Higher SEER Replacement Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Systems

It is not unusual to find package and split system air conditioning units in the Phoenix market that have been in use since the 1970's or 1980's. Because the average life expectancy of this type of HVAC equipment is around twelve to fifteen years, it is high time to retire some of these tired old workhorses.

An added bonus when you replace older air conditioning systems can be a significant increase in energy efficiency with an accompanying decrease in energy costs. With the amount of discussion we have been hearing in the news lately urging all of us to be green and save energy that is probably not going to be an unwelcome consequence.

Along with the good news of energy savings there are also some considerations that the competent air conditioning contractor will make you aware of when it is time to replace older equipment. I would like to share a few of them with you. First let's discuss split system heat pumps and then briefly cover things that are common to both package units and split systems.

As SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings for new air conditioning equipment have increased, HVAC industry practices that have been marginal in the past will no longer be acceptable. One of those unacceptable practices occurred whenever split system heat pump condensing units were replaced. The common practice in the past was to replace the heat pump condensing unit without first verifying that the new condensing unit was compatible with the old air handler. Several problems may arise whenever there is a mismatch between the condenser and the indoor air handler.

The first problem is the reduced efficiency that will result from replacing an older condensing unit without replacing the air handler at the same time. The reason for this is that air conditioning manufacturers do not rate current model heat pump condensing units with "antique" air handlers that are twenty years old. To achieve the published SEER, a heat pump condensing unit must be matched with an indoor air handler or fan coil unit that it has been rated with. In other words, if you install a new 13 SEER condensing unit with an old 8 or 9 SEER air handler, the actual efficiency achieved will be less than 13 SEER.

A second concern is there can be a mismatch of the internal coil volumes between an older air handler and a newer condensing unit. As minimum SEER mandates have required increased efficiencies over the years, manufacturers have made enhancements to both the indoor and outdoor coils in order to increase heat transfer efficiencies. Newer condensing units may have a different internal coil volume than some of their antique counterparts. If a new heat pump condensing unit is installed on an old air handler it may result in improper operation in either the heating or the cooling mode that will require seasonal refrigerant charge adjustments and unnecessarily increase service costs. It can also contribute to system reliability issues.

A third issue we are all facing is the difference in the characteristics of the refrigerants and compressor lubricants that are being used in the new systems. Since new air conditioning equipment using R22 refrigerant cannot be manufactured after 2010, the leading manufacturers have already started making newer high efficiency models utilizing R410a refrigerant and polyolester (POE) oils. The new refrigerant has properties that are very different than the R22 that has been the primary refrigerant for split system and package air conditioning systems for decades. In short, R410a is not compatible with the refrigerant flow control devices in the older air handlers that were designed for R22. Even if the flow control device could be changed, there may also be issues that could develop over time if the original mineral oils are not adequately cleaned from the system.

A fourth consideration is the refrigerant line size. The new high efficiency R22 condensing units often require larger diameter vapor lines than those that were originally installed with the old system. It may not be economically feasible to replace the vapor lines, so there will be losses in efficiency as a result of the increased refrigerant pressure drop in the smaller than recommended vapor line. One possible solution to resolve this issue would be to install a new R410a split system condensing unit and a new R410a air handler. Since R410a generally requires smaller vapor lines than R22, it would allow the use of the existing smaller vapor lines. Recommended procedures for removing residual mineral oil from the existing lines would have to be observed if the conversion to R410a was implemented.

When all of the above factors are taken into consideration, it becomes clearer that the very best course of action is to replace the indoor unit along with the heat pump condensing unit. While this is more expensive up front, it can help avoid significant downstream issues later.

Now that we have discussed issues unique to split system replacements, let's consider some factors that are common to both package units and split systems.

One issue that is common to both package units and split systems in higher SEER products is reduced cooling capacity at higher outdoor temperatures. This can be verified by checking manufacturer's ratings for the old air conditioning system and the new air conditioning system at outdoor temperatures above 100 degrees. The newer high efficiency systems generally tend to lose sensible cooling capacity more quickly than the lower efficiency units that were manufactured in the past. This is an important factor when evaluating an existing system that is doing only a marginal job of cooling the space it serves. A new system may have to be larger in capacity to produce the desired cooling effect at the higher outdoor temperatures we see in Arizona. There is a caveat with this also. You don't want the replacement system to be grossly oversized either or it will not perform as intended.

Another thing you will notice is that many of the newer systems have larger cabinets than the older style units. The larger cabinet size can become an issue in confined areas. Since minimum clearances must be maintained, a new system may not fit where the old system was installed. This consideration will be unique to each specific application, but you should be aware of it so you don't get an unpleasant surprise.

One last item to be aware of regarding both package or split system replacements is the significant difference in equipment costs. Higher efficiency comes with a higher price tag. Based on one leading manufacturer's pricing for a 5 ton package heat pump, the jump from 10 SEER to 13 SEER comes with more than a 30% differential in price. If it has been a while since you have replaced an air conditioning system, you may have "sticker shock". Material price increases along with the use of advanced technologies like variable speed compressors, dual compressors or unloading scroll compressors along with variable speed fan motors and enhanced control systems all contribute to higher equipment costs. Keeping this in mind when you are projecting future costs for HVAC equipment replacement can help you develop more accurate replacement budgets.

Mark Strahan is a 35 year veteran of the HVAC industry and is currently an account manager with Burt-Burnett, Inc., an HVAC mechanical service and EMS controls contractor. Mark can be reached with comments or questions at (480) 557-8593 or strahan@burt-burnett.com

Homemade Solar Power - Living Off the Grid

Just imagine it, coming home after work, putting your feet up on the couch, television on, stereo blaring and all the lights on in the house... now imagine you don't feel any guilt about the impact your having on the environment or the pain in your wallet doesn't exist. Welcome to living off the grid.

More and more householders are moving to homemade solar power in their attempts to be independent from the power grid and save a heap of money at the same time.

I guess some of you may be asking, isn't all that energy consumption irresponsible? well it would be if we weren't using homemade solar power to supply our appliances. Solar energy is an extremely clean form of energy, no pollutants or emissions to worry about here, whilst the sun hangs up there in the sky solar energy is a renewable energy, best of all solar is free once you have your system installed and running.

So whats the catch I hear you cry? well currently purchasing a traditional solar power system and having it installed is ridiculously expensive. Enter the new wave of DIY solar power kits. All over the internet you can find guides which show you how to build your own diy solar power kit and produce your own free homemade solar power.

Whether you are looking to totally convert to solar energy of compliment your existing supply, the bliss that is living off the grid and the satisfaction of giving it to the man! is now within reach, no longer will your power be regulated by government bodies, you will be free to use as much as you want.

These Homemade Solar Power guides are amazing in the fact they are so simple to follow. You will have your diy solar power kit assembled and up and running in no time. You get an ebook and videos to follow along in a step by step process. It even shows you how to sell excess energy back to the power grid!

So do you and your family a favor and stick it to the man! read more about Homemade Solar Power - Living off the Grid

Like most things released in this format there are some products to avoid, [Click Here] for a review on the best DIY Solar Power Kits available on the web.
Jon Elsdon is a Solar Energy - Homemade Solar Power Consultant and Environmentalist. Jon is editor of DIY Solar Power.

A Sustainable House Makes Good Sense!

A sustainable house is one which is ideally built without the use of building materials containing toxic, allergenic ingredients. A synthetic house is therefore a safer and healthier environment for your entire family and is less likely to cause allergic reactions than are homes built using conventional methods and materials.

A Sustainable House is Healthy:

A sustainable house has a smaller environmental impact and has a much higher level of air quality than do homes built with synthetic materials. A lot of furniture and building materials include the known carcinogen formaldehyde, which also can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems. A lot of fabrics (including upholstery) and plywood products contain this deadly chemical.

A sustainable house is made with organic products and has furniture made with non-toxic treatments and organic fabrics. In the last 30 years, asthma has more than doubled in most countries, which is largely due to the way that our homes are built and furnished. The result is that the air quality in our own homes is in many cases as much as 100 times more toxic than the air outside - even if you live in an area which is polluted.

A Sustainable House is Energy Efficient and Saves You Money:

The more recent models of appliances, water heaters and HVAC systems are much more energy efficient than are their older counterparts. Using as much as 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent bulbs are becoming very popular as a way to save on energy costs and reduce the environmental impact of one's home. Many homeowners are also choosing to install programmable thermostats and seal windows and doors as a energy saving measure.

There are other easy steps you can take towards making your home a sustainable house such as installing low flow showerheads, insulating your water heater and making a habit of changing your furnace filters regularly. Insulating your attic well can also reduce your energy usage - and your energy bills!

A Sustainable House Uses Green Products:

People are increasingly interested in green building and there are more choices than ever before when it comes to green building materials. Non-toxic paints and finishes are widely available, as are sustainably harvested woods - bamboo flooring is particularly popular. For those who prefer carpet, there are wool carpets and even carpet which is manufactured from recycled materials.

A Sustainable House Uses Solar Energy For Additional Light And Heating:

You can make your house more of a sustainable house by taking advantage of solar energy. Even without installing solar panels on your home, you can use skylights and windows to increase the amount o flight and heat which come into your home.

Installing tinting on your windows in the warmer months can also reduce your cooling costs. You can find organic window treatments which can keep energy costs down and make your house a sustainable house.

There are simple steps you can take to make your house a more sustainable house and save a lot of money on your energy bills in the bargain, even as you help to protect the environment.

Curt Roese is the author and is a Real Estate Broker holding the EcoBroker and NAR GREEN Designations. Find more information about Sustainable Homes and sign up for his informative newsletter at Green Sustainable Homes.

Energy Aware and Waste Wise

Constantly bombarded with negative information about the environment, finances and natural resources? Feeling overwhelmed? Each and every one of us can do something to help our world - starting right where we are, right now. Though not everyone can afford to donate cash or time to a cause, there are endless tactics that will decrease an individual's contribution to the landfill and their resource consumption.

Mirrors, placed strategically in a room can be used to make use of natural lighting more efficiently, and reduce energy use as well. When placed near indoor plants, mirrors act like a second window creating better growing conditions while giving the illusion of increased space and greenery to the ambiance of a room.

When loading the clothes dryer, fluff the wet and tangled laundry before tossing into the machine. This allows for immediate and more efficient use of dryer energy. Very hot settings (which can actually shrink clothing) can thus be avoided.

Typically, the heated air from a clothes dryer is pumped outside and wasted. Consider purchasing a dryer vent converter - available at most hardware stores. These are little boxes that divert the heated air from the dryer into the house during the cold and dry winter months - making better use of your energy dollar while saving a little on heating costs. Be warned that this air is moist, and this may not be appropriate in all situations. Homes with dry static air or wood heat would benefit from the moisture, but buildings that already have a moisture problem (evident by mould and mildew or sweating and frosted windows) will only have their issues compounded by doing this.

Instead of buying disposable dryer sheets for static control, consider using a liquid fabric softener with a reused rag or sock. Pour a Tablespoon of the liquid on the rag, roll it up and squeeze (to soak up all the softener) and toss in the dryer. Wash the rag periodically by throwing it in with a normal load. Just imagine the number of dryer sheets, the packaging they came in, along with the costs, energy and resources to produce them that can be avoided by this one simple act.

There are many other little things we can do around our home, to save money and reduce waste. Instead of purchasing a plastic drip tray for potted plants, reuse plastic lids from peanut butter or mayonnaise. Often, just the right size of lid can be found for each potted plant, and most of these are dishwasher safe. Foil food trays also serve this purpose.

Plastic containers that fresh herbs are sold in make useful storage packages in the kitchen. Dried herbs and vegetables store well in these containers as long as the seal is airtight. We once bought some very nice fresh ginger in Vancouver's Chinatown and could not use it all in one recipe. Dave placed the peeled and sliced root in the herb containers covering it with red wine vinegar. Stored in the refrigerator it kept for months this way and made it easy to add fresh tasting ginger to any dish.

These are just a few ideas to demonstrate how easy it is to make a difference while saving some money. Imagine how many other small things you can do around the home or office. Once the ideas have begun to flow, they will cause a ripple effect cascading into other aspects of your life. Then, hopefully, you will think twice before throwing anything into the trash.

~ Dave & Lillian Brummet:Authors of the books Trash Talk, Purple Snowflake Marketing and Towards Understanding; co-host of the Conscious Discussions radio show (http://www.brummet.ca)

Solar Panels to Increase Energy Efficiency

As of 10 years ago controversy still existed in the scientific community about whether the greenhouse gases affected the environment. However, in the last five years over 98 percent of scientists now agree that greenhouse gases can cause global change to the earth. This concern caught fire in mainstream America when Vice President Al Gore released his movie An Inconvenient Truth, which won an Academy award. Al Gore also shared the Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to the cause of informing the public about global warming.

Companies that make electric home solar panels have seen their stocks soar over the past five years. Demand has increased as interest in alternative energy provides homeowners and business owners with a green halo and the promise of earning significant return on investment (ROI) over the long-term.

In the fall of 2008, however, new concerns rose about the future of electric home solar panels. The massive number of foreclosures of homes caused a collapse in all five major investment banks. This resulted in a massive withdrawal of funds from money market accounts and an unwillingness on the part of banks to lend to each other. Not only would banks not lend to each other, but they exhibited reluctance to lend to businesses and consumers. Wall Street analysts noted that this posed a threat to the solar panel market because businesses and homeowners typically have to take out loans to purchase solar panels.

Still, the solar industry remains bullish on its future. It believes it can reach grid parity within the next 10 years. Grid parity is achieved when one kilowatt of solar energy costs the same as one kilowatt of grid powered electricity. Once grid parity is reached solar companies can thrive without government rebates or incentives for consumers. These rebates are set to expire within the next eight years.

Other reasons for optimism have popped up. In the October 2008 two companies inked a deal that would allow for sales of photovoltaic thin film solar modules in the United States residential market. Previously, all solar panels on American homes have used polycrystalline silicon cells as the semiconductor material to harness the sun's energy for electricity. Then film solar modules would use cadmium telluride in the panels and would make solar power less expensive.

If innovations like this continue and grid parity is reached as gas prices continue to soar, the future for solar power could be bright. The industry will be watching to see if the federal government's shoring up of the national banks can unfreeze the credit market and allow consumers to regain their enthusiasm for solar power.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for Web sites on gardening, biking, fashion, and home decor. Her background also includes running, yoga, and tattoos. For more of her useful information on solar products, visit Home Solar Panels.

Solar Powered Lighting

The demand for green Earth products for homes and business establishments has been on a constant rise. It really should not be a surprise. The recent reports on the decline of the oil supply used by electric companies to generate and distribute electricity to millions of establishments throughout the world has caused electric companies to begin charging higher rates for the electricity consumed.

While the situation has caused many households and business establishments to cut back on their energy consumption in order to lower their monthly electric bills, the current financial crisis that swept over the country has caused the situation to become worse. The economic situation has caused the prices of even the most basic commodities to increase.

As a result, more people are looking for ways and means to get the essential things they need, while still being able to cut back on costs. This has led to many green products, such as solar powered lighting, to become extremely popular and in a constant demand.

What is Solar Powered Lighting?

Solar powered lighting fixtures work in practically the same manner as the conventional lighting we find in homes and business establishments. What makes these lights different is the source of electricity they effectively tap into. Instead of using conventional electricity supplied by electrical companies, solar powered lighting fixtures tap into the sun's energy for their source of electricity. This is accomplished through the use of solar panels that are installed in the home or business establishment. The solar panels convert solar energy into electrical energy through a process called the photovoltaic effect. The electricity that is generated by these solar panels is then stored in rechargeable batteries. The solar power lighting fixture then taps into these batteries for electricity.

Advantages of Using Solar Powered Lighting

Apart from being environment-friendly, solar powered lighting fixtures are able to help cut back on monthly electricity bills that need to be paid by homeowners and business establishments. Since these lights do not utilize the energy that is supplied by electric companies, it substantially lowers all of the costs that come along with electrical consumption.

Another advantage of using solar powered lighting fixtures in homes and business establishments is that they do not require any wiring or additional cabling to be in order to be functional. The installation of more wires or cables in the home to power an electric appliance or gadget increases the risk of fire and injury to those living in it. This is a major concern of households and other establishments that are frequented with small children. This feature of solar powered lighting fixtures makes it ideal for outdoor and landscape lighting as well.

There is no question that alternative energy IS the future and the future is right now.
You can generate you own energy for a lot less than you think! DIY-Energy features reviews on popular Do it Yourself Alternative Energy Guides and other green energy products.
Learn to build solar panels, and wind powered generators for a fraction of the cost of an installed system.

EcoEnergy - A Smart Choice Before Starting Home Renovations

With talks of recession and the cost of oil skyrocketing, consumers are becoming more energy conscience in their daily lives. The talk around the patio this summer is the low interest rates on vehicles and other promotional items to encourage them to continue purchasing the "typical" gas guzzling vehicle. The conversation may flow towards the new hybrid cars available from various companies. One conversation that happens rarely is how consumer's can make their homes more energy efficient.

Consumers tend to change their old 20 year old furnace when it "konks" out and no longer provides heat. Windows are replaced when the old windows are no longer aesthetically appealing. Insulation in the basement is added when they decide to refinish and the attic insulation is never a concern. Consumer's today have more knowledge of their vehicles than they do their largest investment.

The ecoEnergy Program, launched in 2007, by the Federal Government provides the education that a homeowner requires when making energy efficient decisions. As a bonus, Natural Resources Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Energy provides up to $10,000 in grants when making Energy Efficient upgrades. The education received by having an ecoEnergy evaluation is priceless. Homeowners are educated on how their home operates as a system and how one component is vital to another component in the house. Homeowners must have an initial evaluation prior to performing any Energy Efficient upgrades. This evaluation should include:

* Detailed certified examination

* Blower door test to determine air leakage

* Standby power loss demo

* Tour of air leakage sites

* Analysis of heating and cooling equipment

* Assessment of insulation values

* Comprehensive list of energy trouble spots

* Prioritized energy action list

* Official EnerGuide rating label

* Energy Saving Advice

* Complete report presentation on-site

As with any purchasing decision, it is always advisable to shop around and get three quotes for an ecoEnergy evaluation. Some advisor's provide the ecoEnergy report presentation on site, where others process the report in a central location where it is then mailed to homeowner within two weeks.

Once the preliminary evaluation is conducted the homeowner has 18 months to complete some or all of the renovations recommended. The ecoEnergy advisor returns to conduct another blower door test and document the upgrades performed in the home.

Lastly, the renovation contractor is the last person a homeowner will see when making their investment. It is always advisable to work with a contractor who, not only provides information about their product, but also encourages having an ecoEnergy evaluation performed on their home. A contractor who advises this to the homeowner is not threatened to 3rd party unbiased advice and has provided the homeowner the opportunity to receive the grants available and will put off the installation date (for a reasonable period of time) to keep their homeowner satisfied.

About the Writer

Trina Stewart has been working with Renovation Contractors and homeowners since 1996. She has been intimately involved with various programs including the Window Wise National Certification Program, Energuide for Houses Program, and ecoEnergy. Her reputation as being an information source for contractors, homeowners, local utilities, municipalities, and other organizations has contributed to her success in the renovation industry.

Trina Stewart is the President of Trina Stewart Consulting which offers consulting and virtual administration services to businesses across The Golden Triangle and the GTA. She is currently Marketing Development Specialist for The House Whisperers (http://www.thehousewhisperers.ca), an ecoEnergy Service Organization servicing BC and Ontario.