Happy Wednesday RVA, here's a puppy who loves air conditioning

Because we're feeling particularly tender today, here's a puppy experiencing air conditioning for the first time ever,

We feel you, puppy.

Time Delay Relay

By stopping your unit from going on and off (short-cycling) so much, a time delay relay keeps it from wearing out prematurely. A time delay relay is also the perfect accessory for families that have children who like to play with the thermostat. No matter how often you change the setting on the heat/cool switch or the fan on/auto switch, you can't burn out your compressor. This is because the time delay relay won't turn your system on for 3-5 minutes after the last thermostat adjustment has been made.

Why Should I Invest In A 13 SEER Or Higher Unit?

     There are 13 reasons why you should purchase a heat pump/air conditioner carrying a 13 SEER rating or higher:

1. 13 SEER or higher units are 20% to 50% more efficient than 10 SEER units, saving you energy dollars through every season of the year.
2. They are much quieter than 10 SEER units, which makes your home a more pleasant place to live.
3. They have a 5 to 10 year compressor warranty and up to five years full parts, labor, materials and freon warranty, which ensures that the costs to run this unit are low. (Ask your contractor for details)
4. They are built better and have a much nicer fit and finish.
5. 13 SEER or higher units are fitted with much better controls and protective devices to protect the unit if a problem occurs (bad power, refrigerant loss, etc.)
6. 13 SEER or higher units have a new high tech scroll compressor which is extremely reliable and provides warmer feeling heat.
7. They have a 5 minute time-delay to keep heat from turning on and off during storms, or if someone is tampering with the thermostat.
8. They have commercial grade service valves to keep service costs down and equipment life high.
9. They have compressor sound and fan insulation systems that are attractive and significantly reduce the sound of the outdoor unit.
10. They have a much better blower than the standard system which enhances performance and comfort.
11. They have an expansion valve that adjusts the refrigerant flow which allows the unit to provide a higher level of comfort and better humidity control.
12. 13 SEER or higher units have an accumulator which catches extra refrigerant and helps protect the compressor.
13. And lastly, the Department of Energy says so!!  Oh yeah!  In January 2006, the DOE is raised the minimum cooling efficiency on residential air conditioners and heat pumps to 13 SEER from its older minimum of 10 SEER.   Questions? 

Why Should I Invest in a 13 SEER or Higher Unit?

There are 13 reasons why you should purchase a heat pump/air conditioner carrying a 13 SEER rating or higher:

1. 13 SEER or higher units are 20% to 50% more efficient than 10 SEER units, saving you energy dollars through every season of the year. 
2. They are much quieter than 10 SEER units, which makes your home a more pleasant place to live. 
3. They have a 5 to 10 year compressor warranty and up to five years full parts, labor, materials and freon warranty, which ensures that the costs to run this unit are low. (Ask your contractor for details)
4. They are built better and have a much nicer fit and finish. 
5. 13 SEER or higher units are fitted with much better controls and protective devices to protect the unit if a problem occurs (bad power, refrigerant loss, etc.) 
6. 13 SEER or higher units have a new high tech scroll compressor which is extremely reliable and provides warmer feeling heat. 
7. They have a 5 minute time-delay to keep heat from turning on and off during storms, or if someone is tampering with the thermostat. 
8. They have commercial grade service valves to keep service costs down and equipment life high.
9. They have compressor sound and fan insulation systems that are attractive and significantly reduce the sound of the outdoor unit. 
10. They have a much better blower than the standard system which enhances performance and comfort. 
11. They have an expansion valve that adjusts the refrigerant flow which allows the unit to provide a higher level of comfort and better humidity control. 
12. 13 SEER or higher units have an accumulator which catches extra refrigerant and helps protect the compressor. 
13. And lastly, the Department of Energy says so!! Oh yeah! In January 2006, the DOE is raised the minimum cooling efficiency on residential air conditioners and heat pumps to 13 SEER from its older minimum of 10 SEER. Questions? Ask a Sales Consultant.

Product Feature: Trane XL20i Air Conditioner

Unbeatable comfort, unmatched quality
For the top of the line in cool comfort, look no further than the XL20i. It’s among the industry’s most efficient air conditioners available. What does that mean for you and your family? It means you’ll enjoy total comfort on the hottest days of the year and lower your cooling costs at the same time.

Trane XL20i features
When matched with a variable speed indoor unit from Trane, the XL20i has another special feature. It's a method of enhancing airflow that we call Comfort-R™ and it gives you greater humidity control in cooling. This is accomplished by running the fan at a slower speed during start-up. Comfort-R™ also provides warmer air during heating start-up. These managed cycles reduce temperature variances for the optimum in home comfort.

Efficient performance
The XL20i’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of up to 20.00 is among the highest energy efficiency rating of any air conditioner available today. The XL20i has two compressors: one for milder weather and a second larger compressor for those extremely hot days. It’s like having two units in one.

ComfortLink II Communicating Capability
ComfortLink II communicating technology (available when matched with communicating indoor units) connects all of your key components so your system automatically charges, configures and calibrates for optimal performance and efficiency through the lifetime of your products. When the optional Telephone Access Module (TAM) is added, you can conveniently adjust settings and receive system updates wherever you are by phone.

Economical operation
Increased efficiency may substantially lower your home cooling costs.

Quiet comfort
Multi-stage fan motor adjusts speed to quietly provide maximum comfort.

Durable construction
Materials for all components are tested again and again for long-lasting performance and durability.

Cleaner, healthier indoor air
Add Trane CleanEffects™ to your system for advanced air filtration that removes more dust, pollen and other irritants from conditioned air for a cleaner, healthier, more comfortable home.

Trane XL20i specifics
Every Trane air conditioner is packed with high-quality components. Each helps ensure that time after time, your unit will provide total comfort your family can rely on. The XL20i includes:

• ComfortLink II Communicating Capability
• Charge Assist™ for enhanced performance and efficiency
• Dual Climatuff® Compressors
• Two-row Spine Fin™ coil
• Two-Stage Cooling
• Multi-stage Fan
• R410A Refrigerant
• Full-Side Louvered Panels
• WeatherGuard™ Top Protects Components
• Weather Resistant WeatherGuard™ Fasteners
• DuraTuff™ Rust Proof Base Pan
• Quick-Sess cabinet with full coil protection
• Sound Insulator on Compressors

Trane XL20i limited warranty details
Beginning May 1 2009, Registered Limited Warranty terms are available if the product is registered within 60 days of installation. Registration can be completed either online at Trane.com or by calling 800-554-6413. Trane’s Registered Limited Warranty terms include:

• 12 Year limited warranty on compressor
• 10 Year limited warranty on outdoor coil
• 10 Year limited warranty on internal functional parts
• The ten year Functional Parts Limited Warranty extends to the indoor gas furnace, coil, air handler and thermostat when installed as part of a complete XLi comfort system. An XLi comfort system includes an AHRI certified matching Trane outdoor XLi unit, indoor unit and thermostat installed at the same time.
• If the product is not registered within 60 days of installation Trane’s Base Limited Warranty terms will apply.
• Optional Extended Warranties available. Extended Warranties can pay for labor and other costs not covered by manufacturer's limited warranty.
• Ask your dealer for full warranty information at time of purchase. Warranties are for residential use only, some exclusions may apply.

Legal: Potential energy savings may vary depending on your personal lifestyle, system settings, equipment maintenance, local climate, actual construction and installation of equipment, and duct system. As part of our continuous product improvement, Trane reserves the right to change specifications and design without notice. Read important energy cost and efficiency information available from your dealer.

Product Feature: York Affinity 5T Series 15+ SEER Air Conditioners

 
The Affinity Series is the premier York line of residential central air conditioning units. The Affinity Series is also the only unit on the market to offer a choice of seven designer colors. The Affinity 5T Series is up to four-times quieter and 60% more energy efficient thanks to its two-stage compressor technology.

Innovative Design for Superior Quiet, Reliability, and Performance

• Up to 15+ SEER efficiency (Minimum standard is 13 SEER)
• 7 designer colors to complement your home’s exterior
• Durable, powder-painted steel to withstand the elements
• Quiet, ultra-reliable, efficient operation from a state-of-the-art two-stage compressor and fan guard design
• Added protection and peace of mind with Comfort Alert™ compressor monitor
• Quieter operation and energy efficiency made possible by the QuietDrive™ system
• Coil protected by a coil guard and polymer mesh screen

Warranties
York backs every Affinity system with one of the best limited warranties you'll find: 10 years on parts* and 10 years on the compressor. And for extra peace of mind, our optional YorkCare™ comfort plan offers up to 10 years of total parts and labor coverage. And, if you purchase our Affinity 5T or 8T model with a matching Affinity gas furnace, coils, or air handler, you'll receive our Total Package Warranty program: A 10-year limited parts warranty and a lifetime limited compressor warranty.

*Must be installed after May 1, 2009, and registered online within 90 days of installation—otherwise the parts warranty reverts to a 5-year limited parts warranty.

ENERGY STAR
Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. When compared to standard models, ENERGY STAR products are between 15 and 25% more efficient. This model meets ENERGY STAR requirements for energy efficiency.

Good Housekeeping
For almost 100 years, the Good Housekeeping Seal has been a symbol of quality and trust. This model is proud to have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.

NATE
York encourages professionalism through North American Technician Excellence, Inc.(NATE). NATE is the leading certification program for technicians in the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry, and is the only test supported by the entire industry.

FAQ: Should I Repair or Replace My Old Furnace, Air Conditioner or Heat Pump?

Our company is committed to the technical excellence of the service we provide you and, therefore, require our 'champion' technicians to attend regular training sessions. Besides the technician who actually does the repair, Howell's has highly competent and experienced field supervisors who, although you may never see, provide valuable backup to the technician. So, should a second opinion ever be required about a technical question, you don't have to worry because the technician has highly qualified expertise to bring to each call.

(But who cares? The technician isn't living in your house day in and day out, right? He just wants to move equipment!) Wrong! Take a look for yourself whether you should repair or replace that system that is still "working fine"

Should I Repair or Replace My Old Furnace, Air Conditioner or Heat Pump?

(This is an example of a 10-year-old furnace and air conditioner system. Based on current repair at the home and potential replacement cost today.)

REPAIR TODAY	EXAMPLE: Compare a repair on a 10-year-old "no heat" furnace/AC by putting in a new blower motor VS replacing the furnace with a new, high-efficiency system	REPLACE TODAY
What is the cost of today's repair, i.e., $350 for a replacement blower motor.	TODAY'S COST	Ballpark investment for a high-efficiency model furnace/AC, i.e., $6,700 (Avg. price)
What is your best guess on repairs over the next few years until the furnace/AC must be replaced? I.E., $350	FUTURE REPAIRS	NONE! Your 5 or 10 year bumper-to-bumper warranty covers all that risk.
ASHRAE data shows that the expected furnace life is 18 years, so we have 8 years to go at (your guess) $1,000 per year. 8 x $1,000 = $8,000. Typical Air Conditioner life expectancy is 15 years at an average electrical cost of $700 a year. 8 x $700 = $5,600	ENERGY COST TO OPERATE FOR 10 YEARS	The new, high-efficiency model will save 30-40% of their heating & cooling costs, so figure $600 per year for heating. 10 x $600 = $6,000. And $450 per year for cooling. 10 x $450 = $4,500
At some point the furnace/AC must be replaced so this is the ballpark investment for the high-efficiency model, at a minimum 2% increase annually. i.e., $7,851.	COST TO REPLACE THE UNIT IN 10 YEARS*	NONE! It works great and the customers are happy!
NONE! Actually, you will also have the inconvenience of at least one more failure!	ADDITIONAL COMFORT BENEFITS	LOTS! More comfortable due to proper sizing, better technology, quieter, less worry, better filtration, and more!
In this example, the numbers add up to: $22,151	TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP FOR 10 YEARS	In this example, the numbers add up to: $17,200
AMOUNT SAVED BY REPLACING TODAY $4,951

*To calculate the cost to replace the unit in the future:
(Today's Replacement Cost) + (Inflation [avg 2% yearly] for X Years) = $ Future Replacement Cost

That wasn't so bad, now was it? At least now you have a clear picture of what your system is doing for you. Now it is up to you. Let us know how we can best serve you in the future. For more information, answers, or to get a no-obligation FREE replacement quote, visit our website!

What Makes R-410A Better

It can't be "that" good, can it?

 

It’s Environmentally Friendlier.

If your system ever leaks, the escaping refrigerant won’t contribute to ozone depletion!

 

You avoid the risk that R-22 could become expensive or difficult to get when your system needs to be repaired in a few years.

The old refrigerant R-22 will be phased out along with other ozone depleting chemicals, and both supply and demand of this chemical will be significantly affected by current and upcoming regulations. By selecting an air conditioner or heat pump that uses R-410A, you will avoid the risk associated with purchasing a product that is destined to become obsolete.

 

R-410A systems can be more reliable than R-22 systems.

R-410A air conditioning and heat pump are today’s “state of the art” systems, and utilize the most current technology available for efficient and reliable operation. The heart of every air conditioner or heat pump is the compressor, and newer systems are specifically designed to use R-410A refrigerant. They often incorporate smaller, heavier-duty “scroll-type” compressors that are quieter and operate with less damaging vibration than older compressors that operate on R-22. Since R-410A can absorb and release heat more efficiently than R-22 ever could, compressors with R-410A run cooler than R-22 systems, reducing the risk of burnout due to overheating.

 

It uses a synthetic lubricant that helps to keep the system operating smoothly.

All air-conditioning systems use an oil that circulates through the inside of the system to keep all of the parts well lubricated, just like the engine of your car. R-22 air conditioners use an oil known as “mineral oil” that has been used for decades. R-410A air conditioners use newer synthetic lubricants that are usually more soluble with the R-410A than the old mineral oils are with the older R-22 refrigerants. This means the synthetic lubricants and R-410A can mix and circulate more efficiently to keep the compressor and other moving parts lubricated, reducing wear and extending their life. Also, just as many new cars use synthetic oils because they are less likely to break down under high stress and heat, the new synthetic oils used in R-410A air conditioners are less likely to break down under extreme conditions.

8 Myths About R-410A Refrigerant - Part Two

Last week, we brought you four of the top eight misconceptions about R-410A Refrigerant. Here are Myths 5-8!

Myth 5: R-410A costs too much.

It’s true that non-ozone depleting refrigerants are more expensive to manufacture. They use more expensive raw materials, are more difficult to make, and aren’t yet produced in the large quantities in which R-22 is produced. Over the long-term though, manufacturing costs are likely to decline as R-410A becomes more popular and is produced on a larger scale.

Also, in order to properly install and service air conditioners containing R-410A, your air-conditioner equipment dealer had to invest in new tools and new training, and part of this cost is passed along to you in your price for a new R-410A system.

There are usually costs associated with new technology as well as with protecting our environment. Air-conditioners that contain R-410A refrigerant are likely to be slightly more expensive than air conditioners charged with R-22 for at least the next few years.

Because of design differences between manufacturers, the cost to upgrade from an R-22 system to R-410A can vary. There are at least 12 different brands of R-410A air conditioners and heat pumps are available in the U.S. and Canada today, so you have many choices as a consumer. We recommend you research both the equipment brand and the dealer you select to make sure that your choice is appropriate for the quality of equipment and installation you want. Remember, you do get what you pay for!

Myth 6: R-410A technology is too new and risky.

Air conditioners using R-410A have been available in the U.S. since 1995, so they’re not at all new. They’re just new to people who haven’t heard about them!

Honeywell invented the refrigerant 410A over a decade ago, and it’s taken several years for some air conditioner dealers to learn about these products and for some air conditioner manufacturers to design and offer their own R-410A systems. Most manufacturers have had their R-410A air conditioners and heat pumps on the market for several years.

Some contractors and AC dealers are rightfully concerned about selling consumers on a refrigerant that might be discontinued. But this fear just doesn’t apply to R-410A systems anymore. Every major manufacturer in the U.S. and Canada now offers a R-410A brand, and because of the terrific track record of the reliability of R-410A air conditioners, it has quickly become the new industry standard.

Myth 7: R-410A is new and may not be available to service your new air conditioner if it breaks down.

We’ve heard this line several times. As the inventor of R-410A, Honeywell is committed to having ample supplies of this refrigerant available, and started up a new $100 million manufacturing plant to make sure that there is plenty of R-410A available. There are at least 2 other refrigerant companies in the U.S. besides Honeywell who offer their own brands of R-410A, providing both ample supply and competitive pricing to air conditioning manufacturers and to service technicians.

Myth 8: The lubricating oil used in R-410A systems absorbs water and makes systems break down.

Many air-conditioning contractors who haven’t learned about R-410A often hear this myth and repeat it to others.

Air conditioners and heat pumps that use R-22 use a mineral oil that circulates through the system to keep the compressor and other parts lubricated. Systems containing R-410A usually use a synthetic oil . Some of these synthetic oils do absorb moisture more readily than mineral oils, but there are several reasons why this is not an issue for home owners.

First, equipment manufacturers train their technicians to keep these oils from getting exposed to the air where they could absorb moisture. As long as technicians follow the manufacturers’ directions in installing and servicing R-410A systems, then the oil will remain clean and dry. These procedures may also be required to make sure your warranty stays valid during the life of your R-410A system.

Second, nearly all air conditioners and heat pumps that use R-410A have a device called a “filter drier." This important part does exactly what the name implies - it filters, cleans, and dries the refrigerant and oil as it circulates through your system just like the oil filter in your car. This device has been an important reason why air conditioners with 410A are considered by some manufacturers to be the most reliable product they make.


So, there you have it! The most common misconceptions about R-410A Refrigerant: debunked! Let us know if you hear any other confusion surrounding R-410A, and we'll help clear it up for you!

8 Myths About R-410A Refrigerant - Part One

There are a lot of misconceptions about R-410A Refrigerant. We're here to dispel the confusion!

We'll be breaking this information into two posts. Here are Myths 1-4!

Myth 1: The higher pressures of R-410A are unsafe.

Actually, air-conditioners that use R-410A are specially designed for the higher pressures of R-410A. These systems have typically been rigorously tested by their manufacturers, as well as by independent safety testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratories.

Many dealers of air-conditioning equipment are not educated on the benefits of this new refrigerant, and some use the “high pressure” argument to convince consumers not to buy a product which the dealer isn’t properly trained to install or service anyway.

With over a million R-410A based air conditioners operating worldwide, and nearly a decade of field testing and product history, there is no evidence to suggest that R-22 systems are any safer than systems that contain R-410A.

Myth 2: The higher pressures of R-410A cause air conditioners to break down more often.

Evidence shows this is not only untrue, but that R-410A air conditioners can be remarkably more reliable than air-conditioners that use R-22.

First, air-conditioners that use R-410A are designed to be heavier-duty, with a thicker compressor shell. Usually this results in smaller, sturdier pieces of equipment that vibrate less, putting less strain on the piping connections that are the source of most leaks.

Second, most air-conditioner manufacturers require their technicians to be fully trained on R-410A before they can sell or service that manufacturer’s R-410A equipment. As a result, the dealers and technicians that offer and install R-410A are often better trained and have the right tools to give you a more reliable installation.

One major air conditioner manufacturer who has been selling air conditioners for over 50 years tells us that their R-410A air conditioners and heat pumps are the most reliable systems they’ve ever introduced!

Myth 3: R-22 will remain cheap and available.

This is wishful thinking on the part of many service technicians. R-22 is being phased out globally, and the manufacturing plants that make R-22 in Europe, North America and other regions will eventually be shut down or converted to make other chemicals.

In 2003, the U.S. EPA implemented an allocation program which limits both the companies who can make and import R-22, and the amounts that they each can make or import. This essentially “capped” the supply of R-22 in the U.S.

The EPA has laid out the below schedule for phasing out HCFCs including R-22:

• January 1, 2004: The Montreal Protocol required the U.S. to reduce its consumption of HCFCs by 35% below the U.S. baseline cap.
• As of January 1, 2003, EPA banned production and import of HCFC-141b, the most ozone-destructive HCFC. This action allowed the United States to meet its obligations under the Montreal Protocol. EPA was able to issue 100% of company baseline allowances for production and import of HCFC-22 and HCFC-142b.
• January 1, 2010: The Montreal Protocol requires the U.S. to reduce its consumption of HCFCs by 75% below the U.S. baseline. Allowance holders may only produce or import HCFC-22 to service existing equipment. Virgin R-22 may not be used in new equipment. As a result, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system manufacturers may not produce new air conditioners and heat pumps containing R-22.
• January 1, 2015: The Montreal Protocol requires the U.S. to reduce its consumption of HCFCs by 90% below the U.S. baseline.
• January 1, 2020: The Montreal Protocol requires the U.S. to reduce its consumption of HCFCs by 99.5% below the U.S. baseline. Refrigerant that has been recovered and recycled/reclaimed will be allowed beyond 2020 to service existing systems, but chemical manufacturers will no longer be able to produce R-22 to service existing air conditioners and heat pumps. 

(The above phase out schedule was taken from the EPA's website. Visit http://www.epa.gov/ozone/title6/phaseout/22phaseout.html for more information!)

Myth 4: R-410A isn't the final refrigerant, and other new refrigerants are coming.

Every major air conditioner manufacturer in the United States has selected R-410A as its choice to replace R-22 in new equipment, and there are at least a dozen brands of R-410A air conditioners or heat pumps available today, with more coming soon.

Why? In less than 3 years the U.S. Department of Energy will require a 20% increase in the minimum efficiency of new home central air conditioners. This means that air conditioner manufacturers will have to find ways to increase the efficiency of their air conditioners. One easy way is to use a more efficient refrigerant, and because the refrigerant 410A is at least 5% more efficient than R-22, manufacturers can use R-410A to help them meet these energy efficiency goals.

In other countries like Japan where the phase-out of R-22 is further along than in the U.S. and Canada, the refrigerant R-410A is used extensively. The United States is expected to follow their lead, allowing R-410A to become the global standard. Honeywell is the world leader in developing and manufacturing non-ozone depleting refrigerants, and we’ve never seen anything like R-410A, and neither have our customers!


So, there you have it! Four of the top eight myths about R-410A refrigerant! Check back next week for Myths 5-8!

10 Tips on How to Buy an Air Conditioner - Part 2

Last week, we gave you 5 of our Top 10 tips on how to buy an air conditioner. Here's the rest of that list!

To review, tips 1-5 were:

1. Find a licensed, insured and qualified contractor.
2. Ask questions.
3. Set an appointment.
4. Get a load calculation performed.
5. Have your ductwork inspected.

Now, on to tips 6-10!

Tip #6: Understand that you will need to make a sacrifice: Equipment, Service or Price.

In all my years as a consumer, I have never found a good quality product that is reliable and durable, that was installed by the highest trained company with a long parts and labor warranty, all for the cheapest price in town! Two out of three is the best anyone can hope for. So, what is most important to you? Do you prefer a high-quality, dependable product made with strong, durable materials, built to last a long time, or is it crucial for you to have a reliable, certified and efficient service company that takes pride in their work and your home to install it? Or you might just want to get the lowest price you can? There are no wrong answers because every situation is different. So, be prepared before your decision: which one of these three are you willing to sacrifice?

Tip #7: Do not pay in advance.

Some companies, or "friends in the industry," will demand that you pay in full prior to installation. Do not do this, no matter how good the deal is. In most companies, it is customary for a fractional down payment upon agreement, with payment in full upon completion of the job. There are also many financial programs available, such as deferred payment plans or Same As Cash plans, to help offset an emergency installation.

Tip #8: Important considerations: 13 SEER minimum efficiency standard and R-22 Refrigerant.

The 13 SEER minimum efficiency standard went into effect as of January 2006, raising the minimum efficiency of air conditioners from 10 SEER to 13. Also, the refrigerant of the past (R-22) is gone. Under the terms of the Montreal Protocol on ozone depletion, as of 1/1/2010, HVAC manufacturers were no longer allowed to produce equipment containing R-22 refrigerants. The new environmental safe refrigerant R-410A alternative is the new industry standard.

Tip #9: Get as many estimates as it takes.

We are all conditioned to get three estimates and then make our decision. But, what if you have picked three "bad" companies - which one do you pick? My point is that you should keep interviewing companies until you find that company that will provide the equipment and services, for a reasonable price, that meet your criteria. It may only take one, or it may take ten, but it will be worth it down the road. Spending the time now in this step will save you a lot of money down the road.

Tip #10: Make sure your system is on a maintenance schedule.

Customers tell me all the time, "The unit is brand new; I don't need to have maintenance!" Think about it this way: in one month an A/C unit in the Richmond heat will run the equivalent of 30,000 miles in your car. You wouldn't dream of going that far without an oil change, let alone a tune-up. Getting a new system serviced twice a year is just as important, if not more so. Dirt is the #1 cause for all system repairs and breakdowns. Make sure your investment lasts as long as you expect it to.

So, there you have it! Our top 10 tips for buying a new air conditioner. Questions? Feel free to give us a call at (804) 798-1371!

Product Feature: York Affinity 8T Series Air Conditioner

The Affinity Series is the premier York line of residential central air conditioning units. The Affinity Series is also the only unit on the market to offer a choice of seven designer colors. The Affinity 8T Series is up to 4-times quieter and 60% more energy efficient, thanks to its two-stage compressor technology.

Innovative Design for Superior Reliability and Performance

Color Options

• Up to 18 SEER efficiency (Minimum standard is 13 SEER).
• Quieter, more efficient operation from innovative fan guard design.
• 7 designer colors to complement your home's exterior.
• Durable, powder-painted steel to withstand the elements.
• Quiet, ultra-reliable, efficient operation from a state-of-the-art two-stage compressor.
• Added protection and peace of mind with Comfort Alert™ compressor monitor.
• York QuietDrive™ System for quieter operation and energy efficiency.
• Coil protected by a coil guard and polymer mesh screen.

Warranties 

York backs every Affinity system with one of the best limited warranties you'll find: 10 years on parts and 10 years on the compressor. And, for extra peace of mind, our optional YorkCare™ comfort plan offers up to 10 years of total parts and labor coverage. And, if you purchase our Affinity 5T or 8T model with a matching Affinity gas furnace, coils or air handler, you'll receive our Total Package Warranty program: a 10-year limited parts warranty and a lifetime limited compressor warranty.

Energy Guide

This model is rated 18.0 SEER. The EnerGuide label gives you important information when you shop for a new appliance, including estimated energy consumption.

ENERGY STAR

Earning the ENERGY STAR means products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. When compared to standard models, ENERGY STAR products are between 15 and 25% more efficient. This model meets ENERGY STAR requirements for energy efficiency.

Good Housekeeping

For almost 100 years, the Good Housekeeping Seal has been a symbol of quality and trust. This model is proud to have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.

NATE

York encourages professionalism through North American Technician Excellence, Inc. (NATE). NATE is the leading certification program for technicians in the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry, and is the only test supported by the entire industry.

Want to learn more about this model?

Give us a call at 1-800-358-4822 or visit our website at www.howellsac.com today!

10 Tips on How to Buy an Air Conditioner - Part 1

You don't need the weatherman to tell you that it is hot in Richmond. And it feels great to come inside from summer's heat and feel the cool, dry air from your air conditioner. But what do you do when it breaks? You can only take off so many clothes before it is considered illegal.

I cannot tell you how many times I have heard homeowners say, "I will wait until it dies." The unfortunate thing is that an air conditioner usually "breaks" when it is running the hardest, or when you need it most. And on those 90+ degree days, these same homeowners would gladly give their right arm for air conditioning NOW!

And, it is at this moment, as the house begins to heat up, and the extra humidity swirls around you, a homeowner needs to be as calm and cautious as ever, before they make that decision (hopefully a good one!) that will last for the next 10 to 15 years.

Here are Tips 1-5 for buying an air conditioner. Check back soon for tips 6-10!

Tip #1: Find a licensed, insured and qualified contractor.

I know that seems like a no-brainer, but there is always a "friend who does this work on the side for so much less." It is not just the A/C system that you are buying. You are also purchasing the contractor's experience to do the job correctly, his insurance if there are any unfortunate accidents during the installation, and mostly his staff of employees. Ask friends, co-workers or relatives whom they have used and are comfortable with (besides, the good contractors love referrals!).

Tip #2: Ask questions.

There have been so many advancements in the HVAC industry over the last 20 years. And unlike the automobile industry, the consumer does not have the luxury to "test drive" a new air conditioner. So, the decision to replace your A/C system is one that, once the unit is installed, will last for the next 10 to 15 years. So, ask questions. Make sure it is what you want and need. If you are unsure about anything, a good contractor will welcome the questions and give you honest answers.

Tip #3: Set an appointment.

Do not get a quote over the phone! In order to get the best system for your needs and your home, a contractor must inspect the location of the equipment and the physical layout of the house. This tip alone can safeguard against any "hidden" charges after the installation has begun or any sizing issues.

Tip #4: Get a load calculation performed.

The size of an air conditioner is not arbitrarily chosen and put in a house. A qualified contractor will perform a Manual J load calculation standardized by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). This load calculation measures the heat loss and heat gain inside the building envelope. Knowing this, the contractor can size the system appropriately so it is not over or under sized. Keep in mind, if you have made any structural improvements (like new windows, adding insulation or a new addition), these can alter the original load calculation of the house.

Tip #5: Have your ductwork inspected.

If ducts are damaged, improperly installed or the wrong size, they can cut your system's ability to heat or cool by more than half on hot or cold days, when you need it the most. A 30% return duct leak on a hot or cold day can decrease your heating or cooling capacity by more than 50%! That may sound extreme, but it's not an uncommon condition. Some contractors will upsell high efficiency equipment to emphasize your comfort. If you install a 15 SEER A/C unit on a leaky duct system, it could be operating as low as 7 SEER.

Those are 5 of our Top 10 Tips for buying a new air conditioner. Stay tuned for tips 6-10, and let us know in the comments: have you run into any bad situations with purchasing a new a/c unit?