Blog

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

October 11, 2024

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

The Hidden Dangers of a Leaky HVAC System

October 4, 2024

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

Understanding Different Air Duct Materials

September 19, 2024

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

How Does Humidity Affect Indoor Comfort?

September 12, 2024

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

Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini-Splits

September 5, 2024

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

13 Factors That Affect HVAC Efficiency

August 20, 2024

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.

5 Health Risks Associated With Poor Indoor Air Quality

August 13, 2024

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, Heating, & Plumbing help customers address them. 1. Mold Growth Mold naturally occurs in the

Understanding The Different Parts of Your HVAC System

August 6, 2024

Even though you rely heavily on your HVAC system to keep you comfortable throughout the year, you might not know all that much about how it works. That’s not unusual. Most homeowners’ knowledge of HVAC systems doesn’t go much beyond operating a thermostat. However, if a component of your Hanover, MD home’s HVAC fails, a bit more knowledge can go a long way toward getting you back on track. To help, here is a guide to the major components of your home’s HVAC system. We’ll identify each component and let you know exactly what it does. That way, you can

Why Your Building Needs a New Air Purifier

July 26, 2024

A comfortable home that is healthy for your family is essential. One overlooked aspect of a healthy indoor environment is air quality. Many buildings still use old, outdated air purification systems that can no longer effectively remove pollutants, pathogens, and allergens from the air. This can create health issues and general discomfort among everyone living in the home. From cutting-edge filtration technologies to more energy-efficient and, therefore, cost-saving designs, modern whole-home air purifiers can offer solutions that improve air quality. They also create a healthier, more pleasant indoor environment for your family. At Beltway Air Conditioning, Heating, & Plumbing in Hanover,

The Environmental Impact of Older HVAC Systems

July 19, 2024

If your Arbutus, MD, HVAC system uses inefficient technology, it could have a negative impact on the environment. Old age, an extensive maintenance history, low energy efficiency ratings, and outdated refrigerant types are key markers of an out-of-date HVAC system. Energy Consumption: A Key Environmental Concern Older systems often use more power since they aren’t as efficient at turning energy into warm or cold air. This raises emissions and exacerbates the greenhouse effect. Modern systems can save a lot of energy and reduce your household’s carbon footprint since they are up to 30% to 50%

Contact Our Beltway Specialists