Monday, October 7, 2013

Performance™ Series Packaged HYBRID HEAT® Dual Fuel System Efficient Gas Warmth Paired With Money-Saving Heat Pump

Models: 48VT, 48XZ

A solid packaged home comfort system that lets you warm or cool your home with a fuel-efficient electric heat pump, then turns on the high-AFUE gas furnace when the mercury dips.

  • 14 SEER / 12 EER (48VT) pictured right
  • 13 SEER / 11 EER (48XZ)
  • 8.0 HSPF
  • Up to 81% AFUE
  • Puron® refrigerant
  • 40,000-130,000 heating capacity
  • 2-5 tons cooling capacity
  • As low as 72 dB (quiet as a vacuum)
  • Ideal Humidity System® and Comfort Heat Technology® Pump System features improved comfort and air quality
  • Scroll compressor
  • High pressure and loss of charge switches
  • Corrosion resistant inducer assembly with stainless steel shaft
  • Louvered grille (48XZ)
  • Wired grille (48VT)
  • Uses Thermidistat™ control
  • 10-year parts limited warranty when properly registered; 15-year parts limited warranty on aluminized heat exchangers; Lifetime parts limited warranty on stainless steel heat exchanger when properly registered; 5-year parts limited warranty on copper coil; 10-year parts limited warranty on optional tin plated coil

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Replacement and Retrofit Department

Howell's has grown into one of the best residential service and retrofit replacement companies in Richmond. Howell's has designed a department that deals exclusively with residential and light commercial HVAC replacement work. The department consists of three sales engineers, a contract administrator, one field supervisor, and five complete installation crews who specialize in replacing existing systems, and installing new systems in existing homes and buildings. Within this framework, the installation crews are well trained and supervised to be able to adjust to the unique challenges that each project presents.

The specialization of the replacement & retrofit department has allowed us to greatly improve our service to those customers who need new systems in occupied structures. We are able to complete our work in a timely fashion with minimal interruption to your home or business lifestyle. We understand that the customer has just made a large investment and is usually apprehensive about the decision.

Assurances are given, explanation of the system is thorough, and confidence is secured through our promise of future service and commitment to excellence. But is that really enough? Well, we say, "No!" Your heating and cooling system is probably the most expensive equipment in your home. And we take that very seriously. So, when you call Howell's, you can expect:

  • A friendly, low pressure consultation.
  • Options that fit your style and budget.
  • Tips to maximize your energy efficiency.
  • Service to your schedule, not ours. 24/7/365
  • And so much more!

Thank you for choosing Howell's. We look forward to helping you be your partner in total comfort. Ask the experts at Howell's a question. or Schedule a FREE Replacement Quote. Let us be "Your Partner in Total Comfort."

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

How Often Should I Change My Air Filters?

Inspect each month and change or clean filters as needed. Time intervals frequently vary with each family. The most important aspect of efficient operation of your heating and cooling system is proper air flow. Dirty air filters will severely limit air flow, which can cause the compressor to run continuously or overheat your heat exchanger. Dirty filters could cause a 20 percent or more increase in operating costs. The outdoor units should be free of debris to ensure uninterrupted movement of air. Check out these Filter Tips and our Guide for Indoor Air Quality.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

What Type of Heat Pump is Best?

One that is installed by Howell's of course! No, seriously, the efficiency of the heat pump when used as an air conditioner is known as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). In January of 2006 the Department of Energy enforced the increase to a 13 SEER minimum standard for all heat pump and air conditioner production. A fair method of comparing the heat pump to other heating systems is to use the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The HSPF compares relative equipment efficiencies. A HSPF of 6.8 or higher is recommended.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Infinity® Series Packaged HYBRID HEAT® Dual Fuel System Carrier's Very Best Technology For Home Heating and Cooling, Models: 48XT

What happens when you unite all of Infinity's advanced technology from Carrier? Super-efficient home comfort that relies on a low-power electric heat pump until the weather calls for gas furnace heat. The quietest and most energy-efficient packaged system we offer.

  • 15 SEER
  • 12 EER
  • 8.0 HSPF
  • Up to 81% AFUE
  • ENERGY STAR® approved
  • Puron® refrigerant
  • Hybrid capability reduces operating costs
  • 40,000-130,000 heating capacity
  • 2-5 tons cooling capacity
  • 72 dB (quiet as a vacuum)
  • Ideal Humidity System® and Comfort Heat Technology® heat pump system features for improved air quality & comfort
  • 2-Stage Scroll Compressor
  • Stainless steel heat exchanger
  • Uses Infinity® Control for precise comfort settings
  • Infinity diagnostics
  • Envirotuff™ rust-proof base with integrated drain
  • High pressure and loss of charge switches
  • Corrosion resistant inducer assembly with stainless steel shaft
  • Louvered grille
  • 10-year parts limited warranty when properly registered; Lifetime parts limited warranty on stainless steel heat exchanger when properly registered; 5-year parts limited warranty on copper coil; 10-year parts limited warranty on optional tin plated coil

ENERGY STAR

As an ENERGY STAR partner, Carrier Corporation has determined that model 48XT Infinity® 15 packaged heat pumps that achieve system combinations of 14.5 SEER, 8.2 HSPF and 12.0 EER or higher meet the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. Proper sizing and installation of equipment is critical to achieve optimal performance. Ask your contractor for details or visit the ENERGY STAR web site.

To the original owner, the Carrier Infinity® Series Packaged HYBRID HEAT® Dual Fuel System is covered by a 10-year parts limited warranty upon timely registration of your new equipment. Stainless steel heat exchangers carry a lifetime parts limited warranty upon timely registration. Copper indoor evaporator coil is covered by a 5-year parts limited warranty. Optional tin plated evaporator coil is covered by a 10-year parts limited warranty. Ask your Carrier dealer about optional extended warranties, which may include labor. Warranty period is 5-year parts limited warranty and 20-year parts limited warranty on stainless steel heat exchanger if not registered within 90 days. Jurisdictions where warranty benefits cannot be conditioned on registration will automatically receive a 10-year parts limited warranty and a lifetime parts limited warranty on the stainless steel heat exchanger. See warranty certificate at carrier.com for complete details.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Pesticides



Sources: Products used to kill household pests (insecticides, termiticides, and disinfectants). Also, products used on lawns and gardens that drift or are tracked inside the house.
Health Effects: Irritation to eye, nose, and throat; damage to central nervous system and kidney; increased risk of cancer.
Levels in Homes: Preliminary research shows widespread presence of pesticide residues in homes.
Steps to Reduce Exposure:
  • Use strictly according to manufacturer's directions.

  • Mix or dilute outdoors.

  • Apply only in recommended quantities.

  • Increase ventilation when using indoors. Take plants or pets outdoors when applying pesticides to them.

  • Use nonchemical methods of pest control where possible.

  • If you use a pest control company, select it carefully.

  • Do not store unneeded pesticides inside home; dispose of unwanted containers safely.

  • Store clothes with moth repellents in separately ventilated areas, if possible.

  • Keep indoor spaces clean, dry, and well ventilated to avoid pest and odor problems.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Indoor Air Pollutants: Radon (Rn)

Sources: Earth and rock beneath home; well water; building materials.
Health Effects: No immediate symptoms. Estimated to contribute to between 7,000 and 30,000 lung cancer deaths each year. Smokers are at higher risk of developing radon-induced lung cancer.
Levels in Homes: Based on a national residential radon survey completed in 1991, the average indoor radon level is 1.3 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The average outdoor level is about 0.4 pCi/L. Steps to Reduce Exposure: 
  • Test your home for radon, it's easy and inexpensive. 
  • Fix your home if your radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. 
  • Radon levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk, and in many cases may be reduced. 
  • If you want more information on radon, contact your state radon office, or call 800-SOS-RADON.