Company News

The Importance of a Thermostatic Expansion Valve

November 18, 2022 HVAC

A thermostatic expansion valve is a useful piece of equipment that regulates pressure and temperature in a hydronic heating system. It makes the system safer and more efficient by reducing the backflow into the boiler and preventing damage to sensitive components.

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, we offer TEV services such as installations, repairs, maintenance, and replacements. When your TEV needs attention, you can count on us to provide top-notch inspections and diagnostics. Whether you’re looking for a new TEV for your system or you simply need a few repairs, we’re the ones to call.

What Do Thermostatic Expansion Valves Do?

TEVs are commonly used to control hot water and steam. In simple terms, TEVs are valves with multiple functions. They act as a check valve, shut-off valve, pressure controller, and thermostat in one device.

Check valves prevent backflow, while shut-off valves allow you to turn the hot water on or off. Pressure controllers reduce pressure to prevent damage to equipment. They also reduce pressure in the event of high pressure to prevent blowback.

Thermostats use a heating element and probe to measure the temperature and turn the valve on or off accordingly. The thermostatic expansion valve is most commonly used with hydronic heating systems such as hot water heaters or boilers.

When using gas as a heat source, this device can be replaced with a manual or automatic gas control valve. In other words, it’s not mandatory but recommended for the optimal performance of your system.

How Does a Thermostatic Expansion Valve Work

A TEV is used to control pressure and temperature in a hydronic heating system by regulating the flow of water or steam to a boiler. It has two main components: a nozzle and a thermostat. The nozzle is installed in the system’s water supply line, and the thermostat is installed in the water return line.

The water enters the nozzle, and the pressure of the system pushes the water through the nozzle and into the return line. The hot water is then delivered to the circulation pump, and the return line is sent back to the boiler. As the water travels to the boiler, it is heated by the boiler’s water.

The nozzle acts as a restriction in the line that allows the water to enter the return line under a predetermined amount of pressure. The thermostat in the return line acts as a pressure controller and temperature sensor. The boiler’s temperature is also monitored.

Why Are Thermostatic Expansion Valves Important?

They are important for a number of reasons. They help prevent low and high water pressures, which can cause damage to equipment. TEVs prevent blowback, which happens when the water pressure exceeds 100 pounds per square inch in residential systems.

They also help prevent scalding by regulating the temperature of the water. The pressure in a hydronic heating system is controlled by the amount of flow to the boiler. The more flow there is, the higher the pressure.

If you have low water pressure, it’s usually due to the boiler not receiving enough flow. In this case, the water stays in the system too long. If the pressure exceeds 100 psi, then there is possibly an issue with the system.

Tev Maintenance

A trained professional can help you maintain the functionality of your TEV. An HVAC technician can clean the nozzle once a year by removing it from the line and running water through it. This will allow a slow and steady flow of water through the nozzle, which will prevent erosion.

You should also have a technician replace the nozzle every five years or when there are signs of wear and tear. Your technician should make sure to replace the existing nozzle with exactly the same model.

It’s important to know that if the nozzle is not closing properly, it might also be a sign that your thermostat needs replacement.

Thermostat Replacement

If the nozzle is working just fine, but you still need to replace the thermostat, a technician can get to the root of the problem by shutting off the system. Then, he or she will remove the old thermostat and check the gauge on the side if there is one.

Next, the technician will install the new thermostat and place it in the return line where the old one was. The new thermostat should be the same model and have the same settings as the old one.

If you notice that the new thermostat isn’t working as efficiently as the old one, it could be due to the type of piping being used. The new type of piping might restrict the flow too much.

Maintaining Your System

When a TEV needs replacement, it’s important to handle this job right away. If a worn-out TEV remains in place for too long, it could compromise the boiler and thermostat, necessitating extensive repairs. A repair technician from Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling can perform yearly inspections to ensure that your TEV is in proper working order.

Under normal conditions, you shouldn’t need to interact with your system’s TEV. It will continue working without your interaction for many years, although regular inspections and maintenance will extend its lifespan considerably. TEV maintenance is straightforward and affordable. At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, we aim to make TEV repairs as fast and efficient as possible.

Our Services

We offer reliable TEV installation and maintenance services to folks throughout Jacksonville, Florida, and the surrounding areas. A properly working TEV is essential for hydronic heating systems in Jacksonville homes, and we’ll go the extra mile to ensure that your TEV is free of damage. Our professionals are friendly and organized, so you can expect us to finish our work quickly and without any hassle.

The Takeaway

A TEV is a convenient and efficient device that helps prevent low water pressure and scalding. It prevents blowback into the system, which can result in extensive damage and costly repairs. The TEV is commonly used with hydronic heating systems and is easy to maintain.

If you have a TEV installed in your system, make sure to have a professional clean the nozzle and check the thermostat on a regular basis. When it’s time to replace the nozzle or thermostat, make sure you get exactly the same model.

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, we can handle any HVAC repairs, maintenance, or installations you send our way. Our services include air conditioner and heater replacements, air duct cleaning, and home air quality assurance testing. Whether you’re looking for a new heat pump or professional air conditioner repairs, we’ve got you covered.

We have been serving Jacksonville, Florida, and the surrounding areas since 2003. You can count on us for consistent, honest, and transparent services. Our technicians will always arrive on time, your bill will never have hidden costs, and we guarantee superior customer service. We know this region well, and we understand how to keep our customers’ homes comfortable throughout the long, hot summers and brief, cold winters.

If you’d like expert service for your TEV, call us today for more information and to schedule an appointment.

11 Benefits That Come With an HVAC Maintenance Plan

October 18, 2022 HVAC

HVAC maintenance plays a huge role in ensuring your system has a long life span and runs efficiently. Several tasks are done while maintaining your equipment to protect your home and ensure it keeps your family comfortable all year long.

Homeowners often forget to have their HVAC system serviced, thus necessitating a maintenance plan. Routine maintenance involves your technician inspecting, testing, and servicing critical components in your system to reduce wear and ensure efficiency. It is easy to forget about scheduling heating and cooling tune-ups as we rarely think about our system until it starts malfunctioning. Neglecting your HVAC system can have grave consequences which affect your home as well as your equipment. A maintenance plan ensures you stay on top of your system’s needs by having scheduled tune-ups. Our experts at Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling discuss why investing in a maintenance plan has its share of benefits.

1. Improved Energy Efficiency

An HVAC system that is rarely maintained must work harder to cool or heat your home properly. With your system working harder, not only does this cause wear that reduces the lifespan of your equipment, but it also increases energy bills due since the system has to use more energy to get the job done. A maintenance plan is important as it ensures your system is frequently serviced, improving its efficiency and thus ensuring your energy bills remain as low as possible. Homeowners may put off servicing their units due to the cost; however, having your unit regularly maintained saves you money in the long run since your unit will run efficiently, and there is a reduced chance of unexpected repairs.

2. Pro-Longed Lifespan

Heating and cooling systems are an investment for the comfort of your home. Like every investment, the main goal is to get the most from it. A well-maintained system should last for an average of 15 to 20 years. As your HVAC system ages, it is prone to wear and tear. Therefore, constantly replacing your unit might become a tedious and expensive ordeal, which can be avoided by servicing your equipment.

Neglecting your equipment means it has to work harder, thus straining your air conditioner and reducing its lifespan. Having scheduled tune-ups improve its reliability and performance and ensures you are not forced to retire your conditioner earlier than you intended.

3. Prevent Unexpected Breakdowns

Imagine your air conditioner malfunctioning deep into summer when you need it most. Breakdowns affect the comfort of your home and may require expensive repairs. A maintenance plan can help to prevent unexpected breakdowns. With a maintenance plan, your unit is inspected frequently by a professional. An inspection enables the technician to find pre-existing problems and fix them before the problem causes a malfunction or becomes too expensive to repair. Having enrolled in a maintenance plan also ensures the cost of repairs is lowered.

4. Reduced Maintenance Costs

The main reason why most homeowners fear maintaining their air conditioners is the cost. With your finances already stretched thin, you may find it hard paying for a maintenance check for your AC. However, with a maintenance plan, you receive huge discounts on components of your system. You also get significant savings on repairs which are guaranteed to improve your equipment. Regular maintenance catches small issues that are relatively cheap to fix. Lack of maintenance means you won’t catch these issues until they snowball into major repairs that are much more expensive.

5. Prioritized services

Despite having discounted prices for maintenance and repairs, a maintenance plan member also gets prioritized services. Your needs will always come before those who don’t have a plan. Investing in a maintenance program has advantages, as this prioritization can come in handy when you require immediate assistance for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

6. Know Your System Is Ready

Servicing your system can save you a lot of money and trouble. When your system is inspected, small issues can be caught and repaired before they become hazardous to your equipment and home. These regular tune-ups ensure your air conditioner is always ready and doesn’t break down or malfunction when needed. Investing in a maintenance plan is the best way to ensure your heating and cooling system is always ready, thus giving you peace of mind in your home.

7. No Need For Reminders

A major concern with HVAC maintenance is that you forget about scheduling the maintenance. People having busy days will likely forget about your system, especially if it functions as it should. Care of your equipment is crucial, especially if you want to save on bills and get a long life of service from the HVAC system. Luckily, maintenance plans come in handy because your HVAC service plan will keep track of your service history and contact you to make sure you schedule a tune-up when necessary. This is very beneficial as it lets you have peace of mind and the ability to focus on your other responsibilities without worrying about your conditioner. We can say that forgetting to schedule a tune-up is a thing of the past when you invest in an HVAC maintenance plan.

8. Improved Indoor Air Quality

The air quality inside your home is important, especially if your family suffers from respiratory conditions like asthma. If your system has been running without maintenance, the air quality inside your home will be affected due to the various contaminants the air may carry. During servicing, your technicians should inspect and clean the fan coils, motors, and other parts to remove dust and other allergens that may have collected. Your air filters should also be checked, cleaned, or replaced if dirt has accumulated.

9. Familiarizing With Your HVAC System

Another advantage of having a maintenance plan is that the same experts work on your system each time you require a service. This allows the technicians to familiarize themselves with your unit. Having one company doing your maintenance ensures your system is given dedicated care.

10. Maintaining Your Warranty Coverage

Sometimes regularly servicing your HVAC system is a requirement to avoid nullifying your warranty, especially if your HVAC system is new or still under warranty. If your manufacturer learns you were not maintaining your unit when the problems started, they can void your warranty, costing you more money. Registering in a maintenance plan can be crucial in upholding your warranty if you require it in the future.

11. Reduced Noise

When your system is properly maintained by a professional, they will clean and lubricate all moving parts. This helps the system to work with a lot less strain which results in less noise. Additionally, if your system seems to be louder than normal, a routine inspection can find and repair the issue, returning your system to quiet operation.

Are you in Jacksonville, FL, and looking for a maintenance agreement? At Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling, we offer the most reliable services in our area. Our highly skilled professionals provide consistent and transparent services to ensure our customers are completely satisfied. We offer heating and air conditioning installations, repairs, replacements, tune-ups, maintenance agreements, duct cleaning, indoor air quality, UV lighting, humidity control, and ventilation testing. For trusted HVAC solutions, contact us today.

How Can I Cool a Home That Doesn’t Have Ducts?

September 19, 2022 HVAC

Summers in Jacksonville can be brutal. For most people, this is the time to crank up the air conditioning and enjoy time indoors. However, if your home doesn’t currently have an air conditioner, keeping your home cool isn’t as simple as just turning back the thermostat. Fortunately, if you need to stay cool this summer, there are several great options available, even if your home doesn’t have any existing ductwork from a previous system. Here are the systems that the pros at Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling recommend to help beat the heat on the hottest days of the summer

Adding Ducts

If you don’t have ductwork in your Jacksonville home, there is always the option of adding ductwork. However, most people don’t choose this option because adding ducts to a home that’s already been built can be disruptive, time-consuming, and expensive. To get the ducts where they need to be, you may have to make significant changes to the structure of your home. Plus, you’ll need to find a central location for the main system components. If you choose this option, you may need to opt for flexible ducts, which tend not to be as durable or energy efficient as their rigid counterparts. While it’s possible to add ducts to an existing home, the good news is that there are other options that are much less expensive and disruptive.

Window Units

Another potential option for cooling your home is window-unit air conditioners. The big problem with this approach is that you have to take up window space, thus blocking natural light from coming into your home. Plus, it is usually difficult to properly insulate the area around the air conditioning units. Another big drawback of these units is that you have to remove and re-install them every year so that they don’t allow cold air in during the winter. On top of that, window units tend to be fairly inefficient and noisy, not to mention that they’re unattractive. One final drawback of depending only on window units is that you can’t cool any rooms that don’t have windows, such as a basement or attic.

Portable Air Conditioners

For temporary cooling, a portable air conditioner can do an adequate job. These units only require a small duct to go through a window, making them less obtrusive than window units. Plus, since they’re portable, you can technically move them from room to room to cool your home as you move around. However, many homeowners find portable air conditioners to be inefficient, making them unsuitable for anything more than a small room. Plus, portable units take up valuable floor space that you might need for storing other items.

The Best Option: Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Of all the ductless options available to homeowners, ductless mini-split systems are the option that Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling recommends most often. That’s because these systems are efficient, quick to install, look great, and provide both cooling and heating capabilities. You can install mini-split systems in any room in your home, including basements, because the only part of the system that goes from inside to outside is the refrigerant line. The durability and versatility of mini-split systems also make them great options for garages and workshops.

Great Efficiency

As with any targeted cooling system, mini-split systems are efficient largely because you can choose which rooms in your home to cool. This means that you aren’t paying to cool your entire home at once, a much less efficient and more expensive way of maintaining comfort. Since mini-split systems are only designed to cool a single room, they can be much smaller than their whole-home counterparts. In other words, they require much less energy to operate. An added benefit of mini-split systems is that they are air-source heat pumps. This technology pumps heat from the outside air into your home, which is far more efficient than conventional heating methods. Therefore, if you are using your mini-split system to heat your home in the winter, you can enjoy year-round efficiency.

Great Ease of Use

Another feature that we at Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling love about ductless mini-split systems is that they are incredibly easy to use. All you need to control the temperature in your home is a simple remote control. You can select fan speeds, heating and cooling levels, and then you can set the desired temperature without walking across the room to a thermostat. This makes mini-split systems ideal for individuals who aren’t tech-savvy and may struggle with using a typical thermostat. Plus, their small size and simple construction make it easy to clean these systems in order to maintain their efficiency. A simple dusting of the outside of the indoor unit is the majority of the maintenance that you’ll need to do.

Fast Installation

Unlike the mess and chaos of installing ductwork in your home, mini-split systems are fast and easy to install. Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling can typically install a mini-split system in just a few hours, meaning you can enjoy the comfort you deserve more quickly. Plus, with just one or two holes to drill in walls, there will be very little mess made and no extra dust released into your home’s indoor air. Once installed, a mini-split system’s indoor unit is unobtrusive and can blend in with any decor since the unit is mounted high on a wall and out of the way.

Cooling for Multiple Rooms

A great feature of a mini-split system is that you can use multiple units to provide cooling for multiple rooms. In many cases, you can tie more than one indoor unit into a single outdoor unit, saving space, wiring, and energy. This allows you to have a similar cooling capacity as you would have if you had a central air conditioner. However, in this scenario, you won’t need to add any ducts to your home, and you’ll likely save a lot on your energy bills thanks to the unique properties of mini splits that were previously discussed. The ability to control each room’s temperature individually is a great benefit that ensures you never have individuals in your family who are too hot or too cold. This is a standard of comfort that can be difficult to achieve with a conventional air conditioner without significant upgrades.

Keeping Your Home Cool All Summer Long

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, our main priority is to help keep you and your family comfortable in your Jacksonville home. That’s why we offer repair, replacement, and maintenance services for ductless mini-split air conditioners, central air conditioners and furnaces, and much more. We can also install air purification equipment, upgrade your thermostat, replace or repair your ductwork, and perform many other comfort-related services. We have been serving the area for well over 15 years, providing integrity and customer satisfaction to neighbors throughout the city. Our consistent commitment to quality service is one reason why we consistently receive five-star customer reviews. To learn more about ductless mini-split heating and cooling systems, contact the pros of Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling today.

9 Benefits of having new ductwork installed

August 16, 2022 HVAC

Having your current ductwork cleaned out on a regular basis helps your home out in many ways. Air quality is improved, and your HVAC system might not have to work so hard to operate. However, there are times when maintenance isn’t enough, and you might want to consider the benefits of having new ductwork installed.

Putting new HVAC ductwork in your home can mean many different benefits. The following are nine common ones you might see.

1. Longer HVAC System Lifespan

New ducts are going to be the right size for your HVAC system, and they’re going to be properly sealed. Your HVAC system isn’t going to have to work as hard as it used to in order to deliver the heating and cooling that your home needs. As a consequence, you’ll get more years out of it before you have to replace it, and repairs and maintenance might not happen as frequently along the way. This can be a huge selling point to prospective buyers if your home is going on the market in the next few years.

2. More Space

Older ductwork might actually be quite bulky and take up more room than it needs to. The space you free up might provide storage areas or places for extra insulation. It can even give you a chance to raise ceilings and move walls for a more open-concept living space. You can literally free up valuable space inside your current home.

3. Installation Won’t Take Long

Many home improvement projects can be lengthy affairs that disrupt your family’s daily rhythm. Custom ductwork doesn’t have to be one of those situations. Ductwork is available in many different designs, costs, sizes, and shapes, and you can pick something that gets installed fast. Working with the right professional in advance can create a plan that gets executed quickly and with minimal disruption to your family’s normal activities.

4. Better Energy Efficiency

New ductwork isn’t going to have cracks and holes that bleed hot or cold air. Better energy efficiency is something you’re going to notice on utility bills in the months coming up ahead. An installation might cost you money upfront, but it’s also going to save you money in the future.

5. Enhanced Air Quality

You want clean air in your home. Old ductwork often contains dust and debris that gets circulated throughout your living areas. Ductwork with cracks and holes can also allow pest infestations that can degrade the air you breathe and pose other health risks. New ductwork can help improve what everyone is breathing so that you no longer have allergy episodes, dusty surfaces, and moldy smells. Kids, pets, and older loved ones may stand to benefit the most. If you’ve been using air purifiers in the past, you might not have to do that any longer once you have new ducts installed.

6. Better Temperature Regulation

Once you have new or repaired ducts, you’re probably going to notice the far more consistent temperatures in every room of your home. If there are no more leaks or improperly sized pieces, then cooling and heating should be simple. Your home won’t have “that” warm or cold room anymore. If you’ve been using fans or spot heaters in certain rooms, you may get to put them away for good.

7. Less Noise

Flexible ductwork might start sagging or bending with the passage of time. This will mean air generates more noise as it goes through them. You can eliminate this issue with new ductwork that is both unbent now and less likely to sag in the future. If your kids have trouble sleeping because of creepy noises, that might become a thing of the past.

8. Safety Concerns

When they operate normally, gas appliances ranging from furnaces to laundry machines will release carbon monoxide and other combustion gases via ventilation systems. If your ductwork is leaky, then there might be back-drafting of these gases. New ducts with proper sealing won’t let these gases back into your living space, so you can have greater peace of mind that your family is safe from the dangers of gas leaks.

9. Help the Environment

A lot of energy used in homes and businesses comes from burning fossil fuels in power plants. This leads to acid rain, greenhouse gases, and smog that drive climate change. When you use less energy in your home, your carbon footprint will be less than what it once was, especially if you increase energy efficiency and have new ducts that are properly sealed.

Signs You Need New Ductwork

Knowing the advantages of new ductwork is useful, but how do you know when you need a fresh installation? A professional inspection can be useful, but your ducts might also be showing signs that they’re ready for replacement. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs.

Dust Exiting the Units

It’s common for some dust to come out of ductwork when the HVAC is running. However, if it’s more than you usually see, then you might need to arrange for ductwork installation. Dust can get into the ducts from outside and come into your home, where it makes everything dirty or even harder to breathe inside the home. You can certainly look forward to spending less time cleaning if you get this fixed.

You Can Smell Mildew

If your nose is picking up something funny from your ducts, then it might be mold. There are times when warm and moist air goes through cold ducts and results in condensation, especially if there isn’t great insulation. This can result in mold growth that might leak with condensation into your ceiling and spread from there.

You Hear Noise

HVAC systems should operate fairly quietly, and that goes for the ducts, too. If there is more noise than there should be, it’s possible that your ducts are either imbalanced or just too small. That puts more strain on your HVAC system than it should and drives your energy and maintenance bills up.

Inconsistent Temperatures

Is one room in your home a lot cooler or warmer than the others? That might be a leaky HVAC duct that’s losing air and its power to keep the home even in terms of temperature. Replacement ductwork might be the only answer to such an imbalance.

Not a DIY Project

Any of these warning signs might indicate that your current ductwork needs attention or even replacement. You shouldn’t go investigating this yourself, however, as you might create more problems inside your home’s walls. Get a professional to come out and inspect things. They’ve got experience, knowledge, and tools that can diagnose ductwork problems. They can then tell you if a full replacement is warranted or if you can get by with some repairs to the current installation.

Get Professional Assistance

If you live in the Jacksonville area of Florida, then Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling is an option to consider. We’ve been helping commercial and residential clients for years with HVAC-related repairs, maintenance, and replacement services, including the installation of new ductwork. Our team also offers indoor air quality services and solutions. Contact Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling at your earliest convenience for a quote or just to get answers to your question and concerns.

How to Avoid AC Unit Humidity Problems

July 19, 2022 Cooling, Indoor Air Quality

During the hot summer months, the last thing homeowners want is an air conditioner that adds humidity to their houses, especially in Jacksonville. An AC unit that functions properly should not only cool your home but actually decrease humidity levels in the process. Sometimes the humidity problems that arise while the air conditioner is running have nothing to do with the unit at all. Here are some things to think about when tackling the issue.

Dust and Dirt Are Accumulating

Now and then, air filters tend to accumulate dirt and dust. This can cause both indoor and outdoor AC units to malfunction. When the air conditioner’s coils gather dirt and dust, the unit is not able to efficiently draw heat from inside the home, leaving the air humid.

If you suspect that this may be the problem, consider doing some maintenance on your air filtration system. When your AC unit is free from dust and debris, the refrigerant cycle should begin functioning normally again.

The Evaporator Coil Is Frozen

If your AC unit’s evaporator coil is frozen, you will notice a layer of ice forming over it. A frozen evaporator coil is typically caused by either a lack of airflow or a lack of refrigerant flowing through the coil. Since both of these problems require significant maintenance, it is best to call an HVAC professional.

Your AC Unit Is Not the Right Size for Your Home

An air conditioner will be able to cool your house most effectively if it is the right size. If you have a large AC unit that is only cooling a relatively small amount of space, the system will run for short cycles. If your AC does not run for long enough, it will not be able to cool your house evenly or sufficiently pull the moisture from the air. On the other hand, if your AC unit is small but you have a large amount of space to cool, it will work as hard as it can and still fall short of making your residence cool and dry.

As a general rule of thumb, you should multiply the total square footage of your home by 20 to figure out how many BTUs (British thermal units) your AC unit will need to provide. For example, if you live in a 1,500-square-foot house, you will want a cooling system capable of providing about 30,000 BTUs.

The Thermostat Is Not Set Correctly

If your AC unit’s thermostat is set to “AUTO”, the system should cool and dehumidify the air whenever the fan begins to run. If it is set to “ON,” however, the unit’s fan will run continuously, interfering with the cooling and dehumidifying process. Be sure the thermostat is set to “AUTO” and not to “ON.”

There Are Too Many People in the House

When there is a large number of people crowded into a single space, your AC unit will simply not be able to cool and dehumidify your house as effectively. If it is a hot day, consider spending time with guests outdoors until the AC has enough time to sufficiently cool down your home.

Carpeting and Windows

While carpets provide any room with a nice aesthetic, they tend to retain moisture. Although your AC unit should be able to remove moisture from the air, it has a much more difficult time doing so from carpets and other fabrics. If moist carpets are bothersome, consider removing them and replacing them with something more water-resistant like tile flooring.

Additionally, condensation tends to build up quickly on windows. Lining your windows with storm coating or plastic film can aid in reducing and even eliminating moisture buildup while your cooling system is operating.

Your Unit Is Using Too Much Refrigerant

Just as a lack of refrigerant can cause problems within your AC unit, so can too much refrigerant. Too much refrigerant can overcharge the unit, resulting in a lower cooling capacity and eventually causing the compressor to burn out.

A thermal expansion valve might be just what you need in this case. A thermal expansion valve, or TXV, will adjust the amount of refrigerant being used so that the unit is always receiving exactly what it requires. This allows the evaporator coil to remove heat and humidity, regardless of the current temperature or circumstance.

Excess Moisture From Beneath Your House

In climates characterized by significant rainfall, the soil beneath the foundation of homes can hold quite a bit of moisture. This is one of the main reasons that basements tend to be the most humid part of a house — particularly those that are not insulated well and do not have windows.

One of the biggest things that you can do is ensure that your gutters and downspouts are working correctly. If rainwater is not being properly directed away from the house’s foundation, moisture is bound to penetrate the home.

Cooking and Other Activities Naturally Add Moisture

Water vapor from cooking will bring up humidity levels significantly. If your oven has a ventilation fan, make sure that it is running whenever you are boiling water or using the stove. If you do not have a ventilation fan above your stove, purchasing one can make a profound difference.

Other activities like showering can also contribute to excess moisture. Taking cooler showers and making sure that your bathroom’s ventilation fans are working are great ways to combat this nuisance.

Your AC Unit Is Too Old

Even top-quality AC units cannot work well forever. This is particularly true for air conditioners that have not been consistently maintained. While some problems within the system can be fixed fairly easily, others cannot be. If you are trying to decide whether to have your unit repaired or replaced altogether, there are a couple of things to think about.

If your AC unit has been cooling your home for 10 to 15 years, it is probably best to get it replaced. Making proper repairs at this point would likely be more expensive and inconvenient than simply purchasing a new unit.

If you think an AC system of a different size or brand might be a better fit for your house, then buying a new one is probably the optimal thing to do. An air conditioner that is too big, too small, or otherwise lacking in compatibility with your house’s structure will see little to no improvements upon being repaired.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

If you live in a humid climate, sometimes even a perfectly functional AC unit will not be able to keep your home as dry as you would like. A dehumidifier that can support your air conditioner is a worthwhile purchase.

With drier air, your AC unit will cool your house much more quickly and will not need to work as hard. Even having a single humidifier in a room that tends to retain a large amount of humidity can make all the difference.

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, we are ready to tackle HVAC problems in Jacksonville, Florida and the surrounding areas. With additional services such as heating, UV lighting, ventilation testing, air quality, and more, our team of experts is committed to providing you with the highest level of comfort year-round. Give us a call today, and let our professionals get to work on your home!

Different HVAC Systems and Their Lifespan

June 20, 2022 HVAC

An HVAC system is a major purchase for any homeowner. It’s important to know how long your system will last before buying it. We’ll look at the average lifespan of different types of HVAC systems and what you can do to prolong the life of your new system.

Central Air Conditioner

Very few things in life are as essential as a central air conditioner. Most units have a lifespan of about 15 years. Several factors can affect how long your unit will last, such as the quality of the unit, installation, maintenance, and how often it is used. You can help extend the lifespan of your air conditioner by having it serviced regularly and using it wisely.

At [company_name], we typically recommend that our customers have their systems serviced every two years. This helps to ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively, and it also helps to prolong its lifespan.

Heat Pump

Heat pumps typically last between 10 and 15 years. Proper installation and maintenance are key to extending the lifespan of your heat pump. Checking and replacing the air filter every month is crucial to helping the pump operate to its full potential, as well as keeping the area around your heat pump clear of debris and scheduling yearly tune-ups with a qualified HVAC technician.

Gas Furnace

The average lifespan of a gas furnace is 15 to 20 years. Regular maintenance will help keep it running properly and allow the furnace to continue heating your home to its full potential.

Rely on Professionals

The lifespan of an HVAC system depends on many factors, including the type of unit, the quality of the installation, and the level of maintenance. [company_name] is a heating & air conditioning company providing quality services. We offer a wide range of services including installation, repair, maintenance, and customer financing. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule a consultation!

How to Unclog Your AC’s Drain Lines

May 18, 2022 Cooling

Owning an AC can make your home feel welcoming, especially in the hot summer months. To keep the AC in tip-top condition, you need to conduct frequent maintenance like changing the air filter and ensuring the drain lines are free of any gunk, dirt or debris. Your AC is a significant investment that also has many factors regarding your family and home life, so you don’t want its drain lines to clog. If that happens, you probably will want to fix the issue right away. Read on for what you need to know about unclogging your AC’s drain lines.

What Is an AC Drain Line?

Your AC works by absorbing humidity and heat within your home. The humidity condenses on the condenser coils and thaws water into a drip pan. The excess is taken out through a drain line, thus keeping your home relatively dry inside. The drain line is located outside your home, where the AC unit resides. This small dripping line ensures that your AC can remove all condensation from the coils. The line is made of metal or PVC pipe and acts as a funnel for condensation and humidity. It’s a crucial aspect of your AC since it helps prevent the system from potential damage to insulation and ductwork.

To prevent clogs in the drain line, you should clean it regularly during the hot months. Clogged lines can cause poor air quality due to mildew and mold growth. They can also lead to a rise in humidity.

Causes of a Clogged Drain Line

Your drain line can end up with blockage due to algae. The drain line is always humid because of the warm air that blows over the coils of your AC. Add in the condensation that travels through the pipe and you have perfect conditions for algae to grow. If you leave your AC running for a long time, it’s more likely for the drain line to be clogged.

Signs of a Clogged Drain Line

One clear sign of a clogged drain line is when your AC stops working. The drain line ensures that excess condensation is extracted from your AC. Therefore, when it’s operating properly, you can find small water droplets at the end of the line outside your house. However, when there is a problem in the drain line, there can be a blockage or a backlog of water. Additional signs of a clogged drain line include:

Water damage around your AC. This can be on the floor or near the fan.
The condensate pan fills up frequently or stays full for long periods of time.
Water flooding around the AC’s air handler.
A moldy smell in your home. This can result from a blockage anywhere in the system, but it can definitely indicate a problem with your drain line.
Your AC is not running or cooling. If your AC has a water safety switch, it may automatically turn off when it detects a clog to prevent further damage.

Unclogging a Drain Line

It’s relatively easy to clean and fix regular, smaller clogs. It’s advisable to avoid using bleach to unblock the drain since chemicals can cause more damage to other components of the AC. Below are the steps to follow when cleaning a clogged drain line.

1. Turn Off the AC

Turn off the power at the breaker, and make sure your thermostat is inactive.

2. Find the Drain Line

The drain line is a metal or PVC pipe that’s usually located on the outside of your home. You can find it near the condenser unit, and you should have a bucket nearby in case the drain line is full.

3. Identify Where to Access the Drain Line

Most units will have a T-shaped vent with a cap. This covers the top of the drain, and inspecting it helps determine the location of the blockage.

4. Assess the Blockage

Check the drain line to see whether there are any visible clogs. If you can see the blockage, you can remove it manually. To do this, wear some protective gloves. However, if the clog is further down the line, move on to the next step. Remember not to push the clog further down.

5. Flush the Blockage

Vinegar is the best solution for removing clogs in your drain line. It has excellent cleaning capabilities because of its acidity. If you find its smell too strong, you can use warm water and soap to dilute it. After this, you can begin cleaning by pouring a quarter cup of vinegar into the drain line. After it’s full, you can stop and wait.

6. Wait for 30 Minutes

You should leave the vinegar solution in the line for 30 minutes and later flush the line with water. Ensure that the water flows consistently to guarantee that the blockage is cleared. If the water doesn’t flow normally, you should contact an HVAC specialist.

After completing the process, you can repeat it monthly to ensure that the drain line doesn’t have a large clog. Besides, the frequent cleaning helps prevent your AC from running into any issues. It’s not advisable to undertake serious maintenance repairs by yourself; however, if you have a clogged drain line, it shouldn’t be much trouble to fix.

Is It Normal for a Drain Line to Have Water In It?

Yes, it is. The drain line can drip water at the exit outside your home. This indicates that your drain line is working perfectly and that it’s removing moisture and condensation generated by the coils. During hot seasons, the drain line can funnel more water daily. However, if you notice leaks inside your home or anywhere along the drain line, it can indicate a severe clog.

How to Prevent Clogs in the Drain Line

Using high-quality air filters can help filter debris and dust in the AC unit. This can help avoid clog buildup in the drain line. You should also change the filters regularly – at least every three months. If you have smokers and pets in the house, you should replace them frequently.

Opting for routine maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your AC. Having the equipment checked routinely can ensure that it operates at its peak performance. This can save you time and money on costly repairs down the line.

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, our team of specialists is proud to serve all your AC needs in Jacksonville, FL, and the surrounding areas. As a family-owned business, we have the highest quality of services and extensive experience in the HVAC industry. We also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and we make the best efforts to ensure that you are well taken care of with each service we offer. Contact us today to resolve your heating and air conditioning issues.

Quality Air Conditioning with Lower Utility Bills

April 14, 2022 HVAC

A window unit and an HVAC system will provide a change in room temperature with different costs and air quality. A window unit is cheaper than an HVAC system. If you live in a home that has newer windows with energy-efficient glass, keeping your home cool will be easier with a window unit and less expensive to operate. An HVAC system and a window unit can provide the same cooling quality, but the costs will differ, and the air quality inside your home may vary.
A window unit provides air for only one room at a time since there are no ducts for better circulation in your home. With higher utility bills from running the AC constantly, these units typically cost more monthly than an HVAC system. However, for a long-term investment strategy to save costs on your utility bills, an HVAC system is most suitable. It is more energy-efficient than a window air conditioning unit. As energy prices continue to increase, you may want to consider a window unit for temporary relief with lower utility bills. If you have allergies or asthma, the fine particles of dust from a window unit can make you ill or worsen your allergies or asthma.
An HVAC system can help improve indoor air quality with extra insulation and fewer dust particles circulating throughout your home. An HVAC system assures higher air quality than the conventional window unit. If you live in a house that lacks ducts, it may cost more to install one than a window unit.
Therefore to answer your question on whether window units are cheaper than HVAC systems, yes, they are, but you need to compromise the quality of the cooling system you get. Window units can be expensive in the long run and uncomfortable, especially if your home has more than five rooms. Installing individual window units will dig an enormous hole in your pocket. Window units may be cheaper to operate, but you will get less bang for your buck. You are better off with an HVAC system and ducts.

What Can Your Home Electrical System Handle?

To decide what air conditioning your home needs, we recommend considering your electrical input and output. Your home should be able to run and manage your desired HVAC system without unnecessary breakdowns or inefficiency. Your electrical input is rated in amps, measuring how much electricity your household will draw. A properly sized air conditioning unit for your home should not strain the electrical input of your home. We can do the math for you and assure you that your air conditioning system is safe to run in your home.
Picking an incompatible pair will result in additional bills for repairs and unnecessary maintenance. Your home needs a stable electrical inlet and outlet to prevent power surges that may fry your air conditioning system. The determinants to consider are the age and condition of your power source. If your home is solar-powered, you have the upper hand in installing the best air conditioning systems without fear of energy waste. Your HVAC system must power itself with minimal electricity or use electricity as infrequently as possible.

Ductless Air Conditioning Systems Are Worth It

Ductless air conditioning systems are best for large homes due to the larger surface area to control the room temperatures. The ductless air conditioning systems are very efficient in terms of power consumption, but their price tag is a little higher than the conventional air conditioners. Also known as the mini-split unit, the system incorporates a technological thermostat system that allows individual room adjustments. The thermostats are located internally while the cooling fans are installed externally, providing a quieter environment while switched on.
The ductless air conditioning system has a digital timer display to record and present the energy consumption rate. Additionally, the system has a programmable heat setting allowing for suitable heating and cooling effects on individual rooms. Installation of the ductless air conditioning system is simple and easy. A conventional air conditioner may consume more energy in cooling a small space than a ductless air conditioner consumes in a larger room.
The main benefits of the ductless air conditioning system are its low maintenance costs, silent operation, and cost-efficiency. We offer professional installation for an energy-efficient ductless air conditioning system to help lower your utility bills in the long run.

Window Units Are Cheap but Not Effective

Window units are suitable for the temporary cooling of single rooms. They are based solely on remote heat exchange, and thus they cannot be used as a heat pump. Only the advanced window units can use the warmth inside your house to reverse a cooling effect. They rely on the low temperature of the air coming in and out of your home.
The built-in fan blows at low speed, which causes low noise but keeps the room cool for short periods. Installing a window unit will be a great inconvenience to your home during the summer due to the extremely high temperatures outside and slow cooling indoors. Therefore, we recommend you only install a window unit under the following circumstances:

Your home is a rental apartment
Hot climates outside are temporary
Your home lacks existing ductwork
Your home has an outdated cooling system

The advantages of this system include:

Quick installation
Affordable prices
Less energy consumption
Short term investment

The cons of installing this system include:

No air filtration property
Uneven temperature regulations
Temporary cooling effects
Limited to one room

HVAC Systems Are Expensive but Efficient

HVAC systems are a permanent solution to your air conditioning problem. They are durable and come with a long life span with minimal maintenance. Their major drawback is the expensive installation costs. Your home size determines the installation costs due to work needed. HVAC systems consist of air ducts and air ductwork, thermostats, blower motors, cooling fans, warm-air registers, and vents to distribute the cool air throughout your home.
The system is controlled by a thermostat that monitors and adjusts the temperature in your home. An HVAC system with an Energy Efficiency Ratio upgrade is considered efficient and cost-effective. We recommend installing an HVAC system for a long-term solution to heating and cooling your rooms separately. The additional software that predicts your home needs regulates energy consumption by shutting off when even suitable temperatures have been achieved. It is an energy-efficient masterpiece in your home.

Engage Professional Minds to Help You Install the Best Air Conditioning System for Your Home

At Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling, you are assured of a fully serviced home with optimized energy efficiency. Your comfort and home sustainability to save energy is our number one priority. The services we provide are essential to the well-being of your family and good health. Our services offer a smooth, cost-effective installation with the least hassle.
Here are the services that we offer with a quality assurance guarantee:

Heating services such as furnace repair and replacements
Reliable air conditioning home services
Duct cleaning to remove contaminants
Duct maintenance for better temperature regulations
UV lighting for energy efficiency
Ventilation testing to seal air leaks
Humidity control for your home comfort
General maintenance for indoor and outdoor services

Contact Reliable Ducts Heating & Cooling to receive further information on how you can improve your air conditioning system while considering cost, efficiency, and home equity.

How to Determine the Energy Efficiency of the HVAC System of Your New Home

March 16, 2022 HVAC

Your HVAC system accounts for approximately 40% of your home’s cooling needs. Efficient heating or cooling equipment can reduce the energy consumption in your home. When moving to a new house, it’s wise to assess the efficiency of the existing unit. Here are tips on how to determine the performance of your HVAC system.

Inspect the Equipment for Deterioration

When moving to a new home, you ought to assess your heating and cooling system. You can start by inspecting the HVAC unit for signs of deterioration around the equipment. Pools of water and corrosion on the casing imply the system is aging and inefficient.

Corrosion can damage the condenser coils by gradually creating a patchwork of cracks on the tubes. Statistics suggest rusting is responsible for up to 40% of equipment failures.

When the copper coils succumb to corrosion, the system will leak the refrigerant and reduce the efficiency of your system. Every HVAC system has a specific refrigerant charge corresponding to its heating and cooling load. Inadequate amounts of the fluid could force your furnace to overheat or the coils to freeze over in winter.

You can arrange for HVAC system maintenance so that technicians can clean the coils and restore their efficiency. Grime can also create an insulation layer that impacts heating and cooling. If the copper tubes are defective, a professional will recommend a replacement.

Determine the Energy Efficiency of the HVAC System

After examining the equipment’s condition, locate the energy rating label. HVAC systems have a yellow and black sticker with SEER and AFUE ratings. An Energy Star label indicates the system’s performance is higher than standard equipment of the same size.

The SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) indicates the air conditioner’s efficiency. SEER calculates the cooling output against the fuel consumption for the entire season. SEER ratings start from 13 and can go up to 25.

SEER values will be on the manufacturer’s energy guide with the rating, which often includes additional characters. For example, the rating could be written as AC15. It means the air conditioner has a 16 SEER rating.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is a rating that measures the heating component’s efficiency. Older boilers and furnaces have an AFUE rating of 78 and 80%. The latest heating and cooling equipment can have an AFUE of up to 98%.

Keep in mind the efficiency of the HVAC system can deteriorate due to aging or insufficient maintenance. Even a new system can deteriorate in performance and raise the operational costs for the system. Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling technicians can inspect your equipment in Jacksonville to determine its performance.

Examine the Ductwork

When assessing the performance of the new home’s heating and cooling system, be sure to examine the ductwork. The ductwork distributes conditioned air to different rooms through the supply vent and expels it through the return vent.

According to Energy Star, improper installation of air ducts is among the leading reasons new systems become inefficient. Leaks and holes on the ductwork allow conditioned air to escape, increasing your equipment’s energy consumption.

Besides improper installation, the ductwork can develop holes and gaps between connections. Lack of ductwork insulation may lead to energy losses that force your HVAC system to work harder. Your equipment can overheat and damage components.

A visual examination can spot inefficient ductwork. Tangled and loose connections indicate the tubes need sealing or a replacement. Strange noises such as hissing and banging could be a symptom of a leak.

Also, check if the vents are open to avoid damaging your HVAC system. It is a misconception that closing the vents can reduce energy consumption. But the ductwork is designed to match the building’s heating and cooling needs. Closing off the vents will only force your AC and furnace to overwork.

Some issues are not easy to identify through a visual inspection. That’s why HVAC technicians recommend consulting a professional for an assessment. Professionals can evaluate the sizing and insulation and can advise you on the best options for your Jacksonville home.

Pay Attention to Indoor Air Quality Issues

Your new home’s indoor air quality is another factor that may indicate the heating and cooling system’s performance. Be sure to check surfaces for dust accumulation. Dust is a sign of poor circulation, probably caused by clogged filters or leaky ductwork.

Dust can start a vicious cycle that rapidly deteriorates your unit. Dusty condenser and evaporator coils can force your HVAC system to overwork. Your HVAC equipment will eventually break down and may require a replacement.

Unusual odors could be an indication of mold and mildew growth. Improper ductwork insulation or air leaks can introduce moisture into the system. The humidity could trigger corrosion or cause premature failure of your HVAC equipment.

Inconsistent Temperatures Across the House

An inefficient HVAC system will overwork to circulate conditioned air throughout the house. You may detect temperature differences across different rooms. The imbalance in temperature could be due to ductwork leaks or substandard equipment installation.

Your equipment may fail to heat or cool the house if its capacity is too big or too small. If its size exceeds the needs of your home, the AC will shut on and off to avoid overheating. The continuous on and off operation can speed up the deterioration of critical components.

If your equipment is too small, it will keep running continuously to meet your home’s energy demands. The system can overheat components, causing premature failure. The longer heating and cooling cycles will cause temperature imbalances across the house.

Therefore, it is best to schedule an inspection when you suspect temperature imbalances across the room. Our technicians can assess the ductwork and the quality of the installation. Talk to Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling for top-notch heating repair solutions in Jacksonville.

How to Determine if You Need a Replacement

An aging HVAC system approaching the end of its life can be expensive to run. Not only will it raise your energy bills, but you’ll also have to schedule repairs frequently. The equipment will deteriorate faster, requiring costly parts replacement in the long run.

The lifespan of an HVAC system is between 10 and 15 years. Consider replacing a system that is more than a decade old, especially if it is inefficient. Acquiring a new system may make sense in the long term compared to spending money on multiple repairs.

However, you don’t have to replace a system more than a decade old. It depends on the quality of installation and the frequency of maintenance. You can request a history of the HVAC maintenance records to evaluate its performance.

A professional inspection is the best way to determine if you need a replacement. A certified technician can offer insights on improving the system’s efficiency. You can also get more information on new technologies and features and the ideal HVAC equipment for your needs.

Reliable Ducts Heating and Cooling is a trusted HVAC company providing quality services in Jacksonville. We are committed to offering transparent and consistent services to keep our clients comfortable throughout the year. You can contact our team for furnace and AC services, indoor air quality, maintenance, and replacement solutions. We have a flexible schedule, and you can consult our staff 24/7, 365 days a year. Call us today for a 100% guarantee.

Comparing Air Purifiers With Dehumidifiers

February 17, 2022 Indoor Air Quality

An air purifier is an ideal solution for eliminating offensive odors and dust from a wide range of air pollutants, including cooking and pet smells, smoke, and tannins from your backyard as well as dust and pollens that cause respiratory conditions. Air purifiers also protect you from harmful chemicals, viruses, and bacteria lurking in unclean indoor air.

On the other hand, dehumidifiers take moisture out of the air. Though a dehumidifier is not a substitute for air conditioning, it is ideal for reducing humidity and protecting walls, bookshelves, and artworks from damage. Some people may choose to go for either the air purifier or the dehumidifier, and others may need both, depending on the season and their personal needs.

Functions of Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers

An air purifier is a device that provides an inexpensive method of eliminating odors and pollutants found in common household environments when it is placed at a door or near an existing window. It features an activated carbon pre-filter to trap larger particles and to extend the filter’s life while enhancing odor-control capabilities. The air cleaner includes an allergen mode for removing the most common airborne allergens that can irritate the sensitive tissues of the nose and eyes, such as pollen and specific pet dander components.

A comprehensive air purifier system is comprised of three active components. The pre-filter traps big particles in the air and stops them from getting to the other more sensitive filters. The active carbon filter works to remove odors from your air. The final component is the high-efficiency filter. These filters are made from millions of fibers that are woven together tightly. This design allows air to pass through, but it captures even the smallest particles in your home, including mold spores, pollen, dust mites, bacteria, viruses, and germs.

A dehumidifier controls humidity in the home, lowering levels when they are too high. This device sucks excess water vapor moisture out of the air and then gathers it in a container within its system. Dehumidifiers don’t purify your home’s air like an air cleaner, but they do offer some benefits, including effectively lowering humidity levels. Dehumidifiers are best for those living in humid or hot areas or for those who want to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

For the best results, put your unit in a spot with the most accessible area to suck up the air closest to where you spend most of your time. Unlike an air purifier, a dehumidifier does not have a filter or a fan to circulate air. While it will work best in any room with small amounts of moisture, you can also keep yours in closets and basements where mold commonly grows to help prevent problems.

Features of Dehumidifiers and Air Purifiers

When considering a dehumidifier for your home, some features are almost must-haves. A humidistat, or hygrometer, is essential for effective operation and proper humidity control. This feature automatically controls the amount of moisture the device pumps out of the air based on a preset humidity level you enter. Choosing one with a humidistat is crucial because a dehumidifier will work harder and burn out quickly without it.

Size or capacity is probably more critical in dehumidifiers than with other appliances like room air conditioners and fans since you’re going to be using this device several times every day. You could also consider buying multiple devices if you have enough space in your basement, laundry room, storage area, or wherever you notice extra humidity.

Finally, drainage options are also important; if you don’t have time to drain the bucket every day or two manually (more often during the most humid times), make sure you pick a dehumidifier with a built-in condensate pump.

When looking to acquire an air purifier, several features set it apart from the dehumidifier. The change filter indicator gives you a visual sign when your filters need changing. It will help you avoid any unexpected shutdowns or a machine that stops functioning as it should. Intelligent control is vital; most people rely on connected devices that are controlled via smartphone or tablet.

The eco-mode feature automatically turns off your purifier or keeps it in standby mode if it detects no indoor pollution for 30 minutes. When combined with the eco-timer function, this helps save energy and reduce electricity bills. Noise-reduction technology in the air purifier is an important feature, especially now that a lot of people work from home. It allows people to focus on their tasks and rest undisturbed while enjoying good air quality. Low noise levels in work environments and homesteads with easily bothered children are particularly important.

Energy Efficiency and Cost of Air Purifiers and Dehumidifiers

It would help if you always considered energy efficiency when purchasing an air purifier. While the process of removing harmful contaminants from the air is a good thing, you also do not want to spend too much energy and money on it. Dehumidifiers and air purifiers are much cheaper than a new heating or cooling system; however, the cost of operating either device is similar. A dehumidifier will cost about 13 cents per hour to run whereas an air purifier will cost 11 cents per hour to run. Compare this to the average microwave, which costs 18 cents per hour to operate.

Air purifier technology has advanced considerably in the last few years, and companies have begun to put out some moderately priced devices. Of course, many devices cost upward of a thousand dollars. Go for the air cleaner that fits your space completely because this reduces the strain put on the machine. Some tips also help improve the air cleaner’s efficiency, like reducing large flows of air into the space when the air cleaner is running by avoiding unnecessary door openings and by keeping windows closed when the machine is running. These steps reduce the number of contaminants entering the space by keeping external pollutants out. Routine maintenance is also vital to ensure that the purifier operates efficiently.

A cost-effective air cleaner does not have to operate all the time at maximum capacity; a low flow of air is just as effective as a high airflow on most models. The smaller airflow, in turn, consumes a lower amount of energy. Both types of equipment are good options in terms of energy efficiency. However, the device features might sometimes be the deciding factor on the energy efficiency of the equipment. Therefore, it is essential to have a wide range of options from which you can select, making it easier to find the most energy-efficient device.

All of this information is a good starting point to selecting a good solution for air quality. At Reliable Ducts, we can further assist you in choosing the right air cleaner for your home in Jacksonville or a surrounding area. Our services include heating and cooling, air duct cleaning, humidity control systems, and more. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our services.