are undermining HVAC efficiency.

4. Sizing

Size in the HVAC world refers to the overall capacity of the system. You neither want an undersized nor oversized HVAC system. The goal is to get it just right. An incorrectly sized system will cycle too frequently or for too long a period. That will drive up your operating costs. It will also increase wear and tear, which will make repairs more common and decrease the equipment life span. This is one reason why it is so important to hire a professional installer who will perform a load calculation for your home.

5. Thermostat

A thermostat is integral to efficiency because it reads the temperature in the home and dictates the heating and cooling cycles. It’s important to have a thermostat that’s centrally located and that has an accurate temperature sensor.

Programmable and smart thermostats can make your system even more efficient. Both types allow for scheduling that lets you save while you’re sleeping or away from home. Smart models add energy-saving features like energy monitoring, geofencing, and smart setback.

6. Humidity Control

Relative humidity (RH) reflects the amount of water vapor in the air within the context of temperature. In high humidity, your AC will be less efficient, and you’ll need a lower temperature to feel comfortable. You can improve cooling efficiency with a dehumidifier that lowers RH during summer. You can also improve heating efficiency with a humidifier that raises RH during winter.

7. Installation

Proper sizing is just one aspect of HVAC efficiency and why it’s so important to hire an experienced HVAC installer. Others include equipment placement, static air pressure, and adhering to the manufacturer’s specifications for the installation.

8. Maintenance

HVAC warranties typically require seasonal maintenance as a condition for coverage. Schedule in spring for your cooling system. Schedule again in fall for your heating system. This is good advice even if you have a heat pump that both cools and heats. Equipment gets dirty over time and becomes less efficient. It’s also necessary to tighten electrical connections, lubricate moving parts, and so on.

9. Static Air Pressure

Static air pressure is an important concept in HVAC performance. It refers to the resistance to airflow in the ducts. The blower is on the other end of the system moving the air. If air pressure is too high or too low, it will affect comfort throughout the entire home. It will also make the system work harder, which will decrease energy efficiency and increase your operating and long-term costs.

The main cause of static air pressure issues is a clogged HVAC filter. This is why you should check your filter at least every month and replace it as needed. During a seasonal tune-up, your technician will service your blower or air handler and check the static air pressure.

10. System Age

HVAC systems become less efficient with age. Routine maintenance and preventative repairs will slow the decline, but some deterioration is inevitable. There’s also the fact that new models are becoming more efficient each year. This is why it’s rarely economical to wait for an HVAC system to fail before replacing it. In fact, the DOE estimates that homes with older systems can save 20% or more annually with an upgrade.

11. Air Leakage

Air leakage refers to heating and cooling that seeps out of the seals in your ducts. The DOE estimates that air leakage causes heating and cooling losses of between 20% and 40%. To avoid this, schedule a yearly video camera inspection of your ducts. When the seals wear out, you can have the ducts resealed, which can lower your losses to 5% or less.

12. Zoning

Traditional central HVAC systems have a single zone, which is the entire home. A multi-zone system is a modern option through which we organize the home into multiple discrete zones. This requires additional equipment, such as a variable-speed blower and active duct dampers. Zoning makes an HVAC system more efficient because it allows you to adjust the temperature in each zone. You can, for instance, increase the AC in the zones you’re using and turn it down in those you’re not.

13. Air Balancing

In a balanced HVAC system, each vent or vent group is providing the right airflow for that particular room or area. With a traditional single-zone system, you generally only need air balancing performed during an installation or replacement. Zoned systems are more complex and sensitive. Experts recommend balancing every several years or so. An imbalanced zoned system will be less comfortable and cost more.

Would You Like to Improve Your HVAC Efficiency?

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating serves homeowners and businesses throughout Arbutus, Columbia, Hanover, Pasadena, Severn, and the surrounding areas. Our licensed technicians specialize in HVAC efficiency. We install, maintain and repair furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners, and ductless mini-splits. Our team installs and calibrates thermostats, installs and repairs ductwork, and performs oil-to-gas conversions. We have an indoor air quality team that cleans ducts and installs air purifiers, humidifiers, and carbon monoxide detectors. Our company also has licensed plumbers who perform inspections, repairs, and installations. They fix leaks and clean clogs. You can also count on us for water heaters, sump pumps, water softeners, dishwashers, sewer lines, well systems, and much more. Call today or contact us online to ask questions or to schedule a consultation or service appointment.

Indoor air quality services in Hanover, MD

5 Health Risks Associated With Poor Indoor Air Quality

Written by Kevin on August 13, 2024. Posted in Indoor Air Quality.

Poor indoor air quality in a home is one of the most common triggers for a wide range of health problems. Even if there doesn’t seem to be direct visual evidence of a specific problem, such as dust or mold, you need to consider the possibility that particular health issues are tied to your home’s air quality. Here is a look at five common health risks linked to poor indoor air quality, the signs that they’re present, and how our HVAC technicians at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating help customers address them.

1. Mold Growth

Mold naturally occurs in the air almost everywhere, but the high humidity levels in Maryland’s Prince George’s and Montgomery counties make it a notable regional problem. This is especially true during hot and humid summers that produce an ideal environment for mold growth. Mold can cause multiple respiratory health issues, including coughing, wheezing and congestion. Some folks also have skin reactions to mold.

Visible mold growth is the most obvious sign of a problem. It can appear as discoloration of walls and ceilings, particularly on white surfaces. You may also notice a musty odor, what people sometimes think of as a “basement smell.” Extreme mold issues can even lead to surfaces that feel mushy and have some give when you press on them, such as a soft spot in your home’s flooring.

Fortunately, HVAC upgrades are well-suited to addressing mold issues. A good dehumidification system can get the humidity level into the 30% to 50% range that’s best for your health. Likewise, installing an HVAC system that supports high-efficiency air filters can clean the breathable mold from the air that the dehumidifier might miss. Also, an efficient HVAC system should have a high-quality air intake that will ensure a supply of fresh and properly conditioned air in your house. The combination of those three solutions ensures clean, dry and filtered air.

2. Dust

Many people react to dust problems in their homes by sneezing. Other people experience a runny or itchy nose. Your eyes could be red and itchy, and they may also water. As with mold, people often have skin reactions. If anyone in your household has an existing respiratory issue, such as asthma or COPD, they may have worse symptoms when they’re in the house.

Dust often accumulates in a home. If you see it settling or a lot or have to clean it constantly, then there’s probably a dust problem. The issue is often most noticeable in the low-traffic parts of a house. Similarly, dust will usually be more present near air registers.

High-efficiency air filters are the main line of defense against dust. Also, a good duct cleaning can make a major difference. Make sure to schedule duct cleaning as needed to deal with the problem. Sealing the ductwork is also a good idea since dust often sneaks into the ducts through a home’s basement.

3. Volatile Organic Compounds

Chemicals are everywhere in modern life, and many pose indoor air quality issues. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can come from an almost endless list of everyday items, including cleaning products, paints, solvents, hairsprays and perfume. They can even come from things like new carpets, printers, cookware and glues. Some dry cleaning chemicals can even track into the home.

Most of the signs are VOCs in your home are health-related. Your household may experience headaches, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Some people may also experience red and itchy eyes. Existing respiratory concerns are likely to worsen in the presence of VOCs.

The one non-health-related sign is a strong chemical smell. VOCs often smell industrial and gassy.

An HVAC system with a good air intake is critical to dealing with VOCs because fresh air is the best solution. Very high-efficiency filters are also optimal. HEPA filters rated MERV 13 or higher can catch most of the bigger particles released from VOC-generating products. In April 2024, Maryland passed legislation requiring a minimum of MERV 13 for residences in the state. You may also want to consider an activated carbon filter because the carbon can react with the chemicals. Notably, keeping humidity in that 30%-to-50% range can reduce some chemical reactivity.

You may also want to consider using a programmable thermostat to run the HVAC for longer cycles. This works best when you know what the source of the VOCs is, such as a recently installed carpet, a piece of furniture or a dried paint or stain.

4. Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is one of the rare cases where the HVAC system itself could be the culprit. CO can come from a furnace or other heating system that’s malfunctioning. This may happen if the system was poorly installed or has aged to the point of inefficiency. Other sources of CO in the home include gas ovens, water heaters, improperly installed generators and clothes dryers. Homes with fireplaces and chimneys are especially vulnerable to CO build-up.

The presence of carbon monoxide can trigger headaches, dizziness and nausea. However, the most extreme scenario could lead to someone passing out or even dying. Making CO even scarier is that there’s no way to see, smell or otherwise perceive its presence. Without installing a carbon monoxide detector, you won’t be sure if there’s a problem.

Even if the HVAC system in your house is brand new, have one of our technicians check it. Manufacturing and installation issues are rare, but they happen. If the HVAC system is old, that’s another reason to check it. You can ask our technicians to install a CO detector because it’s a cheap way to avoid a tragedy.

If your HVAC equipment isn’t the source of the problem, there are still some solutions. A high-efficiency HVAC system with a good air intake can provide more fresh air and dilute the CO level. Also, test the air pressure in your home’s registers, ducts and vents. If the air pressure isn’t balanced, you can get back pressure. For example, the air from the kitchen might flow into other rooms, raising the CO levels in them.

5. Air Pollution

Outdoor air pollution can become an indoor air quality issue. You may notice chemical or smoky smells, especially if the pollution originates from vehicle exhausts or a nearby factory. It is rare to see old-school sooty pollution, but it can occur in high-traffic areas, especially near intersections and highways.

The health signs tend to be coughing and wheezing. Throat irritation is very common. Eye and nose irritation can also happen. As with other chemically induced issues on this list, headaches and dizziness can occur.

High-efficiency air filtration is essential for treating pollution. Also, regular duct cleaning and HVAC maintenance will make a major difference. You want the ducts to be sealed tight, too, to prevent pollution uptake.

Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating proudly serves Hanover, MD and the surrounding areas. We handle a host of HVAC needs, including work on oil and gas furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners and ducts.

If you suspect an indoor air quality problem in your home, contact our technicians at Beltway Air Conditioning and Heating so that you can address the health risks immediately.