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Hauck Brothers

Jun 12
Love10
Air Conditioning - How Does it Work?

Air Conditioning – How does it work?

By Air Conditioning, Commercial, Cooling, Residential

During the Summer in the Miami Valley, air conditioners get used a lot. According to U.S. Climate Data, from May 29th to Sept 18th, our average high is over 75°F. That’s 113 straight potential days of Air Conditioning use.  Then of course, there is the summer high humidity. Humidity levels of 60% or higher can lead to adverse health effects – Bacteria, Viruses, Mold, Fungi, Mites, Asthma, and Allergic Rhinitis all thrive in higher humidity. Central air conditioning systems not only take takes away the heat from inside the house, but removes the humidity as well in the heat transfer process. With proper Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) products, Air Filtration, Ultraviolet Lights, Ionizers, and Dehumidifiers, all of these health issues can be addressed as part of your HVAC system.

How it Works

The basic concept of central air conditioning is pretty simple, remove heat and moisture from the interior of an occupied space to improve the comfort level of the occupants. When the thermostat registers that it needs to turn the air conditioning on to maintain the set temperature, the system is turned on or charged. The blower on the furnace turns on and moves air through the duct system and through the filter. This air is blown across the indoor evaporator coil which uses refrigerant to remove heat and humidity. That heat is transferred outside by the lineset and outdoor compressor. A fan on the outdoor unit pulls air over the condenser coils which releases the heat into the outdoor air. The cooled refrigerant then moves back through the lineset to repeat the process until the thermostat temperature is met.

Types

Single Stage
A single stage air conditioner turns on when indoor temperatures exceed the temperature setting on your thermostat. Once the temperature set on the thermostat is reached it turns off again. Single stage air conditioners always operate at 100% capacity.

Two Stage
More efficient than single stage units, two stage air conditioners vary their output between two levels: high and low. Ideally, the low stage would satisfy the thermostat most of the time. When necessary, the high stage would turn on. This helps eliminate temperature swings and helps to dehumidify the air, making you feel more comfortable for longer periods of time.

Variable Speed
Variable speed air conditioners precisely control the airflow throughout your home in order to maintain the highest level of comfort. This allows the air conditioner to run continuously, while consuming far less electricity than a single stage air conditioner. The constant airflow has some key benefits: maximum air filtration, dehumidification, minimum cold spots and quieter operation.

Comfort

Air conditioners play a big role in keeping homes and businesses comfortable during hot days. Being able to lower the temperature inside allows for people to stay cool and comfortable.
The temperature that feels comfortable may be different for everyone. With a variable speed air conditioner, having the air move constantly allows for better dehumidification, better filtration, and lessening of hot and cold spots.  Even with the two speed air conditioner, having the low speed on the majority of the time makes the air feel more comfortable.

Energy Efficiency

If you’re looking at replacing your air conditioner, high efficiency systems can help lower utility bills, be environmentally friendly and maintain your comfort level.  There are also rebates and incentives from some manufacturers and utility companies for higher efficiency air conditioners.

EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio)
EER is calculated by dividing the input electrical power (measured in watts) by the amount of cooling created (measured in British Thermal Units or BTU’s) under a single set of conditions.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating)
SEER is a ratio of the amount of cooling produced (BTU) divided by the amount of electricity (watts) used.  The difference between SEER and EER is that SEER accounts for changes in outside temperature instead of just one temperature. EER should be used as a comparison when the outside temperature is consistently over 95 degrees F.
The higher the SEER, the greater the air conditioner’s efficiency could be. Generally, most single stage air conditioners rate from 13 to 19 SEER. Two Stage units rate from 17 to 21. Variable speed units rate from 19 to 26. Comparing against a 10 SEER air conditioner over 15 years*, a 13 SEER could save $1,125, a 16 SEER could save $1,830, a 20 SEER could save $2,430, and a 25 SEER could save $2,835.
*based on 2016 US National Average

Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency. By choosing ENERGY STAR certified heating and cooling equipment and taking steps to optimize its performance, you can enhance the comfort of your home while saving energy and cost. Saving energy helps you save money on utility bills and protect our climate by helping prevent harmful carbon pollution and reducing other greenhouse gases. Air Conditioner split systems and packaged units over 15 SEER qualify for ENERGY STAR.

DIY

Just like your car, your air conditioner needs maintenance at least once a year to keep operating as efficiently as possible to provide the comfort you and your family deserve.  Things you can do yourself include:

  • Replace or clean your air filters regularly – this lowers your unit’s energy consumption by at least 5%.
  • Clean the evaporator coil as needed, typically once a year.
  • If any coil fins are bent, you can straighten them with a “fin comb.”
  • Clean debris from the fan, compressor and condenser of your split system.
  • Prevent drain clogs in your unit by passing a stiff wire through the channels once in a while.
  • Inspect the window seals around your window unit to make sure air is not escaping.
  • Be sure your thermostat is set properly.
  • Make sure the drain isn’t clogged and that the filter isn’t dirty.

Want to learn more? Contact us today!

Contact Us
May 09
Love4
water heater

Water heaters

By Water Heaters

Water heaters come in all shapes and forms; Storage Tank, Tankless, Heat Pump, Solar, and Condensing are the most popular. In the Miami Valley the majority of water heaters are Storage Tank and Tankless.

At Hauck Bros., Inc.  we service and install both types. Water heaters are available in natural gas, liquid propane, and electric and typically range in capacity from 28 gallons to 75+ gallons.  According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Water heating consumes a lot of energy, in fact it’s the second largest home energy user in the house, after cooling and heating. Current Storage Tank water heaters run at about 85% efficiency.

Tankless water heaters can save up to 34% in homes that use 41 gallons of water or less. There are even utility rebates for replacing the old water heater with an Energy Star™ certified model. Most replacements occur when there is an emergency and the unit breaks down. This makes replacing a Storage Tank water heater with another Storage Tank water heater quicker and less expensive. However, knowing that most Storage Tank water heaters have an average life of 10-15 years allows you to plan to replace your Storage Tank water heater with a Tankless water heater if the conditions are right. Tankless water heater typically last up to 20 years.

A lot goes into evaluating your house or business to determine which water heater is right for you and the installation cost of each type. For example, Tankless water heaters need a major plumbing retrofit, and possible upgrades to gas lines and electric service, the costs of each type need to be considered before making the conversion. For new homes, putting a Tankless water heater in is easier as it can be planned out in advance and included in the production of the house.

Infographic

https://www.energy.gov/articles/new-infographic-and-projects-keep-your-energy-bills-out-hot-water

How it Works

Storage Tank water heaters typically have a capacity of 20 to 80 gallons. Using a fuel source (natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, propane), these tanks will heater water continuously to keep the tank hot for when you need it. These tanks are covered by insulation and than a metal casing to hold heat in for maximum efficiency.  By the way, newer models of the same capacity tend to be bigger dimensions than the old ones as they are required to have more insulation around the tank. For gas and propane water heaters, proper venting its crucial for your buildings safety.

Tankless water heaters are also called on demand or instantaneous water heaters, provide hot water as needed. That means they don’t produce standby energy losses  that Storage Tank water heaters are associated with. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels into the unit and is heated by a gas burner or electric elements. Depending on the building and the demand needed, there are times when the Tankless water heater can not supply enough hot water as called upon. To solve this problem, individual units can be put on some of the taps such as the bathroom, washer, and dishwasher. The other option Is to install another bigger unit to work in tandem with the first unit to provide an adequate amount of hot water for the entire house

Comfort

Water heaters are huge purchases for a home or business. Having the ability to have hot water on demand to the entire building is important. Depending on the type of system you have and with routine annual maintenance performed, these units can last for 10-20 years without a problem. Look for Energy Star™ approved units to help save some money on utilities.

Energy Efficiency

A water heaters efficiency is determined by its Energy Factor (EF). The EF is based on the amount of hot water produced per unit of fuel consumed. This includes the water heaters recovery efficiency, standby losses, and cycling losses. Recovery efficiency is determined by how efficiently heat is transferred to the water. Standby losses are the percentage of the heat loss per hour from the stored water compared to the water’s heat. Cycling losses refers to the loss of heat as water circulates through a tank or piping.

DIY

Periodic maintenance can extend the life of your water heater and minimize any efficiency losses. According to the Department of Energy, Flush a quart of water from the tank every three months and replace the anode rods when needed in your Storage Tank water heater. You can also test the TPR valve to ensure it operation in case of a problem. Insulating water lines can help save energy and heat loss as well.  Visually inspect the water lines and the water heater to ensure there are no leaks.

Service

At Hauck Bros., Inc. we can provide maintenance for your water heater. Depending on your model and fuel type our maintenance service includes the following

  1. Pull and clean the burner
  2. Check and clean the pilot
  3. Check T/P valves
  4. Check gas pressure
  5. Check heating elements
  6. Check water temperature set point
  7. Check for water leaks

Accessories

Storage Tank Water Heater

  • Expansion Pressure Tank, used to take on extra water to prevent excess pressure on piping.
  • Install Kit, used to install and adapt a new water heater to the existing piping in the building.
  • Water Heater Pan, connected to a drain pipe, helps prevent leaks from spreading to the floor.
  • Water Heater Stand, used to raise a water heater.

Tankless Water Heater Accessories

  • Concentric Vent Kit, used to allow one hold installation of intake and outtake ventilation.
  • LP Conversion Kit, used to convert Natural Gas (NG) to Liquid Propane (LP)
  • Tankless Water Heater Stand, used to hold unit instead of mounting to a wall

Want to learn more? Contact us today!

Contact Us
Apr 01
Love6
air filtration, indoor air quality

Air Filtration

By Indoor Air Quality, Residential

Many people overlook the importance of air filtration when considering indoor air quality (IAQ). A proper HVAC system should have a filter as part of the system.  The air filters job in the HVAC system is to keep the units clean and help to avoid breakdowns caused by dirt and debris.  Without a filter, the HVAC system may have problems draining water away as dirt gets trapped in the drain. There may be indoor coil issues that arise as unfiltered air blows across the wet coils and dirt and debris get stuck in the condensate and stick to the coil. The same problem applies to ductwork as the dirty air travels past the unit and into the ductwork. The dirty air catches in the ductwork and can cause improper airflow. In each case, water can be trapped and this in turn might allow mold and other allergens to grow and flourish.  Even the most basic filter is better than no filter, not only your HVAC system but for your family in residential settings and employees in commercial settings. In 2018, Miami Valley residents used their heating and cooling systems a lot. In fact, according to Wunderground, we had 178 days with temperature highs below 60° and 108 days with temperature highs over 80° F. Meaning, most people used their HVAC systems over 75% of the year! That is a lot of time your filter is being used.

How it Works

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency describes indoor air pollution as one of the top five environmental health risks. For people with allergies, scientific studies have shown that air filtration reduces these airborne allergens and may provide some relief.

The World Health Organization has provided recommended standards covering three ranges of particle sizes, specifying guidelines for acceptable particulate matter concentrations. The human eye can only see particles as small as 25 to 60 microns – or the diameter of a human hair – but the particles that are most dangerous to human health are significantly smaller and invisible to the human eye (PM 2.5 and PM 1).

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating is determined by measuring particle counts upstream and downstream of the air-cleaning device being tested, the more particles removed by the filter, the higher the MERV rating. There are 12 particle sizes being tested. Dust spot efficiency is used to show how effective is at filtering smaller particle atmospheric dust from the air. Arrestance is the ability to filter to remove larger particles of dust. A High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter can accomplish over 99.97% arrestance of these finer air particles.

CAUTION: As the MERV rating goes up it can affect the performance of your HVAC system. Adding a 15MERV filter to a system that was designed for 4 MERV increases resistance. The blower in the furnace or air handler is rated for a certain amount of pressure drop and increasing resistance increases the pressure drop which may cause reduced airflow throughout the system leading to reduced filtration, reduced comfort, the air conditioning coil to freeze up, and even the furnace heat exchanger to crack. Make sure your system is able to accept a higher MERV rated filter before installing. When considering replacing a HVAC system or just the filtration make sure a professional considers and verifies the system operation is correct.

Types

1-4 MERV

Setting for use: Standard Residential and  Standard Light Commercial

Effectiveness: Use for up to 80% of larger particles and under 20% of smaller particles filtered

Examples of particles filtered effectively: Sanding dust, spray paint dust, and carpet fibers

Common filter types in this range: flat-panel fiberglass and washable/reusable

5-7 MERV

Setting For Use: Good Residential, Better Light Commercial, Industrial Workplaces

Effectiveness: Up to 90% of larger particles and up to 30% of smaller particles filtered.

Examples of particles filtered effectively:  Pollen, pet dander, and hair spray

Common filter types in this range: 1-2” cotton pleated and flat-panel fiberglass

8-12 MERV

Setting for Use: Superior Residential, Good Light Commercial, Commercial, Good Industrial Workplaces

Effectiveness: Up to 95% of larger particles and up to 75% of smaller particles filtered

Examples of particles filtered effectively: Welding fumes, auto emissions, milled flour, lead dust, pollen, household dust, lint, mold spores, Legionella, and dust mites

Common filter types in this range: 1-2” cotton pleated, media panel filter, and extended surface deep pleated

13-16 MERV

Setting for Use: Hospitals and Health Care Facilities, Superior Residential, Superior Commercial, Superior Industrial Workplaces

Effectiveness: Greater than 95% of larger particles and greater than 98% of smaller particles filtered.

Examples of particles filtered effectively: Tobacco smoke, general smoke, all bacteria, Droplet Nuclei (sneeze), cooking oil, smog, virus carriers.

Common filter types in this range: Media panel filter, extended surface deep pleated

17-20 MERV

Setting for Use: Specific Commercial Applications; Cleanrooms, Radioactive Materials, Pharmaceuticals, Carcinogenetic Materials

Effectiveness: 100% of larger particles and 99.97% or greater of smaller particles filtered.

Examples of particles filtered effectively:  All combustion smoke, carbon dust, viruses

Common filter types in this range: Fiberglass and nonwoven fabric material

View MERV Rating Chart

Comfort

When it comes to comfort and air filtration, a proper analysis by an advisor needs to be made. Many factors come into play such as: what type of building is it, does anyone have any allergies, does anyone have a weak immune system, and can the MERV be increased without compromising the airflow?   Other factors that play a role in comfort are cost of installation and the cost of replacement filters.

Did you know?

  • 50% of all illnesses are caused or aggravated by poor indoor air quality according to The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. A study cited by Kimberly-Clark Corporation found that for every 10 workers, poor indoor air quality caused an additional 6 sick days per year.
  • The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) states poor indoor air quality can cost businesses up to $168 billion annually. Medical care and absenteeism contribute significantly to those costs.
  • Employers can increase workforce performance by roughly 10 % by implementing indoor air quality solutions – DOE.
  • By controlling contaminants such as dust mites, asthma cases can be reduced by 55 to 60% – The American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

DIY

Using an air filter is just one step toward improving the overall quality of indoor treated air. Here are some other things you can do to help IAQ:

  • Do not smoke in the building
  • Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce dust, dander, and other allergens
  • Keep humidity in your home below 50% year round
  • If you have a pet, groom the pet outside the home to reduce the amount of pet dander in the air.
  • If you have tiled floors or walls, make sure to they are kept clean to reduce the potential for mold growth.
  • Check and/or change your filter regularly, check at least once a month, if you have pets, once every two weeks.
  • Use Zero and Low VOC paint indoors
  • Spray paint in garage or outdoors
  • Plants, natural air purifiers, but beware if you suffer from allergies, they may hurt more than help.
  • Candles, limit use or use beeswax candles, which let off less smoke.
  • Professional carpet cleaning, they can treat for pets and allergens in the carpet as well.
  • Make sure to turn on the exhaust when you are cooking, this can greatly reduce oil and smoke.

Service

Make sure to check and/or change the filter regularly, with pets every two weeks, no pets, check once am month

At Hauck Bros., Inc., our Gold and Platinum Home Comfort Protection Plans come with Media Filter replacement included in the plan at the time of the maintenance inspection. Media Filter Replacement can also be added to the Silver plan for as low as $7 per month.

Accessories

Thermostat, Some models have maintenance features that will remind you to check/replace the filter

Ionizer, uses high voltage to ionize (electrically charge) air molecules. Negative ions, or anions, are particles with one or more extra electron, conferring a net negative charge to the particle. Effective against other particles normally reserved for a higher MERV count. Examples, viruses, bacteria, mod spores, and smoke.

Ultraviolet (UV) Light, designed to help eliminate mold, bacteria, viruses, and other allergens that can be circulated in the air.

Want to learn more? Contact us today!

Contact Us
Mar 01
Love4

Home Comfort Protection Plans

By Residential

In the Greater Springfield and the Miami Valley, one of the most important steps home and business owners take is to make sure their HVAC equipment are properly maintained. Proper maintenance involves making sure your system is efficient and helps to prevent failure that may cause unwanted and unexpected costs. The best time to check the cooling system is in the spring and the best time to check the heating system is in the fall.  It is important that these systems support a comfortable and healthy indoor environment and that each unit operate as efficiently as possible throughout its lifecycle. Regular annual maintenance also promotes higher equipment longevity, lower utility costs, guarding against unexpected failures, and in some cases, keeps the manufacturer warranty valid. At Hauck Bros. Inc. we feature three levels of Residential Home Comfort Protection Plans; Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Some benefits of all these residential programs are pre-season maintenance scheduling, 2-3 years parts and labor warranty, 24 Hour priority status for repairs, and a minimum 15% discount on repair parts. To learn more about these residential plans and their benefits visit our Service Plan page. We also offer a custom quoted commercial preventive maintenance plan tailored to your business needs.

How it Works

Depending on your HVAC equipment a preventative maintenance check for heating and cooling equipment should include (if applicable) checking the thermostat, tightening all electrical connections, lubricating all moving parts, checking and inspecting the condensate drain, checking the air filter, checking the blower wheel and capacitor, checking the heat exchanger, checking for gas leaks, checking the flame sensor, testing safety controls, checking the compressor, testing temperature drop, inspecting for refrigerant leaks, checking the condenser fan motor and more. See the full list for each type of equipment at out Service Plan page. Our Gold and Platinum plans meet Energy Star recommendations. Our Platinum Plan meets the ACCA National Standard Task list qualification as  well.

Types

  • Residential

    • Silver, Starting at $21 per month and covering 2 units, typically one heating and one cooling, this plan offers an annual maintenance check on each unit, a 2 year parts and warranty, no service charge, 24 priority status for repairs, pre-season scheduling, and a minimum 15% discount on repair parts.
    • Gold, Starting at $32.50 per month and covering two units, this protection plan offers an annual maintenance check on each unit, a 3 year parts and labor warranty, no service charge, same day priority status for repairs, pre-season scheduling, a minimum 15% discount on repair parts, media filter replacement on each check, and $25 a year purchase accrual credit towards new equipment as long as you maintain the Gold Plan each year.
    • Platinum, Starting at $57.25 per month and covering two units, this protection plan offers an annual maintenance check on each unit, a 3 year parts and labor warranty, no service charge, same day priority status for repairs, pre-season scheduling, a minimum 15% discount on repair parts, media filter replacement on each check,  $50 a year purchase accrual credit towards new equipment as long as you maintain the Platinum Plan each year, 2 Year Inflation Protection, water heater maintenance, humidifier maintenance, refrigerant adjustments included, and waxing the outdoor unit.
    • Other, We also offer additional items al a carte, Generators, Hot Water Heaters, Humidifiers, Media Filters, and Gas Logs.

  • Commercial

    • Hauck Bros., Inc.  offers custom quoted commercial protection plans to cover heating, cooling, filtration, and other equipment that makes up your unique HVAC system. These maintenance checks can extend the lifespan of your commercial equipment and ensures they operate efficiently as possible all year.

See all the details of each plan at our Service Plan page.

Comfort

Regular maintenance of your HVAC equipment can play a dramatic role in how comfortable you are at home or at the office. Dirty and clogged filters can impact your airflow and reduce the amount of filtration of the air through the system.  Units with humidifiers need proper airflow to ensure the humidity level set is obtained as well. During the summer months proper airflow is necessary to remove humidity to increase comfort levels. By maintaining your HVAC system and changing filters as recommended, the indoor air quality will be better and the air flow will be improved, ensuring your as comfortable as possible. Having annual maintenance on each unit also can help reduce repair costs, extend equipment life, and lower utility costs.

DIY

  • Insulate and air seal your home properly, leaks or loss of insulation cause losses in efficiency and higher utility costs.
  • Make sure the area around your HVAC units is clear of obstructions, flammable substances, and other debris.
  • Make sure to use carbon monoxide and smoke alarms for your families and facility’s safety.
  • Clear all registers of dust and debris and make sure they are not blocked.
  • If you change your filters, make sure to check and/or change filters at least once a month.
  • If you have a humidifier, make sure to change the pad/cartridge before the heating season and check it every month when in use to ensure proper operation.
  • Visually inspect and listen to your system, check for leaks, listen for unusual noises from your HVAC equipment, these can be signs of problems.
Feb 01
Love14
thermostats

Thermostats

By Commercial, Cooling, Heating, Home Monitoring, Residential, Thermostats

In 2018 the Miami Valley probably used their heating and cooling systems a lot. According to Wunderground, we had 178 days with temperature highs below 60° Fahrenheit, and 108 days with temperature highs over 80° F. That means that for most people they could have their HVAC systems on over 75% of the time. It could be argued that the single, most important part, of any heating and cooling system is the control that operates the system. A low voltage thermostat is the main control for your building that determines how much heating or cooling will be delivered to satisfy the temperature set on the thermostat. Thermostats have advanced a long way in the past 10-20 years as much technology has. The focus for updating thermostats has been on energy savings, cleaner air, comfort, simplicity, quality, accessibility, and easy to understand information among other issues all related to customer satisfaction. Modern thermostats have a lot of features to appeal to everyone, from simple to read displays to utility savings a modern thermostat is an easy upgrade to add to your system to start saving money for years to come. According to First Energy, based on typical energy costs, a smart thermostat can save up to $145 a year. Models rated for Energy Star compliance offer rebates from utility companies as well.

How it Works

Whether a low voltage thermostat is old or new, the way it works is pretty similar even if the parts inside are not. A part of the thermostat is a way to measure the current temperature in the area it is installed, older models had bimetallic strips, while modern models use electronic controls to sense temperature changes. When the strip or thermistor registers a temperature below or above the set temperature it triggers the heating or cooling unit to turn on to maintain the temperature set. Programmable thermostats allow the user to preset temperatures, allowing them to change according to the owner’s programmed settings. Some of those programmed settings examples could be temperature set points at night, work, and vacations. Wi-Fi enabled thermostats allow the owner to check on their system wherever and whenever they like, assuming they have Wi-Fi and/or cellular service. Other features such as maintenance reminders, humidity level display, weather forecasts, energy reporting, zoning compatible, wireless room sensors, smart recovery, AC overcool to dehumidify, service alerts, and more can be found on certain thermostats.

Types

  • Non-Programmable – Non-Programmable thermostats can be mechanical or digital. To adjust the temperature or change from heating to cooling the owner would walk directly to the thermostat to make changes.
  • Programmable – Programmable thermostat come in a variety of programming options, some models makes changes for a week, some for weekdays and weekends, and some models offer more in-depth programmable options including each individual day. Once the thermostat is programmed the idea is that the owner would set up the thermostat according to their own comfort level and the thermostat would adjust on its own as needed, to the schedule you have programmed.
  • Wi-Fi – Wi-Fi thermostats or smart thermostats give the owner the option to not only program the thermostat but to have it adjust to you as well. With features like room sensors, occupancy sensor, and learning technology. These thermostats can adjust to your schedule inside the building. Some models can even change from heating to cooling or vice versa when needed to maintain the set temperature on the thermostat. These models can give even more features to the owner such as enhanced fan control, IAQ integration, weather forecasts, maintenance reminders, smart home/away, and more. A few of these models qualify for utility company rebates.
  • Communicating Controller – Available with variable speed equipment, communicating controllers allow the owner to be the most comfortable. With longer heating and cooling cycles at lower fan speeds, the air is better treated to ensure the best air quality and comfort possible. Other features include energy tracking and reporting, better humidity control, better dehumidification control, and multi-zone compatibility. These models can even alert Hauck Bros. of a major service issue as it happens so we can assist you as quickly as possible.

Comfort

Comfort starts with the thermostat and is backed up by the equipment and Indoor air quality products that maintain your personal comfort level. The thermostat is the control of comfort for your home or business. Depending on the model, the thermostat can save money via programming, provide ease of access with Wi-Fi, send reminders for maintenance alerts, learn to adjust to your comfort level on your schedule, manage humidity levels, and much more.

Features

  • AC Overcool, uses the condensing unit to reduce humidity by cooling your building beyond the desired temperature until the desired humidity level is reached in your home or business.
  • Auto change, also called Auto Mode, Allows the thermostat to switch from Heat to Cool or Cool to Heat automatically.
  • C-Wire, “Common” wire, enables 24 VAC power to the thermostat continuously.
  • Dual Fuel Capable, when a gas furnace and Heat Pump are used in a building. Allows the furnace to take over heating when the heat pump is inefficient.
  • Energy Star Qualified, required to work as a basic thermostat if on-line service is lost, provide information about HVAC energy usage, give residents feedback about energy consequences of changing settings, and provide the owner the ability to schedule or program. By adjusting the temperature down or up by 7-10 degrees from the normal setting owners can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs.
  • Enhanced Fan Control, with a communicating controller, allows the user to adjust the continuous fan speed to low, medium, high, or off.
  • Thermostat Occupancy Sensor, indoor motion detecting sensor that can detect the presence of a person to automatically control the thermostat to adjust to a temperature preset setting.
  • Outdoor Air temperature Sensor, on select models of thermostats and zoning systems, provides outdoor air temperature information for the control system and the owner as well.
  • Thermostat Maintenance Reminder, certain models will remind owners to change the filter, ultraviolet light bulb, humidifier pad, and even the ventilator pre-filter
  • Thermostat Password Protection, certain models allow the owner to lockout the control by programming a password to prevent changes.
  • Programmable Thermostat, allows the user to schedule the thermostat to maximize home comfort and save money on utilities.
  • Self-Programming Thermostat, certain models learn what temperature you like and adjusts the schedule automatically
  • Service Safety Alerts, depending on the model some thermostats have the ability to notify you via your smart device, e-mail, and even send out an alert to your HVAC service provider when your HVAC system might be having an issue. Some examples of alerts are too high of humidity in the building, HVAC system not operational, and too high or too low of a temperature
  • Smart Home / Away, some models of thermostats have an occupancy sensor that detects when someone is home or not. These models have the ability to go into energy saving mode when you are away or to override the energy saving mode to ensure your comfort is met when you are home, regardless of the programming.
  • Smart Recovery, depending on the thermostat, some models have the ability to start cooling or heating your building so that at the time set for a certain temperature set point the temperature will already be at the set point.
  • Smart Speaker Compatible Thermostat, certain models of thermostats have the ability to be connected to your home automation provider. This allows the owner with proper registration to control the thermostat by voice or within that providers app.
  • Staging Settings, with multi speed HVAC equipment, having the proper thermostat to control the which stage the equipment is necessary. This allows the equipment to run in the lower stage or stages before going into higher stages.
  • Touchscreen, with technology improvements in thermostats, most modern digital thermostats come with a touchscreen, similar to that of a smart device.
  • Wi-Fi, A lot of modern thermostats have Wi-Fi capability. Wi-Fi allows the owner to control the thermostat from their smart device or within an app, keep the thermostat updated and secure, and help on energy savings.

 

Efficiency

Using a programmable thermostat in your building will let you run a scheduled heating and cooling program without having to manually adjust the settings throughout the day. Depending on the thermostat setting up a program can be done on the thermostat and if the thermostat is connected to an app or a smart device, it can be done on the computer or smart device. Adjusting the program to lower or allowing the temperature to rise by 7-10 degrees can save up to 10% in utility costs.

DIY

Make sure to check your thermostat once a year to ensure (depending on the model) that it is level, batteries are replaced (if applicable), and clear of dust and debris. It’s always a good idea to test the heating and cooling equipment before their season to ensure the thermostat is operational and the equipment responds as well. Some models with automatic reminders set up will need the reminders reset ex. change air filter or humidifier pad.

Service or Replace

The thermostat should be maintained and checked once a year, if it has no power, doesn’t respond to settings changes, heating or cooling won’t turn on, or loses its programming it might be time to consider a replacement. If your system is being replaced and it was over 15 years old and you would like to take advantage of the energy efficiency of a modern thermostat, replacement should be considered. Even if you have a programmable thermostat but you want the benefits of the features modern thermostats offer, consider replacement.

Accessories

  • Backplate, in some cases new thermostats are smaller than old thermostats, these backplates are needed to cover the space used by the old thermostat for cosmetic appeal.
  • Thermostat Cover, in some buildings commercial and residential, the thermostat needs to be protected and secured to limit access. A cover goes over the thermostat while providing airflow to the unit to ensure proper temperature control.
  • Room Sensor, some models of thermostats have the ability to have a wired or wireless room sensors connected to it. This allows for the user to adjust temperature based not only on the main thermostat but with input from the sensor as well. The most common options for sensors within the thermostat are to average the two or more temperature readings, use the sensor as the main temperature set point, and to follow the sensor wherever it is moved in the house to maintain the set point.
Jan 08
Love6
humidifier

Humidifiers

By Indoor Air Quality, Residential

In the Miami Valley, it can get cold enough to turn your furnace on in October and keep it on until April. That’s 7 months of heated air. Cooler air holds less moisture than hotter air. That means when it’s cold outside the relative humidity is generally low as well. For the human body, dry air can cause increased allergy symptoms and other respiratory problems. For the house or office, dry air can draw moisture out of materials inside the house, such as wood floors, furniture, pianos, and walls. The most effective way to treat your building is to add a humidifier to the air furnace system if possible. Different installation types can be used depending on the location of your furnace to ensure the best performance from your whole house humidifier. Adding a whole house humidifier controls how much moisture is added so you feel comfortable, but ensures that the humidifier shuts off so that too much moisture isn’t added. With seasonal maintenance, whole house humidifiers need little attention. Humidifiers can also save on energy costs as warm, moist air feels more comfortable and the thermostat can be turned down a few degrees without a loss of comfort.

How it Works

There are different types of whole house humidifiers available for a home or business. Each whole house humidifier uses the same method to deliver humidity to the air though the duct work connected to the furnace. They require water to create humidity, a water collection medium such as a evaporator pad or cartridge, airflow through the medium to create evaporation, a water control valve, and a humidistat device to control the humidity level.

Types

  • Bypass, offered in a traditional flow through or water saving model, traditionally can be used in buildings up to 4,000 square feet. These models can be mounted on either the warm air supply or return air side of any forced air furnace. The traditional flow through model would need access to a floor drain, while the water saving model does not.
  • Powered, uses a built-in fan which pulls in heated air directly from the furnace through the humidifier and can be used in buildings up to 4,200 square feet. These models work better than bypass humidifiers in tight quarters and are more efficient at adding humidity to the heated air. Powered humidifiers also work better with multi stage furnaces.
  • Steam, the most efficient type of whole house humidifier at adding moisture to the building. There are several different types of steam models available. Some models require filtered water and some require a cartridge with electrodes that needs replaced after the heating season. Steam whole house humidifiers can cover up to 6,200 square feet. Since they use steam and do not require a bypass they can be installed in tight quarters as well. Steam whole house humidifiers work extremely well with multi stage and variable speed furnaces. Steam whole house humidifiers don’t need the furnace on to run, since they create their own heat, a properly installed unit is able to work by itself.

Comfort

Humid air feels warmer than drier air feels at the same temperature for most people, making them feel more comfortable when the air outside is cold. This allows the owner to adjust the thermostat down and saves money on utility bills without sacrificing how comfortable they feel. Keeping the air humidity level, the same during the heating season keeps the air you breathe healthier as well. Whole house humidifiers can help with dry skin, itchy eyes, chapped lips, snoring, dry throat, and can reduce sinus problems.

Efficiency

According to EnergyStar.gov, a steam whole house humidifier saves $47-49 per year on electricity over a traditional whole house bypass and fan powered humidifiers. Assuming you keep your building between 30% and 60% relative humidity, the thermostat can be reduced a couple of degrees without losing any comfort, which can save up to 5% on your total bill for your furnace utilities.

DIY

Properly maintaining your humidifier is a major key for its operational success. Make sure the water and power are off to the humidifier before servicing. Change the water panel at least once per season. Make sure the orifices are clear of debris. Make sure the supply and drain line are clog free. Make sure the humidistat or thermostat is operational and calling for humidity when the furnace is running. Ensure the solenoid valve is functioning properly. Visually inspect the water lines to make sure there are no leaks. For certain steam models, make sure to change the cartridge after the heating season. Ensure that at the end of the heating season the humidifier is properly shut down to prevent mold and algae build up. We offer these tasks from service and as part of our Platinum Home Comfort Protection Plan.

Service or Replace

Depending on how often it is used and how well it is maintained, the lifespan of a whole house humidifier can be 15-20 years with proper maintenance and inspections. Most manufactures offer a 5- or 10-year warranty on parts and a one-year warranty on labor. After about 20 years, the parts can be hard to find and/or expensive. Newer models tend to be much more efficient at adding humidity to the building and more energy efficient, especially the whole house steam humidifiers.

Dec 05
Love6
boilers

Boilers

By Boilers, Heating

In the Miami Valley, boilers still have a role to play in heating your house or business. Modern boilers heat and treat indoor air while being more energy efficient than older units. You can rely on the professionals at Hauck Bros., Inc. to install a boiler for the first time, replace an outdated or boiler, or service your current system. Since 1921, we proudly serve both residential and commercial customers with the industry’s leading equipment that will provide comfort for years to come.

How it works

A boiler is a sealed system that contains the combustion of fuel, including coal, oil, natural gas, and liquid propane to heat water. Boilers use hot water distributed throughout the building in pipes to provide heat a heat transfer. This allows for individual controlled heat to each room, or zoning.

Types

  • Fire Tube – Fire tube boilers confine the combustion process and gases in tubes and water circulates around these tubes. Some fire tube boilers have turbulators inside of the tubes to cause turbulence of the flue gases. This increases the heat absorption into the water which makes the boiler more efficient. They are generally used for medium to large boiler commercial/industrial applications. These boilers can be either steam or hot water boilers in low to medium pressure applications.
  • Water Tube – Water tube boilers have many different tubes inside of it that have water circulating through them. Hot combustion gases surround these tubes and an exchange of heat is realized. The heat exchange is between the combustion gases and the tubes and water. The water tube boilers can be built for higher capacities and pressures than the fire tube boilers because the steam and/or hot water is confined in the tubes. These boilers are generally found in medium to large commercial/industrial applications.
  • Steam Boiler – delivers hot steam to radiators and bring back cooled condensation into the boiler system to be reheated. Steam boiler need a pressure relief valve and a low water cutoff. Most steam boiler have manual valve to allow for added water to enter the system when needed.
  • Hot Water Boiler – use a series of pumps to circulate heated water through the building and into the radiators. Hot water boiler systems typically have an expansion tank.

Fuel Types

When it comes to boilers, the fuel type helps distinguish which type of boiler you may need and the features available to your setup as well. For most residential and commercial applications, natural gas, liquid propane, electric, and oil are the main source of fuel.

Comfort

Modern boilers have the ability to keep you comfortable during the heating season in a variety of ways. Some models are designed to be easy to service, with annual maintenance recommended on every boiler, having the unit easy to service makes it easier to repair a problem which could save you time and money. The more efficient the boiler the more it saves you on heating bills, especially over 15 years. Some models are quieter than others depending on the design and functionality.

Features

Efficiency

Older units have a rating of 56%-70% AFUE rating. Newer non-condensing units have a 80%-88% AFUE rating. Newer condensing units have an 89%-95% AFUE rating. Condensing units have a secondary heat exchanger for better efficiency. Based on the US National Average for 2017, an 80% AFUE unit would save over $7,500 vs a 60% AFUE over 15 years. A 90%+ AFUE unit would save over $10,000 over 15 years.

Combination Boiler

Traditional boilers and combination boiler share the same task of heating your home by going through your system to radiators or radiant floor systems where it provides heat to warm the air. Traditional boilers heat water in a tank on constantly, ready to provide heated water when needed. Combination boilers has no storage tank, it heats the water as needed and can provide hot water for the whole house, one source at a time. A combination boiler is great choice for a smaller building, with little need for constant hot water.

Ease of Service

Look for models that are easy to service to save time and money on annual maintenance charges. Make sure a certified technician proves annual maintenance to avoid breakdowns and extend the life of the boiler.

Heat Exchanger

When doing a replacement or refurbishment project, the existing heating design dictates what can and cannot be done. New construction or builds offer more freedom in the heating design, but can be more restrictive on building regulations. There are 4 different main heat exchangers to choose from.
1. Cast Iron, heavy, but not easy to break, cast iron feature a sectional heat exchanger design. Ideal for replacements due to their ability debris from the older system. Tend to not be energy efficient unless they have a secondary heat exchanger that enables the boiler to condense.
2. Aluminum, lightweight and excellent at heat transfers, they can be used with other materials to enhance their overall strength. Good water quality must be provided to avoid corrosion.
3. Stainless steel, heavier and able to take more corrosive water. Grade 316 is the most common type, which allows for good welding and heat transfer properties
4. Steel and Tube, used in higher output systems. They can corrode easily, and our not suitable for condensing without a secondary heat exchanger. Usually used in commercial and industrial type buildings.

Energy Efficiency

For residential units under 300,00 BTUH of input, boiler efficiency is measure by AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). AFUE is a calculated efficiency which attempts to estimate how well the boiler coverts the energy in its fuel to heat over the course of one year. Simply put, older furnaces had as low as a 56% AFUE rating, there are models today that can get above a 95% AFUE rating. The higher the AFUE the more efficient the unit is, this saves money on utility bills in the future. Based on the US National Average for 2017, an 80% AFUE unit would save over $7,500 vs a 60% AFUE over 15 years. A 90%+ AFUE unit would save over $10,000 over 15 years.

DIY

Boilers need regular maintenance to prevent breakdowns and, in some cases, to keep the warranty valid and active. There are some simple checks you can do to make sure your boiler stays out of trouble.

  • Make sure all air vents are working, not blocked, and clear of debris around them on the interior and exterior of the building.
  • Make sure to check the water level, if it operates without water the boiler could be seriously damaged.
  • Make sure the pilot light is light (if applicable)
  • Check for leaks and cracks
  • Keep the room the boiler is in as dust free as possible

If you are uncomfortable doing any of these tasks, please contact us at 937-325-0636 or fill out this form and we will reach out to you within 24 hours.

Service

Boilers need regular maintenance once a year. There are two great reasons to have a boiler maintained annually. First, having an annual maintenance check done helps prevents sudden failures. Second, some manufactures require annual maintenance to keep their warranties valid. During the inspection our technician will check shut off valves to ensure they are working properly, check the refractory, check for cracks, check the controls, check indicators, and safety devices to ensure they are all working properly. The technician will also inspect the fuel feed systems and clean the burners to ensure they are working properly.

Signs your boiler may need replaced

  1. Increased failure rate of the boiler
  2. Yellow flames on gas burners and black soot on oil boilers, indicates the fuel is not burning properly, this can create carbon dioxide.
  3. Leakage, if the boiler needs more water to run than it might have a leak. Consider replacing before flooding occurs.
  4. Age, most condensing boilers last for 15+ years, cast iron 20-30 years, with proper annual maintenance by a licensed technician.
  5. Energy use, older boilers are not as energy efficient as modern boilers
  6. Comfort, if your building starts to have hot or cold spots in areas that it didn’t before, it could be that the unit is not operating as efficiently as it once did.
Nov 15
Love3
furnaces

Furnaces

By Heating

Depending on the fuel type, natural gas, liquid propane, electric, or oil, a furnace operates using forced air to transfer heat to air.  The blower then sends that air throughout the connected ductwork into the house or business and out the vents.  In a natural gas, oil, and liquid propane furnace, a pilot light ignites a series of burners inside the combustion chamber. The heat created from burner enters the heat exchanger and transfers the heat to the air while raising the temperature set at the thermostat. The blower than takes the air and sends it through the ducts.  An electric furnace uses an electrical ignition source instead of a pilot light to start the heating process. An electric furnace has conductive coils that work to heat the air for the blower to use in heating.

Fuel Types

  • Oil, with AFUE ratings up to 86.6% efficiency and some models offer variable speed operation, oil furnaces provide dependable heat and can be paired a heat pump or an air conditioner to provide maximum comfort throughout the year. Offering flexible installation options, oil furnaces come in traditional multi-poise models or low boy models.
  • Gas, Natural Gas or Liquid Propane, with AFUE Ratings up to 98.3% and a model with modulating gas valves and a variable speed fan, gas furnaces provide dependable heat and can be paired with a heat pump or an air conditioner to provide maximum comfort throughout the year. These models can be installed vertically or horizontally to accommodate various installation needs.
  • Electric, available as an all-electric furnace or an air handler with electric strips paired with a heat pump. These models can come with Variable Speed operation and paired with a heat pump can provide maximum comfort throughout the year. These models can be installed vertically or horizontally to accommodate various installation needs. Heat strip can be sued in an air handler paired with a heat pump to serve as a back up to the heat pump for extreme cold situations.

Available in:

    • Single Stage
      • A single stage unit turns on when indoor temperatures exceed the temperature setting on your thermostat. Once the temperature set on the thermostat is reached it turns off again. Single stage furnaces always operate at 100% capacity.
    • Two Stage
      • More efficient than single stage units, these units vary their output between two levels: high and low. Ideally, the low stage would satisfy the thermostat most of the time. When necessary, the high stage would turn on. This helps eliminate temperature swings and helps to better condition the air, making you feel more comfortable for longer periods of time.
    • Variable Speed
      • Variable speed units precisely control the airflow throughout your home in order to maintain the highest level of comfort. This allows the unit to run continuously, while consuming far less electricity than a single stage unit. The constant airflow has some key benefits, maximum conditioning and treatment of the air, less hot and cold drafts, and quieter operation.

Comfort

Furnaces play a big role in keeping home and businesses comfortable during cold days. Being able to raise the temperature inside allows for people to stay warm and comfortable.

The temperature that feels comfortable may be different for everyone. With variable speed furnaces, having the air move constantly allows for better dehumidification during the cooling season when paired with an air conditioner or a heat pump and better humidification when paired with a humidifier during the heating season. Variable speed fans help better filtration and the lessening of hot and cold spots as well. Even with two-speed operation, having the low speed on the majority of the time makes the treated air feel more comfortable.

Features

Variable speed ECM Blower, the variable speed electronically commutated blower precisely and efficiently controls the flow of heated or cooled air throughout your home via ductwork. This allows for better airflow that reduces temperature swings as well as constantly treating the air for filtration and humidity management.

Multi Speed ECM Blower, the multi speed electronically commutated blower can also adjust airflow like a variable speed blower but less precisely.  They have up to 5 speeds available that change based on your airflow needs.

PSC blower, the permanent split capacitor blower does not adjust airflow. It is set to one speed and operates at that speed 100% of the time.

Modulating Gas Valve, found in the most efficient gas furnaces, the modulating gas valve allows for better comfort by turning on more frequently but at a lower stages to condition the air before 100% capacity is needed.

Energy Efficiency 

The efficiency of furnaces is measured by Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). AFUE is a measure of how efficient the unit is in converting energy from its fuel source to heat over the course of a typical year. AFUE is the ratio of annual heat output of the furnace compared to the annual fossil fuel energy consumed by a furnace. An AFUE rating of 95% means that 95% of the energy in the fuel type becomes heat for the building and the other 5% escapes to the outside of the building through the ventilation system. Electric furnaces installed inside a building have zero loss.  The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires all new furnaces to display their AFUE ratings so consumers can compare their different efficiencies.

Older units have a rating of 56%-70% AFUE rating. Newer non-condensing units have a 80%-83% AFUE rating. Newer condensing units have an 90%-98.5% AFUE rating. Condensing units have a secondary heat exchanger for better efficiency. Based on the US National Average for 2017, an 80% AFUE unit would save over $7,500 vs a 60% AFUE over 15 years.  A 90%+ AFUE unit would save over $10,000 over 15 years.

DIY

  • Check to make sure the furnace pilot light is on, if not lit relit according the manufacture owners manual.
  • Make sure all return and supply registers are clean and unobstructed.
  • Make sure to check and change or clean the air filter, on some models at least once a month.
  • Make sure the area around the furnace is clear of debris and combustible materials.
  • Check your thermostat and turn to heat to make sure it comes on.
  • Check to make sure your Oil or Liquid Propane tanks are full. Generally, they are cheaper to fill during the cooling season than the heating season.

Service

With normal maintenance and care, furnaces can last over 20 years!  Our experienced technicians can help you maintain the life of your equipment by performing a Home Comfort Protection Plan check on your furnace. Some inspections the technician will perform are checking the air filter, blower motor, blower wheel, transformer, gas leaks, flame sensor, thermostat, and more!

Contact Us!

Oct 08
Love8
mini splits - ductless

Mini Splits/Ductless Systems

By Cooling, Duct Free Systems, Heating

How it works

There are a lot of applications that a ductless system can be used for In the Miami Valley. Mini split systems can be used for alleviating a hot or cold spot, help heat and cool a renovation or new construction, and even provide comfort for light commercial use. With many types of installation options available there aren’t many situations that a ductless system can’t help with.

Similar to standard air-source heats pumps, mini split systems have two main components, an outdoor condensing unit and an indoor air-handling unit. The link between the two units is called the conduit, it houses the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and a condensate drain. Ductless systems are available where no ductwork is needed while ducted mini split systems can use little ductwork in the ceiling or below the floor. The unit or units will operate to reach the temperature set on either thermostat or remote control. Some models can be controlled via a smart device as well.

Types

With many different application types and installation options their are a lot of options available:

Outdoor Units

  • Single Zoned Cooling Only, designed to provide a high comfort level to a single room for cooling purposes only while being energy efficient (up to 24.6 SEER) and very quiet (low as 48 dB).
  • Single Zoned Cooling and Heating, designed to provide a high comfort level to a single room for cooling and heating purposes year-round. Some models are designed to provide outstanding heating performance even in extreme cold. Models can be energy efficient (up to 42 SEER & 15 HSPF), quiet (as low as 47 dB),
  • Multi Zoned Cooling and Heating, Designed for whole building comfort for cooling and heating purposes. One outdoor unit can support up to 8 indoor units and each zone can be individually controlled to meet personal comfort needs. Units can be energy efficient (up to 23.8 SEER & 12 HSPF) and quiet, (as low as 49 dB)

Indoor Units

  • Wall Mounted, designed to provide cooling and heating to an individual room while monitoring room conditions and self-adjusting the fan for ideal personal comfort. Units can be very energy efficient (up to 33.1 SEER & 13.5 HSPF) and quiet (as low as 19 dB), cooling only, and available in 3 speed or 5 speed fan speeds.
  • Horizontal Ducted, designed to use ductwork which can be concealed in the ceiling or below the floor. Ideal for new construction or renovations. Units can be energy efficient (up to 19.6 SEER & 12.1 HSPF), quiet (as low as 23 dB) with 3 fan speeds.
  • Ceiling Cassette, designed to fit between standard 16” joists to provide cooling and heating to one area. Great option for renovations, new construction, and light commercial. Units can be energy efficient with SEER Ratings up to 19.6 and HSPF up to 12.1 while be quiet with Db levels as low as 24, with 3 fan speeds
  • Floor Mounted, designed to fit in rooms with little vertical wall height where a wall unit or ceiling unit will not fit to provide a room with cooling and heating. Units can be energy efficient with up to 28.2 SEER and up to 13.6 HSPF, while being quiet with dB rating as low as 21, with 5 fan speeds.
  • Ducted Air Handler, designed to accommodate new construction, renovations, replacements, and light commercial to provide heating and cooling through ductwork. Can be installed vertically or horizontally. Can be broken down to fit through tight access points and reassembled. Units can be energy efficient with SEER ratings up to 21.4 and HSPF up to 10.4 while be quiet with dB levels as low as 27 with 3 fan speeds.

Comfort

Mini split systems are designed to offer cooling and heating to rooms or areas to provide comfort to occupants. Designed to be energy efficient, easy to install, quiet, and easily adjustable to provide year-round comfort to make your living space comfort what you want it to be.

Features

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), mini splits are designed to treat the air in the area in which it installed. Filters are installed on all indoor units and some models can capture and remove allergens, odors, and other contaminants to make your air clean and keep you healthy.

Extreme Low Temperature Heating, some models are designed to provide comfortable indoor temperatures even during the coldest days (as low as -13 degree F)

Quiet, without ductwork or with little ductwork mini split systems are designed to deliver cooling and heating directly to the rooms they are intended to serve which means there is no need for fans, keeping the noise down, outdoor units as low as 48 dB and indoor units as low as 19 dB.

Energy Efficiency

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) is a ratio of the amount of cooling produced (BTU) divided by the amount of electricity (watts) used. The difference between SEER and EER is that SEER accounts for changes in outside temperature instead of just one temperature. EER should be used as a comparison when the outside temperature is consistently over 95 degrees F.

The higher the SEER the greater the heat pump’s efficiency could be. Generally, most single stage heat pumps rate from 14 to 16 SEER. Two Stage units rate from 17 to 19. Variable speed units rate from 18 to 21. Comparing against a 10 SEER heat pump over 15 years*, a 14 SEER could save $1395, a 16 SEER could save $1,830, and a 21 SEER could save $2,550.

HSPF (High Seasonal Performance Factor) represents the total heating output of a heat pump (including supplementary electric heat) during the normal heating season (in BTU) as compared to the total electricity consumed (in watt-hours) during the same period.

DIY

With normal maintenance and care mini split systems can last over 20 years. Make sure to keep the filters and coils clean. Make sure the outdoor unit is free from obstruction and the unit is free of debris. Check the drain pan to ensure it stays clear of moisture. Inspect the refrigerant lines, visually confirming the lines are insulated and not damaged.

Service

Our experienced technicians can help you maintain the life of your equipment by performing a HCPP check on your mini split system. Some checks the technician will perform are refrigerant levels, ensure the coils are clean, check the drain pan, check the entire outdoor unit, inspect the refrigerant lines, and ensure the units are set to manufactures specifications. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Sep 13
Love3
home monitoring

Home Protection & Monitoring

By Home Monitoring, Residential

In the Miami Valley, most homes and businesses have both heating and cooling systems installed to keep the occupants comfortable year-round.  There are many risks out there that can threaten the safety of your family or business; fire, flooding, carbon monoxide, debris, animals, freezing temperatures, intruders, brownouts, and surges are just some of the risks of owning a home or business. There are many products out there that are designed to keep everyone protected and safe. There are other products that will keep the HVAC equipment safe, in better working order, and hopefully maximize the life of that equipment.  Products that offer monitoring, are designed to alert the owner of problems around the clock, even if you are not home, all through a common smart device like a tablet or cell phone. Smart security measures are vital to guarding your home or business and keeping all the occupants safe and comfortable.  Here are some of the products we offer and what they protect:

Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Fact: About 3,400 Americans die each year in fires and about 17,500 are injured.

Fact: A fifty percent reduction in fire fatalities since the introduction of smoke alarms into the home

Offered as stand-alone units or combination units, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are critical equipment for any home or business.  Ohio guidelines for residential smoke detectors is that for new construction of homes every level of the house needs a smoke detector and all occupied sleep areas need one as well. Ohio guidelines for commercial smoke detectors is that for most systems in a commercial setting with a design capacity greater than 2,000 cfm return air, they are required to be installed. For commercial purposes, duct mounted smoke detectors are common.

Fact:  replace smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every 7-10 years.

Fact: In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Fact:  Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires, more than 20,000 visit the emergency room, and more than 4,000 are hospitalized.

Combination alarms save space, money, and time. You’ll only have to change the batteries once a year for one device and replace that device every 7-10 years, depending on manufacture guidelines. Some models of smart detectors have voice warnings that tell the owner where and what the problem is. Smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are available as well. They can even alert your smart device of a problem, protecting even while you are away.  There are other features that matter and help, some models test themselves, have night lights built in, can tell the difference between steam and smoke, and can be quieted by a smart device.

Water and Freeze Sensor

Leaks and frozen pipes can cause serious damage to your home or business. Water and freeze sensors can be used to get an early alert of an issue before it turns into a disaster. Placed around water sources inside the house, they will alert you to a problem as it occurs.  Smart water and freeze sensors can be connected to your smart device that monitor and inform you of problems even if you are not there. Multiple sensors can be installed to the network to pinpoint problems as well.

Surge Protector

Make sure your furnace, air handler, air conditioner, heat pump, boiler, and ductless mini split system are protected from damage due to surges. There are two main ways surges occur in your system, lightning and switching surges. Lightning surges are random events, but switching surges can occur every day from normal use of common appliance to normal operations of the power company. Both types of surges are able to be protected against. We recommend all appliances and electronics in your home or business be protected from surges. Your heating and cooling system can be protected by an additional add on surge protector. Some models offer connected equipment warranties as well to cover losses from surges.

Wi-Fi Thermostat

A thermostat’s basic function is to regulate the heating and cooling system by sensing the temperature and performing a heating or cooling action to maintain that set temperature. Wi-Fi connected thermostats offer additional features to monitor and protect your home or business. When properly set up, some smart wi-fi thermostats can monitor and inform the owner of issues such as indoor freezing temperatures, filter replacement needed, service reminders, and even equipment failure.

Additional Protection Accessories

Hauck Bros., Inc. offers other accessories that can be used in conjunction with your heating and cooling system to protect and monitor your home or business. Line set covers, air conditioner covers, air filtration systems, home automation products, wind baffles, hard start kits, and condensate pumps are a few of the accessories that can be added to protect your equipment. Need some more recommendations from our professionals?  Schedule a consultation today!

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