HVAC Blog Crystal Lake, IL

Is Switching to an Energy Star Air Conditioner Worth It?

August 3rd, 2017

You’ve likely heard about Energy Star air conditioners and how they’re more energy efficient. But are they really worth it—in other words, can they save you money?

The short answer is yes, especially if you’re switching from an old, inefficient unit that has to run too long and work too hard to keep your home comfortable.

Let’s look at why upgrading to an Energy Star central air conditioning unit could be beneficial for you.

First, What Is Energy Star?

While most people have heard of Energy Star, many think it’s a brand or a manufacturer’s marketing

campaign. Energy Star is actually a government sanctioned volunteer program administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the Energy Star website, it’s “the most successful voluntary energy efficiency movement in history.”

That’s a bold claim, but they can back it up.

Energy Star was started by the EPA under the 1992 Clean Air Act in an effort to reduce air pollution. This led to the development of more energy efficient buildings and products. After a quarter of a century, the Energy Star program continues to fuel the adoption of more energy efficient products, practices and services throughout the United States.

Not only do these products and practices help limit greenhouse gasses, they can also save consumers money on their energy bills.

What Does Energy Star Certification Mean?

Energy Star air conditioning units are independently certified to save energy, save money and protect the environment.

You’ve probably seen the Energy Star logo on appliances, electronics and building products. In order for products to earn the Energy Star label, they must be certified by an independent third party. This third-party certification is based on testing in laboratories that are EPA recognized. A product displaying the Energy Star logo has earned that distinction through proven and documented energy savings. Manufacturers can’t just pay for the logo or put it on any product they want.

The Value of an Energy Star Central Air Conditioner

One of the biggest values of Energy Star central air conditioners is that they’re much more efficient to operate, directly saving consumers on utility bills. According to Energy Star, their certified central air conditioners not only have higher seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER) ratings but also use about 8 percent less energy than conventional new models.

That means if you’re choosing between a brand new Energy Star certified central air conditioner and another new unit, your savings will be 8 percent more choosing Energy Star. That’s good on its own, but most people buying a new air conditioner are replacing an old unit that’s become inefficient to run. In that case, the savings will be dramatically higher. Think of how those savings can add up over the life of an air conditioner!

Energy Star products are so much more efficient than older products, the program recommends that if either your heating or central air unit is over 15 years old and one needs replacement, you replace both at the same time with an Energy Star unit. According to Energy Star, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with Energy Star qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by more than $115 depending on where you live.

Of course, along with significant energy savings, you and your family can feel good knowing you are minimizing your carbon footprint.

Other Ways to Save on Cooling Bills

The Energy Star website offers many tips for cooling your home efficiently, which we at Althoff also recommend. Changing your air filters, keeping overgrowth trimmed back from your outdoor unit, using a programmable thermostat, and regular maintenance will help keep your air conditioner running at its peak and your bills low. Don’t forget your annual A/C tuneup from a professional HVAC technician.

Are you considering upgrading your air conditioner and/or other major appliances?

Althoff Industries specializes in recommending and replacing air conditioners, furnaces, boilers and more. Contact us today at (815) 455-7000, and we’ll help you get the process started.

Repair or Replace? Average Life of an Air Conditioning Unit

August 2nd, 2017

Some of the most frequently asked questions we get at Althoff Industries are related to the repair, replacement, and lifespan of HVAC equipment. This time of year in Chicago, questions about the average life of an air conditioner unit and whether the repair or replacement of a central air conditioner is better are common. It is not an easy answer because personal situations and equipment quality vary so widely but we can add some perspective.

What Is the Average Life of an Air Conditioning Unit?

Quite frankly, we have seen AC units that need to be replaced after as little as 10 years and have seen them still operating after 30 years. Both are extremes, of course, but generally speaking, it is safe to use 20 years as an average life-expectancy of an air conditioner. If your’s lasts longer, there are reasons to be grateful.

What Affects an Air Conditioner’s Life Expectancy?

There are three significant factors that will affect the average life of an air conditioner unit.

The quality of the equipment. When it comes to mechanical equipment, quality will always be a major factor in determining the length of service. It is common sense that an air conditioner that is engineered and constructed better will last longer.
Proper sizing and installation. If errors are made in an initial installation of a unit, it can dramatically affect how long a central air conditioner will last. It is one of the benefits of using a trusted, professional HVAC company for the installation of your AC unit. Proper sizing is critical, so don’t fall for “bigger is better” sales pitch. It has been shown that over-sized units tend to fail faster than those that are properly sized.
Maintenance and service. A third significant factor impacting the life of your central air conditioner is how well it is maintained and serviced. Have filters and coils been kept clean? Has vegetation been kept clear from the outside unit? Have fan motors been properly lubricated? It is the reason a professional inspection and tune-up in the spring and fall are so valuable. When it does need service, any replacement parts shouldn’t be appropriately installed. It can be of value to you to have the same company maintain your unit annually, that is if you are satisfied with their service, of course.

Simply put, to maximize the lifespan of a central air conditioner, select quality equipment and have it installed, serviced, and maintained by a trusted professional. We, of course, hope you will consider the team at Althoff Industries.

Repair Or Replace?

Things get trickier when it comes to the decision to repair or replace. The EPA suggests that if the equipment is 10 years or older you should replace it. This is because of increasingly higher SEER ratings that are available in newer units and due to the fact that your unit is likely destined for complete failure in the next five to ten years anyway. Budgets and life situations may make repair the better choice, even if it is a temporary situation. At Althoff Industries, we will guide you through your options and the benefits and risks of each. The option to repair or replace, however, is always yours.

If your central air conditioner is 15 years or older, contact us for an inspection and tune up. It is possible your air conditioner may not be cooling your home properly or efficiently, costing you money every time you pay your electric bill. We hear from many of our customers who had an AC failure and replaced their older unit. Afterwards, they said if they would have known how much they would have been saving, they would have made a proactive decision to replace years ago! Call Althoff Industries today!

7 Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Repair

July 27th, 2017

It isn’t always obvious that your air conditioner needs repair. The warning signs of an A/C problem are usually there long before the unit breaks down.

Your utility bills are going up.
You have to set the thermostat lower to stay cool.
Your air conditioner runs too long or is short cycling.
Your air conditioner has started making strange noises.
Certain rooms aren’t cooling properly.
The A/C unit is on but not blowing cool air.
The A/C doesn’t come on at all.

We’ll get into these in depth in a minute. First, think of your air conditioner like a car. Your car may get you from Point A to Point B without breaking down, but that doesn’t mean it’s running properly. Low coolant levels could be creating excessive heat that’s damaging the engine. Low tires could be causing poor gas mileage. Eventually, these problems catch up with you and there’s a breakdown or flat tire.

It’s the same with your air conditioner. Unattended issues can cause costly inefficiencies and damage. Eventually, the A/C will stop working altogether.

Here are 7 signs you may have an air conditioner problem.

1. Your utility bills are going up.

This is a tricky one because it’s easy for utility bills to creep up over time without you noticing. Take a few extra minutes to look over your cooling bill each month. Compare the usage to the previous month and the same month in the previous year. Has your usage gone up? If you know you’ve been running the A/C more because of hotter-than-usual outdoor temperatures, that might explain it. But if not, and you notice a trend of steadily increasing usage, an inefficient air conditioner is the likely culprit.

A/C inefficiency can be caused by a variety of reasons, including:

Clogged air filter
Overgrown vegetation “crowding” the outside unit
Too much dirt and debris on the condenser coils

All of these stifle airflow, making your air conditioner work harder than it should. Thankfully, they’re easy fixes.

Check your air filter every month and change it when it’s dirty.
Trim back any vegetation around your outdoor unit so it has plenty of room to “breathe.”
Condenser coils should be thoroughly cleaned by a professional during your yearly air conditioner maintenance.

2. You have to set your thermostat lower to stay cool.

If you have to keep setting your thermostat lower and lower to keep your home comfortable, you likely have a developing A/C problem.

This too can be the result of poor airflow, or your fan motor may not be working properly. It’s also possible that your home is retaining too much moisture—humid air always feels warmer. (You’ve probably heard the phrases: “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity!” or “But it’s a dry heat!”) If taking the above steps to restore airflow doesn’t solve the problem, an A/C professional can help determine the source of your issue.

3. Your air conditioner runs too long or is short cycling.

A/C systems aren’t designed to operate constantly, or to run frequently for short periods of time. If you notice that your air conditioner is running far too often or is short cycling, you have a problem that needs to be addressed. This can be a fan motor or relay issue, a thermostat problem, or may be yet another result of poor airflow.

4. Your air conditioning system is beginning to make strange sounds and noises.

Let’s revisit our “an air conditioner is like a car” comparison for a minute. Just like with your car, it’s easy to quickly get used to new noises and think of them as normal. You naturally start to tune them out. That’s why if you hear a new, odd noise coming from your A/C, you should call for service right away. Otherwise you may accidentally ignore a developing issue until it becomes a costly breakdown.

5. Certain rooms aren’t cooling properly.

This is often the result of poor airflow to those rooms. Make sure the intake vents aren’t blocked by a box, laundry or other easy-to-remedy issues. Check to see if the cooling vents are open. If this has been a long-term problem for your home, your system may not be properly sized or vented. A call to an HVAC professional is recommended.

6. It sounds like the A/C unit is on but it’s not blowing cool air.

This is likely a blower motor issue. The A/C is cooling, but the air is not being circulated throughout your home. This could be a simple relay problem or it may be a failure of your blower motor. In either case, it will require the assistance of a professional HVAC technician.

7. The A/C doesn’t come on at all.

If your air conditioner stops working altogether, it may have lost power. The circuit breaker may have tripped. You can reset the breaker easily enough, but if it trips again, you likely have some sort of a short in your A/C system and need to call a professional right away.

If you still have power to the A/C unit but it’s not coming on, check the thermostat to make sure it’s properly set.

Regular maintenance is the key to preventing costly air conditioner repairs.

There are plenty of simple things you as a homeowner can do to maintain your air conditioner. Many of the A/C problems stemming from poor airflow in particular can be headed off with these air conditioner maintenance tips.

For the rest, there is no substitute for an annual A/C tuneup from an HVAC professional. Having your A/C system thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and tuned-up is a terrific way to avoid loss of cooling at a critical time. It can also help your equipment last longer and operate more efficiently.

If your air conditioner is showing signs of needing repair, don’t wait.

Air conditioner problems don’t resolve on their own. Ignoring the problem could cause damage to your unit that then requires more extensive and costly repairs. Calling in a trusted HVAC professional to take a look is your best move.

If you’re in the Greater Chicago area, have one our licensed Chicago HVAC technicians check out your A/C issue now and get peace of mind. Contact us at (815) 455-7000 to schedule.

3 Common Issues that Affect Air Conditioner Performance

July 19th, 2017

As we’ve mentioned in previous articles, there are many factors that will affect air conditioner performance. The most common issues, however, are the three “D’s” of dirt, debris, and dust. A dirty air conditioner, dirty condenser coil or clogged air filter can cause more problems than you can imagine. They also can drain your wallet by making it more expensive to operate your unit, perhaps without your knowledge. This is why it is important to be conscious of the three “D’s” that affect air conditioner performance and to proactively take steps to prevent their build up.

Debris Surrounding Outside Unit

Outside units are particularly susceptible to the three “D’s” for obvious reasons. But even here, in the Chicagoland area, steps can be taken to keep units clear and clean. It starts by simply making sure bushes and vegetation are not interfering with airflow to the unit. Your unit needs room to breathe, so it is important it can do so by minimizing debris like grass cuttings and leaves from clogging the unit. Be cautious when using a string weed trimmer near units so as not to damage electrical wiring or connections. While keeping debris away from your AC unit is an easy DIY project, further cleaning should involve a professional. Some homeowners think that simply spraying an outside unit with a hose will clean the AC unit. The fact is, this can make matters worse by driving dirt, dust, and debris further into the unit. A professional will take the cover off of the unit and carefully clean the dirty condenser coil. The condenser coil may be the most important part of your air conditioning system as it removes the warm air from your home. When dirt and debris build on, in, and around it, it inhibits its performance. In severe cases, it can lead to a breakdown of the unit. A thorough cleaning is well worth the minimal expense involved.

Dust Filled Air Filters

Most homeowners are familiar with changing air filters in their home, but many still don’t do it often enough. Filters should be changed monthly to reduce dust and keep airflow moving. This is simple and inexpensive. Again, however, a professional should be contacted to conduct a thorough cleaning of your AC. To keep your indoor and outdoor units running properly and efficiently it is best to have a spring and fall “tune-up” to not only clean your dirty air conditioner and heating system but to ensure moving parts air maintained.

Dirty Air Quality Conditions

The Chicago area has a long history of dirty air and pollution. While improved through the years, it is still a concern especially for those with asthma and those suffering from allergies. As the summer heats up, the air quality becomes increasingly a concern not only here, but elsewhere. Each and every day the EPA produces air quality reports for some 400 cities, including Chicago. This air quality not only affects the air you breathe, it impacts the dirt, debris, and dust that gets into your AC unit. This is why a fall cleaning of your HVAC system can be as important as a spring cleaning.

Routine Air Conditioner Performance Maintenance

Too often we are only reminded of the importance of routine maintenance when there is a failure. Our car breaks down, our lawn mower doesn’t start, or our AC unit stops cooling. Remember, a repair is almost always more expensive than simple maintenance. We can clean that dirty air conditioner, clean the dirty air condenser, and change that clogged air filter and show you how to achieve maximum air conditioner performance. Is it time to schedule your AC maintenance check up?

Why Do Air Conditioners Freeze Up?

July 13th, 2017

It seems to defy logic. The temperatures outdoors are in the 90s or 100s. Yet, your air conditioner isn’t working right because it’s…frozen?

Not only is this possible, it’s a common issue when A/C units are working overtime in the heat of summer and autumn.

There is a thermodynamic name for why A/C units freeze up, called the Joule-Thomson Effect. Rather than going into that right now, let’s discuss what you’re probably here to find out: the causes of air conditioner freeze-up, how to prevent it, and how to get your frozen air conditioner blowing cool air again.

Important Note: If your air conditioner is frozen, don’t run it. Not only will it not cool your home, it could damage the compressor—a costly repair! Turn the air conditioner off.

4 Common Reasons Air Conditioners Freeze Up and What You Can Do

There are multiple possible causes for air conditioner freeze-up. Some are simple and some are complex. What they all have in common is that the A/C unit is working overtime and not getting the help it needs to function properly.

Potential Cause #1: Dirty Air Filter

Restricted air flow due to a dirty air filter can contribute to air conditioning freeze. This is easy to fix and even easier to prevent. We recommend checking your air filter every month and changing it if it’s dirty. Not sure? Hold the filter up to the light. If you can’t see through it, it needs to be changed. Often this works out to a filter change every 60 days, or 90 at the maximum. If you have pets in the home or excessive dust, you may need to change your filter every 30 days.

If your air conditioner is frozen and the filter is dirty:

Turn off power to the A/C unit and allow it to thaw.
Replace the filter and turn on the fan only for a minute or two. You can then repower the A/C unit.
If cooling is restored, your problem is solved!

Potential Cause #2: Problem With the Blower Motor or Relay

A blower motor can overheat and stop working intermittently or altogether. A relay may stick or malfunction causing the motor to not operate properly. These are issues that need to be traced through HVAC troubleshooting performed by an HVAC professional.

Potential Cause #3: Dirty Evaporator Coil

Like air filters, evaporator coils (located in the interior unit of the A/C system) can get dirty over time. As the dirt on the coil increases, your A/C unit becomes less and less efficient, often leading to your air conditioner freezing. Unlike an air filter, a dirty evaporator coil is best corrected by a professional.

Potential Cause #4: Leaking Refrigerant

A lack of refrigerant is one of the leading causes of air conditioner freeze-up. This can be due to even a tiny leak.

Having an HVAC professional refill your system may solve the problem—but it may only solve it for hours, days or weeks. A trusted technician can determine the extent of the leak through HVAC troubleshooting and give you options including necessary repairs. Depending on the age of your unit, replacement may be the best option.

Regular Maintenance Is the Best Way to Prevent Air Conditioner Freezing

A thorough A/C tune-up and cleaning once a year is the best way to prevent your air conditioner freezing up on you when you need it most. For example, Althoff’s 24-point A/C Tune-Up includes testing the blower motor and checking the refrigerant. While there’s no way to predict absolutely everything that could happen during the year (especially on an older unit), it’s the absolute best way to catch potential issues and get your A/C running at its best before the blazing hot weather arrives.

Air Conditioner Frozen? You Need an HVAC Technician You Can Trust

Some of the causes of a frozen air conditioner we covered above are routine and can be resolved with minimal cost. Others are terminal and may result in system replacement. The guidance of a trusted HVAC professional is critical in these circumstances.

If you’re in the Chicago area and experiencing air conditioner freeze-up (or any A/C problem), the experts at Althoff Industries can help. We’re a family-owned and operated company who has been helping Chicagoans stay cool for nearly 60 years. Request service online or give us a call at (815) 455-7000. 24/7 emergency service available.

This information is provided as a general guideline. Althoff Industries does not assume any liability resulting from the provided information.

How to Select the Correct SEER Rating for Your Residential Air Conditioner

July 5th, 2017

When faced with replacing the air conditioner of your Chicago area home, you will likely have to make a decision on a SEER rating for your unit. The challenge is, many don’t know what a SEER rating is let alone how it is used in selecting the best system for your home. For those experienced in such matters, you can take a pass on this blog. If, however, you would like to know what a SEER rating is, how it is determined, and how to use it in the selection of the best AC unit for your space, we encourage you to read on.

What is a SEER Rating?

SEER stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio”. On a simple level, a SEER rating is used to help determine the efficiency of an air conditioning unit. How a SEER rating is tabulated is a bit more complex, however. Technically, it is the cooling output that a unit or system generates during a typical cooling-season divided by the total electric energy input it consumes during that same period. An easy way to look a SEER rating is like the MPG rating on your car. The higher the mileage rating your car has, the more efficiently it uses gas. The higher your SEER rating, at least in theory, the more efficiently your AC uses electricity to cool air. Keep in mind, when choosing a car that gets the highest mileage, you may be making sacrifices in other areas like size, comfort, and power. Likewise, there are ramifications to just choosing an air conditioner based on its SEER rating.

Other Factors to Consider

Like federal mileage standards, the government also has minimum standards on SEER ratings. While there are variables according to region and size of the system, the minimum federal SEER rating a system can now generally have is 14. That number will likely continue to increase. Before you go and purchase the highest rated system you can find, however, you may first want to work on improving your home’s thermal rating. You can do this in multiple ways including:

Improving the insulation value of windows
Insulating and sealing ductwork
Install an attic fan
Improve insulation in ceilings and walls
Improve the radiant quality of your roofing
Use landscaping to increase shade on your property

You also should consider how long you may live in your home. A more efficient system will cost more so living in your home longer will produce a greater return. If you will be selling your home in a couple of years, the extra investment of a higher rated unit may not get you a return on investment.

If you are replacing an older AC unit that has an 8-10 SEER rating, you will likely be happy with what you get in a 14 SEER rated system. Many of our clients are often astonished at the difference it makes in their electric bill. When combined with some improvements in their home’s thermal rating and an even more efficient system, the results can be even more impressive. It is wise to discuss your situation with your local HVAC professional.

Contact Althoff Industries for the Advice You Need

If you are considering a new AC unit for your Chicago area home or business, we encourage you to contact us. We’ll discuss your home, lifestyle, and your expectation of your new AC system. We’ll talk about how long you may live in your home and help you select a system with the SEER rating that will give you your best ROI. You don’t have to go it alone. Get the help you need from the team who has made indoor air treatment our profession.

You May Not Have the Correct Furnace Size: What to Look For

July 1st, 2017

We recently received what we refer to as a “no heat” call. It was May so it wasn’t a desperation call, thank goodness, but still an issue. We immediately noticed something different upon arrival at the Park Ridge residence. This home had twinned furnaces that combined for a whopping 190k BTUs of heat and they were connected to a 5 ton condenser. As is our normal procedure, we ran the load calculation and determined that the homeowner only needed a single 100k BTU furnace with a 4 ton condenser. The existing system was simply way over-sized. We were able to install a single, much more efficient system, and the sheet metal was a work of art.

The problem is, this is not as uncommon as it should be. We often see furnaces that are over-sized and can only assume the previous installation was done without a full understanding of what was needed or the installer had some extra equipment to sell. There is more of a science to HVAC installations than most homeowners, and apparently some installers, understand.

Calculating the Appropriate Size HVAC Unit

When deciding the most efficient size HVAC unit, an installer needs to consider multiple factors including:

Square Feet: Total square feet of the space to be heated/cooled.
Weather Pattern: The climate and length of the area’s hot and cold seasons.
Manufacturer Recommendations: Consult manufacturer charts for the appropriate furnace for the space and climate.
Orientation: Since windows are not usually evenly distributed on all four orientations, rotating the orientation of a building design by 90 degrees can change the cooling load.
Latitude: The sun’s angle changes with the latitude and could affect the size you need.
Roof overhang: The roof overhang width matters, as well as the distance between the top of the window and the soffit.
Window Coverings: The presence or absence of any window coverings including, blinds, curtains and drapes.
Energy Efficient Appliances/Lighting: Appliances give off heat, especially older non energy efficient appliances. Types of lightbulbs used and the wattage can produce significant heat.
Mechanical Rate Ventilation: This could vary based on home’s age.
Occupants of a home: General rule of thumb is to calculate number of occupants equal to number of bedrooms plus one.

Experienced installers may also consider other factors like available insulation, the specific floor plan and ceiling heights. A trusted installer will not sell you a furnace larger than what you need, saying it’s “more for your money”. The fact is an over-sized furnace will cause you problems.

Issues Related to an Over-Sized Unit

An oversized furnace is no bargain. Especially when it comes to performance. Here are some of the issues you’ll likely experience.

A home that is difficult to keep comfortable. When your home has an oversized furnace it can generate a lot of heat at once, creating an environment that can be too warm. In addition to some rooms heating too quickly, rooms further away from the furnace may not ever seem to get warm enough.
Your furnace will “short cycle” – Because a room heats up so quickly your furnace will “short cycle”, meaning it will be in a start up and shut down mode far too often. This creates furnace wear and may ultimately lead to a furnace failure.
This will lead to higher fuel costs. The start up mode is the most expensive running time for your furnace. This means when it is short cycling it is using more fuel than necessary. This will lead to higher fuel costs and inefficiency.
An oversized furnace will wear down quicker. If your home does not have the proper furnace size, the furnace it does have will not last as long. It may be tempting to believe that an oversized furnace may not work as hard, but the opposite is actually true.

If you’ve experienced any or all of the above, it is quite possible you too, have an oversized furnace.

Contact Althoff Industries Today!

Having a professional perform a load calculation and install your furnace means your furnace will run as efficiently as possible as long as possible. When your HVAC is properly maintained, it further ensures that efficiency for years to come. Contact the professionals at Althoff Industries for an appointment today – we service all suburbs in the Greater Chicago area. We’ll make sure your system is the appropriate size for your home. If not, we’ll recommend a system that will save you money on fuel while providing a more comfortable living environment. The more you know about your HVAC system, the more you’ll understand the value Althoff Industries brings as your HVAC technician.

14 Smart Tips to Lower Summer Cooling Bills

June 28th, 2017

Most of us in the greater Chicago area are glad to see the summer months arrive. It means the return of baseball, vacations, and trips to the beach. One thing though that summer brings that is not so welcome is the higher summer cooling bills. You are not helpless, however, in fact, far from it. From investing in solar panels to using energy saving LED lighting, there are plenty of steps you can take to be more energy efficient which in turn helps reduce summer cooling and electric bills. Here are 14 obvious, and some not-so-obvious, tips to save on your summer cooling bills.

Consider a new HVAC system. We know, “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it”. In the case of your HVAC system, however, a new high-efficiency system can actually reduce bills by 50% or more. It doesn’t take long to realize significant savings with efficiency ratings like those now available.
Get rid of energy-gobbling appliances. Have a 15 or 20-year-old refrigerator in your garage for beverages? Odds are that refrigerator costs more to run over a few months than it is worth. Buy a small energy efficient dorm room size refrigerator if you need the space.
Turn off fans in rooms where no one is spending time. Fans serve to move air and cool the skin. Moving the air in an empty room just isn’t an efficient use of electricity.
Use room darkening blinds or curtains. You’ll be surprised at the difference window treatments can make in cooling a room, especially on westward facing windows.
Switch to LED lighting. Not only does LED lighting use minimal electricity, it doesn’t give off any unnecessary additional heat into your living space. They are perhaps the most energy efficient device for your home available today.
Consider how landscaping can help. A properly positioned tree can provide years of cooling shade. Bushes can deflect the heat that your outside brick may otherwise absorb. Grass disburses heat better than concrete. Landscaping is a terrific, natural way to reduce summer cooling bills.
Look into solar options. You don’t have to have a solar farm built in your backyard or on your roof to take advantage of solar energy. You can start small, like with a solar water heater or outdoor lighting. As you realize savings you may be encouraged to do more!
Make sure your AC units, duct work, and filters are clean. Make sure your outdoor AC unit has room to breath and is free from debris. Change filters at least every three months and have duct work cleaned annually.
Have you thought about awnings? Awnings can save energy, add to the appearance of your home and create outdoor living space. Contemporary options are more appealing than ever.
Be on the look out for energy thieves. We use so many electronic devices we may not even be aware they are constantly using energy. These include charging cell phones, laptops, computers, printers, electric shavers, TVs, clock radios and others. Make sure both the unit and charger is unplugged when charging is complete and unplug devices in spare rooms.
Un-condition yourself. We call it air conditioning but we are really conditioning ourselves to be less resilient in uncomfortable temperatures. Make the effort to “un-condition” yourself by increasing the temp in your home or car. You do realize air conditioning wasn’t even invented until 1902 and people did live without it, right? You may not want to go to that extreme but you can increase your use of fans and use less AC.
Make your HVAC system “smarter”. There are plenty of smart home devices to help you take charge of when your AC system is operating. Does it make sense to have your home cooled to 72 degrees for hour after hour when no one is home?
Improve your insulation. You don’t have to go the whole house route but increase an area each year. Make sure doors and windows are sealed as are electrical sockets. Work on the area above the garage this year, in the attic next year. Just keep making progress!
Price energy efficient windows. Not only can new windows save on your cooling and heating bills, but you’ll probably find they make your home quieter and more comfortable. A window and door company should be able to provide you with your approximate energy savings upon installation to help you make your decision.

It can be quite liberating to see your summer cooling bills get smaller, so get started today. If we can be of assistance, please contact us at Althoff Industries.

How You Can Avoid Air Conditioner Air Flow Problems

June 21st, 2017

A lack of air flow is one of the most common problems your heating and cooling system can have. This issue can manifest itself in several ways. Luckily, there are also several ways to address air flow problems and prevent them in the future.

Key Takeaways

A malfunctioning HVAC system can lead to problems with your air flow, heating, cooling, and indoor air quality.
Signs that your AC is having issues include hot or cold spots, air pressure imbalance, lack of air coming from your air ducts, and air that is too warm.
The most common cause of air flow issues is an improperly installed air filter. Check the arrow on your filter to make sure it is facing the correct direction. Additionally, if it is clogged with dust and debris, then it should be replaced.
Other common causes for air flow problems include obstructions to your condensing unit, dirty fans or coils, a faulty thermostat, and refrigerant leaks.
Some of these issues can be fixed by cleaning dirty parts or removing obstructions. Others should only be handled by professionals.
Althoff Industries offers 24-hour emergency HVAC repair services and regularly-scheduled maintenance! Call our emergency hotline at (815) 455-7000.

Signs That You Are Having Air Flow Issues

There are a few telltale signs that your heating and air conditioning are having air flow issues:

Random hot and cold spots throughout the rooms in your home
Air pressure imbalance (i.e. doors closing randomly, whistling noises)
Lack of air coming from your vents
Your AC is blowing warm air

If you notice any of these issues, then your HVAC system is likely having problems.

Dirty or Improperly Installed Air Filter

The most common cause of air flow issues is an air filter that has been installed incorrectly or is dirty and clogged. One end of the air filter “breathes” fresh air through, while the other end traps dust and debris and prevents it from dispersing throughout your property. If the air filter has been installed backwards, it will inhibit the air flow through your HVAC system. This will cause it to work less efficiently and could even lead to serious damage in your system. If you notice any of the aforementioned issues, then the first thing you should do is check your filter.

When replacing your air filter (or checking to make sure it is installed properly), make sure to look for the arrow! Generally, air filters are manufactured with arrows printed on the side, showing the proper direction of air flow. The confusion can come from understanding which direction the air flow is going into your system.

Air flows into your HVAC system from your supply ducts, usually larger rectangular shaped ductwork that is attached near the bottom of your HVAC unit. Air flows out of this ductwork into your HVAC system toward the blower. Therefore, the arrow on the side of the filter should point away from the ductwork toward your HVAC unit. The ductwork is where the air is coming from, so you don’t want the arrow pointing in that direction.

We’ve produced a short, simple demonstration of the correct installation position of an air filter that you can view in less than 60 seconds.

Not only should you check to make sure that the filter is facing the correct direction, but you should also make sure that it is not overly clogged with dust and debris. As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your air filter every month or so. You should also be aware that while “thicker” filters may trap more particulate matter, they too, can inhibit air flow.

Other Causes of HVAC Air Flow Issues

If your air filter is facing the correct direction and doesn’t need to be replaced, then you most likely have a different problem. There are several other potential causes of air flow issues within your HVAC system.

Obstructed condenser unit
Malfunctioning thermostat
Grimy or broken fans
Dirty coils
Low refrigerant levels

Obstructed Condenser Unit

Your AC system’s condenser unit is typically found outside your house. These units can become obstructed by fallen leaves, dust, and debris if no attention is paid to them. If this happens, your condensing unit can overheat and fail to work properly. You can easily remedy this issue by removing obstructions and cleaning the unit.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

A faulty thermostat is one of the leading causes of problems with your HVAC system. Most people just don’t realize it. The issue could be fixed by changing the batteries, or you may have to replace the thermostat altogether.

Either way, this is one of the easiest problems to solve. An HVAC repair and maintenance company can replace the thermostat if you do not feel comfortable.

Grimy or Broken Fans

Your HVAC unit uses fans to blow air through your air ducts and circulate it throughout the rest of your property. If a fan is sluggish, this can impede the flow of air. Most of the time, all you need to do is give it a good old-fashioned cleaning. However, if your fan is old and is not working, you may have to replace it altogether.

Dirty Coils

Your HVAC system’s condenser coil releases the heat that has been removed from your property. If it is not working properly, then heat will get trapped in your home. Needless to say, on a hot summer day, this is not fun!

The condenser coil is located outside, so it’s easy for it to get dirty. Make sure to give it a thorough cleaning and check it occasionally to prevent it from happening again.

Low Refrigerant Levels

This is one of the most common problems with HVAC systems. If your AC unit’s refrigeration levels are low, then it may be leaking. Low levels of refrigerant can lead to a drastic decrease in your indoor air quality. An HVAC repair and maintenance company can inspect your air conditioner for leaks, repair them, and bring its refrigeration levels back to normal.

Althoff Industries Is the Go-To Company for HVAC Repairs and Maintenance!

Althoff Industries has been servicing Chicago and the surrounding areas for many years. We offer 24-hour emergency service to those in need. Whether your air conditioner or furnace breaks down entirely, or you have noticed a decline in its performance, call our emergency hotline number at (815) 455-7000.

In addition to air conditioner and furnace repair, we can completely replace your system if it is not up to snuff. You can also schedule regular tune-ups and maintenance to ensure that your HVAC system continues to function for years to come.

Do I Need a Humidifier In My Home?

June 21st, 2017

If you feel something isn’t quite right about the air quality in your home, determining the best route back to optimal functionality can be a complicated process. While it’s true that weather and climate have a significant impact on indoor air quality, there are numerous other factors you need to consider.

Even when the solution seems obvious, it is important to do your research before installing any indoor air treatments like a humidifier in your home.

If you choose to skip this step, you can wind up creating a much larger problem than you had when you started. Sometimes, those problems can even turn out to be hazardous to your health.

When in doubt, it is always better to ask a specialist. In this article, we’ll identify some of the best indicators humidity levels are not where they should be. From dry air during the winter months, to sticky, uncomfortable indoor air in the summer–this is your guide to understanding whether you need a humidifier (or some other indoor air treatment) in your home.

Too Much Moisture or Not Enough?

To simplify things for you, below are some signs to help identify whether your moisture levels are too high or too low.

Indicators of High Humidity

Summer air in the Midwest can be especially humid. It is not uncommon for moisture in the air to reach humidity levels of 75% and above. When there is excess condensation in the air inside your home, you may notice a sticky, moist, or clammy feel. At a more advanced phase, you may even detect a musty odor.

When left unchecked, high moisture air quality can create an environment perfect for the growth of unwanted nuisances such as pests, dust mites, bacteria, and even viruses.

Signs of Low-Moisture or Dry Air

During the colder months of the year, the opposite begins to happen. Instead of becoming sticky and moist, the air starts to feel dry. As temperatures drop, the cold air loses its ability to hold onto as much moisture.

This lack of humidity in the air comes with a host of potential health problems, commonly related to the respiratory system. If you live in an environment that enjoys all four seasons or has a traditionally dry climate, you’re likely no stranger to these symptoms.

Some of them include:

Chronic runny nose
Asthma or allergy flare-ups
Dry skin and nasal passages
Increased static in hair and electric shocks when touching people or objects
Bloody noses
Sinus congestion

Among these, an unexplained early morning cough, dry throat, or dry mouth are all indications you may be exposing yourself to dry air. All of these variables have the potential to impact your health significantly and can exacerbate or worsen existing respiratory conditions like allergies and asthma.

Solutions for Improving Air Quality

When you’ve identified your indoor moisture levels, you can start exploring potential solutions.

When Humidity Is Too Low

If you’re experiencing symptoms that are consistent with dry air, you will want to incorporate a solution that adds moisture in the air. Chiefly, a whole-home humidifier.

What Is a Humidifier?

Humidifiers are moisture increasing devices known to help relieve dry climate and wintertime symptoms by, at the most basic level, adding water vapor to the air.

Humidifiers can protect your body from the effects of dry air, but they can also be beneficial for proper maintenance of indoor finishes and structures.

Hardwood floors, wooden furniture, and hardwood moldings are just a few of the fixtures that can commonly become damaged due to excessively dry air.

To get the best results–and quality for your investment–you should choose a humidifier that is best suited to your personalized conditions and environment.

Types of Humidifiers

Central humidifiers or whole-home humidifiers are designed to improve moisture throughout your entire home. If you want to reduce or even eliminate the problems associated with dry indoor air, this is the most effective option. Because of its efficiency, it is more expensive than alternatives but more effective.

Steam humidifiers or vaporizers convert water into steam to add more moisture to indoor air. These humidifiers are beneficial, even in homes where much humidity is needed to keep levels balanced.

Bypass humidifiers connect directly to your HVAC system. These units use the blower motor of your furnace to force air through a water panel, which adds moisture. The motor then circulates the treated air back into the rest of your home.

Fan-powered humidifiers connect with your HVAC system, as well. Through the use of a built-in motor, fan-powered humidifiers work by pulling air into the unit and through a water panel, where water is added and redistributed with increased humidity. These can work as standalone units without an HVAC system as well, which lowers energy consumption.

Not super interested in the different makes and models of humidifiers?

Don’t let the task of choosing the right humidifier keep you with dry sinuses and itchy skin for the duration of the winter season. Instead, look for a team of air quality experts to help you find the best product to suit your household, budget, comfort, and personalized needs.

With qualified technicians like the team at Althoff by your side, you can enjoy the comfort of knowing they can install the equipment correctly.

Why Althoff Industries

Our goal is to bring our customers superior indoor air quality.

We understand that your system must work efficiently to maintain the comfort of your home. It must help clean, heat, and cool your indoor air while reducing indoor humidity through the steamy summer months and adding moisture to the air during the cold Chicago winters.

We specialize in creating solutions to maximize your savings without compromising comfort.

Since 1961, we’ve been serving Chicago area businesses, industries, apartment and condominium and single-family homeowners with a range of services including the installation of humidifiers.

Schedule an appointment today and discover the difference we can make in your indoor air quality and comfort. We look forward to assisting you!