Is Your HVAC System Costing You Money?

On November 19, the St. Augustine News took a hard look at home HVAC systems and how inefficient they can be. According to the News, the average home HVAC system "wastes 25% of the HVAC's energy draw," mostly due to leaks in the system. Worse:

"...a truly 'faulted' system could waste as much as 75% of the HVAC's energy draw.

These are huge percentages. If the average system wastes 25% of the HVAC's energy draw through leaks, it means that anywhere between 5-15% of a given building's total energy cost is wasted. Poof. Gone."

This is why it's important to have your HVAC systems checked regularly. Abel Onsite, a heating and cooling company based in the Twin Cities region of Minnesota, recommends that you have an HVAC system inspection performed seasonally. Abel Onsite offers a program called the Abel Performance Program, which includes a yearly inspection of your systems, as well as no emergency rate and discounts on parts and labor.

Air Conditioning Repair

Summer’s in full swing in Twin Cities and your air conditioner is probably running at full blast. If it doesn’t work some reason, then here are five things to check before calling for air conditioner repair service: 

1. The filter
   Make sure it’s clean. A dirty filter causes the cooling coil to ice up and block air flow.
2. Power
   Is the unit on? Make sure the switch, located on the system’s side, is flipped on.
3. The thermostat
   Check to see if it’s turned to cool and that the temperature set point is lower than the home’s temperature.
4. The coil
   This needs to be clean, free of cotton, wood and/or dust.
5. The saver switch
   Call your power company to see if they’re turning off the unit with the saver switch. A light on the switch will indicate this.

Followed these tips and the air conditioner is still not working? Then visit www.AbelOnsite.com today to get a free air conditioner repair estimate.

More Air Conditioning FAQ

How do I know that my air conditioner is sized correctly?

It’s suggested that nearly 53% of all air conditioning units are oversized by up to a ton. A larger unit will cost more in installation and operating costs. Make sure your HVAC contractor does a heat load calculation on your home to ensure the right unit is installed.

Does a programmable thermostat make a difference?

Yes. New thermostats will allow you to adjust the heating and cooling for the time of day and other variables.

What is a SEER rating?

Season Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measurement of efficiency under a number of weather changes over a season. The higher the number, the more efficient the AC unit is.

Should I leave the unit on all the time or set it to auto?

It depends on your location and environment. Find out which one is keeping you cool and saving you money, and go from there.

What can be done to make the unit more efficient?

Preventative maintenance and service on a regular basis, as well as ensuring no direct sunlight heats up the room. Clean filters and limit the use of any appliances that generate heat.

Having problems with your Hopkins MN air conditioner? Contact Abel Onsite today by visiting www.AbelOnsite.com.                                  

Air Conditioning FAQ

Here are some of the common questions we get about air conditioning:

Why does the air conditioner run all day when it’s hot out?

It’s most likely one of two things: 1. Your system is working correctly, as its meeting all the latest energy codes and operating in the most efficient manner or 2. The unit was not designed or sized properly to begin with. Talk to your air conditioning contractor about the best way to fix this issue.

How do I know the fan or blower is working properly?

Check and see if the fan is running and you have air blowing into the rooms of your home. If you have little or no air flow and you hear the fan running, then your ducts are loose or damaged.

There’s water dripping from the copper pipe on my AC unit. Why?

The unit is probably charged improperly, as a proper charge will not cause water to form on the pipe. Call an HVAC contractor today to have the problem looked at.

Should there be ice forming?

No, and this is also an indication of an improperly charged unit.

How long do new AC systems last?

On average, around 12-15 years, if you have the system regularly maintained and serviced.

Need Hopkins MN air conditioning service? Get in touch with Abel Onsite today by visiting www.AbelOnsite.com. 

Minnesota Air Conditioning Tips

Having trouble dealing with the Minnesota summer heat because of air conditioning woes? Here are a couple of easy tips to ensure your air conditioner keeps working, and your home doesn’t fry up:

Keep your air filters clean

This cannot be stressed enough. In order for your central air or a/c unit to work properly, it must have clean air filters. Check them every 30 to 90 days to make sure, and more frequently if you have animals.

Don’t frequently turn the system on and off

Always turning the unit off and on will make you have to call for air conditioning service. Don’t shut it down, come home and expect your home to be cool. Heat will buildup in the wall and furniture, meaning your cooling unit has to work harder to remove it. It’s also never a good idea to turn off the a/c and then immediately turn it back on, as this can permanently damage the compressor.

Keep as much heat out as possible

An air conditioner removes heat and then cycles it as cooler air. The more heat in an area, the harder the unit has to work, which uses more electricity. During peak daylight hours, keep the blinds closed and curtains and shades drawn. Keep ceiling fans on to help the appliance work properly.

Have the system check regularly

Before the start of summer, an experienced HVAC contractor should inspect your system, to make sure the mechanics are intact. The tech should check the motor, bearings and blower fans, as well as the ducts, vents and pipes. Any problems should be repaired at that time, so they don’t appear when the sun beats down.

If you need help with your Minnesota air conditioning system, contact Abel Onsite by visiting www.AbelOnsite.com. 

Special Carrier Air Conditioning Service Offers from Abel Onsite!

Is the air conditioning service in your Chaska MN or Minnetonka home not up to snuff? Then this is a perfect time to take advantage of special Carrier rebates from Abel Onsite!

Until June 30, take advantage of Carrier’s Cool Choices rebate promotion by purchasing qualifying heating and cooling equipment from Carrier. The company offers this to consumers as an incentive to purchase and install heating and cooling systems.

Some other details about the promotion:

• Designed specifically for residential homeowners
• Only replacement systems or add-on equipment to existing systems qualify
• Equipment must be purchased from a participating Cool Choices dealer, like Abel Onsite, to be eligible for the rebate

To see if you can get in on this amazing deal, get in touch with Abel Onsite by visiting www.AbelOnsite.com. 

Take Advantage of Abel Onsite’s Performance Program

Need seasonal maintenance of your heating & cooling unit? There’s an APP for that.

The Abel Performance Program (APP) is a seasonal maintenance program that will save you money when it comes to your Twin Cities’ home furnace and/or air conditioner. Abel Onsite is proud to offer this program, as we know our clients are thinking more and more everyday about potential costs.

With the Abel Performance Program, you get:

• Priority Service – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call for service, you’ll be at the top of our list.
• Our Normal Rate – You won’t be charged our emergency rates if you immediately need service. It doesn’t matter if it’s after hours or on the weekends, you’ll only be charged our normal hourly rates.
• 10% Off Parts & Labor – These discounts mean you will pay less.
• 5% Off Replacement Equipment – If our technician determines your heating and cooling unit needs replaced, you will pay less for the new system.

The APP covers furnaces, air conditioners, humidifiers, zone systems, commercial rooftop units and more.

If you live in the Minneapolis & St. Paul areas and are interested in saving money on your HVAC unit, call us today 952.446.9545 and ask about the APP.

Inspections Every Home Owner Should Make

Ah! Being a homeowner is a wonderful thing. You have total control of the way your house looks and you know that nobody can boot you out at the end of a lease. It is a wonderful sense of independence - until something breaks. That landlord was your best friend when something broke. Just call him or her up and magically the repair person showed up in a day or so to fix the problem. Now you are on your own and you have to foot the bill. How can you keep the repairman away from your house?

The best way is to keep things from breaking. Performing inspections and basic maintenance on your home at least annually will help you save bundles of money over the long term.

Here are several systems to keep in mind when tuning up your home.

First, the hot water heater. It works away for you day after day and you hardly ever think about it. Keep it lasting longer by draining the tank. During normal operation sediment accumulates at the bottom of tank. This gunk, if left alone, can corrode the bottom of the heater causing a leak and it also forces the heater to work harder. This shortens its life and runs up your gas or electric bill. Consult the owners manual for the draining procedure.

Second, blow the leaves and debris out of your air conditioner fins. Wind and lawnmowers among many things cause the spaces on your A/C fins to fill with gunk. You might be tempted to just spray the hose at it, which will work but could damage the unit. The better course is to take the top off according to the manufacturers instructions and use the hose to blow the debris from the inside out. This also gives you the opportunity to inspect the internal components for rust or wear.

Third, inspect your gutters and downspouts. Leaves in you gutters can cause water to pool inside them and wick under the drip edge. This can rot out your fascia board. Additionally, gutters filled with water are heavy and can start to pull away from the fascia and eventually rip away from the house. Also, make sure all your downspouts are in place. They prevent water from collecting next to your house which can cause basements to leak or flood.

Fourth, inspect the siding on your house. Small holes in wood, vinyl or other material can allow weather, animals or insects into the interior of the wall. These can cause substantial damage over time. If your siding is painted, be sure to keep the painting current to preserve the underlying material. Finding small problems with your siding can head off large problems down the road.

Fifth, inspect your roof. Damaged flashing or shingles can allow water to leak into your home and cause significant damage. One of the unfortunate attributes of water leaks is they can go for very long periods of before being noticed. Replace any missing nails and caulk over any exposed nail heads that might be holding down vents or other devices.

Sixth, inspect your appliances for frayed or defective electrical cords. Repair any that you find to prevent a house fire.

Finally, make sure your furnace filter is changed regularly. Doing so helps keep allergens out of the air and keeps your furnace from working harder than it has to which will extend its life and save money on monthly utility bills!

These are a just a few routine inspections a homeowner should make. Doing them will help you save on repair bills and give greater pride of ownership. Of course, if you aren't comfortable doing certain inspections, you can call the repairman. They will be happy to help and it will be at a much lower cost than if they were coming to repair that same item. Be smart - spend a little to save much more!

Read more about the HVAC products and services provided by Abel Onsite of St. Bonifacius, MN.

Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

The Air in Your House is Polluted!

Most people now have some level of concern for the environment and air pollution. As a result, there is much focus and information on the outdoor air quality for various cities and it can be big news when a particular municipality violates the various air pollution regulations. Of course, this is cause for concern as a citizen you don't want to be breathing dirty, polluted air when you go outside. The little secret though is that the air in your home is, in all likelihood, worse than the polluted outdoor air on the news.
It is not commonly known but the air quality inside a standard home is very poor. In fact, the EPA has reported levels of indoor air pollutants may be up to five times higher and occasionally up to 100 times higher than outdoor pollutant levels. This is rather profound given that people spend most of their time indoors. There are many things that contribute to poor indoor air quality such as new paint or other cleaning products, pet dander, radon or dust. Also, new carpet - that "new carpet" smell is chemicals used in making the carpet and should be ventilated as best as practicable. Additionally, firewood stored in the house can release mold or spores. Obviously, indoor smoking is powerful air pollutant as cigarette smoke contains hundreds of toxins.
The build up of these pollutants can lead to respiratory problems and lowers overall health. Those with asthma suffer more frequent attacks with poor indoor air quality.
The best way to prevent your air quality from degrading is to eliminate the source. Have smokers smoke outdoors, use non-toxic "green" cleaning products, vacuum and dust regularly, etc. However, it is not possible to eliminate all contaminants and this is where an air purifier can help.
An air purification system is designed to eliminate or greatly reduce mold, bacteria, particulates and other microorganisms so as to improve or "purify" the air inside your home. Whole house systems are designed to do just that and improve the air in the entire house. These are excellent systems and wonderful to install if you or a loved one suffer from allergies or asthma. The drawback can be cost. If you are not quite ready to install a whole house system, small units designed for a single room or small space can be purchased at major retailers. Be sure to check the square foot rating for a given device so that you have the proper size machine for the room it will be located in. Typically this would be the bedroom since many hours are spent there and the space is generally small enough for a tabletop unit to be effective.
If you would like to improve your health an air purification system is a great way to go. Contact a qualified installer in your area and have them visit your home. In this way, you may find out exactly what your home needs and learn the cost. Plus, the installer will be able to advise you on specific pollutants common in your area of the country and state. They can be a valuable resource and consultant.
At a minimum, think about the things you bring into your home and how they might be contaminating your air. Doing so will help your family live a longer, healthier life!

Learn more about how to eliminate air pollutants in your home by visiting Abel Onsite of  St. Bonifacius, MN. Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Quick Winter Energy Saving Tips

The chilly winter season is upon us and it is a good time to think about how we can make our homes more energy efficient. Not only will it save money on your electric bill but will help you live a greener lifestyle and be more comfortable. Fortunately, none of these steps are overly burdensome or expensive.

The first one is to plug up the leaky spots around your home. If you have never thought about how heat might escape your house, you probably have numerous spots where cold air is able to rush into the living space. A common area is under outside doors where the seal has become ineffective and no longer blocks the outside air. Additionally, the weatherstripping around the remainder of the door can fail allow cold air to seep in. You can easily purchase replacement weatherstripping at a home improvement store and follow the directions to install it. Be sure to caulk gaps or cracks around the door frame. Often cold air can reach the interior of the wall through these cracks and find its way into your living space.

Consider expanding foam spray if you find larger holes or cracks that can't be filled in with caulk. One brand name is Stuff. Basically, it is a liquid that rapidly expands and then hardens. I found that it worked well to block a hole underneath my door threshold that was large enough to actually see through. Plus, the foam prevents insects and mice from entering your home.

Next, cold air can enter your home through outlets on outside walls. Check for drafts around yours and buy specially designed foam inserts to block the air flow. They are not visible when installed properly.

Windows are a huge concern for conserving energy. You can reduce the amount of heat escaping your home by covering each window with plastic. The plastic creates dead air space over your windows and retards heat loss while allowing light to enter. An alternative is to keep your drapes open on windows that are facing the sun. This way you put the sun to work heating your home. However, you have to keep all other windows draped over to prevent heat from escaping. By not covering your windows you are allowing up to 20% of heated air to escape.

Finally, technology can really help out. Consider installing a programmable thermostat. These devices can be set to only heat and cool your home when you are home. While you are away at work the thermostat can let the temperature in the winter drop ten degrees and then warm up again right before you come home. In this fashion you are not fully heating an empty house and incurring the cost. A qualified heating and cooling specialist such as Abel Onsite can advise you on this topic.

These are just a quick tips to think about. Hopefully they will help you easily save money each month on your power bill.

For more energy saving tips visit Abel Onsite or call 952.446.9545 today . Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Authorized Air Sealing & Weatherization Contractor

Abel Onsite is now Authorized by Honeywell and certified by the Building Performance Institute (BPI) to perform air sealing and weatherization for homes and buildings

As an authorized Honeywell Weatherization Contractor, Abel Onsite is now providing services to make homes, buildings more energy-efficient.

Saint Bonifacius, MN – November 2010 – ABEL ONSITE, the heating and air conditioning specialists, announced that it has been authorized by Honeywell to provide air sealing and weatherization services for homes and commercial buildings. As part of their training, key employees at Abel Onsite have also received their Building Analyst and Building Envelope certification by the Building Performance Institute (BPI) which teaches them to take a comprehensive “House as a System” and “Building as a System” approach to their weatherization projects.

To learn more view our full Press Release on our website "Click Here".

Five Reasons to Install a Solar Array

With all the talk of alternative energy on the news lately, you might begin to wonder how you can be a part of it. There are many ways to become involved from hybrid cars to geothermal heat and cooling. One of the best ways, however, is solar. In fact, here are five excellent reasons for installing solar panels on your home.

1) Save Money - Electricity rates have been going up for quite some time now and they are not expected to reverse this trend. In fact, some experts believe that electricity rates could skyrocket over the next few years. With solar, you insulate yourself from these problems. Once you install a complete system you never have to pay an electric bill again. That is a great feeling. Even if you install a system that only supports a portion of your needs, you are cutting down your electric bill each month.

2) Power Outages Don't Happen - If you have ever lived through a multi-day power outage you know how very inconvenient this is to put it mildly. With a complete solar array, you will always have power even if you neighbors don't (depending on how you have your array configured). You cut your dependency to the power company. In fact, this can feel liberating which might be yet another reason for solar!

3) Increase Your Home's Value - Solar is a very desirable item in the real estate market. Of course, if you intend to move very soon installing a solar system does not make sense. However, if you are going to spend many years in your home and ultimately desire to sell, it can increase your selling price. A 1998 study by ICF Consulting found that a solar system that saves $1,000 per year on electric bills increases the home's value by $20,000.

4) Protect the Environment - Solar power is renewable and does depend on fossil fuels. For this reason, solar is a clean technology. By investing in a solar array you are helping to make the earth a cleaner place.

5) Technology is Cool - This isn't an oft cited benefit but it is a reality. A solar array is a great conversation starter as people have a interest in it. Plus, if you have children or grandchildren it is a great live science experiment. Teaching about the various aspects of the system can lead into many interesting and educational conversations. By talking to people and your children you are helping to spread the word about solar power and helping the earth and others in the process!

Of course, solar power is a complicated subject with many aspects to consider. Take the first step and call an installer to see what if would take to install a small, starter solar system. Your pocketbook and the earth will be glad you did!

For additional information on the topic of solar power visit Abel Onsite. Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

Controlling Your Home's Humidity Level

While the South is well known for its high humidity -especially during the summer-it s not the only region of the U.S. where people have to deal with high humidity levels. For instance, when people in Colorado refer to the "dry cold" of the winter's mountain air they are talking about the humidity just as Miami's muggy, sticky heat is a result of humidity. Since humidity is no respecter of regions, it is often necessary to take control of the humidity level within your home.

The EPA recommends that the indoor humidity level be no more than 30-50% relativity humidity. This relative humidity is the amount of water vapor the air contains compared to the maximum amount it can hold at any given temperature. Consequently, if your indoor humidity level is too high, it should be controlled in one of two ways: by lowering the humidity level with a properly sized air conditioning system or by having a humidifier (or in some cases a dehumidifier) installed.

To effectively keep your home's humidity level comfortable by using an air conditioner, it is of utmost importance to have an AC unit that is the proper size for the amount of space to be maintained. If it is too big it will turn on and off too often and result in there being too much moisture in the air. Of course, during the winter months, when heaters are in use, the same rule applies. If your heater is too big, it will dry out the air so rather than having cold "clammy" air, it is dry and can often make breathing difficult.

How to Tell If You Need a Dehumidifier

If you are not sure whether or not you need a home dehumidifier, there are several signs that you can judge by:

• Wet stains on walls and ceilings
• Stuffy feeling in a room
• Rotting wood
• Condensation on windows
• Musty smells
• Allergies due to the air in your home being too moist which will encourage the growth of bacteria and mold

Additional Ways to Control Your Home's Humidity Levels

If you already have a dehumidifier but your home's air still has too much humidity for your liking, or are perhaps trying to put off the inevitable, there are several steps you can take to reduce the humidity level in your home. These include:

• Improving the drainage around your home's foundation by making sure that gutter downspouts put water away from the foundation; keeping gutters and downspouts clean and open; making sure that the soil slopes away from your home so that water does not pool around your home and by not overwatering plants near the foundation.
• Making sure that your clothes dryer is properly vented; not only will this improve the humidity level, but your clothes will drive faster.
• Using vent fans in the bathroom and kitchen to remove humidity where it starts.
• Repairing leaking faucets, this will save on your water bill and lower humidity!

For additional information on the topic of humidity and dehumidifiers visit Abel Onsite. Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

The 3 Types of Solar Heating for Your Home

Are you looking for a way to lower your energy costs that is both efficient and environmentally friendly? With the rising cost of gas or electric heat, you may be looking for an effective alternative. Fortunately, there are several choices available, one of which is the use of solar energy.

Today there are 3 types of thermal solar collectors-low temperature, medium, temperature and high temperature. And while the names may not be all that original and the concept of solar heating is not brand new, there is still much to be gained by opting to use solar energy. The use of solar energy works on the principal that what is gotten out of a solar collector is the difference between what went into the collector and what the collector lost to its outside environment. What is left is used for heating.

Low Temperature Solar Collectors

A low temperature solar collector typically loses nothing to the outside air as it works below the outside air temperature. An example of is a solar swimming pool which is heated by hanging a black plastic mat out in the sun, run pool water through it and Viola! Your pool water is warmed. In this scenario, the black plastic will receive approximately 95% of the solar energy and the efficiency drops significantly. This principle can applied to heating the water in your home, by having metal panels that are filled with water built or installed to the outside structure of your home. The water travels through these panels to your home's plumbing system. You can even have built water filtration added to the system so you can enjoy cleaner, healthier water as well.

Medium Temperature Solar Collectors

This is actually the most commonly recommended form of solar energy for residential use. It works by trapping the sun's energy in an insulated box, typically located on the roof of a building. As outside temperature rise the collectors retain the energy in boxes made of aluminum, copper, foil and low iron tempered glass. Traditionally, as the sun hits the shingles in a non-solar heated home the heat passes through, get absorbed or is reflected. The solar boxes, however, collect this heat and store it as energy to be released as needed into your home. In fact, sometime, there is so much energy collected, that your meters will actually turn backwards meaning that you are creating far more energy than you are actually using.

High Temperature Solar Collectors

Ironically, the high temperature solar collector is not seen as the most efficient as it requires thicker insulation, more cover sheets, or forcing more air from the collector. In fact, of the 3 types of solar collectors it only has a collector efficiency rate of 50% as compared to the 75% of the medium and low.

It should also be noted that studies show that solar energy materials will pay for themselves in 2-3 years and have a life expectancy of 20-30 years.

For additional information on the topic of heating and air visit Abel Onsite.

Article independently authored by Janet M. Slagell. The content herein may or may not frelect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

How to Save on Your Utility Bills

With these tight economic times, everybody is looking for ways to save money. Your utility bills are an area where you can realize substantial savings with a little thought and effort.

The first area is with your lights in general. Switching all of them to compact fluorescent lamps (CFL's) can add up to significant savings over time. CFLs us up to 75% less energy than a typical incandescent bulb and can last up to ten times longer. The draw back is the up front cost which can be many times the cost of an incandescent. With CFLs you must be prepared to recoup your cost over a few years.

Next, is your water heater. By wrapping it with a hot water heater jacket you can reduce the amount of heat that escapes to the outside air. The jackets are inexpensive at less than $20. The energy savings you realize will depend on the type and size of water heater you have.

Also, you might consider installing an on-demand water heater. These devices only heat as much water as is needed at a particular moment. If hot water is not needed, none is heated. This contrasts to the standard water heater which keeps water at the desired temperature constantly regardless if it is needed at the moment or not. This means the heater must reheat the water over and over as it cools. Imagine how much wasted energy there is while you are work or on vacation! Again, an on-demand system is one in which you will realize savings over time since there is an upfront cost to install it.

The final area where large savings can be realized is with heating and cooling your home. The average home consumes most of its energy maintaining a comfortable temperature - upwards of 40%, in fact. By installing a programmable thermostat you can save up to 30% on your utility bills. These thermostats can be programmed to different temperatures depending on your schedule. For instance, if you leave for work at a certain time, the thermostat can be set to a lower temperature during the winter while you are gone. Instead of maintaining the house at 72 degrees it might maintain it at 60 degrees. Further, it an be set to warm the house back up to 72 degrees thirty minutes or an hour before you arrive home at the end of the day. In this fashion, you are never in an uncomfortable cold house and you save money!

Finally, you might want to consider replacing your air conditioner and furnace if you have old systems. New systems are so much more energy efficient that, coupled with rebates and government incentives, you can start saving a tremendous amount on your utility bills can recoup the install cost in about three years. The difference in energy usage for a new versus and old system can be quite astounding. Call your local HVAC installer to learn more about the specifics.

Hopefully, this article has given you some actionable ideas to help make things a little easier on your wallet!

For additional information on the topic of heating and cooling systems Abel Onsite.

Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.

What Are the 3 Types of Dehumidifiers?

Hot and sultry, muggy and sticky, there's nothing worse in the summer time than the heaviness of the humidity. In fact, for some states it's so bad, that you are drenched in moisture just to take a walk to mailbox at the end of your short driveway. And, when that humidity makes its way indoors, the days and nights can seem virtually unbearable. Fortunately, there is a solution. Invented by Willis Haviland Carrier in 1902, dehumidifiers soon became the ideal way to cool one's home. Over the years the dehumidifier as evolved and today there are 3 main types of dehumidifiers.

All humidifiers work on the same basic principles, though each one varies somewhat based on the type. Like an air conditioner, the dehumidifier uses refrigerant. However, it does not cool the air...it actually warms it slightly which decreases the humidity thus making the room more comfortable. This is done by a fan, hot and cold condenser coils and a water reservoir.

The heat pump dehumidifier is used to pull out water form a building by using a heat pump which works much like an air conditioner pump. A fan is used to move the air across a frigid coil causing the moisture to condense. Then the droplets are collected in a bucket inside the unit. The air is then warmed by a second coil and then released back into the room at a comfortable temperature. The heat pump dehumidifier is considered the best one available.

In large industries, especially those in warmer climates, the most common type is a chemical absorbent dehumidifier. This type uses a chemical drying agent that works with a heat exchange wheel to absorb the water molecules from the air. The process pulls the damp air outside through the vents.

The third type of unit is the dehumidifying ventilator. These work with a sensor controller and an exhaust fan. These are less effective in climates where the humidity is especially high because the ventilators draw outside air into the house. Rather, the dehumidifying ventilator works great in basements but you must pay close attention to how it is working as it can depressurize a room and can cause gas spills...just be sure that if you have a gas furnace that it is properly vented and you will fine.

If you already have a dehumidifier, but it does not seen to be working correctly, there are a few things you can do. First you will want to make sure that it is the right size unit for the space it is cooling; then after you have turned the unit off, check the following:

• Remove the cover clean the condenser and the evaporator coils.
• Lubricate the fan motor bearings, if the motor has oil ports.
• Make sure the humidistat is working properly by testing it with a volt-ohm. Rotate the humidistat's knob as far as it will turn in either direction. If it reads 0 throughout the process then it is time to replace the unit.

For additional information on the topic of heating and air conditioning visit http://www.abelonsite.com.

Geothermal FAQ's - Could a System be Right for You?

As our population grows and the earth's resources are strained like never before, many people have questions about geothermal systems but are not sure about some very fundamental concerns. Hopefully, this brief article can open your eyes to the potential of geothermal system.

How does geothermal work?

The basic principle is that a geothermal heat pump extracts heat from the earth during the winter and pipes into your home. This processed is reversed during the summer. The heat pump pulls the heat from your house and pumps it into the earth. This process is similar to your refrigerator. If you reach behind it you will feel a lot of heat. This heat has been removed from inside the refrigerator and pumped to the outside air.

The heart of a geothermal unit is the system of pipes buried underground to facilitate this heat exchange.

Are there benefits to using geothermal energy?

Yes. Geothermal energy is clean. There is no need for fossil fuels - which reduces our dependence on foreign oil. It is also a renewable resource like solar or wind.

Plus, it is a very cool conversation piece for visitors!

Am I in an area where geothermal can be used?

Unless you live in a very odd environment like the arctic, then you are almost certainly in area where a geothermal heat pump can be unitized productively. That said, there may be local consideration that prevent the installation. An installer would have to evaluate your specific site.

How long does a geothermal system last?

Geothermal heat pumps are very durable. Since the system does not have elaborate complicated parts and is based on a simple principle, your system should last many, many decades.

Would my geothermal system be loud?

Fortunately geothermal systems are very quiet unlike a standard HVAC system.

Will I save money using geothermal?

Yes! It is not uncommon to have heating bills cut by 20% - 50%. However, you will need to remain in your home for several years to recoup the installation costs in annual savings. If you plan on moving soon, a geothermal unit is probably does not make sense from an economic prospective. In general, it will take five to ten years to recoup the installation cost.

There is much more to a geothermal system but these answers should help you get started thinking about whether a system is right for you. The environment might just say "Thank You!"

For additional information on the topic of geothermal heat pumps visit Abel Onsite at http://www.AbelOnsite.com

Save on HVAC Costs - Caulk and Seal Your Windows For Energy Efficiency

As energy costs increase, people begin to look for ways to lower their personal energy consumption. One of the popular points of improvement are new windows. With advances in technology and materials, windows are substantially better than their predecessors at retaining heat during winter months and keeping the home cooler during the summer. Unfortunately, new windows can be quite expensive! However, there are options if you are unable to afford new windows or would prefer to replace your windows gradually rather than all at once.

Before embarking on the improvement of your current windows, it pays to inspect them. Are there rotten boards, cracked glass or other broken parts? Depending on the condition you might be forced to replace these windows as they are beyond enhancement. Also, consider replacement if your windows were installed before 1978 as they might contain lead paint. Lead is an hazardous substance that should not be in your home particularly if children are present.

If your windows pass muster, you can begin improving them for energy efficiency. One of the cheapest and easiest tasks is to caulk all cracks and gaps around the window frame. Air can seep (and sometimes actually blow) through these gaps. By blocking these pathways you will be taking a big leap toward increased energy efficiency. You will need a caulk gun which will run less than $10 and is very easy to operate even for a complete novice. You will also need a few tubes of caulk which run a few dollars per tube at home improvement stores. Be sure to purchase paintable caulk if you would like to cover the caulk after it has cured.

Actually applying the caulk is very easy. Simply load the caulk tube into the gun, trim off the end of the tube with scissors or a knife and then run a wire down the tip to puncture the foil covering inside. Apply the tip of the tube to the area you wish to seal and slowly pull the trigger. It might takes a few squeezes for the caulk to come out on a new tube. Once it is slowly flowing, move the tip over the crack to fill it up. To smooth the caulk or push it into a new position, wet your finger and apply pressure as needed. Using a dry finger causes the caulk to stick to your finger and tends to make things messier. In a pinch, saliva works just as well!

Also, be sure to pick up weather stripping to fill in gaps around the sash where the window goes up and down. You will need to custom fit the stripping to your windows.

Be sure to inspect your caulk and weather stripping every year to make sure everything is still in working order.

By taking these two simple steps, you have gone a long way toward greater efficiency. Plus, you have save thousands of dollars in the process! That will make anybody feel good.

For more information on your HVAC units, service, & repair or energy efficiency, please visit http://www.AbelOnSite.com.

Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel On Site.

How to Extend the Efficiency and Life Span of Your Water Heater by Draining It

When was the last time you thought about your water heater? In all likelihood it was when you ran out of hot water. Fortunately, the lack of hot water only lasted for a few minutes or hours. Could you run out of hot water for a longer period of time? You sure can! If your water heater fails you will be without hot water for several days while waiting for a replacement. Avoid this hassle and give your heater a little tender loving care. Fortunately, it isn't hard to do.

The most important thing to do is drain your hot water tank. Over time, sediment from the water settles on the bottom of the tank. This can cause the tank to rust and to slowly be corroded away until it ruptures. Plus, the extra layer of gunk causes the heater to work harder and less efficiently which increases your gas or electric bill. By draining the tank you remove the gunk and keep the unit working in tip-top condition.

To drain your heater you will need a hose and about an hour or two.

The first step is to turn off the heat source. With an electric heater, you will need to flip the breaker switch to "off". With a gas heater turn the thermostat knob to the pilot setting.

Next, turn off the cold water supply to your tank. The line is typically labeled on the water heater and the shut off is located just above the tank.

Open a hot water faucet somewhere in the home. This will prevent a vacuum from forming in the tank as the water drains.

The tank's drain will be located at the bottom and will have a threaded outlet as well. Attach the hose to the tank and route the other end of the hose to a safe surface for receiving many gallons of hot water. Open the drain valve and watch the water flow! It will be very dirty and brown to start but eventually it will run more clear. Turn on the cold water once the tank is empty to flush out the final bits of sediment. Allow water to flow until it comes out clear. Close the drain valve and the faucet on the sink you opened up.

Allow the tank to fill completely and then turn on the electricity or gas again.

That's it! Very straight forward and simple stuff. Just a few minutes of your time and you extend the life of your water heater. Simply repeat every year and your water heater will thank you!

For more information please visit http://www.ableonsite.com the water heater installation specialists and hvac servicing.

Article independently authored by Eric Parish. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Able Onsite Heating and Cooling Specialist.

What is the Best Type of Furnace For Your Home?

From geothermal heating to gas furnaces and electric heaters to wood burning stoves there are many different ways people choose to heat their home. Of course, this warmth does not come cheap. Whether you use natural gas, electric heat or an alternate heat source, heating bills in the winter typically supersede the cost of keeping cool.

So, how can you determine what the best form of heating is? Here are a few considerations to help you before you make a final decision.


Source- If you are building a new home the heating options are more varied as you can go with whatever method will be best for you. However, for existing homes, it may necessary to stay with the type of heat already in use and just change the size and efficiency of the model. For new homes, many homeowners are choosing to use alternative heating methods such as solar heating, absorption heating or geothermal heat pumps.
Cost- Typically fuel is measured in physical units such as gallons or watts with the most common measurement being the Btu (British thermal unit). A Btu is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one pound of water 1o F. Currently, the most inexpensive forms of heating are (from lowest to highest)-seasoned firewood, propane, natural gas and electric heating.
Environmental concerns- In this "Going green" society, many are choosing to use firewood, propane, natural gas or solar heating as it is far more earth-friendly than electric heat since it does not require coal to be burned in order to be used.
Efficiency and Size- A furnace that is too big for a space will cycle off and on more than necessary using more heat and energy and adding higher costs to the bill. When you are deciding on a furnace, be sure to know the dimensions of the space to be heated so that you can select a heat source that will keep the space warm without straining the system and costing you too much money. To ensure the best possible furnace, be sure to look for an Energy Star certified heater.
Talk to a certified HVAC technician or a contractor who is a member of the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) group. They will be able to tell you what type of heating unit and fuel will be best for you home. You may also want to talk to friends and neighbors to get their insight.
If you are still uncertain what type of fuel and furnace will be best and whether or not the investment will actually pay off, use this formula to determine the Return on Investment (ROI): Take your first year savings (or potential savings) and divide them by the cost of installation. The answer will give you an idea of how long it will take you to pay back your savings with your new furnace.

For further information on furnaces for you home, please visit www.abelonsite.com today.

Article independently authored by Janet M Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Abel Onsite Heating and Cooling.