The Benefits of Upgrading Your HVAC System in December

As the year draws to a close and the temperatures plummet, many homeowners find themselves focused on holiday festivities, family gatherings, and winter vacations. Amidst this seasonal buzz, one aspect often overlooked is the state of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. However, December might just be the perfect time to consider upgrading your HVAC system.

Here’s why:

Preparation for Cold Winter Months

Upgrading your HVAC system in December ensures your home is prepared for the cold winter months ahead. A new, efficient system can better handle the increased demand for heating, providing comfort and warmth during the coldest periods of the year. Waiting until the last minute might leave you facing HVAC issues during extreme weather conditions, causing inconvenience and discomfort.

Energy Efficiency Savings

Modern HVAC systems are designed to be more energy-efficient than older models. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient system can significantly reduce your energy bills in the long run. December is an ideal time to install these systems, allowing you to start enjoying the energy savings immediately and throughout the winter season.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

With windows and doors often closed to keep out the cold, indoor air quality can suffer during the winter. Upgrading your HVAC system can include features like improved filtration systems and ventilation, leading to better indoor air quality. This is particularly beneficial for those with respiratory conditions or allergies.

Avoiding Last-Minute Rush

The rush for HVAC services typically peaks during winter when systems break down due to constant use. By upgrading in December, you avoid the last-minute rush and potential delays in installation or service due to high demand.

Enhanced Comfort and Convenience

Upgrading your HVAC system means upgrading to modern technology, often with added comfort features and smart controls. This can include programmable thermostats, zoning systems, and remote access capabilities, allowing you to control your home’s temperature and settings with ease and convenience.

Increased Home Value

Investing in a new HVAC system can enhance your home’s value. If you’re considering selling your home in the future, having a modern and efficient HVAC system can be a significant selling point and potentially increase the resale value of your property.

December might seem like an unusual time to consider upgrading your HVAC system, but it actually presents several advantages. From cost-saving deals to improved comfort and energy efficiency, making the decision to upgrade now can lead to a more comfortable, healthier, and cost-effective home in the long run. Don’t wait until the bitter cold sets in—take advantage of the benefits that December offers for upgrading your HVAC system.

Troubleshooting Guide: Why Your Mini Split Might Not Be Working

mini_split_ductless_troubleshooting

Mini-split air conditioning systems are a fantastic way to efficiently cool or heat your space. However, like any mechanical system, they can sometimes encounter issues that hinder their performance. Let’s explore common reasons why your mini-split might not be working and provide troubleshooting steps to help you identify and possibly resolve the problem before our Skagit Valley winter arrives.

mini_split_ductless_troubleshooting

Power Supply Issues

The first step in troubleshooting a non-functional mini-split is to check the power supply. Ensure that the unit is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. It’s also worth inspecting the remote control’s batteries, as they might need to be replaced.

Faulty Remote Control

If the remote control isn’t communicating with the mini-split, it can result in a lack of response. Make sure there are no obstructions between the remote and the unit and that you’re within a reasonable range for the remote to function.

Improper Settings

Sometimes, the settings on the remote control may not be configured correctly. Verify that the mode (cooling, heating, fan only) and temperature settings are appropriate for your comfort needs.

Air Filter Blockage

A clogged air filter can significantly reduce the efficiency of your mini-split. Check and clean the air filter regularly, as it can accumulate dust and debris over time.

Refrigerant Leaks

Low refrigerant levels can lead to poor cooling or heating performance. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it’s essential to contact a professional technician to diagnose and fix the issue.

Sensor Problems

Mini-splits rely on sensors to regulate temperature and humidity levels. If these sensors are malfunctioning or obstructed, it can lead to incorrect readings and an inefficient system. Ensure that there are no obstructions around the unit that could affect sensor function.

Condensate Drainage Issues

A clogged condensate drain can result in water leakage, which may trigger safety features that shut down the system. Regularly check and clean the drain line to prevent blockages.

Compressor Problems

The compressor is a crucial component responsible for circulating refrigerant and maintaining the desired temperature. If the compressor is faulty, it may not be able to perform its function effectively. This is a complex issue best handled by a professional technician.

Tripped Safety Features

Mini-splits are equipped with various safety features to protect the system from damage. If any of these features are triggered, it can result in a shutdown. Some common safety features include high-pressure switches and thermal overload protection.

While mini-splits are reliable and efficient, they can encounter problems from time to time. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and possibly resolve issues that might be preventing your mini-split from working effectively. However, if you’re unable to diagnose or fix the problem on your own, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of a qualified HVAC technician. Remember, safety should always be a priority when dealing with any electrical or HVAC equipment.

Ductless Split System Advantages

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A ductless split system represents a significant investment in comfort, safety, and efficiency. To enjoy the many benefits of ductless technology, it is important to understand the various elements involved in a successful installation. Alpine Heating & Cooling encourages anyone considering an HVAC equipment purchase to explore the cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions provided by ductless split system advantages.

The Advantages of Ductless Technology

Every year more homeowners in Skagit Valley become acquainted with the versatility of ductless air conditioners and heat pumps. When compared to traditional furnaces and central air conditioning equipment, mini splits offer numerous compelling benefits.

  • Versatility: For room additions, garage conversions or areas requiring supplemental heating and cooling, ductless equipment is quiet, efficient and easy to install.
  • Reduced Energy Costs: Point-of-use air handlers deliver conditioned air directly into each room without the loss of thermal efficiency associated with an air distribution network. Ductless systems include advanced inverter technology, which offers the highest SEER ratings in the industry.
  • Better Comfort: The zoning concept behind ductless design saves energy and also helps improve indoor comfort. The temperature in every room can be tailored to meet the personal requirements of each occupant.

The Importance of Design

In the system design phase, Alpine Heating & Cooling complete calculations to establish the specific load requirements for every room in the building or home. Equipment is selected so that the capacity matches the heaviest theoretical load that could occur during extreme weather.

Many companies that use outdated “rule of thumb” formulas for sizing equipment can compromise comfort, humidity control and degrade system performance.

Why Choose Alpine Heating & Cooling

Regardless of the build quality of the equipment, Alpine Heating & Cooling will have a substantial impact on performance, efficiency, and longevity. Alpine Heating & Cooling has extensive experience and knowledge and provides important services that will help keep HVAC systems running dependably over an extended lifecycle.

Since heating and air conditioning is a highly specialized industry, it is important to choose a company that has a suitable level of knowledge and experience to address the specific requirements of the job.

  • Areas of Expertise: Many HVAC companies specialize in a specific industry discipline. This includes new construction, retrofit, commercial HVAC and service. Alpine Heating & Cooling has the skill and expertise to directly meets the requirements for a particular application and will result in a more successful and less expensive outcome.
  • The Screening Process: References and referrals are important tools to verify the quality of our work – check out our reviews!

Understanding SEER Ratings

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a federal standard designed to provide consumers with an easy way to compare the operating costs for different brands and models of air conditioners. Relative efficiency between two machines can be calculated by dividing the higher SEER rating by the lower SEER rating. For example, replacing a 10 SEER air conditioner installed in the early 2000s with a high-efficiency 16 SEER unit can save up to 60 percent on annual cooling costs, depending on local climate conditions.

Energy Savings Tips

Homeowners can dramatically lower heating and cooling operating costs by changing minor lifestyle habits and considering several relatively inexpensive upgrades.

  • Closing the Blinds: Window coverings provide protection against convection and radiant heat. Shades with a k-value rating can reduce the thermal gain from single-pane windows by up to 50 percent.
  • Replace Light Bulbs: A conventional light bulb produces 10 percent light and 90 percent heat when it is lit. A compact fluorescent or LED light bulb is far more efficient, especially in climates with extreme summer heat. In fact, over half the total energy savings from a light bulb replacement can be attributed to the reduced summer cooling load.
  • Plant Shade Trees: Shade trees have a positive impact on climate change and can help reduce a home’s total air conditioning load when strategically positioned to reduce the effects of south and west sun exposure. The energy savings can be magnified for homes with a significant amount of exterior glass.
  • Raise the Thermostat: Raising the thermostat by one degree during summer months can lower energy usage by up to five percent and also reduce equipment-related stress.
  • Upgrade Insulation: For older homes with loose perimeters, insulation offers the greatest energy savings per dollar invested. For homes built before the year 2000, upgrading insulation levels to meet current Department of Energy standards can save up to 30 percent on annual cooling costs with an associated payback of less than five years.

Repair or Replace

Even with proper maintenance, a central air conditioner or furnace will eventually need to be replaced. Whether due to age or obsolescence, equipment begins to malfunction and repair costs mount. As performance diminishes, utility costs continually rise as the HVAC unit must work harder and longer to satisfy the indoor load.

While there is no specific timeline for equipment longevity, HVAC systems that are eight years or older should be considered for replacement. Leading-edge ductless systems combine exceptional levels of comfort with the highest available efficiencies.

Alpine Heating & Cooling invites you to learn more about the versatility, efficiency and attractive appearance offered by modern ductless split systems.

Heat & Cool Efficiently in Skagit Valley

energy_star_skagit

energy_star_skagitAs much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home’s heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills — and your comfort. Take these steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

Change your air filter regularly

Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool — wasting energy. A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system — leading to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.

Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly

Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort.

Install a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.

Seal your heating and cooling ducts

Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent — and sometimes much more.

Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the house.

Consider installing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment

If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, have it evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading, consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR. Depending on where you live, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by more than $115. But before you invest in a new HVAC system, make sure that you have addressed the big air leaks in your house and the duct system. Sometimes, these are the real sources of problems rather than your HVAC equipment.

Contact Alpine Heat to ask about Proper Installation of your new equipment

Replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with new, energy-efficient models is a great start. But to make sure that you get the best performance, the new equipment must be properly installed. In fact, improper installation can reduce system efficiency by up to 30 percent – costing you more on your utility bills and possibly shortening the equipment’s life.

Today more than ever before it is important to consider all options when it comes to saving energy and saving money. The term Energy Star is an important aspect of selecting the right type of appliances for your home or business. When you purchase appliances or equipment that boast the Energy Star label or logo, you can be sure that you are buying an energy efficient product that will ultimately save you money and also help to save the planet. As an added bonus, with Energy Star appliances, anytime there is an increase in the cost of energy, the value of your appliances automatically increases in terms of the ability to save you money.

Replacement Will Be Less Frequent

Energy Star approved appliances are considered to be higher quality in terms of how they are designed, manufactured and built. In other words, this type of appliance will provide years of trouble-free service while operating in a quieter and more efficient way. They can be expected to last longer meaning that replacement will be less frequent. Everything else aside, saving money each and every month on energy bills is perhaps one of the most enticing reasons to choose this type of appliance. In addition, the idea of incentives and rebates is hard to resist.

High-Efficiency

For example, the incentives and rebates offered by Cascade Natural Gas right here in Washington State have real value in terms of saving consumers money. Typical incentives include hundreds of dollars offered to those who choose to install high-efficiency natural gas furnaces or high-efficiency tankless water heaters. In some cases, these incentives can be over $800 or more. Even increasing attic insulation can make one eligible for incentives and rebates. Energy Star appliances are a big hit because of their amazingly high rates of efficiency meaning that they will almost always entitle a homeowner to some type of incentive or rebate.

The Next Time You Are In The Market For A New Appliance

In addition to installing Energy Star appliances there are many other ways that homeowners can save money around the home. This can include everything from simply installing faucet aerators and showerheads that are specifically designed to save water. This not only lowers water usage but it also reduces costs associated with heating water. Keep these simple ideas in mind the next time you are in the market for a new appliance. From boilers to fireplaces and geothermal heat pumps as well as ductless heat pumps and many other types of common household appliances, qualifying for Energy Star incentives and rebates is easy. Contact Alpine Heating & Cooling today to learn more about Energy Star incentives and rebates in Mount Vernon Washington and the surrounding communities.

Tankless Water Heater Tips and Tricks

Takagi Tankless

Takagi Tankless

Today more than ever before consumers are turning to tankless water heaters as a way to lower energy consumption and decrease utility expenses in general. That said keep in mind that this type of water heater requires a special type of venting in order to blow hot exhaust gas outside of the home as a way to dissipate heat. Different from conventional water heaters, tankless hot water heaters require unique and creative venting options.

Direct Vent Pulls Air From the Outside

Keep in mind that in many cases the installation of this type of water heater results in a more attractive and less expensive finished product. Perhaps the most important aspect of a tankless water heater is that it will save considerable space. Tankless water heaters can be vented in one of two ways. They can either be vented via a power vent or direct venting. A direct vent pulls air from the outside of the home and will typically have two vent openings used for exhaust and intake.

Outside Tankless Water Heaters

This kind of configuration is unique in that it allows a tankless unit to fit in a much smaller spaces than would otherwise be the case. Conversely, power vent type units only require that there be adequate exhaust venting available. That said, a power vent unit usually requires a larger area so that adequate volumes of air are available and so that normal combustion is assured. There are other types of units that are known as outside tankless water heaters. These are good because they can free up a lot of indoor space. Best of all, an outside unit requires no additional venting.

High Efficiency Levels

When installing a unit that does require outside venting remember that venting can be through a sidewall or roof or any other number of other unique venting options. Finally, there are units that are known as condensing tankless water heaters. These are a good choice because they can lower energy costs thanks to very high efficiency levels. With the lower cost of installation associated with nonmetal parts being used, a condensing tankless water heater may be the perfect choice for today’s modern homeowner. Contact Alpine Heating and Cooling today to learn more about Mount Vernon Washington HVAC systems and services with a proven record.

 

 

Explore Your Options With A Ductless Mini Split Heat Pump

Modern innovations in HVAC systems have allowed more options for homeowners and businesses today than even just a few short years ago. A ductless mini split heat pump is a unique type of heating system that effectively eliminates energy inefficiencies that are often seen in ducted heating and cooling systems. In fact, a typical ductless mini split can reduce energy inefficiencies by up to 30% or more. These systems are typically easy to install, quiet and efficient and may even be eligible for a variety of energy rebates.

Type Of Installation

One of the best advantages of using this type of heat pump system is that they are ideal for the zone heating or cooling of specific areas of an interior space. In most cases, this type of system can be installed and be up and running within a matter of hours. A ductless mini split heat pump is easy to operate, easy to maintain and will typically last for many years once installed. It is important to note that not all homes are suited for this type of installation. For example, some homes would require too many separate many split systems to be considered cost-effective.

Mini Split System

While there are a variety situations where this kind of heating or cooling system would be ideal there are other cases where a more robust and comprehensive system would be more appropriate. That is why it is important to talk with your heating and cooling professional to find out which system will work best for your particular needs. Keep in mind that the portion of a mini split system that is installed indoors can at times be bulky and easily visible. Those who prefer a more hidden type of system may wish to consider other options.

Heating And Cooling

All said a ductless mini split is an excellent option when used in the right type of application. Having a professional assessment of your home or business is usually the perfect place to begin when determining whether or not this type of heating and cooling option is the most appropriate. Many factors are taken into account such as the size of the interior space and the area that requires heating and cooling. The electrical panel and the type of construction as well as the existing system in use are all taken into account when determining if a mini split system is best. Contact Alpine Heating & Cooling today for Mount Vernon HVAC system service and sales.

What’s the Best Air Conditioner for Skagit County?

ductless mini split condenser unit

The Best Is Not the Same for Everyone

While we might want to know which brand of air conditioner is the best overall, the first question might be which type is the best air conditioner for Skagit county. Modern manufacturing processes are excellent. Top brands are competing at a high level of reliability. Efficacy, though, is determined by application as well as design.

The majority of the cooling season in the Skagit Valley features low relative humidity. While it may be uncomfortably warm in your home, it is not usually also uncomfortably humid. An air conditioning unit that includes a dehumidifier may not be the most efficient choice.

best air conditioner for Skagit county - ductless mini split condenser unit from American Standard

Unlike the huge condenser units of the past, a ductless mini split won’t dominate your yard or ruin the look of your home.

How to Reduce the Load on Your HVAC – and Your Wallet

Before we look at what type of air conditioner performs the best where we live, let’s refresh ourselves on what we can do to make any air conditioner, including the one you might have now, perform better.

  • Seal leaky ducts or re-route old, convoluted airways. Be sure ducts are free of obstructions.
  • Ensure that the condenser (the part outside) has plenty of room to breathe – cut bushes back and don’t crowd it with objects or obstructions to airflow.
  • Consider adding awnings to south-facing windows to reduce solar heating of your home.
  •  Use heat-generating appliances such as dryers and ovens during cooler parts of the day.
  • Cool only the spaces you are using at any given time.

Avoiding the losses associated with leaky, dirty, or poorly-sized or -routed ducts while also cooling only the spaces you are using is easy – with a ductless mini split.

air conditioning condenser in the bushes

Your Condenser Unit Needs Ample Airflow to Operate Efficiently

The Best Air Conditioner for Skagit County is American Standard

I mentioned earlier that the top brands are all competing at a high level of reliability. Still, I prefer to sell and install American Standard over any other brand. I will install a less expensive piece of equipment IF you are on a tight budget, or an American Standard will not fit with your existing system. American Standard is a better built piece of equipment. That’s just not my experience talking, but also consumer reports over the last six or so years.

Even the best piece of equipment, if badly installed, will perform poorly and fail early. That’s why Alpine Heating and Cooling guarantees our labor for life. Installing an American Standard Ductless Mini Split system gives us a great sense of satisfaction. We know that you will be comfortable and happy with your new system for years to come.

For many of our customers, the best air conditioner for Skagit county is an American Standard Ductless Mini Split. The best is not the same for everyone, though. We are happy to guide you in your decision. Which HVAC setup is right for your home, family, and budget is personal. Give us a call today to see how we can help you spend less and be more comfortable no matter the weather. We can be reached at 360-755-5146 or 360-293-6210 and are excited to help you!

a beautifully installed HVAC condenser unit - the best air conditioner for Skagit County

Clean, High-Quality Installations Are Our Hallmark