Category: HVAC

The Benefits of Getting a Commercial HVAC Retrofit

The Benefits Of Getting a Commercial HVAC Retrofit

There is not a company in the world that is not looking to save energy and money. Those with older heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems may want to replace their entire system, but might find the cost prohibitive. Luckily there is a way to save energy and costs by retrofitting your current system with add-on components. Here are some of the benefits to this practice.

Energy Saving and More

Energy savings are certainly a big benefit, but there is more that you can get out of retrofitting your system. For one, you can squeeze more life out of the old unit, which means saving your capital dollars for other things. You can also continue using the refrigerant that is already in your current unit, so there is no need to purchase any more. These retrofit add-ons will also help your HVAC system run more efficiently, which means it will heat your building faster and with less cost.

Retrofitting Options

Here are some of the different options you have for retrofitting your HVAC system. You can install more efficient screw compressors. This will lessen the amount of energy used in chilling the building. You can also use air-side economizers. These components will use outside air to help with cooling your building, as opposed to refrigerant. Supply fan speed controls assist with monitoring how hard the system works by allowing you to adjust the fan speeds to suit the time of year and the climate.

Kits For Retrofitting

Many retrofit components are available in kits. These kits make it simple for a home or building owner to retrofit their system without having to put in a lot of shopping and thought. Some kits are made specifically for certain types of systems, and others will work with any system.

How To Know If Your System Will Benefit From Retrofitting

It is not necessarily about the age of your system to decide whether it needs retrofitting. If your system is running long hours in a day, then you will save more money through retrofitting. Or, you may simply notice that your energy bills keep increasing. No matter what your situation, you can always call in a professional to inspect your system and discuss your retrofitting options.

If you want your HVAC system to run more efficiently, the experts at Corporate Mechanical can help. Reach out online or call 763-533-3070.

Higher Energy Bills Expected With Longer Winter ’16-’17 Season

Americans living from the east coast to the central plains should prepare for a long winter this year. Information released by ACCUWeather and the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicate we will have the coldest winter in years. By contrast, the southern portion of the country can expect a warmer and drier winter for 2016-2017. In addition, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expects temperatures to be much colder than last winter. With the temperatures expected to be the lowest since 2010, HVAC contractors are making sure people’s heating systems are ready. Whether you use gas, electricity, or oil, higher energy bills expected with longer winter weather are still hard on your checkbook. But just exactly how much can you expect to pay?

Higher Energy Bills Expected with Longer Winter

Temperature Differences

The NOAA expects temperatures that are 17% lower than last year in the midwest and northeast regions. In addition, the South can expect temperatures to be up to 18% colder. The West, however, will likely see temperatures 2% warmer on average than last winter. Says ACCUWeather meteorologist Evan Duffey, “This warmth will come to an end in January, which could be a big month for HVAC contractors as the jet stream changes and cold air spills into the eastern two-thirds of the nation. This even includes Florida, where we are concerned for a freeze this year, which is a very rare event for the Florida Peninsula.”

Higher Energy Costs

With the longer, colder winter expected this year, households and business spaces heated by natural gas are expected to reach $10.37 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf). That’s 11% higher than last winter, and the highest gas prices since the 2010-2011 winter season. In addition, homeowners using heating oil to heat their homes can expect to spend an average of 38% more this winter than last year. Electric heating will also increase by an average of 5% this winter.

Be Prepared

Don’t let the winter chill sneak up on you this year. Prepare your home and business for the colder weather now. Corporate Mechanical can help winterize your HVAC system. Call us today and ask about an inspection and winter HVAC services. With higher energy bills expected with longer winter weather this year, you’ll be doing yourself a big favor. Call today!

8 Tips to Save Energy at the Office

It seem energy bills keep getting higher and higher in both the residential world and the commercial world. By switching to more energy-efficient practices, not only will your wallet benefit but also the environment. Take a look at some of these 8 tips to save energy at the office. Some of them are quick fix, change of habit take the tips, as others are going to take some research finding new energy efficient technologies.

8 Tips to Save Energy at the Office


Use Energy Efficient Appliances. Look for appliances that have the Energy Star label on them. This is a movement from the federal government that specially marks high-rated energy efficient appliances.

Do Not Use ‘Standby’ Technology. When leaving the office for the day, be sure that everything is turned completely off and not left on standby mode. Standby keeps the energy flowing into the equipment even when it’s not being used.

Install Window Coverings. The use of blinds or shutters on the windows will help minimize the heat of the sun directly beaming in during the summer. Allowing your AC unit to not have to work harder to keep the air cool. On the flip side, open the shades in the winter to allow the heat and the sunlight in.

Install Motion Sensor Lights. Using a motion sensor type of lighting system in the office can help eliminate energy use from people leaving lights on. This is most practical in break rooms, bathroom and anywhere that would be easy for a turned on light to go unnoticed.

Install Water-Saving Fixtures. Saving water is also another way to conserve energy. Installing water saving faucets can help improve the amount of water used. Also, the use of low-flush or even dual-flush toilets can help keep the water use to a minimum.

Set the Thermostat. Setting the hours and temperatures on your thermostat will help monitor the temperature in your office. While you are present, have the temperature set for what you desire but when you are absent, turn the thermostat down. This will help keep your electric bills down from your heater or AC unit.

Hire a Green Energy Company. There are many utility companies that generate electricity from wind and other green alternative sources. By switching to one of these companies your electric bill may decrease and you will also be helping the environment.

Use Laptops. Your average laptop versus a desktop computer will use less energy and can be more efficient. The idea is to buy the quality computer laptop over and less expensive one.

Taking note of your energy use in the office will help you to better assess the areas in which you can improve. By slowly changing some equipment and habits, you can start to lower the costs of your office energy bills month by month.

What to Expect During an HVAC Inspection

Getting a heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system inspection can help improve your system’s efficiency by finding any trouble spots. Once those problems have been found, then you can go about repairing them. For commercial buildings, it is best to have an inspection on a biannual basis to keep your system running smoothly and upgraded at all times. Here is what goes on during an HVAC inspection.

Checks on Safety

There are many moving parts to an HVAC system, and also a lot of heat. Gas-powered units are susceptible to fire and explosion if they are not maintained and checked properly. The technician can make sure that everything is clean and free of safety hazards. They will also inspect the already existing safety measures to make sure they are functioning properly.

Checks on Efficiency

Cleanliness will also help with the efficiency of the system, so the technician will make sure that the vents and ducts are clear of debris. Dirt and dust will also harm the air quality of a building, so they will make sure that there is not too much buildup. In some cases the inspector can handle the cleaning right away, but if the job is too big you may have to schedule a longer appointment.

Output Of Your System

The technician will also check to make sure that the system is heating or cooling the building appropriately. There is a lot that goes into making a system as efficient as possible. The components must be in good condition, well-lubricated, and installed correctly. Also, the size of the unit must be appropriate for the size of the building. If the system is not as efficient as possible, then you will notice it by the discomfort you will feel every day. You will either be too hot or cold, or you will have to turn the thermostat higher to reach the same temperature that it was at before.

No matter how new your system is, you must have it inspected regularly to make sure that it is running at its peak effectiveness. These inspections will help you keep on top of any issues that may arise to compromise the efficiency and safety of your HVAC system.

If you want your HVAC system to run more efficiently, the experts at Corporate Mechanical can help. Reach out online or call 763-533-3070.

HVAC Refrigerant Cylinders Expected in Uniform Color By 2020

Everyone from the professional contractor to the average homeowner experiences frustration with color-coded equipment. HVAC professionals deal with an entire color wheel of refrigerant cylinder colors. There are so many, in fact, that the issue has prompted the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute to take action. New revisions in AHRI Guideline N, “Assignment of Refrigerant Container Colors” state that all refrigerant containers should be a universal gray-green color by 2020. The guideline is a means of equipment identification. However, increasing numbers of approved colors and equipment has lead to concern about confusion among colors that look too similar. Find out how HVAC refrigerant cylinders expected in uniform color by 2020 will affect the market and the industry.

HVAC Refrigerant Cylinders Expected in Uniform Color by 2020

Concerns Behind the Change

Colors are added to equipment in many industries as a safety precaution. For example, refrigerants have different operating pressures and some contain flammable properties that pose serious safety hazards. In addition, using refrigerants in the wrong application can lead to equipment damage, which means expensive repairs. With so many new refrigerants on the market, the new guideline will ensure safe and proper use for contractors.

Support for the Change

AHRI conducted a survey of contractors, suppliers, technicians, and more to determine if the many colors used for refrigerant identification was confusing. More than half of the participants said that they were. As a result, the new change stipulates that all containers will be a universal color, but their individual packages may maintain the original unique assigned color. The goal is to have contractors and other handlers rely more on the labels to identify individual refrigerants.

Concerns for the Change

Ultimately, the cartons or packaging for refrigerant cylinders is not changing. Only the cylinders themselves are getting a new look. Therefore, assigned colors being used today will still appear on cylinder cartons in 2020. In the end, the change to the cylinders will not necessarily make anything easier for contractors. Rather it means that contractors will have to pay more attention to the labels instead of relying on the colors for identification.

How To Maintain Your HVAC System

You may think that your heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system does not need regular maintenance, but you would be wrong, even if it is a brand new system. The fact is, not only can your system fail if it is not properly maintained, but the health of the occupants of the building can suffer as well. Besides, HVAC systems are an expensive investment, and there is no reason why you should not protect that investment with regular maintenance. Here are some steps to take when maintaining your system.

Filters

Changing the filters regularly may be the single best way to prevent illness and poor air quality. It helps prevent water from pooling and collecting mold and bacteria. Filters are rated using a system called MERV. The higher the rating, the more effective the filter. A clear filter allows the system to more easily cycle air through. If it is clogged, then it will spend more energy pushing air through the system, plus that air will be contaminated by the nasties stuck in the filter.

Do Not Allow Pooling Water

The air conditioner intake is a prime spot for water to collect, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Cleaning back the tree line and keeping the roof clear will help keep debris and dirt from getting into the unit. The drain lines that carry condensation away from the unit should also be kept clear and free flowing.

Evaporator and Condenser Coil Cleaning

Evaporator coils collect moisture, which promotes the growth of mold. Air coming into the building passes over those coils as well, meaning contaminated air gets spread throughout the building. Coils should be cleaned using and antimicrobial cleaner. Ultraviolet lights may also be effective in preventing mold. However, most HVAC systems do not come with ultraviolet lights, so they would have to be installed afterwards, potentially using a separate power source.

The best thing for your HVAC system is to keep it running at its best at all times. That means even if it is a brand new system, maintaining it regularly and keeping it clean. This will make sure that the air in the building is not causing illness, and also ensure that the system is running as efficiently as possible.

If you need HVAC repair or want your system to run more efficiently, the experts at Corporate Mechanical can help. Reach out online or call 763-533-3070.

‘Green Ductwork’ Gaining Popularity As Industry Standards Improve

We live in an eco-friendly world. Politics, science, business, public safety. Evidently nothing has been left behind when it comes to going green. Hence a new trend that’s making waves in the HVAC industry. ‘Green ductwork’ is a new term that more and more HVAC professionals are becoming familiar with. While there is no finite definition to the new term, most everyone associates it with recycled materials related to ductwork and other HVAC materials. New standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program are continuing to drive improvements in green materials and improved awareness of public health and environmental concerns.

Green Ductwork

Eco-Friendly Materials

According to LEED’s page on the U.S. Green Building Council’s website, “LEED-certified buildings are resource efficient. They use less water and energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” As a result, new HVAC equipment is being developed from recycled materials that have a lesser impact on the environment. Polyester, for example, is being used to make fabric ductwork. Fabric ductwork is lighter than traditional metal. It requires less roof or tether support and uses linear dispersion to eliminate hot and cold spots. These advances make more efficient HVAC systems that are also simpler to install and create less solid waste.

Cleaner Air

A major component of green ductwork is its ability to remove contaminants from the air. One of the biggest pushes for more eco-friendly building materials is public health. Consumers are more aware of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in various products. Most HVAC systems are lined with insulation for noise reduction. Consequently insulation in building ductwork puts contaminants and other particles into the airways and makes people sick.

Increased Efficiency

Increasing HVAC efficiency is another major part of ‘green ductwork’. Leakage in ductwork forces the system to use more energy. Consequently you end up with higher energy expenses and decreased efficiency. HVAC contractors are currently looking for the most cost-effective way to improve ductwork efficiency. Some apply gasket fittings while others go back in and seal the system with a commercial-grade sealant. Sealants effectively limit energy use and minimize emissions. Consequently you spend less and do more for the environment.

Industry standards are cracking down on faulty HVAC equipment. Consumers continue to look for more eco-friendly products to use in their commercial space. Don’t be left behind. Contact the professionals at Corporate Mechanical today. We are up-to-speed on all the current industry trends. Our representatives are ready to answer your questions and offer you real solutions. Call us today to schedule a consultation and go green with ‘green ductwork’.

This article is based on a news article appearing on archrnews.com. You can read the full article here.

452 https://wpapi.trustmat.com/green-ductwork-gaining-popularity-standards-improve/

Researchers Look to UVGI To Improve HVAC Performance

HVAC Innovation

Researchers are looking into a new way to improve the air quality and energy efficiency of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. A team from Penn State University have been testing whether ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) would work to help maintain cooling coils and keep them clean.

The team went about testing the air flow, humidity, and pressure drop before and after cleaning the cooling coils with UVGI. They will then use that data to measure what the benefits would be of using it.

HVAC Operations

When an HVAC system is running, microorganisms collect on the coils that transfer heat throughout the system. These fungi and bacteria, along with other materials, can build up to a point that affect the performance of the system as a whole. More energy is used to make up for the gap in performance. Not only that, but the microorganisms are also spread into the building. The condensation that forms on heat transfer coils are what make them particularly susceptible to contamination.

What to Do

There are a few current options for cleaning the coils. They include mechanical and chemical methods. UVGI is also currently used, but because there is very little research about its effectiveness, it is not common. UVGI is a common disinfectant for other applications, but there are concerns not just about the effectiveness for HVAC systems, but also whether it negatively affects air quality. This new research is meant to make determinations on these questions.

The project is currently operating at two test sites. Not only will they be collecting immediate data, but they will also collect data over time to see if the results hold up in the long term. That way, they can see if UVGI continues to be safe and effective after several uses.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have been working to “maximize the actual operational energy performance of buildings and facilities,” and this research coincides with that effort. The hope is that UVGI will prove to be a safe and effective cleaner for HVAC systems, and can be used more widely.

There is a movement across all industries and sectors to be more energy efficient and safer in all things. HVAC systems will continue to improve in both factors through research like this.

If you have any needs for commercial HVAC services, Corporate Mechanical can help. Reach out online or call us at 763-533-3070

Why Your HVAC System Needs An Allergy Filter This Spring

The spring season brings with it, not only a beautiful array of colorful flowers and blossoming trees, but also a barrage of allergies that can send your nose and sinuses running for the hills. Many people with outdoor or seasonal allergies resort to staying inside during the spring months, simply to avoid having to deal with a stuffy nose and watery eyes. That’s why it’s so important to keep your home free of seasonal allergy triggers that come with the warm spring weather.

If your home is not properly protected with an air filtration system, you and your family are still susceptible to potentially harmful airborne pollutants that can trigger allergic reactions. Air filters work to keep your home free of pesky allergens and keep fresh air circulating throughout the building so you can breath easy rest assured. Here are four other reasons why you should protect your home, business, and customers from annoying allergies with an HVAC air filter.

Why Your HVAC System Needs An Allergy Filter

Effective Against Pollen

When flowers begin to bloom in the warmth of the spring sun, they release pollen into the air, which is picked up and carried off by the wind. This is right about the time that you get a deep breath-full of the same pollen and other allergens that can trigger a potentially serious problem. Pollen cells/particles are also produced by species of trees like Oak, Maple, Ash, and Elm, and can enter your home through an open window, a door, and even through your HVAC system. If you have noticed the appearance of allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, or congestion, you might have pollen circulating through the air in your home. Installing a HEPA air filter can catch up to 99.7% of allergens, including pollen, and keep the air in your home clean and fresh.

Effective Against Mold

Another is another big problem for people with seasonal allergies, and without an air filter for your HVAC unit, it too has the potential to be swept up and blown right into your home, wreaking havoc on your allergies and your life. What’s worse is that some breeds of mold, like Aspergillus and Penicillum can thrive in controlled, indoor environments, and produce and release airborne spores well into the fall. UV light air filters are made specifically for the purposes neutralizing mold with a photochemical process that breaks down carbon-based compounds before they can enter your lungs.

Easily Applied to your HVAC System

As you’ve likely already picked up, there are several kinds of air filters that are available for your HVAC unit that will protect your home from harmful air pollutants. These include HEPA, carbon, ionic, and UV light air filters, all designed to intercept airborne allergens in their own unique way. They are universal, however, in that they are all easily installed in your HVAC unit. Most HVAC systems are designed to house a variety of air filters, so no matter what kind of system you have, or what kind of budget you’re working with, you can find an air filter that works well for you.

It’s Good for Business

Having a storefront that is filled with allergens circulating about the air won’t do you any good in terms of bringing back customers. Air filters keep your place of business allergen-free, so your customers can enjoy their shopping experience, and keep your business busy all day long. Even if you don’t suffer from allergies, yourself, it is definitely something you should take into consideration for your customers.