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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
March 2, 2013 //
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Comfort Aire Mini Split Error Codes. Ventilation.

Good ventilation protects both your health and your home. Ventilation is especially important in bathrooms to remove unwanted moisture. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause allergic reactions and aggravate lung diseases such as asthma. During renovation, be sure to check that your bathroom fan is functioning properly. This means not only that the motor makes noise or that the fan is running; it needs to be exhausting a sufficient amount of air*. And the air should be exhausted directly to the outside, and not just into an attic or some other space in the house.
 
If you do not have a bathroom exhaust fan or if your current fan is not working, you should install one.  In cold climates, bathroom exhaust fans can be used as part of a strategy to provide ventilation for the whole house. 

Comfort Aire Mini Split Reviews. Sufficient amounts of Air and Air-sealing Opportunities.

It should be obvious that all efforts should be made to avoid problems with water in the bathroom. Leaks should be fixed. Condensation problems should be addressed. Wet walls should be constructed to effectively keep water from penetrating cavities in the walls and floor.
 
Despite good ventilation, moisture-laden air from the bathroom can still make it's way into wall and ceiling cavities. A bathroom remodeling project may present opportunity to improve air-sealing. Electrical, plumbing, and ventilation penetrations should be sealed where they are accessible or in any walls that are opened. Depending on how they were constructed, soffits can be troublesome to air-seal, but if you are replacing bath fixtures or cabinets, you may be able to access space that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

Comfort Aire Mini Split. Flooring.

Flooring must not only have a good degree of protection from harm by water, but should also prevent water which does get on the floor from penetrating to the subfloor and space below.
 
Do not install carpet near water sources or areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem such as around sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets. To reduce the potential for microbial growth in the joints of hard surfaces or porous flooring installed near water sources, be sure to seal the entire surface.

Comfort Aire Mini Split Parts. Windows.

Bathroom remodeling may present a good opportunity to replace old windows with new ENERGY STAR® windows. While costs do not always justify the change from purely an energy savings perspective, there may be other benefits of new windows. More efficient windows may be less prone to condensation and related mold growth. Painted window sashes and frames in homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint; this is a special concern because the friction of opening and closing windows can release lead dust into the home.
 

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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
March 2, 2013 //
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Split Systems HVAC. Radon.

Test your homes for radon. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. You can't see or smell radon, but it's not hard to measure the level of radon in your home. Testing is easy and should only take a little of your time. 
 
EPA recommends fixing your home if a test shows radon levels in your home exceed the action level of 4 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). If you are building an addition (or a new home!) there are radon-resistant new construction techniques you can use to help prevent high radon levels.

Comfort Star Mini Split. Lead.

Old lead-based paint is the most significant source of lead exposure in the U.S. today. The dust and chips from lead-based paint are dangerous when swallowed or inhaled; children and pregnant women are especially at risk. Harmful exposures to lead can occur when lead-based paint is improperly removed from surfaces by dry scraping, sanding, or open-flame burning, or by demolition. A home built before 1978 is likely to have surfaces painted with lead-based paint.

Comfort Air Mini Split.  Moisture Control.

Too much moisture in a home can lead to mold, mildew, and other biological growth. This in turn can lead to a variety of health effects ranging from more common allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, to death. Excess moisture can be in the form of high relative humidity, leaks in the roof, walls, or plumbing, air moving from the inside or the outside into the walls, or from the basement or crawlspace. Methods to control moisture include fixing any water leaks; providing ventilation in the home; air-sealing; properly using vapor barriers in wall construction, roofs; and preventing soil moisture from entering the home through basements and crawlspaces. Read more about moisture control.

Comfort Aire Ductless Mini Split.  Ventilation.

Good ventilation is important because it protects both your health and your home. Good ventilation protects you and your family from unpleasant odors, irritating pollutants, and potentially dangerous gases. Well-planned ventilation also helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause allergic reactions and aggravate lung diseases such as asthma. Ventilation is important both during renovation and also as long as you occupy the home. Remodeling may present an opportunity to ensure your home has adequate ventilation. 
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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
March 2, 2013 //
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Wall Mounted Air Conditioning Unit. In New Construction, adding insulation on the exterior of the basement walls will:

Minimize thermal bridging and reduce heat loss through the foundation. Protect the damp-proof coating from damage during backfilling. Provide some protection against moisture intrusion. Protect the foundation from the effects of the freeze-thaw cycle in extreme climates. Reduce the potential for condensation on surfaces in the basement. Conserve room area, relative to installing insulation on the interior. In an existing home, adding insulation to the exterior of the basement walls is impractical. Interior basement wall insulation has the following advantages:
 
It is much less expensive to install than exterior insulation for existing buildings. Almost any insulation type can be used. It eliminates the threat of insect infestation. It isolates the living space from the cooler earth more effectively than when exterior insulation methods. Here are a few things to consider when installing interior basement wall insulation.

Cassette Air Conditioning. Many insulation types require a fire-rated covering because they release toxic gases when ignited.

Interior insulation reduces usable interior space by a few inches. It doesn't protect the damp-proof coating like exterior insulation does. If perimeter drainage is poor, the insulation may become saturated by moisture weeping through foundation walls. Superior air-sealing details and vapor diffusion retarders are important for adequate performance. To determine appropriate R-values for basement walls in your area, use these R-value recommendations. Then choose the type of insulation:
 
Blanket (batt and roll) insulation. Insulating concrete blocks (new construction) Foam board insulation. Insulating concrete forms (new construction). Loose-fill insulation (good choice for finished basements). Sprayed foam insulation (good choice for finished basements). Moisture control is particularly important for basements, because they are notorious for problems with water intrusion, humidity, and mold.

Sanyo Air Conditioning Units. CRAWLSPACE INSULATION.

How you insulate a crawlspace depends on whether it's ventilated or unventilated. Most building codes require vents to aid in removing moisture from the crawlspace. However, many building professionals now recognize that building an unventilated crawlspace (or closing vents after the crawlspace dries out following construction) is the best option in homes using proper moisture control and exterior drainage techniques.
 
If you have or will have an unventilated crawlspace, the best approach is to seal and insulate the foundation walls rather than the floor between the crawlspace and the house. This strategy has the advantage of keeping piping and ductwork within the conditioned volume of the house so these building components don't require insulation for energy efficiency or protection against freezing. The downside of this strategy is that rodents, pests, or water can damage the insulation and the crawlspace must be built airtight and the air barrier maintained. It’s best to locate the access door to the crawlspace inside the home through the subfloor unless you build and maintain an airtight, insulated access door in the perimeter wall.

Air Water Heat Pump Price. SLAB-ON-GRADE INSULATION.

Insulating a slab in an existing home can be expensive and disruptive, but If the slab in your home is cold it is possible to dig around the perimeter of the house and install insulation, usually foam board. In most parts of the United States, insulating the exterior edge of a slab can reduce heating bills by 10% to 20%.
 
Installing slab insulation during the construction process is more straightforward. Slab insulation, typically foam board, is installed either directly against the exterior of the slab and footing before backfilling or under the slab and along the inside of the stem wall of the foundation. Construction details vary widely, so it’s best to consult a building professional in your area. Building America’s climate-specific publications also have useful construction details for different climate zones.
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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
March 1, 2013 //
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Mitsubishi Air Conditioner Heater. INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE.

If you allow filters and air conditioning coils to become dirty, the air conditioner will not work properly, and the compressor or fans are likely to fail prematurely.

Mitsubishi Cooling and Heating Prices. ELECTRIC CONTROL FAILURE.

The compressor and fan controls can wear out, especially when the air conditioner turns on and off frequently, as is common when a system is oversized. Because corrosion of wire and terminals is also a problem in many systems, electrical connections and contacts should be checked during a professional service call.

Mitsubishi Mini Split Heat Pumps. SENSOR PROBLEMS.

Room air conditioners feature a thermostat sensor, located behind the control panel, which measures the temperature of air coming into the evaporative coil. If the sensor is knocked out of position, the air conditioner could cycle constantly or behave erratically. The sensor should be near the coil but not touching it; adjust its position by carefully bending the wire that holds it in place.

Mitsubishi Mr. Slim Ductless Air Conditioner. DRAINAGE PROBLEMS.

When it's humid outside, check the condensate drain to make sure it isn't clogged and is draining properly. Room air conditioners may not drain properly if not mounted level.
 

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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
March 1, 2013 //
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Lg Mini Split Reviews.CONDENSATE DRAINS.

Occasionally pass a stiff wire through the unit's drain channels. Clogged drain channels prevent a unit from reducing humidity, and the resulting excess moisture may discolor walls or carpet. WINDOW SEALS FOR ROOM AIR CONDITIONERS. At the start of each cooling season, inspect the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame to ensure it makes contact with the unit's metal case. Moisture can damage this seal, allowing cool air to escape from your house.

Mini Split AC System. PREPARING FOR WINTER.

In the winter, either cover your room air conditioner or remove and store it. Covering the outdoor unit of a central air conditioner will protect the unit from winter weather and debris.

Lg Mini Split System. HIRING A PROFESSIONAL.

When your air conditioner needs more than regular maintenance, hire a professional service technician. A well-trained technician will find and fix problems in your air conditioning system.The technician should: Check for correct amount of refrigerant. Test for refrigerant leaks using a leak detector. Capture any refrigerant that must be evacuated from the system, instead of illegally releasing it to the atmosphere. 

Lg Ductless Mini Split. Seal Duct Leakage.

Check for and seal duct leakage in central systems. Measure airflow through the evaporator coil. Verify the correct electric control sequence and make sure that the heating system and cooling system cannot operate simultaneously. Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections, and apply a non-conductive coating if necessary. Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear. Check the accuracy of the thermostat.

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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
March 1, 2013 //
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Ductless AC Installation. Consider Climate, Home Design.

Consider factors such as your climate, home design, and budget when selecting insulation for your home. Use higher R-value insulation, such as spray foam, on exterior walls and in cathedral ceilings to get more insulation with less thickness. Install attic air barriers such as wind baffles along the entire attic eave to help ensure proper airflow from the soffit to the attic. Ventilation helps with moisture control and reducing summer cooling bills, but don't ventilate your attic if you have insulation on the underside of the roof. Ask a qualified contractor for recommendations.
 
Be careful how close you place insulation next to a recessed light fixture—unless it is insulation contact (IC) rated—to avoid a fire hazard. See the Lighting section for more information about recessed lights. Follow the manufacturer's installation instructions, and wear the proper protective gear when installing insulation.

Cleaning Air Conditioner. LONG-TERM SAVINGS TIPS.

One of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more comfortable year-round is to add insulation to your attic, including the attic trap or access door, which is relatively easy.
 
To find out if you have enough attic insulation, measure the thickness of the insulation. If it is less than R-30 (11 inches of fiberglass or rock wool or 8 inches of cellulose), you could probably benefit by adding more.
 
If your attic has enough insulation and proper air sealing, and your home still feels drafty and cold in the winter or too warm in the summer, chances are you need to add insulation to the exterior walls. This is more expensive and usually requires a contractor, but it may be worth the cost—especially if you live in a very cold climate. If you replace the exterior siding on your home, consider adding insulation at the same time.
 
You may also need to add insulation to your crawlspace or basement. Check with a professional contractor for recommendations.

How to Install Mini Split Air Conditioner? NEW CONSTRUCTION AND ADDITIONS.

 

In most climates, you will save money and energy when you build a new home or addition if you install a combination of cavity insulation and insulative sheathing. Reduce exterior wall leaks by taping the joints of exterior sheathing and caulking and sealing exterior walls. Cavity insulation can be installed at levels up to R-15 in a 2 inch x 4 inch wall and up to R-21 in a 2 inch x 6 inch wall. These help to reduce the energy that would otherwise be lost through the wood frame. The table below shows the recommended combinations. For more customized recommendations, see the ZIP Code Insulation Calculator.
 
Consider products that provide both insulation and structural support, such as structural insulated panels (SIPs), and masonry products like insulating concrete forms. You should consider attic or roof radiant barriers (in hot climates), reflective insulation, and foundation insulation for new home construction. Check with your contractor for more information about these options.

How to Install Central Air Conditioner Unit? There are four types of systems.

Exhaust ventilation systems work by depressurizing the building and are relatively simple and inexpensive to install.
 
Supply ventilation systems work by pressurizing the building, and are also relatively simple and inexpensive to install.
 
Balanced ventilation systems and  Energy recovery ventilation systems. If properly designed and installed, neither pressurize nor depressurize a house. Rather, they introduce and exhaust approximately equal quantities of fresh outside air and polluted inside air.
 
Provide controlled ventilation while minimizing energy loss. They reduce the costs of heating ventilated air in the winter by transferring heat from the warm inside air being exhausted to the fresh (but cold) supply air. In the summer, the inside air cools the warmer supply air to reduce ventilation cooling costs.
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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
February 28, 2013 //
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HVAC Line Sets. Liquid foam insulation.

Combined with a foaming agent — can be applied using small spray containers or in larger quantities as a pressure-sprayed (foamed-in-place) product. Both types expand and harden as the mixture cures. They also conform to the shape of the cavity, filling and sealing it thoroughly.

AC Line Sets. Slow-curing liquid foams are also available. 

 
These foams are designed to flow over obstructions before expanding and curing, and they are often used for empty wall cavities in existing buildings. There are also liquid foam materials that can be poured from a container.

Mini Split Line Set. Experienced Installers.

Installation of most types of liquid foam insulation requires special equipment and certification and should be done by experienced installers. Following installation, an approved thermal barrier equal in fire resistance to half-inch gypsum board must cover all foam materials. Also, some building codes don't recognize sprayed foam insulation as a vapor barrier, so installation might require an additional vapor retarder.

50' Line Set. COSTS.

Liquid foam insulation products and installation usually cost more than traditional batt insulation. However, liquid foam insulation has higher R-values and forms an air barrier, which can eliminate some of the other costs and tasks associated with weatherizing a home, such as caulking, applying housewrap and vapor barrier, and taping joints. When building a new home, this type of insulation can also help reduce construction time and the number of specialized contractors, which saves money.
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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
February 28, 2013 //
0

How to Install a Split Unit AC? Types of Energy-Recovery Systems.

There are two types of energy-recovery systems: heat-recovery ventilators (HRV) and energy-recovery (or enthalpy-recovery) ventilators (ERV). Both types include a heat exchanger, one or more fans to push air through the machine, and controls. There are some small wall- or window-mounted models, but the majority are central, whole-house ventilation systems with their own duct system or shared ductwork.
 
The main difference between a heat-recovery and an energy-recovery ventilator is the way the heat exchanger works. With an energy-recovery ventilator, the heat exchanger transfers a certain amount of water vapor along with heat energy, while a heat-recovery ventilator only transfers heat.

Parts Of an Air Conditioning System. Energy-Recovery Ventilator. 

Because an energy-recovery ventilator transfers some of the moisture from the exhaust air to the usually less humid incoming winter air, the humidity of the house air stays more constant. This also keeps the heat exchanger core warmer, minimizing problems with freezing.
 
In the summer, an energy-recovery ventilator may help to control humidity in the house by transferring some of the water vapor in the incoming air to the theoretically drier air that's leaving the house. If you use an air conditioner, an energy-recovery ventilator generally offers better humidity control than a heat-recovery system.
 
 However, there's some controversy about using ventilation systems at all during humid, but not overly hot, summer weather. Some experts suggest that it is better to turn the system off in very humid weather to keep indoor humidity levels low. You can also set up the system so that it only runs when the air conditioning system is running, or use pre-cooling coils.

How to Install a Mini Split Air Conditioner? Cost-Effective Installation.

Most energy recovery ventilation systems can recover about 70% to 80% of the energy in the exiting air and deliver that energy to the incoming air. However, they are most cost-effective in climates with extreme winters or summers, and where fuel costs are high. In mild climates, the cost of the additional electricity consumed by the system fans may exceed the energy savings from not having to condition the supply air.
 
Energy recovery ventilation systems usually cost more to install than other ventilation systems. In general, simplicity is key to a cost-effective installation. To save on installation costs, many systems share existing ductwork. Complex systems are not only more expensive to install, but they are generally more maintenance intensive and often consume more electric power. For most houses, attempting to recover all of the energy in the exhaust air will probably not be worth the additional cost. Also, these types of ventilation systems are still not very common. Only some HVAC contractors have enough technical expertise and experience to install them.

Installing Mini Split Heat Pump. Cleaned Regularly to Prevent Deterioration of Ventilation.

In general, you want to have a supply and return duct for each bedroom and for each common living area. Duct runs should be as short and straight as possible. The correct size duct is necessary to minimize pressure drops in the system and thus improve performance. Insulate ducts located in unheated spaces, and seal all joints with duct mastic (never ordinary duct tape).
 
Also, energy recovery ventilation systems operated in cold climates must have devices to help prevent freezing and frost formation. Very cold supply air can cause frost formation in the heat exchanger, which can damage it. 
 
. They need to be cleaned regularly to prevent deterioration of ventilation rates and heat recovery and to prevent mold and bacteria on heat exchanger surfaces.
 
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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
February 25, 2013 //
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Split HVAC System. When your products are all about air.

we have a fundamental respect for the environment that’s reflected in many of our proudest innovations. As a world leader in heating, air conditioning and refrigeration solutions, we’re committed to developing innovations that help our consumers decrease their own impact on the planet. Residential and commercial buildings consume about 41 percent of all energy used in the U.S.1 In your own home, as much as 54% of energy used is for heating and cooling.

Mini Split Heat and Air. The Environment is Everything.

For example, we introduced the first environmentally-sound refrigerant, Puron®, in 1996, a full 14 years before industry regulations required it. And our new, Infinity® heat pump with Greenspeed™ intelligence is a technological first in ducted, air source heat pumps, achieving an unprecedented 13 HSPF, a leap of 29% in efficiency over previously best-in-class heat pumps of its kind in a 3-ton size. In this day and age, responsibility for the environment is one we all shoulder. And you can take comfort in knowing that we will continually push to invent and create the most energy efficient and environmentally-sound products possible.

Mini Split Heat Pump System. HEATING AND COOLING TIPS.

Set your programmable thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and as high as is comfortable in the summer, and — depending on the season — raise or lower the setpoint when you're sleeping or away from home. Clean or replace filters on furnaces and air conditioners once a month or as recommended. Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed; make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes. Eliminate trapped air from hot-water radiators once or twice a season; if unsure about how to perform this task, contact a professional. Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and the radiators. Turn off kitchen, bath, and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing; when replacing exhaust fans, consider installing high-efficiency, low-noise models. During winter, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows. During summer, keep the window coverings closed during the day to block the sun's heat.

Ductless Air Conditioning Systems. LONG-TERM SAVINGS TIPS

Select energy-efficient products when you buy new heating and cooling equipment. Your contractor should be able to give you energy fact sheets for different types, models, and designs to help you compare energy usage. For furnaces, look for high Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings. The national minimum is 78% AFUE, but there are ENERGY STAR® models on the market that exceed 90% AFUE. For air conditioners, look for a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The current minimum is 13 SEER for central air conditioners. ENERGY STAR models are 14.5 SEER or more.

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By minisplitwarehouse | Link
February 25, 2013 //
0

1 Ton Split System. GeoExchange.

Geothermal heat pumps (GHPs), sometimes referred to as GeoExchange, earth-coupled, ground-source, or water-source heat pumps, have been in use since the late 1940s. They use the constant temperature of the earth as the exchange medium instead of the outside air temperature. This allows the system to reach fairly high efficiencies (300% to 600%) on the coldest winter nights, compared to 175% to 250% for air-source heat pumps on cool days.
 
Although many parts of the country experience seasonal temperature extremes — from scorching heat in the summer to sub-zero cold in the winter—a few feet below the earth's surface the ground remains at a relatively constant temperature. Depending on latitude, ground temperatures range from 45°F (7°C) to 75°F (21°C). Like a cave, this ground temperature is warmer than the air above it during the winter and cooler than the air in the summer. The GHP takes advantage of this by exchanging heat with the earth through a ground heat exchanger.

3 Ton Mini Split. Need Litlle Maintenance.

As with any heat pump, geothermal and water-source heat pumps are able to heat, cool, and, if so equipped, supply the house with hot water. Some models of geothermal systems are available with two-speed compressors and variable fans for more comfort and energy savings. Relative to air-source heat pumps, they are quieter, last longer, need little maintenance, and do not depend on the temperature of the outside air.

Split Heat Pump. Dual-Source Heat Pump.

A dual-source heat pump combines an air-source heat pump with a geothermal heat pump. These appliances combine the best of both systems. Dual-source heat pumps have higher efficiency ratings than air-source units, but are not as efficient as geothermal units. The main advantage of dual-source systems is that they cost much less to install than a single geothermal unit, and work almost as well.

3 Ton Heat Pump. The Installation Price of a Geothermal System.

Even though the installation price of a geothermal system can be several times that of an air-source system of the same heating and cooling capacity, the additional costs are returned to you in energy savings in 5 to 10 years. System life is estimated at 25 years for the inside components and 50+ years for the ground loop. There are approximately 50,000 geothermal heat pumps installed in the United States each year.
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