HVAC systems can sometimes go out unexpectedly, and it’s often difficult for homeowners to have money on hand for these unforeseen moments. Financing your heating and heating and cooling system can make it possible for you to avoid a gap in comfortable home temperatures.

How Financing Your HVAC System Can Help

There are a number of benefits to financing your HVAC system, including:

• Peace of mind—If you have to pay for a new heating and cooling system from your own cash flow, it can put considerable stress on your budget. When you finance, you can make monthly payments instead of having to count pennies after such a huge investment.
• Customer service—When you work with a reputable and dependable HVAC company, the continued relationship you’re able to build can help you know your system is in good hands.
• Energy savings—Older units that have begun to wear down can end up raising your energy costs quite a bit. A new system, especially if it’s a more energy efficient model, can save you enough money that it helps even out some of the cost of financing. For instance, if you replace a 10 SEER model with an 18 SEER, you can expect to save as much as 48 percent annually in cooling utility costs.

Benefits that Come with Financing

HVAC companies work with lending institutions that extend lines of credit. While every institution is different, customers can expect to have many of the following benefits:

• A simple and fast application process
• An expedited credit decision
• No annual fees or prepayment penalties
• Monthly online statements
• Periodic promotional opportunities
• Low minimum monthly payments
• No liens recorded
• Multiple payment options, such as online, direct withdrawal and regular mail
• Current credit lines stay available
• No fees, points or closing costs
• Monthly payments and fixed rates
• No home equity requirement

How to Apply for Financing

Lending institutions will use documentation to make their decision, including the amount of credit they’ll extend and your interest rate. Important documentation includes pay stubs and a credit report. Letters of recommendation may also be helpful if you don’t have established credit or if your credit is poor.

If you’re considering financing for your new heating and cooling system, contact your HVAC company. You’ll be able to get thorough information about what type of financing you can receive and which HVAC system might be best for you.

Benefits of Financing Your New Heating and Cooling System
HVAC Specialist

Ductless Split HVAC systems are now a preferred option in many parts of Europe. They have proven to be more efficient compared to conventional duct HVAC systems. Here are some valid reasons why a ductless split system will help your HVAC work more efficiently reducing cost.

Why are Ducted HVAC Systems no Longer Popular?

Before we get to the advantages of ductless HVAC units, let’s see why ducted units are getting phased out. To begin with, a lot of effort is required to install duct HVAC units because they are inflexible and complicated in their setups. Additionally, buildings have to be modified in a way that will accommodate the HVAC units and the duct systems. When it comes to performance, ducts lead to poor performance of HVAC unit since they are prone to leakages; debris collect in them and the duct size don’t always match the HVAC units fixed to them.

Advantages of Ductless HVAC Systems

They don’t require any ducts and are easier and faster to install. The units come self-contained with the fan coil tucked inside to give the unit a more appealing look. You also have the freedom to install the unit wherever you want; you can mount them on walls or hung them on ceilings to cool a room. The condenser is set outside, away from the house, getting rid of leakage problems. Interior designers are more motivated to expand their design ideas placing the ductless units in specific spaces where they will work more efficiently.

Additionally, ductless split HVAC systems are reasonably energy efficient. The HVAC compressor is regulated through advanced inverter technology ensuring that the units provide the exact energy required to heat or cool a room. They also come with a SEER rating of 13 to 36 which can save up to 60% of monthly utility bills. Given their flexibility, the ductless HVAC systems can fit in both modern houses and old structures where conventional HVAC systems cannot fit.

The ductless split HVAC systems are flexible and easier to install compared to conventional units. You will realize that you save more energy and utility bills per month than before. Follow our blog today to learn more tips on how you can benefit from ductless HVAC systems.

Is A Ductless Split System Right For Me?
HVAC Specialist

Detecting a frozen air conditioner is not something that you can do with your sense of sight because the ice wouldn’t be visible. If you feel that your air conditioner is not cooling the room as efficiently as it used to then simply place your hand over the supply register of the device. If you’re feeling very little airflow then it means that your air conditioner has frozen.

To deal with a frozen air conditioner, you need to switch it off immediately so that this problem does not cause further damage to the AC’s compressor. Next, give the AC plenty of time so that the ice can melt. At the same time, try to locate the condensate drain and check to see whether it is blocked or not; to do this you will have to open up the ductwork. If it is not blocked then you’re in luck because you can simply suction out the troublesome water from the AC by using a wet-dry shop vacuum cleaner.

If you’re getting impatient with the melting process then you can turn on the fan (mind you, not the compressor) to enable the ice to melt faster. Additionally, you can also use a blow dryer against the AC’s evaporator coil.

In case of a frozen window air conditioner, you need to tilt the device backwards slightly so that the water from the melting ice would drain out easily to the AC’s exterior. Before you do this, you should ensure that the condensate drain hole of the AC is clear; this way the water will be able to filter out without any hassle. After the ice has melted and you’ve thrown away the water on the unblocked drain pan, you can switch the AC on and you’ll notice a huge difference in its cooling power immediately!

To prevent your AC from turning into a frozen air conditioner again in the future you should educate yourself about the causes behind it. Window air conditioner that has not been titled properly, air filter that has become dirty, refrigerant levels that have dropped very low, supply registers that are blocked, etc are all capable of causing the AC unit to get frozen.

For more useful articles about ACs follow us here.

My Air Conditioner Is Frozen! What Happened?
HVAC Specialist

Addressing the damages to your home caused by significant ice and snow this winter is a painstaking process.  Identifying all the areas of damage is critical to your insurance claim. In addition to the obvious, remember to have your outside air conditioning condenser and refrigerant lines checked. Impact from heavy ice and snow, as well as drifting snow has damaged many outside condensers and heat pumps.  It is important to have a skilled HVAC technician examine your system before starting it up this spring.  Call Woodacre today to schedule your appointment.  If physical damage is obvious, we can make a site visit right away to have your unit replaced.  Otherwise, we recommend you schedule the appointment for when the weather warms and the system can be properly run and tested.

Perhaps you experienced ice dams and roof damage which caused water leakage into your attic or basement, thereby damaging your Furnaces, Air Handlers or Boilers.  Make a positive move from this unfortunate damage; take advantage of energy saving rebates and operational savings for years to come by upgrading your heating and/or cooling equipment.  Depending upon the quality/efficiency of the existing equipment, a rule of thumb is that a heating or cooling system 12 years or older will be 10-30% less efficient than high efficiency equipment available today!  The older your equipment, the greater your savings.  As we have all seen our monthly electric and gas bills skyrocket, despite our frugal use of the thermostat, NOW IS THE TIME to REPLACE YOUR HEATING & COOLING SYSTEMS!  Perhaps a replacement will at least stabilize your monthly utility bills, despite the significantly higher utility rates.

Call Woodacre today for a Free Estimate to replace your heating and/or cooling system.

Another reason to upgrade your existing air conditioning system is the fact that R-22 Refrigerant production is increasingly limited in production due to governmental regulation.  R-22 will be phased out completely in the near future.  The cost of R-22 needed for an old system is expensive as the regulation  to replace R-22 with more environmentally friendly R-210A (Puron) is completely phased in.   Adding cooling to your home, or upgrading the existing system to R-410A (Puron) greatly enhances the re-sale value of your home, while providing you with cost efficient comfort during the Spring filled with pollen and the hot and humid Summer days.  Make an investment for the health and comfort of your family today.  Call Woodacre for a Free Estimate to replace or install central air conditioning in your home.

Ice and Snow Damage to HVAC Systems

I think it is pertinent that we LISTEN, rather than SELL what we have in stock!

This is about addressing the customers’ needs, real and perceived, not making a sale. An educated customer is a satisfied customer! We listen to what you are thinking.  As you articulate your needs, we listen carefully to what you have to say. All details are important:

• What rooms are warm or cold?
• Where are you really comfortable in your home and how much time do you spend there?
• How different areas of the home are utilized by your family?
• Is there a space which you would like to “reclaim” as living space; be it a sunroom, basement or over garage area?
• Whether you have children and/or older family members living at your home
• Whether there are family health issues to be considered for Indoor Air Quality
• What type of energy saving measures have you addressed in the last few years?
• What your energy bills have been over the past year
• What is really important to you: efficiency, the environment, cost, or a balance of all?
• What your budget looks like for the project you are looking at
• Whether you would like financing as an option
• What brands of equipment you are interested in
• Whether you are a new home owner, just getting to know your home; or planning to put your home on the market in the next few months or years

All of these considerations are important to providing you with the heating, cooling and indoor air quality products which will be a satisfying investment for comfort and efficiency throughout the seasons.  Give us the chance to listen to your needs.  Contact us today to let us help find the perfect heating or cooling solution for you.

Let Woodacre Listen to Your Needs

When you are planning to purchase an air conditioning unit, there are many things to consider. One of those things is whether to use a fixed chassis, or a slide-out chassis. The type of chassis that you choose will depend on the size of the area you want to cool, as well as the size of the A/C unit you select.

What is a Chassis?

A chassis is a sturdy frame that supports the A/C unit. All units have to have a chassis, or the unit will not be supported properly and may fall or collapse, which can pose a danger to both humans and pets.

Window vs. Wall Air Conditioner

A window A/C unit is exactly as described — it fits inside a window and normally is used to cool just one room. The size of the unit will depend on the size of the room and how cool you want the room to be. The coolness is measured by BTU’s (British Thermal Unit). Once the unit has been placed into the window, caulking will need to be installed to block any cracks or gaps. This will ensure that drafts are kept to a minimum.

A wall A/C unit is one that fits inside of a wall. They are typically larger than window units and are equipped with more BTU’s than their window counterparts. Generally, these are harder to install and are best done by professionals. Electrical wiring and plumbing pipes will have to be taken into consideration, as you don’t want to disturb these while cutting a hole in the wall.

What is a Fixed Chassis?

A fixed chassis is one that is stationary; that is, it does not slide out. These are used for window air conditioning units only. You cannot place a fixed chassis on a wall air conditioning unit.

Slide-Out Chassis

These are chassis that slide out, and can be used for either window units or wall units. They are typically easier to install, and give easier access to the unit; hence, they make it easier to have repairs and maintenance done.

For more information and expert advice, call us today for all of your HVAC needs.

The Difference Between A Fixed Chassis And Slide-out Chassis
HVAC Specialist

Despite the fact that energy prices are climbing, you can still save money. If you make a few adjustments, you can save money and energy. Below are some tips for controlling home comfort costs:

Use Programmable Thermostats

One of the most cost-effective things you can do to save money on your energy bill is to install a programmable thermostat. These thermostats will automatically reduce and decrease the temperature at certain times. Programmable thermostats are also fairly easy to install.

Weatherproof Windows

You can prevent air from leaving your home by keeping the windows insulated. There are a variety of materials you can use to insulate your door, including self-adhesive foam, felt and vinyl. You should consider replacing your windows if they have deteriorated greatly. Do not use metal-frame windows because they have a tendency to conduct cold air in your house.

Weatherproof Doors

The doors in your home lose twice as much energy as the windows. Frequent openings, harder to seal thresholds and their large surface area are some of the reasons doors often lose energy. The good news is they can be weather-stripped and sealed just like windows.

Keep Your House Cool

Metal and white cement roofs are the best choices for keeping your home cool during the summer months. You can also help keep your house cool by using attic fans or whole house fans. Additionally, shade trees and awnings help keep your house cool. You may not have to rely on your air conditioner as much if you make those changes.

Strengthen And Maintain Your Garage Doors

Garage doors can create even more problems than regular doors. Warped wooden garage doors and flimsy metal garage doors can cause your home to lose heat at an alarming rate. Fiberglass models and better-insulated, heavier wood require quality components that are well-maintained.

Change The Furnace Filter

Your furnace filter needs to be changed at least once every few months. Changing the furnace filter not only helps you save money on your energy bill, but it also helps your furnace last longer. Dirty filters cause your furnace to work much harder.

Call us for additional energy saving solutions.

If Energy Prices Continue To Escalate, What Would Be Most Effective In Controlling Home Comfort Costs?
HVAC Specialist

Most homeowners find that implementing more efficient HVAC equipment into their home is a great idea. After all, saving money on energy and fuel costs is something every homeowner strives towards. However, there are often problems when trying to improve on HVAC Efficiency, especially for the northern states.

One problem occurs when switching out a combustion furnace for the more fuel efficient condensing furnace. Rated by the U.S. Department of Energy, or the DOE, with an AFUE rating of 90, a condensing furnace has the potential to help homeowners save money on their annual heating costs. The problem lies in the fact that to add this furnace into a home, costly modifications must be made. Modifications such as installing a new venting system can be quite a financial burden in addition to purchasing a new furnace.

Many homeowners also run into problems with homes that have limited exterior walls to work with. The fact that a condensing furnace has an AFUE rating of 90 means that it generally only wastes around 10 percent of the fuels used to operate it makes these furnaces a wise choice. An AFUE rating is the annual fuel utilization efficiency rating given by the DOE to determine the overall efficiency of furnaces.

The DOE has set out to enforce raised HVAC Efficiency Standards in order to protect our natural resources, and save homeowners money. At this time the enforced minimum AFUE rating for northern states is set at 78. This standard AFUE rating was set to be increased to 90 in 2013 by the courts. However, due to experts in the HVAC industry realizing the financial burden that would be placed upon homeowners for initial costs, this efficiency standard is currently placed on hold.

At this time the courts are determining how to enforce this raised efficiency standard without over burdening homeowners. After seeing the benefits of a furnace with an AFUE rating of 90, many homeowners have already installed new venting and furnaces. This will ultimately save them money in the long run. To learn more about installing a more fuel efficient heating system and to stay up to date on DOE efficiency standards, contact a local HVAC company.

Raising Efficiency Standards Has A High Initial Cost
HVAC Specialist

Your home’s HVAC system is one of the most important assets. Your HVAC system supplies fresh air and circulation, as well as heat and cool air to keep you, your family, your guests, and your pets healthy and comfortable in your home. Most homeowners take their HVAC system for granted until something goes wrong. One potential issue your HVAC system can face, that is rarely thought about, is a power surge.
The effects of a power surge can be detrimental to your HVAC system. A power surge can negatively impact the HVAC equipment, as well as the electrical equipment associated with it. Due to this, experts strongly suggest double protection from power surges to keep your system in good working order and to prevent any damage to related systems.

External Power Surges
If your power surge is due to a force outside your home, the hard-wired equipment in your home can become damaged. This can happen when the utility company is repairing power lines or if a power line goes down due to weather or an accident. External power surges are bad news to your home and HVAC system.

Internal Power Surges
Various equipment that is plugged into your home’s electrical outlets or are hard-wired into the home’s power supply can also be affected by power surges, due to the aforementioned circumstances. Internal surges are less noticeable and can occur when a large appliance in the home cycles on, such as an air conditioner, when it cycles off the power is sent back to the outside electricity lines. This action can cause damage to equipment over time, eroding electrical components.
Home Power Surge Protection: Two Forms
You must protect your entire home at the point where the power supply comes in the home. Devices can be used to minimize power surges and their damage to the hard-wired systems in your home, such as the HVAC system. You can also use separate devices for each hard-wired system.
In addition, you can use point of use protection by using power surge strips on appliances, the television, and computers. There are also outlets available that come with surge protection.
Protect Your Home Utilities
Call your home HVAC service technicians to check to make sure your home/business is protected against power surges or for HVAC maintenance.

Home Power Surge Protection
HVAC Specialist

When you own a home, there are some things that need to be taken care of in order to keep it in good condition. For example, the HVAC system is a major component in most homes and is essential to keeping your home comfortable; however, in order to deliver reliable heating and cooling, regular maintenance and professional repairs and service will be needed from time to time. Unfortunately, most homeowners have no idea how to choose the best HVAC contractor for their needs. With a few simple tips, it is possible to find a quality HVAC contractor.

What is NATE Certification?

When you look at the HVAC contractors available in your area you will quickly find some that offer NATE certified technicians. What does NATE certified mean? As a homeowner, if you aren’t involved in the HVAC industry, chances are you are not familiar with NATE certification, but this is definitely something you should understand. NATE is an acronym for North American Technician Excellence and certification from NATE is an industry respected designation that demonstrates a technician’s mastery of certain areas of the HVAC industry. For example, there is a required core component that technicians will be tested on. Additionally, they will need to pass a test pertaining to an area of specialty. This area of specialization is something each technician will pick for themselves.

NATE Certified Technicians Offer Quality Service

NATE certified technicians offer exceptional HVAC services and will be able to save homeowners time and money. Not only will a skilled technician be able to diagnose heating and cooling problems much faster, but they will also be able to complete your HVAC service quickly and accurately, a good way to save on HVAC repair bills. Trusting your HVAC services to a professional with NATE certification ensures you get the very best in heating and cooling services.

Whether you need HVAC repairs or installation, a trained HVAC technician who is NATE certified offers the best results. Additionally, in order to keep your HVAC equipment functioning as efficiently as possible, annual maintenance is definitely important. For optimal performance contact your HVAC professional for quality AC maintenance.

NATE Certification Is Important
HVAC Specialist