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Use a Professional for Duct Improvements

Work with a Professional Contractor for Duct Improvement Projects Many homeowners choose to work with a professional contractor for duct improvement projects. Most heating and cooling equipment contractors also repair ductwork. Look for a contractor that will: Inspect the whole duct system, including attic and crawlspaces. Evaluate the system’s supply and return air balance. Many systems have air return ducts that are too small. Repair damaged and disconnected ducts and straighten out flexible ducts that…

Types of Cooling Systems

Central Air Conditioners Central air conditioners circulate cool air through a system of supply and return ducts. Supply ducts and registers (i.e., openings in the walls, floors, or ceilings covered by grills) carry cooled air from the air conditioner to the home. This cooled air becomes warmer as it circulates through the home; then it flows back to the central air conditioner through return ducts and registers. Air conditioners help to dehumidify the incoming air,…

Symptoms & Management of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Safety Tips Have your home heating systems (including chimneys and vents) inspected and serviced annually by a trained service technician. Never use portable generators inside homes or garages, even if doors and windows are open. Use generators outside only, far away from the home. Never bring a charcoal grill into the house for heating or cooking. Do not barbeque in the garage. Never use a gas range or…

Space Heater Safety

Electric Space Heater Safety The Statistics CPSC estimates that from 2008 to 2010, portable electric heaters were involved in approximately 1,200 fires per year. The Problem Portable electric heaters are high-wattage appliances that have the potential to ignite nearby combustible materials like curtains, beds, sofas, paper, clothing, and flammable liquids. If ignition results from a heater left on and unattended, a major fire could result. Safety Tips CPSC recommends the following for the safe use…

Interpreting the Sound Ratings of a Unit

Decibel (dB) Comparisons Common Sounds This decibel (dBA) table compares some common sounds and shows how they rank in potential harm to hearing. In many industries, workers are exposed to dangerous noise levels. This is particularly true in the construction, lumber, mining, steel and textile industries. SOUND NOISE LEVEL (dBA) EFFECT Jet Engines (Near) 140 Shotgun Firing 130 Jet Takeoff (100-200 Ft.) 130 Rock Concert (Varies) 110-140 Threshold of pain (125…

Sizing and Installation

RIGHT-SIZED AIR CONDITIONERS: MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT IMPROVEMENTS The ENERGY STAR Program promotes right-sized air conditioners where heating and cooling contractors carefully match system capacity to home…