Need Help Choosing a New HVAC System? We’ve got the Guide for You!

Understanding the Refrigeration Cycle

The refrigeration cycle refers to the process by which an HVAC system cools the air. It is a continuous cycle that involves the circulation and transformation of a refrigerant—a chemical substance that absorbs and releases heat. The refrigeration cycle consists of four main components: the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, evaporator, and refrigerant. 

1. Compressor

The compressor is the powerhouse of the refrigeration cycle. It pressurizes the refrigerant, increasing its temperature and pressure, and preparing it for the next stage. 

2. Condenser

Next, the pressurized refrigerant reaches the condenser. This component dissipates heat from the refrigerant by transferring it to the surrounding air. As the refrigerant loses heat, it condenses and transforms from a gas to a liquid. 

3. Expansion Valve

The refrigerant then passes through the expansion valve, which reduces the pressure. This sudden pressure drop causes the refrigerant to cool. 

4. Evaporator

The cooled refrigerant enters the evaporator. As the refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air, effectively cooling it down.

5. Refrigerant

Cooled air is then blown into our living spaces through vents or ducts. The refrigerant, now back in its gaseous state, returns to the compressor to begin the cycle anew. 

Enhancing Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in how well your HVAC system cools the summer heat. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and reduce energy consumption. Here are a few tips to improve the system’s efficiency: 

• Change the air filters regularly to ensure proper air circulation and prevent dust buildup. 
• Keep the outdoor unit clean and free from debris to enhance heat transfer. 
• Seal any air leaks in your home to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from entering. 
• Use a programmable thermostat to regulate temperature settings and save energy when you’re not at home. 

ALL Temp, Your Trusted HVAC Partner

ALL Temp Heating & Cooling is your trusted HVAC partner, dedicated to keeping you comfortable all year round. With our expertise, we ensure optimal performance of your heating, cooling, and indoor air quality systems. Our technicians are well-versed in the intricacies of the refrigeration cycle, so we can diagnose issues, provide maintenance, and deliver expert repairs to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. Whether you need efficient cooling during scorching summers or effective heating during chilly winters, ALL Temp Heating & Cooling has the skills and experience to meet your needs. Experience the savings and comfort by contacting us today and let us handle your HVAC needs with confidence. 

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Discover the Key to Better Air Quality Through Mechanical Ventilation!

Know Your Gas and Electric Furnaces 

Gas furnaces run on combustion. Using a gas line, valve, and igniter, the gas is ignited within the system and captured by a heat exchanger, which safely extracts and distributes heat throughout the home. Any exhaust or carbon monoxide created through the combustion is separated and released out of the furnace’s PVC pipe, thus keeping your home’s air clean of toxins. 

Unlike a gas furnace, an electric furnace uses an air handler with heating coils to conduct auxiliary heat, which, combined with an electric heat pump, works to generate warmth throughout the home. 

Gas vs Electric Furnace: Pros and Cons

Factors such as location, weather, energy efficiency, and pricing can impact which furnace will work best for your HVAC purposes. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of gas vs electric furnaces that homeowners can expect: 

Gas Furnace

Pros

• Powerful Heating: Gas furnaces have a greater heating capacity than electric furnaces due to the high amount of heat they generate. In fact, gas furnaces are known to be energy efficient, and use less energy to quickly heat a home when cold weather strikes. Gas furnaces are a perfect choice for large homes or homes in northern states that endure heavy winters while keeping costs down. 
• Energy Costs: Because gas furnaces rely on natural gas, they often generate more heat for less expense compared to electric furnaces since natural gas is a cheaper fuel source.  

Cons

• Safety Risks: Due to its reliance on natural gas, homeowners with gas furnaces must be cautious of potential gas leaks within the home. There is also the possibility of carbon monoxide leaks.  
• Installation Costs: On average, the average cost of a gas furnace is $2,100, with installation and labor costs adding $3,800 to $10,000. Combined with maintenance repairs that range anywhere from $300 to $1,200, gas furnaces can set back homeowners a significant amount of money

All Gas vs Electric Furnace: Pros and Cons

Between a gas vs electric furnace, gas furnaces work best in states that experience intense, cold weather.

Electric Furnace

Pros

• Safe Energy: Since electric furnaces only rely on electricity to heat the home, homeowners don’t have to worry about the risk of toxic substances leaking into the air. 
• Cost-Efficient Machinery: Typically, electric furnaces cost about $835, and include additional installation fees ranging between $2,000 and $7,000. As a result, electric furnace owners can save a great deal of money when buying their HVAC system. 

Cons

• Energy Bills: Though the machinery is less expensive, electric furnaces cause homeowners’ energy bills to spike during use. In wintertime, electric furnaces must work harder and longer to heat the whole home, causing more energy to be used. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, homeowners using electric furnaces in winter between 2022 and 2023 would spend around $1,359 on average, while gas furnace owners would spend about $930. 
• Winter Strain: Electric furnaces take time to heat up the home. This limitation makes it difficult for electric furnaces to heat homes in heavy winter states in the north or Midwest, like Indiana or Wisconsin. 

Find Your Heating System with ALL Temp

Choosing between a gas vs electric furnace all depends on which will work best in your home. At ALL Temp, our goal is to provide you the best service and guidance to select the right HVAC system you need. To learn more about our services and heating options, contact our experts today! 

The post Gas vs Electric Furnace: What’s the Difference? first appeared on All Temp Heating and Cooling.

Need Help Choosing a New HVAC System? We’ve got the Guide for You!

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) Explained

Before purchasing your next HVAC unit, it’s important to first look at its energy efficiency ratio. In the HVAC industry, an energy efficiency ratio (EER) is the standard measurement that calculates how well an air conditioner performs and how much energy it uses when active. The EER gives insight into which system performs the best with less energy, saving buyers money in energy and maintenance bills.  

You can calculate energy efficiency ratio with the following formula: 

EER = Output Capacity (BTU) / Power Input (Watts) 

Since it determines the energy needed to raise one pound of water by one Fahrenheit degree, this calculation has the closest accuracy for technicians and homeowners to evaluate HVAC systems. 

The higher EER rating a system has, the more efficient it is since higher rated conditioning units offer more cooler capabilities without extra expenses. However, it’s important to note that these measurements are most accurate if the system has the following temperature conditions during calculation: 

• External temperature: 95°F 
• Internal temperature: 80°F 
• Humidity level: 50%  

Checking your unit’s energy-efficiency ratio can help determine how well your HVAC system operates.

The Value of Energy Efficiency Ratio with HVAC Systems

Knowing how to calculate the HVAC unit’s energy efficiency ratio can give you a clear direction of which system will best suit you. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, creating a comfortable space for you and those in your space with lower energy costs can help save you expenses in the future.  

Selecting an air conditioning or heating unit with a higher EER can cut down wasted energy throughout your building, reducing electricity costs and environmental impact at the same time! Moreover, systems with higher energy efficiency tend to be more advanced, powerful, and durable machines. As a result, you receive the quality air conditioning and heating comfort you need with all-around better savings. 

Guarantee Better Energy Efficiency with ALL Temp

By calculating the energy efficiency ratio of HVAC units, you’ll be better equipped to search for systems that provide better energy-savings, durability, and overall comfort for your work or living space. At ALL Temp Heating & Cooling, our mission is to provide the HVAC system you need and offer professional guidance on how each system works. Interested in finding a great unit? Contact our team today! 

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