Three Essential Spring Furnace Maintenance Tips

Spring furnace maintenance is really all about making sure your furnace is in good shape for next fall/winter. It also ensures that when it's time to turn on your air conditioning in the summer, your system is ready to go.

A majority of Canadian households run their furnaces from October to March or April. That's about 6-7 months of furnace use, on average. Those who have HVAC systems that produce both heat in winter and cool air in summer run their systems nearly year-round.

No matter what kind of system you have at home, the constant use means wear and tear on parts. Running a furnace or HVAC system is just like running a car: the more you use it, the faster it will wear out. This is why your system needs regular maintenance, just like your car does.

Your system should be "tuned up" at two critical points each year: pre-fall/winter (before you need to use your heat) and spring (when you transition from using heat to turning off your furnace and using your air conditioning). Here's what you should be focusing on in the spring:

1) Pressure wash the outdoor condensing unit or heat pump. Spring is the best time to do this. Wait until the weather has warmed up and you're certain that you won't be using your heat again until the fall. Pressure washing of this component removes winter grime and bits of gravel that frequently get caught inside of parts during the cold, wet and slushy weather. It also helps to loosen up and remove dead leaves that may have gotten caught in its parts. A clean system runs more efficiently. Plus, you're less likely to incur damage to parts from all those bits.

2) Check your filter. Your furnace filter needs to be replaced approximately every 3-4 months when you are regularly using your system. Here are some general tips on how to decide whether you need to change the filter or not:

* Is the filter visibly dirty or clogged? If you can see bits of dust and debris in it, it's a good idea to change it. If dust and debris is minimal and you don't plan on running your system for a few months, you can opt to change it before you turn it on in the fall. Just don't forget! If there's a lot of debris in it, go ahead and change it now.

* Check the color of the filter. Filters may be white, gray or cream-colored. Even if there is minimal visible debris caught in the filter, you should change it if the color of the filter has changed/darkened.

* When you replace the filter, write the date on the new one in permanent marker. This way you'll know for certain whether you've been using it longer than three or four months.

* If your filter has been in use for more than four months, change it even if it doesn't seem very dirty. Not all debris can be seen, and your furnace will perform more efficiently with a clean filter.

3) Get your system inspected. You should do this at least once per year. If you do it in the fall, it may not be necessary to do it again in the spring.

However, spring is an ideal time to attend to this task. This way you won't freeze if it turns out that there is something wrong or if a part needs replacing. Few things are worse than waiting until the first cold snap of autumn to turn on the furnace, only to discover that it's not working, and now you're stuck with no heat while you wait for a new part to be ordered and installed.

For the same reasons, spring time is a great time to replace an old furnace or HVAC with a new one. Replacing a furnace usually takes some time, anywhere from days to weeks. Doing it in spring means you won't go without heat and air conditioning during other times of the year when you really need it.

Sandium Heating and Air Conditioning is your spring furnace maintenance specialist.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jan_Kukler

Heating and Air Conditioning Duct Maintenance

Your HVAC ductwork is the series of tubes that carry treated air through out the building. If you are thinking about installing a brand new central air or heat pump inside your residence, you should make certain the ductwork that could carry your new higher efficiency air conditioner is up to par with the system. As the air flows by means of these ducts, any leaks or issues will ruin the impact in the whole system. You may believe that the system itself isn't working as it should- when it is really the duct-work that is causing the problems.

When installing or diagnosing a system for HVAC repairs, a good technician will inspect all of the ducts. First off he is looking to determine if the existing duct system will match the new air handler that was installed. This will also show if there are any leaks or other challenges. Lastly, ducts need to be insulated and routed inside a certain way to maintain safety. This approach is known in the industry as: checking for ductwork integrity.

The typical residential HVAC system has some leakage. So it is possible that you may get the same cost savings in just repairing the ducts as you would in investing in a new HE system. If 20% of the air is leaking, then your HVAC unit will need to function harder. This results in larger bills and possible furnace repairs. So it is important to ask the HVAC tech to check the integrity on the ducts. They will not mind- it is what they are trained to do.

To sustain the efficiency of this well sealed ductwork, your local Sandium HVAC company will install insulation around it. The insulation also serves to safeguard the inside of your property from the temperature variations brought on by hot or cool air flowing. At these temperature change points moisture tends to accumulate. As water saturated air below the dew point gets in contact with warm beams, then it'll sweat. This ruins the ducts and may trigger mold and mildew difficulties. To counteract this be sure there is a vapor barrier between the treated air and the outside air.

To schedule an appointment with one of our skilled technicians to check your duct work please visit Sandium.Com or call (408) 894-9072

Carrier is Keeping History Cool

Each year, millions of people from around the world flock to the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City to gaze in wonder and amazement at 1,300 square meters of frescoes that adorn the cathedral ceiling. Originally painted by Michelangelo in the 1500s, the frescoes were restored in the early 1990s to showcase their vibrant original colors. The restoration also brought an influx of visitors, which exposed the masterpieces to damaging heat, moisture, dirt and dust. That’s when the experts at Carrier arrived with a masterpiece of their own.

Fearing that they may eventually be forced to close the Sistine Chapel to the public to protect its ceiling, the Vatican turned to a global team of Carrier engineers from France, Italy and the United States. The task they faced was a daunting one: create a reliable solution capable of controlling air and humidity and maintaining a consistent environment for the chapel’s interior, all while creating minimal noise and remaining invisible to observers.

After five years of work, including special computer simulations to analyze building loads, internal air circulation patterns and control system performance throughout the chapel, Carrier delivered on the Sistine Chapel project’s exacting specifications.

The innovative system was unveiled in 1993 at a special ceremony attended by Pope John Paul II, who stated, “You have, we might say, become co-workers with the painters in making present their vision of God’s glorious deeds.”

Carrier’s solution was glorious in its own right, employing 92 electronic sensors that monitor the air and communicate through 15 miles of virtually invisible wiring. A Carrier water chiller two floors below attaches to diffusers located beneath the chapel’s six south windows to blow low-velocity air over the painting’s surface for protection.

Custom algorithms allow the system to adjust seamlessly to various conditions and maintain a consistent temperature of 68 to 77°F (20 to 25°C) and 55 percent humidity – ideal conditions for preserving the 500-year-old frescoes. Sound-absorbing material and vibration dampers reduce noise so the chapel can be used for religious services while the Carrier system quietly preserves the breathtakingly delicate Renaissance paintings on its ceiling.

For centuries, people have been captivated by the beauty and intricacy of the Sistine Chapel frescoes. Using strokes of brilliance that Michelangelo himself would no doubt have admired, Carrier has helped ensure that they’ll continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.

To learn more about Carrier's home HVAC products please visit Sandium.Com

What To Do When Rooms Are Too Hot

To learn more about these products please visit Sandium.Com

CARRIER’S INVENTION OF MODERN AIR CONDITIONING CELEBRATES 110 YEARS OF MAKING THE WORLD A COOL PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY

July 17, 2012

FARMINGTON, Conn., US

What started as an invention to control humidity in a New York printing plant in 1902 has forever changed the way people around the world live, work and play. July 17th marks the 110th anniversary of the invention of modern air conditioning by Dr. Willis H. Carrier, inventor and founder of Carrier, the world’s leader in high technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions and a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

On July 17, 1902, Carrier, a young research engineer just a year out of Cornell University, finalized the design to stabilize the humidity in the air so the dimensions of the paper at the Sackett & Wilhelms Lithography and Printing Company in Brooklyn, N.Y., would remain constant throughout the printing process. Since then this innovation has been applied to everything from malls to manufacturing facilities, buses to businesses and houses to hospitals – all looking to establish a comfortable environment.

“In the early 1900s, air conditioning was primarily an industrial application that enabled countless industries to thrive with candy-making companies, textile mills and theaters some of the most enthusiastic early adopters,” said Geraud Darnis, president & CEO, UTC Climate, Controls & Security. “Over the years, Carrier’s innovations looked to make possible what was previously impossible. Today our focus remains true to our heritage as we continually push the envelope to create energy efficient, environmentally responsible products for both commercial and residential applications in all areas of the world.”

A leading engineer of his day, Carrier filed more than 80 patents over the course of his career. To celebrate the 110th milestone, the company launched a new website,www.WillisCarrier.com, in April dedicated to its rich history, and containing little-known vignettes about Willis Carrier’s life and work. In June, the company released its newly commissioned 144-page, hardcover book, called Weathermakers to the World, now available on Amazon.com, which chronicles the entrepreneurial spirit of Willis Carrier and the robust history of modern air conditioning.

“At 25 years old, Willis Carrier's foresight forever changed the world and paved the way for more than a century of once-impossible innovations,” Darnis said. “His genius created an entire industry essential to global productivity and personal comfort.”

To view Carrier’s history website, visit www.WillisCarrier.com. To order a copy of the Weathermakers to the World book, visit amazon.com.

About Carrier
Carrier is the world’s leader in high technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Carrier experts provide sustainable solutions, integrating energy-efficient products, building controls, and energy services for residential, commercial, retail, transport and foodservice customers. Founded by the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier improves the world around us through engineered innovation and environmental stewardship. Carrier is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. Visit www.carrier.com for more information.

If you would like to learn more about Carrier's innovative products for heating and air conditioning please visit Sandium.Com

Carrier Sustainability

Visit Sandium.Com to learn more about Carrier Heating and Air Conditioning Products

Carrier Lead Sponsor of Urban Green's First Annual EBIE Awards

CARRIER LEAD SPONSOR OF URBAN GREEN’S FIRST ANNUAL EBIE AWARDS

June 28, 2012

FARMINGTON, Conn., US

Carrier, the world’s leader in high technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions, is pleased to be the lead sponsor for Urban Green Council’s EBie Awards™, a new juried awards competition to select and highlight best practices in greening existing buildings. The event will be held at the Hard Rock Café Live Theatre in New York City with winners revealed live from the 18 finalists. Carrier is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

“Carrier and United Technologies have a long tradition of innovative technologies for improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings. Our city, our country, our world will not meet our sustainability goals without addressing the existing built environment,” said John Mandyck, chief sustainability officer at UTC Climate, Controls & Security, who also serves as co-vice chair of Urban Green Council Board of Directors. “We love the EBies because they do just that – they show us what can be done in our largest opportunity area.”

Carrier is the only company in the world to be a founding member of the U.S., Argentina, China, India, Singapore and France Green Building Councils. In fact, Carrier was instrumental in launching the U.S. Green Building Council® (USGBC) in 1993 and was the first company in the world to join the organization. Since 2008, Carrier representatives have served on the Board of Urban Green Council, one of the largest chapters of USGBC.

The EBies are a program of Urban Green Council, which aims to lead the advancement of sustainability in urban buildings through education, advocacy and research. The EBie awards program was started this year to recognize significant increased environmental performance in existing buildings (hence the EBies), among building operators, facilities managers, owners, engineers, retro-commissioning agents and other professionals who conceived and implemented the work. Focus areas include energy, water, operations, lighting and landscaping as well as effective energy use education.

“The goal of the EBies is to do for existing building retrofits what the Oscars did for film,” says Russell Unger, executive director, Urban Green Council. “We want to encourage and recognize excellence throughout the industry. There are many people doing incredible work in existing buildings and going totally unnoticed. With Carrier’s help, the EBies are going to change that.”

For more information and to view the winners, visit the EBies website at www.ebies.org.

About Carrier
Carrier is the world’s leader in high technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. Carrier experts provide sustainable solutions, integrating energy efficient products, building controls, and energy services for residential, commercial, retail, transport and foodservice customers. Founded by the inventor of modern air conditioning, Carrier improves the world around us through engineered innovation and environmental stewardship. Carrier is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. Visit www.carrier.com for more information.

For more information on Carrier products for your home please visit Sandium.Com

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, but in extremely humid climates or in cases where the air conditioner is oversized, it may not achieve a low humidity. Running a dehumidifier in your air conditioned home will increase your energy use, both for the dehumidifier itself and because the air conditioner will require more energy to cool your house. A preferable alternative is a dehumidifying heat pipe, which can be added as a retrofit to most existing systems.

Types of Central Air Conditioners

A central air conditioner is either a split-system unit or a packaged unit.

In a split-system central air conditioner, an outdoor metal cabinet contains the condenser and compressor, and an indoor cabinet contains the evaporator. In many split-system air conditioners, this indoor cabinet also contains a furnace or the indoor part of a heat pump. The air conditioner's evaporator coil is installed in the cabinet or main supply duct of this furnace or heat pump. If your home already has a furnace but no air conditioner, a split-system is the most economical central air conditioner to install.

In a packaged central air conditioner, the evaporator, condenser, and compressor are all located in one cabinet, which usually is placed on a roof or on a concrete slab next to the house's foundation. This type of air conditioner also is used in small commercial buildings. Air supply and return ducts come from indoors through the home's exterior wall or roof to connect with the packaged air conditioner, which is usually located outdoors. Packaged air conditioners often include electric heating coils or a natural gas furnace. This combination of air conditioner and central heater eliminates the need for a separate furnace indoors.

Choosing or Upgrading Your Central Air Conditioner

Central air conditioners are more efficient than room air conditioners. In addition, they are out of the way, quiet, and convenient to operate. To save energy and money, you should try to buy an energy-efficient air conditioner and reduce your central air conditioner's energy use. In an average air-conditioned home, air conditioning consumes more than 2000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, causing power plants to emit about 3500 pounds of carbon dioxide and 31 pounds of sulfur dioxide.

If you are considering adding central air conditioning to your home, the deciding factor may be the need for ductwork. See the section on limitations when replacing existing systems for more information.

If you have an older central air conditioner, you might choose to replace the outdoor compressor with a modern, high-efficiency unit. If you do so, consult a local heating and cooling contractor to assure that the new compressor is properly matched to the indoor unit. However, considering recent changes in refrigerants and air conditioning designs, it might be wiser to replace the entire system.

Today's best air conditioners use 30%–50% less energy to produce the same amount of cooling as air conditioners made in the mid 1970s. Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, you may save 20%–40% of your cooling energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.

Proper sizing and installation are key elements in determining air conditioner efficiency. Too large a unit will not adequately remove humidity. Too small a unit will not be able to attain a comfortable temperature on the hottest days. Improper unit location, lack of insulation, and improper duct installation can greatly diminish efficiency.

When buying an air conditioner, look for a model with a high efficiency. Central air conditioners are rated according to their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). SEER indicates the relative amount of energy needed to provide a specific cooling output. Many older systems have SEER ratings of 6 or less. The minimum SEER allowed today is 13. Look for the ENERGY STAR® label for central air conditioners with SEER ratings of 13 or greater, but consider using air conditioning equipment with higher SEER ratings for greater savings.

New residential central air conditioner standards went into effect on January 23, 2006. Air conditioners manufactured after January 26, 2006 must achieve a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 13 or higher. SEER 13 is 30% more efficient than the previous minimum SEER of 10. The standard applies only to appliances manufactured after January 23, 2006. Equipment with a rating less than SEER 13 manufactured before this date may still be sold and installed.

The average homeowner will remain unaffected by this standard change for some time to come. The standards do not require you to change your existing central air conditioning units, and replacement parts and services should still be available for your home's systems. The "lifespan" of a central air conditioner is about 15 to 20 years. Manufacturers typically continue to support existing equipment by making replacement parts available and honoring maintenance contracts after the new standard goes into effect.

Other Features to Look For When Buying an Air Conditioner:

• A thermal expansion valve and a high-temperature rating (EER) greater than 11.6, for high-efficiency operation when the weather is at its hottest
• A variable speed air handler for new ventilation systems
• A unit that operates quietly
• A fan-only switch, so you can use the unit for nighttime ventilation to substantially reduce air-conditioning costs
• A filter check light to remind you to check the filter after a predetermined number of operating hours
• An automatic-delay fan switch to turn off the fan a few minutes after the compressor turns off.

Installation and Location of Air Conditioners

If your air conditioner is installed correctly, or if major installation problems are found and fixed, it will perform efficiently for years with only minor routine maintenance. However, many air conditioners are not installed correctly. As an unfortunate result, modern energy-efficient air conditioners can perform almost as poorly as older inefficient models.

Be sure that your contractor performs the following procedures when installing a new central air conditioning system:

• Allows adequate indoor space for the installation, maintenance, and repair of the new system, and installs an access door in the furnace or duct to provide a way to clean the evaporator coil
• Uses a duct-sizing methodology such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual D
• Ensures there are enough supply registers to deliver cool air and enough return air registers to carry warm house air back to the air conditioner
• Installs duct work within the conditioned space, not in the attic, wherever possible
• Seals all ducts with duct mastic and heavily insulates attic ducts
• Locates the condensing unit where its noise will not keep you or your neighbors awake at night, if possible
• Locates the condensing unit where no nearby objects will block the flow of air to it
• Verifies that the newly installed air conditioner has the exact refrigerant charge and air flow rate specified by the manufacturer
• Locates the thermostat away from heat sources, such as windows or supply registers.

If you are replacing an older or failed split system, be sure that the evaporator coil is replaced with a new one that exactly matches the condenser coil in the new condensing unit. (The air conditioner's efficiency will likely not improve if the existing evaporator coil is left in place; in fact, the old coil could cause the new compressor to fail prematurely.)

For more information on air conditioners please visit Sandium.Com

Article Courtesy of Energy Savers

If it looks like this- then you should give us a call!

If your air conditioner looks like this it is probably costing you a arm and a leg in utility bills during the summer months. It is time for a upgrade.. Visit Sandium.Com to set up an appointment to look at new air conditioners. 

10 Tips on Buying a New Air Conditioner

This informative guide will tell you everything you need to know to find the perfect air conditioner for your home.

Although this review is most relevant to people living in the USA, other readers may still find it useful. Portable and central air units are outside of the scope of this guide.


1. Should I buy an air conditioner?

You should consider buying one during the spring "rebate" season if your current unit is old and you are worried about its reliability. A new unit can also be a good idea if your old unit has an 8-EER or less. During the summer, units are expensive and have limited availability. However, if your old AC unit is broken then you have no choice.

Most companies have rebates in the March-June timeframe and the new, more efficient models appear in the spring. Although you can get some bargains after the season, a warm summer can leave pretty slim pickings. Don't forget that your warrantee starts on the day you buy it, so buying in the fall effectively shortens the warrantee.


2. What type of air conditioner do I need? 

Air conditioners come in four main types: window units, through the wall units, portable units and whole house/central air units. Window units come in three main flavors: double-hung windows, sliding windows and casement windows.

Window units will usually convert between types with special hardware, which is often included. Small through the wall units will often convert into window units. Large through the wall, and central air units usually require professional installation, which adds to the cost.


3. What features do I need? 

You should expect the unit to have an adjustable thermostat, at least two cooling speeds, two fan speeds and an energy efficient setting, which stops the fan when the unit is not cooling. The unit should have an adjustable vent, which allows you to aim the cool air, and an exhaust vent setting allowing fresh air to be introduced from outside. The filter should be easily accessible for removal and cleaning. You want a manufacturer's warrantee for at least 5 years, with full replacement for at least 1 year.

Some of the newer units have an electrostatic filter available either standard or as an option. This filter will remove extremely small particles from the air. This is a super feature for people with allergies.


4. What is EER? 

EER or Energy Efficiency Ratio is a measure of how efficient a particular air conditioning unit is. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit and the less it will cost each year to run. Small units currently have a top EER of about 11, while the most efficient large units have an EER of about 13. Don't be fooled by the ranges shown on the yellow tags. The top rated units are often beyond the range.


5. What cooling capacity do I need? 

Cooling capacity is measured in BTU/hour. (British Thermal Units per Hour) The higher the number, the more powerful the unit is. A small room of 150 square feet may only need a 5000 BTU/Hour unit, whereas a room of 1200 square feet may need a 19,000 BTU/Hour monster.

However, room size is not the only factor that contributes to the capacity. There are many other factors including:

· the number and size of the windows
· the direction the room faces
· the available shade
· how well the room is insulated
· how many people use the room
· what appliances (computers etc.) are in the room

The little chart the salesman uses is woefully inadequate. The easiest way to calculate the required size is to use one of the on-line guides. There are many available. Look to see what figures the guide of your choice requires, then measure your room. I liked the one in the free area of the Consumer Reports site best:

http://www.consumerreports.org/Special/Worksheets/Reports/ac99wks.html

It is important to get a unit as close to the correct capacity as possible. Too small a unit may not be able to cool the room on a hot day. Too large a unit will cost more to operate. It may also cool the room too quickly and leave excessive moisture in the air.


6. How much will it cost to run? 

The number printed on the yellow tag at the store, about 8.4 cents per kilowatt-hour, is the national average cost for electricity, which for most of us is a fantasy. Try not to laugh too hard when you read it.

The better guides will calculate the estimated annual cost for running AC units for you. You need to enter the cost of electricity in your area, so go find your last bill and last summer's bill if you can. The guide will show the annual cost at different EER levels. Print this out and take it to the store with you.


7. How much does my electricity cost? 

Guess what? Your electricity bill is probably unreadable, I know mine is. Theoretically, you should add the generation cost per kilowatt-hour to the delivery cost per kilowatt-hour to get a true cost. However, many areas charge different rates for different usage and have a surcharge for high usage during summer months. Duh!

An easy way is to divide the total payment by the kilowatt-hours used. Do it for your last bill and for last summer's bill and use the higher of the two numbers. This number is not totally accurate, but it works well. (The number should be about 5-50 cents. If it isn't you probably did the sum wrong.)

Don't forget. The national grid is old and needs work. Nuclear power plants are aging too, and will cost a fortune to replace. Oil powered generation will be effected by high oil prices. You can bet money that conventionally generated power is not going to get cheaper.


8. How do I calculate the payback?

Start with the EER of your old unit. Subtract 1 from this EER for every 5 years of its age -- more if you never clean it. Use the guide to generate the annual cost for the old unit and for the unit you want to buy. You may have to extrapolate if the figures are beyond the range of your chart. Subtract the two numbers to get the annual savings. Divide the purchase price by the annual savings to get the payback time. If the payback time is lower than the warrantee period, it's like money in the bank. If it is less than double the warrantee period, it is still probably a good buy.

You live near Washington DC which has a cooling season of about 600 hours per year and your adjusted electricity cost is about 25 cents per kilowatt-hour. Replacing a 6000 BTU/Hour 6-EER unit with a 5800 BTU/Hour 11 EER unit will save about $60 a year. If you pay $300 for the new unit then you will get your money back in 5 years.


9. Which AC should I buy?

You should buy the unit of the correct capacity and type that has the highest EER, if you can afford it. Buying a unit of lower EER that costs less is usually a false economy. However, in areas with very short cooling seasons, or extremely cheap power, a lower cost unit may be a good buy.

(Use your guide to find the annual cost to run the two units. Multiply the difference by the length of the warrantee. Add that number to the cost of the lower unit. Is it still a bargain?)

Of course, common sense still applies so follow the normal rules:

· Check the unit at on-line rating services like epinions.com.
· Use on-line price comparison services to find the going "street" price.
· Consult the manufacturer's site for the EER, BTU/Hour and list price.
· Check the manufacturer's site for rebates.


10. Where should I buy it?

AC units are heavy so it is generally better to buy locally. Make sure the store is an Authorized Dealer or some manufacturers will not honor warrantees and rebates. If you are out in the boonies, consider shopping on-line. Look for companies with free delivery, and make sure you check the store out with rating services like Bizrate.com and Gomez.com.

Always use a credit card. If there is a problem, the credit card provider will beat up the store far more effectively than you can. Use your gold or platinum card to "double" the duration of full replacement warrantee -- usually up to an extra year.

If the unit requires professional installation, see if the store can recommend someone and factor that cost into your decision. Make sure the installer is licensed and insured. Check with the Better Business Bureau.


For more info on choosing the right air conditioner please visit Sandium.Com
original article from epinions

Summer Energy Savings Tips

SUMMERTIME ENERGY-SAVING TIPS

These tips are designed to help you choose effective ways to reduce your energy bills. Some measures may not be relevant depending on climate, the age of your home and appliances, and past improvements made to your home.
The savings numbers are based on your total summer electric bill. Equipment mentioned must be electric powered for estimates to be accurate.


FAST AND FREE
The average home spends about $1,900 a year on energy costs. But you can lower your energy bills and help save the environment at the same time!
Be a speedy chef

• Nothing is more energy efficient for cooking than your microwave. It uses two-thirds less energy than your stove.

Push a button to wash your dishes

• Surprise! Your dishwasher uses less water than washing dishes by hand. Then let dishes air-dry to save even more!

Fill up the fridge

• Having lots of food in your fridge keeps it from warming up too fast when the door is open. So your fridge doesn't have to work as hard to stay cool.

Cutting back unnecessary energy use is an easy way to reduce energy consumption while saving money. Here are some additional suggestions you can do at home, at absolutely no cost to you.
Turn up your thermostat
Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees or off when you are away. Using ceiling or room fans allows you to set the thermostat higher because the air movement will cool the room. Always take into account health considerations and be sure to drink plenty of fluids in warm weather. (Save: 1 - 3 percent per degree, for each degree the thermostat is set above 72 degrees)
Use your appliances wisely
To help prevent electricity outages, avoid running your appliances during peak hours, -- from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. -- or anytime an electricity emergency is declared.

• Do your laundry efficiently by using the warm or cold water setting for washing your clothes. Always use cold water to rinse clothes. (Save: 4 percent)


• Line dry clothes whenever you can. (Save up to 5 percent)


• When you need to use the dryer, run full loads, use the moisture-sensing setting, and clean the clothes dryer lint trap after each use. (save: 0.5 percent)


• Conserve energy by running your dishwasher only when it is fully loaded, and turn off the dry cycle and air dry dishes instead. (save: 1 percent)

Operating swimming pool filters and cleaning sweeps efficiently

• Reduce the operating time of your pool filter and automatic cleaning sweep to fourto five hours, and only during off-peak time. (Save: 1-2 percent per hour of reduction)

Eliminate wasted energy

• Turn off appliances, lights and equipment when not in use. (Save: 2%)


• Unplug electronic devices and chargers when they aren't in use-most new electronics use electricity even when switched "off." Turn computers and printers off at the power strip. (Save: 1-2 percent)


• Unplug or recycle that spare refrigerator in the garage if you don't really need it. This will save you up to $150 per year! (Save: 10-20 percent)

INEXPENSIVE ENERGY SOLUTIONS
Make a quick trip to your local hardware store to purchase inexpensive energy-saving tools and equipment.
Replace air conditioner filters
Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run longer, increasing energy use. Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit. (Save: 1-2 percent)
Plug your home's leaks
Weather-strip, seal, and caulk leaky doors and windows and install foam gaskets behind outlet covers. (Save: up to 2 percent)
Choose ENERGY STAR® products

• Buy ENERGY STAR® certified table lamps and light fixtures, and replace your incandescent light bulbs that are used more than two hours per day with ENERGY STAR® compact fluorescent bulbs. For example, install compact fluorescent bulbs in your porch light if you leave it on overnight. (Savings: for each bulb you'll save 0.2 percent for each hour the bulb operates on a typical day. Therefore, replacing an incandescent bulb that burns 10 hours per day will save 2 percent)


• Buy ENERGY STAR® certified torchieres. (Save: up to 1 percent for each hour/day that it's on)


• Install an ENERGY STAR® programmable thermostat. (Save: 1-3 percent)

GOOD ENERGY SAVING INVESTMENTS
Planning to do some remodeling soon? Time to replace old appliances? Consider these energy efficiency suggestions when you make purchases.
Install a whole house fan
A whole house fan is permanently installed in your attic and draws cool air into your home through the windows while forcing hot air out through your attic vents. Use after sundown when the outside temperature drops below 80 degrees, and in the early morning to cool your house and help reduce your air conditioning use. (Save: up to 5 percent)
Install window shading
Install patio covers, awnings, and solar window screens to shade your home from the sun. For additional future savings, use strategically planted trees, shrubs and vines to shade your home. (Save: 5 percent)
Solar control window films applied to existing glass in windows and doors is an effective method to reduce peak demand during hot months and conserve energy anytime air conditioning might be required. In addition to the energy management benefits, the use of these films can also reduce exposure to ultraviolet radiation and reduce glare. Vist theInternational Window Film Association for more information. (save 5-10 percent)
Invest in a new air-conditioning unit
If your air conditioner is on the way out, buy an ENERGY STAR® air conditioner. (Save: up to 10 percent)
Seal your ducts
Leaking ductwork accounts for 25 percent of cooling costs in an average home, so have your ducts tested and have any leaks or restrictions repaired by a qualified contractor. Note: duct cleaning is not the same as duct sealing. As of October 1, 2005, if you install a new central air conditioner or furnace, your ducts will have to be inspected. (Save: 10 -20 percent)
Replace your refrigerator with an ENERGY STAR® model
Refrigerators with a top or bottom freezer design can save you an additional 2-3% on your bill compared to a side-by-side design. (Save: 10 percent)
Increase attic insulation
If existing insulation level is R-19 or less, consider insulating your attic to at least R-30. (Save: 10 percent)
Install ENERGY STAR® windows
If your windows are due for replacement, ENERGY STAR® windows can make your house more comfortable year-round. (Save: up to 10 percent)

For more energy savings tips visit Sandium.Com

Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps Installation -- Sandium

Electricity Bills Too High?

High energy bills are a sure sign of a home performance problems. Although many homeowners are quick to blame the furnace or the windows, after investigating hundreds of homes, we find that often some small changes can have a big impact on reducing home energy costs.
To improve the energy efficiency of your home, and to reduce your energy bills, we recommend having a comfort specialist do a top to bottom evaluation of your home. After we examine you ducts, insulation levels, ventilation rates, thermostats, furnace condition, and air conditioners, we will provide you with cost-effective suggestions that will make your home feel better, and cost much less to run. We offer a FREE walk-through audit when we visit your home for the evaluation of a new heating and cooling system. For and extremely reasonable fee, we also offer diagnostic testing to calculate duct leakage rates and air leakage coming into your home -- so you know exactly, and scientifically what is going on in your home.


To have us come out and do an energy audit please visit Sandium.Com

Testimonials from our Customers

1/28/2012


We needed out duct work worked on and our heater service. We knew that a 20+ old furnace might need to be replaced. Not saying we were excited about this prospect but Sandium helped ease the pain of a new system. I found them through yelp and PG+E. From the moment I spoke to Tyler, I knew he was a cool guy. We scheduled an appointment and he was upfront and honest about all the alternatives. The best way to go was through a rebate program.
The crew that worked on the project was nice and courteous. Chava was the manager and he was great.  A real nice guy and a guy that was looking out for us at every turn. 
The only bummer thing was a rebate that was offered on our unit did not go through. It had expired before we could take advantage of it.


Rox R

January 7, 2012

I had my first introduction to Sandium yesterday.   Nik from Sandium came out to my house to give me a quote request.   I have dealt with dozens of trades people in the past twenty years of living in the bay area and must say that Nik came across as a REAL professional who knows his trade cold.   Given he is one of the co-owners I am not surprised to see the man five star ratings others have posted for Sandium.  They certainly passed the first step I look for a company I want to deal with - do they know their stuff and are are they current, are they courteous, and are they willing to take the time to understand your needs and priorities.

Bay Area, Savvy Consumer

5/12/2012

Sandium installed an air sourced heat pump for us.  A part was defective (from the factory) so we didn't have heat for two days, but I would use them again in a heart beat!  They worked long hours to fix the problem, communicated with us about everything, were very clean and professional.  I've recommended them to friends and they were equally pleased with the work.

B.F

6/5/2011

I highly recommend Sandium for A/C work.

When shopping for A/C installation two years ago for my new home, I talked to three different A/C specialists. Sandium stood head and shoulders above the other service providers I spoke to. Nik was the lead pre-sales consultant. He was incredibly professional, timely, excellent at answering all of my questions. He did a thorough on-site inspection before and helped make an excellent recommendation on the specific unit to install in my house. We wanted to make sure we had a unit that would run efficiently and quietly, but we also have a very small patio area in which to place the fan/condenser outside the house. He explained that unit would cost a bit more, but we'd probably be happy with it. And he's right. When our neighbor's A/C is running at the same time, it's louder than ours when we're standing right next to it.

The labor costs were just a bit more expensive than two other service providers I also shopped, but the service, thoroughness and professionalism were well worth it. I was confident that Sandium would do great work, and they did.

One thing I really appreciated with Nik's insistence that the builder of our house provide us with the duct leakage test results before doing the A/C installation. He didn't want to charge us to do it if it wasn't needed, but he said it would save us a lot of money if we were sure the ducts were well sealed before we went forward with the installation. He explained that most builders in new home developments only sample test a few homes but variances can be large from home to home. The builder eventually provided us home-specific the records to show that we were within normal leakage allowances.

On the day of installation, the technician showed up on time, explained everything he was doing, did thorough testing, and was very respectful. He wore shoe covers whenever he needed to come in the house. Everything went smoothly with the installation. During testing, it was discovered that a fuse would need to be upgraded to 30 amps to handle the load of our AC unit. They didn't have one in the truck, but came back the very next day and replaced it, tested it thoroughly, and without any additional charge.

Sandium also saved me money a few months after the A/C was installed when we decided to have paver stones installed in our patio. The paver stone vendor had said that we'd need to have the A/C unit removed and reinstalled for them to do the work. I called Sandium to ask them to do the work, and they said, "No, let me talk to the contractor you're working with. We shouldn't have to do that." They spoke to the paver stone contractor and, sure enough, the paver guys agreed that they could work around the unit and still do a good job. And they did. Sandium saved us $500-600 of labor with that phone call. I'm not sure that another A/C company would have said no to the opportunity for a $500-600 job.

I can't recommend these guys enough.

Mark M

Healthy Home Audits

We spend so much time in our homes, yet until there is a problem few of us take the time to evaluate just how healthy their home is.  It is a sad, but unfortunate truth, that most people only start to address health issues in their homes when they feel unwell, or when they go to sell the home and they are required to make safety upgrades as part of the real estate transaction. Why wait to fix up your home for the next person when you could enjoy the benefits of living in a healthy home today.

Your doctor can help you deal with your allergy and respiratory problems, but a healthy home inspection can help you uncover unhealthy conditions that may be making you feel unwell. Your hardwood floors are beautiful, but just below, is a ventilated crawlspace full of dirt, dust, mold, and droppings. Due to the way our homes are constructed, there are plenty of plumbing and electrical openings into the crawlspace that provide a perfect pathway for contaminants to enter your home.

An estimated 40% of the air in your home starts in your home’s crawlspace. So the key to keeping the air in your home as healthy as possible is to seal penetrations between the home and crawlspace, and to keep the crawlspace as clean as possible. 

A healthy home audit takes a scientific approach to evaluate what is in the air in your home.  We have equipment to sample the air in your home to identify problems such as airborne mold spore concentrations. We test and can monitor humidity and ventilation levels are evaluated. Pollutant sources and pathways that allow airborne pollutants to invade your home.  We use diagnostic monitoring equipment to evaluate swings in temperature and humidity, which uncontrolled can cause indoor mold and dust mite issues.  Sensitive meters are used to identify spikes in airborne particulate and chemical concentrations.  Safety tests are conducted to determine your exposure to deadly carbon monoxide or inadequate ventilation

For a Healthy Home Inspection in the South Bay Area of CA please visit Sandium.Com

Environmental HVAC Retrofitting Services

Hopefully we get smarter as we get older.  This is also true of our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.  Over time our industry has learned how to design and install systems that are safer and more energy efficient.  50 years ago, energy costs were low and we had little understanding of the long-term effect of our environmental footprint.

We take a whole-house approach to make home perform better.  Some call this a “green” approach, but we have seen homes that are called green, but are anything but.  To us, a home is not green unless it performs well.  A home that performs well will

• provides healthy filtered air to occupants. We used some of the best filtration equipment in the world to keep your lungs happy!  We have staff trained in air quality testing and consulting that can identify and solve indoor air quality problems related to indoor contamination from mold, allergens, dust mite, and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs)
• uses equipment that is “right-sized” – not over sized.  A well designed heating and cooling system is a system that works behind the scenes to keep you healthy and comfortable. If you notice every time your equipment turns on and off – then something was not designed properly.
• is comfortable – meaning that the equipment is not noisy and deliver just the right amount of heating and cooling,
• is energy efficient, meaning that we use energystar equipment and programmable thermostats that installed as part of  whole-house system

For more information please visit Sandium.Com

Energy Saving Tips

For those who live in the South Bay Area you can get an Energy Audit on your home please visit Sandium.Com 

Energy Smarts

 To get an energy audit on your home please visit Sandium.Com