A/C systems are a complex combination of mechanical, electrical and plumbing components that utilize refrigeration principles to cool your Palm Beach County home. The evaporator coil is the cooling element in this mix that pulls heat out of indoor air. If warm air is blowing from your vents, a frozen evaporator coil may be the problem.

Frozen Evaporator Coil

Very cold refrigerant inside the evaporator coil extracts heat energy from warm return airflow. During this cooling process, moisture is extracted from the air in the form of condensation on the evaporator coil. In a well-operating A/C system, the condensation falls into the condensate pan and drains away.

Adversely, the condensation may freeze on the cold evaporator, which diminishes the A/C's cooling ability. Following are common A/C problems that can cause ice to form on the evaporator coil:

• A clogged air filter blocking airflow.
• Unbalanced supply and return airflow.
• Dirt and grime build up on the evaporator inhibiting heat transfer.
• Low refrigerant.
• Faulty electrical parts overworking the system.

What to Do

Begin troubleshooting a frozen evaporator coil by turning off the A/C so that the ice can melt. Switch the thermostat to fan-on to expedite the melting process. Check all air filters for dirt and change them as needed. If the filters were dirty, wait for the ice to melt completely before testing the A/C. If the ice returns, do the following:

• Open all interior doors and vents to ensure free airflow to return grilles.
• Check the evaporator for dirt once the ice has melted. If it's dirty, use a foaming coil spray to clean the evaporator.
• If the evaporator freezes again, there is a mechanical or electrical problem that requires the attention of an HVAC technician.

For more information about remedying a frozen evaporator coil, please contact us at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating for service.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about evaporator coils and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Buying a new air conditioner is a major investment, so it makes good sense to choose equipment with features that can lower your yearly cooling costs and boost the comfort level in your home. To help you comparison shop and gain the greatest benefit from your investment, here are some key features to look for in a central A/C.

Higher Efficiency Rating

Air conditioners have a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating, which tells you the amount of energy they use to produce a set amount of cooling output. Higher ratings equate to higher efficiency, and today's models range from SEER 14 to 26. For the greatest energy savings, choose the highest rated model that matches your budget.

Two-Speed Compressor

This type of compressor has both low and high speeds. It operates on low for approximately 80 percent of its run time and only ramps up to high when extra cooling is needed. This feature can significantly reduce your cooling costs whenever the system's full capacity isn't needed.

Variable-Speed Air Handler

Variable-speed air handlers have the ability to adjust their operating speed to match your cooling needs. They run almost continuously but operate on low about 75 percent of the time. This combination reduces energy consumption, improves air filtration and virtually eliminates temperature inconsistencies. It also provides better humidity control to combat musty odors and mold growth.

Automatic Fan Delay

Typically, an A/C's blower fan shuts down when the compressor cycles off, which wastes any cooled air remaining in the ducts. An automatic fan delay keeps the blower unit running for a brief period after the compressor shuts off so any conditioned air left in the ductwork is pushed out.

Fan-Only Switch

A fan-only switch gives you the option of shutting off the A/C's compressor, opening the windows and keeping the blower fan running to aid air circulation. It's a feature that works especially well with a whole-house ventilation system.

For expert advice about what features to look for in a central A/C for your Palm Beach or Martin County home, contact us at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about central A/Cs and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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It's easy to forget about your HVAC system until it stops working. Scheduling HVAC service visits should be at the top of your household to-do list or you can face costly and sometimes dangerous problems.  Following are some consequences of ignoring HVAC maintenance.

Safety Concerns

Carbon monoxide is one of the biggest concerns if you have a gas furnace. These must be checked regularly to ensure they're operating efficiently and to ensure that they're not emitting carbon monoxide into the home. The furnace can develop problems, such as a cracked heat exchanger, which can lead to CO buildup without you being aware of it until it's too late.

Fires are also a risk if there are mechanical or wiring problems in your HVAC system. During a service visit, a contractor should clean the motors, inspect electrical components and check parts for cracks, leaks and other potential hazards to ensure the system is operating safely.

Costly Repairs

During a maintenance visit, a technician will make any minor repairs needed. Taking care of small problems now can mean avoiding bigger problems later.

Reduced Efficiency

You can help keep your HVAC system clean by changing air filters monthly, but it also needs a more thorough cleaning of internal parts, which a professional technician does as part of the maintenance visit. Dirty components reduce efficiency, resulting in more energy wasted and higher bills.

Reduced Life Span

Like any other piece of machinery, an HVAC system needs to be oiled, cleaned and otherwise serviced to run smoothly or it will fail prematurely. Avoid having to replace your HVAC equipment before its time is due by keeping it professionally maintained.

For more about the consequences of ignoring HVAC maintenance, or to schedule a service visit, please contact us at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating. We've been serving customers since 1973 and look forward to serving you!

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about HVAC maintenance and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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The advancements made in A/C technology, performance and energy efficiency in recent years are astounding. A new high-efficiency cooling system can deliver a 50 percent greater seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) than a standard A/C manufactured just a decade ago. One of the components that helps drive exceptional efficiency is the variable-speed air handler. If you want to maximize cooling comfort and save energy in your Martin County home, make sure your next A/C has variable-speed technology.

Variable-Speed Versus Fixed-Speed Air Handlers

With only one speed, the blower motor of conventional fixed-speed air handlers crank up to full capacity. The results are noisy airflow, frequent cycling on and off and maximum energy consumption. Air conditioners with variable-speed air handlers adjust incrementally to meet and maintain the actual cooling load. By modulating the speed of the blower motor, variable-speed air handlers use less energy than conventional A/Cs.

Humidity Control and Indoor Air Quality

High indoor humidity is a comfort and indoor air quality problem for many Palm Beach homeowners. The cooling system helps control humidity as water vapor in warm return air condenses on the cold evaporator. Because variable-speed A/Cs operate at lower speeds for substantially longer cycles than conventional models, more airflow circulates across the evaporator and removes more indoor moisture.

The end result is better humidity control, enhanced comfort, lower cooling bills and healthier indoor air quality. With each pass of airflow through the air filter, more airborne contaminants are removed to help you breathe easier. Just make sure you change the air filter regularly.

Uniform Temperatures

Variable-speed A/Cs help eliminate hot and cold spots in the home. Longer and smoother cooling cycles keep cool air quietly moving through each room. When you pair a variable-speed air handler with an inverter-driven compressor, indoor temperatures are maintained within 0.5 degrees of your thermostat setting.

To learn more about the benefits of a variable-speed air handler when replacing or upgrading your A/C system, contact NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating. Providing exceptional service for Martin, Palm Beach County and Indian River County homeowners has been a family tradition since 1973.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about variable-speed air handlers and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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From furnishings to bed linens, every part of your home should look and feel comfortable. But what about the other factors that affect home comfort? Here are four of the biggest factors that can change the way you and your home feel.

Temperature

Indoor temperature is one of the most influential factors that affects home comfort. It's also one of the least stable, as something as simple as sunlight streaming through a window or even body heat can raise it. Issues with your HVAC system can cause uneven temperatures throughout your home.

Humidity

Regardless of the temperature in the room, the level of humidity can make the air feel hotter or colder than it actually is. Made up of minuscule droplets of water, humidity can hamper your body's natural ability to cool itself by preventing it from sweating. Because humid air feels heavy and sticky, it can add to discomfort, increasing how the actual temperature feels by as much as eight degrees.

Your home's air conditioner is the best way to beat the heat, cooling while dehumidifying. A hygrometer can help measure indoor humidity levels. A reading between 30 and 50 percent is best.

Air Quality

In addition to smelling bad, impurities in the air can also irritate the eyes, lungs and nose, and in the case of allergy sufferers, cause a reaction. The main offenders are:

• Particulates, or tiny particles such as dust, pollen or pet dander.
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are found in many cleaning products, adhesives, paints and other common household products
• Mold, otherwise known as a fungus that thrives in moist environments, along with mildew

An air purification system or UV lights can help improve indoor air quality, purifying the air and removing odors.

Control

The right HVAC system, controlled by a smart thermostat, allows you to manage your indoor environment, maintaining temperature and humidity levels, and preserving air quality.

To learn more about the factors that affect home comfort, call the experts at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating. Since 1973, we've provided quality service to homeowners in Indian River, Martin and Palm Beach counties and the surrounding areas.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about home comfort and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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When you need a new HVAC system, use the EnergyGuide label—the yellow tag with information regarding the appliance’s estimated annual energy needs—to determine future operational costs. This label demonstrates that the item passed the U.S. Department of Energy’s Appliance Standards Program, and you can use it when comparison-shopping for most any major appliance.

EnergyGuide Label Basics

• Fine print: Under the word “EnergyGuide,” there are two columns of small text on either side of the label. The left side lists the appliance’s key features. The right side lists specific information about the item, such as the manufacturer, model number and the appliance’s capacity or size.
• Estimated yearly operating cost: The respective section under the word “EnergyGuide” has a dollar amount in big text and a small graph. The dollar amount is an estimate of how much it will cost you to operate the appliance every year, based on the average national energy cost. The graph underneath shows the range of yearly operating costs for similar appliances. For most appliances, this section has a yellow background with black text. For refrigerators and stand-alone freezers, this section has yellow text and a black background.
• Estimated yearly electricity use: This section displays an estimate of the appliance’s annual energy use in kilowatt-hours (kWh). To get a better idea about how much it will cost you use the appliance every year, multiply the kilowatt-hours by your electricity rate, which you’ll find on your energy bill.
• Energy Star Logo: An appliance with the Energy Star logo on the bottom right corner of the EnergyGuide label signifies that it’s more energy efficient than similar standard appliances.

When shopping for a new HVAC system, or any major appliance, the EnergyGuide label gives you insight into the item’s operational costs.

To learn about comfort solutions that help save energy and money, contact NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating. We’ve proudly served Florida’s Martin, Indian River and Palm Beach counties since 1973.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about EnergyGuide labels and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Florida summers are known for fun in the sun and -- you guessed it -- high humidity levels. But just because the air outside is saturated with moisture doesn't mean that your home's interior should be muggy. By taking steps to lower humidity levels inside of your house, you can improve home comfort, promote healthy living conditions, prevent damage to woodwork and save money.

Spotting Humidity Problems

You might think that detecting excessive humidity within your home is a no-brainer. After all, if your house feels like a sauna, it's obvious that you have an issue. There are more subtle indicators, though. Does anyone in your household struggle with allergy problems? This could be caused by muggy conditions. Never overlook water stains on walls and ceilings, musty odors, mold growth, or condensation on windows. These are common signs that you need to lower humidity levels indoors.

Correcting Humidity Problems

There are many simple and affordable ways to lower humidity levels within your home such as the following.

• Running your fan on auto will prevent the accumulation of excess moisture. By leaving the fan set to "on", air will pass over wet coils when the condenser cycles down. This re-humidifies the home.
• Ventilation is essential. Dryer and kitchen vents and bathroom fans should all be ventilated outdoors.
• Placing moisture-absorbant plants like Boston ferns in problem areas can make a difference.
• Dehumidifiers are ideal for spot treating rooms with excessive humidity.
• Seal off air leaks and leaky ducts, as these are major causes of high humidity levels.
• Use plastic vapor barriers to cover dirt floors in basements, crawl spaces and cellars.
• Minimize moisture-generating activities like boiling water and taking hot showers on humid days.

If humidity continues to be a problem within your home, you might want to consider investing in an air conditioner with a variable-speed air handler. Be sure it's properly sized for efficiency and moisture control. A whole-home dehumidifier is another great option.

Learn more about how to lower humidity levels indoors by contacting NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating. We serve counties of Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, and Indian River.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about humidity and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Choosing between “Fan On” or “Auto” when setting your thermostat can have a dramatic effect on your comfort and energy usage. Both settings have benefits, though the “Auto” option tends to be the better choice in most cases.

The “Fan On” Option

Choosing this setting will keep the fan of your HVAC system running constantly between heating or cooling cycles. When running, the fan can use between 300 and 500 watts of electricity.

Advantages:

• Better air circulation, which reduces hot or cold spots between cycles.
• Constant air filtration, which improves indoor air quality and helps reduce allergy and asthma symptoms.
• Less wear on the blower motor due to fewer stops and starts.

Disadvantages:

• Higher energy usage because the fan is constantly running.
• Reduced dehumidification. Any moisture left on the evaporator coils between cooling cycles can be evaporated again by the constant air movement.
• Cool draft from air movement in the winter.
• More frequent air filter changes.

The “Auto” Option

In this mode, the system fan only turns on as required by the HVAC system to distribute air.

Advantages:

• Less energy usage because the fan is off between cycles.
• Better humidity control. Moisture on the evaporator coil can drain between cooling cycles.
• Air filters last longer.

Disadvantages:

• Reduced air filtration due to intermittent airflow.
• Less even distribution of heated or cooled air.
• Increased wear on the blower motor.

With less energy usage and reduced humidity, setting your thermostat to “Auto” is better in the long run. But by manually running the fan for a short while after the heating or cooling cycle ends, you can enjoy some of the benefits of both options. These benefits include better air filtration, lower humidity and reduced energy usage.

Some programmable thermostats offer advanced fan controls to automate the process. Another option is to upgrade to an HVAC system featuring a variable-speed fan that can circulate air between cycles at a reduced speed, saving energy.

For more information about setting your thermostat properly, talk to our team at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating. We serve Martin, Palm Beach and Indian River County.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about thermostats and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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Have you heard about thefts of A/C units on the news? You can prevent yourself from becoming a victim of this costly crime. Read on to learn about protecting your A/C unit from theft.

Why A/C Units Are Targeted

A/C units contain valuable copper coils that can be easily removed by an experienced copper thief within minutes. Some thieves don’t bother with dismantling on-site, but simply steal the entire unit to dismantle it in a private setting. As copper prices rise, we'll likely see a rise in copper theft.

What You Can Do

Consider the following strategies to begin protecting your A/C unit from theft:

• Install motion sensor lights. Although many thefts occur in broad daylight, installing motion sensor lights near the A/C unit can deter night theft. No thief wants to be caught in the spotlight.
• Have a cage installed around the unit. Thieves want to get the job done quickly. A metal cage secured around the unit prevents easy access. Cages can be secured to a concrete base or, in some cases, to the home itself. Discuss cage installation with your contractor during an HVAC maintenance visit.
• Fence the area and keep the gate locked. This makes it more difficult for thieves to access the unit. Any tall fence will do. A privacy fence obscures the location of the unit from anyone passing by. Keep in mind, however, that a privacy fence could potentially just give the thief more cover to do their work unseen by your neighbors.
• Alarm the unit. You can purchase A/C alarms that will sound a loud siren if the A/C refrigerant lines are tampered with. Some alarms can also be connected to your home alarm.
• Set up video surveillance. While video cameras may not always prevent theft, they can act as a deterrent and may lead to the thief being caught. Post warning signs clearly stating that the area is under surveillance. Thieves may rethink their plans and move to an easier target.

For more information about protecting your A/C unit from theft, please contact us at NisAir Air Conditioning and Heating.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/Cs and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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The dangers of outdoor air pollution are well known. However, only a small number of people pay any attention to the indoor air pollution that circulates throughout their homes. The reality is that indoor air pollution poses a considerable risk to your health and it is important to take steps to mitigate it.

Recently, a study conducted by 3M discovered some surprising information, namely, that homeowners took great steps to remove visible indoor pollution, such as spills and stains, but few took steps to mitigate unseen air pollution. Furthermore, the study showed that most people feel the air within their homes is cleaner and safer than outside air.

In truth, indoor air pollution can be between two and five times greater than outdoor levels. This pollution comes from a wide variety of sources including scented candles, chemical cleaners, building materials and improperly maintained appliances and HVAC systems.

The good news is that improving indoor air quality requires only a few minor adjustments within your home and to your lifestyle. Taking the following steps will go a long way toward reducing the amount of air pollution you're exposed to at home:

• Clean your ducts. This removes pollen, dirt and other allergens that can be blown about as air circulates through your home.
• Service your HVAC system and appliances. Make sure that they are properly ventilated and not leaking carbon monoxide or natural gas into the air.
• Stop using chemical cleaners. Go green and instead purchase or create your own cleaning agents that are not chemical based.
• Blow out the candles. Scented candles smell great, but the chemicals used to mask odors are highly toxic and can accumulate quickly within your home.
• Buy products that are low in or free of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs seep from furniture, laminate glues, paint and other items and are highly toxic.

Indoor air pollution is nothing to sneeze at, and the team at NisAir Air Conditoning and Heating can help you improve your indoor air quality. We encourage you to contact us to learn more about our services and the steps we can take to clear the air within your Florida home.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Martin, Palm Beach, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties in Florida about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about indoor air and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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