How a Smart Thermostat Improves AC Efficiency

March 5th, 2018

There was a time when persons would jokingly say that, “one day, computers will run everything.” Today, that sentiment is no longer far-fetched. It is in fact, much closer to reality. Thanks to advancements in home automation technology, you can operate nearly every device in your Henderson, NV, home by remote control. Your HVAC system is no different, and a smart thermostat adds more than convenience, it can optimize air conditioning efficiency and energy savings, too.

Get Detailed Energy Reports

Smart thermostats can generate reports that show how much energy you are using, and how you may be wasting energy. The in-depth information helps you to understand how you can make adjustments to reduce your energy bills. You’ll be able to make comparative analyses and review your energy consumption patterns over time. Programming options help you save energy without compromising comfort.

Programmable Schedules

Usually, your thermostat is set to one temperature, or you rarely change the setting. You could be wasting a lot of energy! Smart thermostats bring ease, convenience, and flexibility to heating and air conditioning. These devices allow you to program temperatures based on your schedule. That is, you can set specific and energy-saving temperatures based on whether or not you are at home, awake or sleeping.

You save energy because, for example, if a 75-degree setting is ideal when you’re home, there’s no need to keep the thermostat at the same temperature when you’re away. With a smart thermostat, you won’t have to worry about making these adjustments. The Wi-Fi option means you can also make changes from any location. Many of these thermostats are so smart that they can study your behavior and make automatic temperature changes!

We’re Your Heating and Cooling Experts

As your HVAC pros, we offer the products and services that help you save. Improving AC efficiency is easy with Johnny On The Spot. We have a selection of smart thermostats to suit your style and budget. Thanks to technology, now there is a smart way to make your home more comfortable for less. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 to find out how you can upgrade your device

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How To Change Your Air Filter

December 15th, 2017

Having a dirty air filter can cause lower the quality and performance causing it to overheat and worsen the air inside your households. If you start to notice your air filters getting dusty, it’s time to have it changed immediately. Air filters need to be taken care of on a regular basis for system maintenance, good air quality and prolonged lifespan. When tended to on a monthly basis, there’s a lower risk of your air filter experiencing damages that can lead to expensive repairs. To skip the headaches and having to spend more, air filters are quick to clean and change so you can easily do it on your own in the comfort of your home. Here are a few easy methods to follow when changing your air filter.

What Is the Proper Way to Replace an Air Filter?

  • Turn off your HVAC unit to avoid accidents or damage before you remove the filter.
  • Remove and clean the filter slot — wipe dust around the edges; vacuum or hose off reusable filters then let them fully dry.
  • Insert the new filter the right way — use the arrow on the frame to align airflow direction and secure it properly.
  • Replace monthly or as needed — especially during high‑dust seasons or heavy use to maintain air quality and system efficiency.
  • Schedule regular preventive inspections with a professional to catch wear‑and‑tear early. (optional expert assistance can help)

What’s An Air Filter

An air filter is installed in your HVAC system. The main purpose of an air filter is to capture large amounts of dust, pollen, mold, insects and bacteria circulating around your household. If you have family members suffering from dust allergies, asthma, colds or any kind of sickness, it’s necessary to have a fresh air filter since it provides cleaner air. It also helps avoid illnesses caused by dusts and air-borne diseases. Air filters usually come in different functions, prices and MERV ratings, all fit for your household needs.

Steps on How to Change the Air Filter

1. Clean It

When you spot gunk and piles of dust surround the filter, it’s time you change it. To replace your filter, you’ll have to turn off your unit for safety precautions then you can proceed to remove the air filter. Once the air filter is removed use a cloth to wipe the area surrounding the surfaces and be cautious of the dust that will fall out. You can also clean the frame with a cloth or a vacuum. Further clean it by watering it down with a hose. Prevent bacteria build up by scrubbing it with a water solution or vinegar, and once the cleaning process is done just dry it out.

2. Install It

When putting in the new filter, just follow the directions of how to place it which you can see on the frame.There are arrows that indicate which side should go first when installing the air filter so you can slide it in with ease. Lastly, put back the filter cap and you’re done changing your air filter.

Changing your air filter won’t take too much time and does not cost much.To avoid damages on your air filter, it’s advised to change your air filter on a monthly basis. If you need further assistance in changing your air filters, contact us to help you out with the job. For other expert HVAC advice or issues that require a properly trained and licensed HVAC professional, call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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Why Isn’t My Home Heating Up?

December 1st, 2017

Ice, snow, and possibly blizzards, are a few of the frustrating things to deal with during the long cold months. And a heating system not quite doing its job of keeping your house warm is just unbelievable. This is quite an annoying situation, though very common. There may be problems with the evaporator coils, wiring, pipes or ducts, filters, or the motors. Any of these problems would need a professional repair assistance. Do not attempt to fix it by yourself as it may cause further damage and may cost you more than just a few hundred dollars.

Before you slam and scream at your thermostats for being useless, there are a few typical reasons why your system is not working.

A Faulty Thermostat

There are many reasons why the thermostat may not be working properly. The freezing temperatures outside may have strained your furnace. Older thermostats may need to be leveled. Check if the breaker is working and check if the door is properly closed. Check for burnt fuses.

You could determine what part is not working by running a few checkpoints. If your system has coilers, check if you can feel any heat from the furnace when it is on. If there is barely any to no heat, your boilers may need replacement.

Clogged Ducts

Another checkpoint is your ducts or pipes. A lack of airflow from the ducts means that it is clogged with dirt or other debris.

Blower Motors

Blower motors may need replacement if it is frayed, cracked, or lost its tension.

Ignition

An electronic igniter or pilot light is responsible for lighting the gas or propane central heating. If the igniter doesn’t light or the pilot light has no flame, call a professional to replace the igniter.

Dirty Filters

Filters need to be cleaned at least twice a year like a dental cleaning. Remove your screens and check if your filters require cleaning. Dust and other dirt may accumulate in your filters and sometimes be the root of your system not functioning well. Ideal time to clean or replace filters will be in spring or fall just right before the season wherein your air conditioning system works the hardest.

Lack Of Maintenance

All of the abovementioned faulty parts of your system may be traced back to poor maintenance. Over the year, household chores are often put off especially when it comes to maintenance if the furnace seems to be working fine prior to the incident. Even if your systems seem to have no problems, it is in your best interest if regular maintenance is done to avoid damages that will hinder the system working properly and will cause you to shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars for repair and utility bills.

It is not pleasant to suffer the cold of the bitter winter. If your heating system is not working, determine the source of the problem, but do not attempt resolving it by yourself. Call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461 so we can provide the support you need!

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4 Questions To Ask Your HVAC Pro

November 15th, 2017

Are you finding yourself in need of HVAC maintenance or repairs this holiday season? If you need to go ahead and hire an expert, there are a few questions you want to make sure you ask before you allow any HVAC company to work on your system. Keep these in mind when you are calling to hire a pro.

Do You Have Insurance?

Because HVAC systems require some heavy lifting, as well as costly repairs if something doesn’t go right, an HVAC pro will be equipped with insurance to cover any mistakes or accidents that can occur while on the job. HVAC experts are trained to safely work on your system, but unforeseen accidents may still occur, so be sure to ask if the company has insurance and what it covers when they’re working on your unit. That way you are aware of the liability should anything happen.

Are You Licensed And Accredited?

HVAC professionals are highly trained because of the intricacies of HVAC systems’ designs. In order to safely repair, install, and replace units, HVAC pros are working with extensive knowledge to make sound decisions. Your HVAC expert should have proper licensing and accreditation. The North American Technician Excellence, or NATE, provides this accreditation so be sure to hire a pro who has this. It’s also favorable for the company to be under Energy Star, which approves energy-efficient appliances.

Can I Have A Written Estimate?

Most HVAC companies provide a free consultation to check out your unit before they start any work. Prior to them beginning, you should receive a detailed cost breakdown of what needs repairing. They should not begin any tasks until you receive this quote. A real pro will make sure you completely understand what the issues are with your unit and what the cost will be for their services.

What Maintenance Tasks Can I Do Myself?

When maintaining an HVAC unit, there are several things you can do yourself. Make sure you stay on top of cleaning and replacing your filters and keeping debris away from your outdoor unit. If you aren’t sure how to maintain your HVAC unit, call in an expert to show you some things you can do yourself before you call them in for repairs. Taking care of your investment will help save you money down the road should any issues with your system arise. A willing HVAC expert showing you what you can do is a good indicator they are honest and forthcoming with information, making them someone you want to hire for a repair or replacement in the future.

Having any repairman come into your home when you’re not fully informed can be stressful. By asking these questions, you will be able to weed out the unfavorable HVAC pros. For trusted experts who meet these expectations and more, contact Johnny On The Spot for a free consultation at (725) 977-9461.

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3 Ways To Insulate Your Home For Winter

November 1st, 2017

Winter is fast approaching. Therefore ensure that your home is properly insulated for this chilly season. This is not just to keep your home warm, but also to make sure your HVAC’s performance is optimized, and its efficiency is secure throughout the season. And of course, you wouldn’t want a scary, soaring utility cost at the end of each month, would you? So, let’s gear up and start insulating!

Here are three cost-efficient and easy ways to insulate your home:

Draft-Proof Your Home

If you feel any draft entering your home, you should patch up all the places where it can possibly enter like the gap between your door and floor, the space and cracks between your windows, and your attic.

Seal Your Windows

Run your fingers across and around your window to find out whether your window has small cracks in it, or if there are any small spaces where outside air can get through. If you feel some cool air brushing your fingertips, then you just caught an open crack! Patch it with the caulk of your choice. You can choose between the latex variety and the silicone which is more flexible to weather and temperature changes than the latex.

Fill in the Gaps

The draft can also come from underneath the gap between your door and the floor. To prevent the cold wind from entering, place a draft snake beneath or if you have any foam pipe lagging, you can also use it as an alternative to draft snakes. For the spaces between the wall and your doors and windows, use an insulating tape to seal it away.

Pay Attention to Your Attic

Your attic should not be considered as just a mere storage room. As part of the insulating process, you must pay close attention to this section of your house. Warm air can easily escape from your attic and likewise, it is an easy entrance for cold, bitter winds to get through your home. You can do a simple Do-It-Yourself attic insulation or, if you are uncertain how to do it, you can always ask for a professional’s help.

There are usually two types of materials used in attic insulation: first, the loose fill which is ideal for irregular attic joist spacing and second, the batt which is best for attics without insulation but have standard joist spacing.

Use Insulated or Layered Curtains

Heat from your home can easily escape if your windows don’t have curtains at all in them or if you are using a thin curtain layer. Aside from adding beauty to our homes, curtains also aid in our home insulation. Use an insulated curtain for a longer-lasting heat suppression inside your home. If such is not available, apply several layers of curtains which you already have in hand. You can also use thick cloths like wool or fleece blanket as curtains.

Determine Your Heating Area

Not all area inside your home needs equivalent temperature. Which part of your home do you frequently stay? Once you determine the zone you usually spend time in, you can set the other temperature from the rest of your home to a lower heating degree. Remember to always keep your room’s door shut to optimize your HVAC’s heating process and maintain the warmth inside that area without exerting too much effort on your heating system.

Insulating your home helps keep your family comfortable throughout the winter season. It also helps your HVAC to work more efficiently considering that you also have your seasonal HVAC maintenance performed. In case you can’t do the insulation alone, do not hesitate to call a professional for help. For more helpful tips on how to insulate your home, call Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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4 Reasons Seasonal Maintenance Is Necessary

October 30th, 2017

Seasonal maintenance is important in keeping your HVAC system running and working efficiently throughout the season. It is recommended to have at least a biannual maintenance program to ensure your system’s efficiency. However, do you know that there are other reasons why seasonal maintenance is necessary?

Prevents Sudden Breakdowns

Imagine it’s the middle of a freezing winter night or the heat is at its peak in summer when suddenly, your HVAC breaks down. Incidents like these are inconvenient for every homeowner. What’s worse is when you are clueless of what went wrong and what part of the system has broken down. If you apply for a seasonal maintenance program, you’ll avoid situations like these because your system will get a thorough inspection and necessary minor repairs to ensure it is ready for the season.

Lowers Utility Bills

If your HVAC system does not get proper maintenance, it is no longer economical no matter how high its SEER rating is. Its inefficiency is noticeable when your monthly utility bills are higher than usual. To prevent this from happening, ensure that you keep the air filters, evaporator coils, and condenser coils of your HVAC clean and free from heavy dust build-up. On the other hand, your HVAC contractor will perform the in-depth evaluation of your system from the ductworks to the wiring and insulation.

Conducting HVAC maintenance will help your system boost and sustain its efficiency. It is a great way for you to save money and avoid unnecessary additional energy bill charges.

Gives Equipment A Longer Lifespan

Well-maintained HVAC equipment has an average lifespan of 15 – 20 years. Its lifespan is only attainable if maintained accordingly. Your HVAC system is a lifetime investment. Therefore, you should look after it and make sure that it works efficiently until such time.

Longer lifespan means lesser chances for you to unnecessarily purchase a new HVAC system just because of your not-so-old unit which refuses to provide you your much needed comfort. Our HVAC system is not a money investment alone. When you invest in an HVAC system, you invest in you and your family’s comfort all throughout the years.

Ensures Health and Safety

Carbon monoxide is a deadly toxic gas released by heating systems. To avoid this from happening, make sure that there is no carbon monoxide leakage from your system. You can purchase a carbon monoxide detector for your own safety. Have HVAC system tuned-up and inspected on a regular basis by your trusted HVAC maintenance provider.

HVAC maintenance also helps prevent catastrophic residential fire breakouts. Your technician will check the wire insulation of your equipment as part of their evaluation. It will help prevent any short circuits in the future which is a common origin for the fire to start.

Maintaining your HVAC system has a lot of benefits that you couldn’t have possibly thought about. And yes, there is still a lot more to it. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for your seasonal maintenance program now!

For your trusted HVAC maintenance provider in Las Vegas area, visit us now at Johnny-On-The-Spot or call us (725) 977-9461. Your HVAC system is in good hands with our accredited HVAC experts!

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5 Questions To Consider When Buying An HVAC System

October 2nd, 2017

Before purchasing a new HVAC system, what should you consider? HVAC installation means choosing the right size and the right system for your home, then coordinating with your contractor on installation timing and ongoing maintenance. For Las Vegas homeowners, that decision is shaped by the desert climate, where proper sizing and system selection affect comfort, energy efficiency, monthly costs, and how long the equipment lasts.

If you’re planning to buy and install a residential HVAC system, these are the questions to ask before you commit. You’ll learn how to compare unit types, determine the right HVAC size, understand how long installation can take, review available incentives, and see why a maintenance program matters after the work is done.

What Size Is Best For My Home?

The first thing that you should consider is the compatibility of your ac unit size with the area of your house where it will be installed. Inappropriate size can cause your HVAC unit to function inefficiently or produce trouble instead of comfort. For Las Vegas homeowners in a desert climate, choosing the right air conditioning system starts with matching capacity to the home rather than guessing. If you have a small room, a small air conditioner will suffice. Likewise, larger rooms require larger HVAC units.

When a small air conditioner is installed in a large room, the system will work hard to meet your desired room temperature. The double effort causes the system to consume more energy which can result in higher monthly utility bills. And if you install a large HVAC in a small room, it won’t run as often as it should, resulting in high humidity levels. High humidity in the air produces mold and mildew which are hazardous to our health and a threat to our home’s interior.

What Type Of Air Conditioning Unit Do You Recommend?

This question is something you should ask your HVAC contractor. The type of unit will vary depending on the design or style and size of your home. Size should be based on your home’s square footage, sun exposure, current setup, and existing ductwork rather than room size alone. Discuss with your contractor whether a split type or packaged HVAC unit is advisable, how the indoor and outdoor units will fit your layout, how much space is available, and whether the noise level matches your comfort preferences. Tackle your options with them and ask for their recommendations on the right air conditioning system for your home, especially since planning an HVAC installation in Las Vegas requires attention to extreme desert climate and can affect which air conditioning system is the best fit. A Manual J load calculation helps determine the correct size for a new air conditioner.

Aside from the unit, considering the efficiency rating of the HVAC is also important. Make sure the new ac is sized properly for your home, because an oversized unit can leave uneven temperatures indoors, will not dehumidify properly, and will cycle too often. Improper sizing can reduce system efficiency by up to 30% and raise energy costs. The cooling system’s efficiency rating is referred to as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), and higher seer ratings mean a more efficient air conditioning system. In the Southwest, the federal minimum SEER2 is around 15 or 16, while high efficiency systems often start at 16 or higher. If your budget allows, ask about high efficiency units and other equipment, since a new system with stronger ratings can deliver lower utility bills over time. The heating system’s efficiency is expressed in Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF). Lastly, the furnace efficiency rating is called Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). Inspecting and sealing ductwork helps prevent poor airflow and supports a new system’s efficiency.

How Long Is The Installation Process?

Your HVAC contractor will provide you a contract that outlines the hvac installation process, including the start date and expected completion date for the project. Before work begins, the recommendation should account for the air conditioning system design, including whether the indoor and outdoor units fit the home and available space. Licensed contractors must obtain the necessary permits before installation, and permits are required for replacement work in Clark County and Las Vegas so this step ensures code compliance with local building codes and a smoother inspection. Make sure you are knowledgeable about the length of days it will take for the installation’s completion, and confirm site access such as gate codes, parking, and clear entry. Most jobs for hvac installation take one day to complete, though timing can vary based on the system and site conditions. It will help you avoid any unnecessary extra charges for the service.

Some homeowners also compare noise level when choosing a new air conditioner or new system.

For every specific unit, replacing an old system may involve removing old equipment, safely disconnecting the old system, recovering refrigerants, and handling disposal according to EPA rules before the new air conditioning system is set in place. Your selected model will influence the costs and time period for the installation. A new electrical connections or an electrical panel upgrade may also be needed, and electrical wiring must be handled by licensed professionals for proper installation. A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient air conditioner. High-efficiency systems often start around SEER 16 or higher, while the federal minimum SEER2 for the Southwest region is about 15 or 16. ENERGY STAR-rated equipment is also worth considering because it can reduce long-term utility bills even if the upfront cost is higher. A final walkthrough and final inspection confirm operation, answer homeowner questions, and verify the system meets local codes.

Does The Model Have Incentives?

A lot of energy-efficient models come with manufacturer rebates, which can lower the upfront cost. These rebates will help you save money and may also reduce long-term energy costs. You can ask your HVAC contractor about mail-in rebates, especially on high-efficiency systems that can help cut energy bills. You can also do some research to see if you qualify for any tax credits, and professional installation helps protect manufacturer warranties while DIY work can void warranty coverage.

Do They Offer A Maintenance Program?

Investing in a preventive HVAC maintenance program not only helps you save money but also keeps your HVAC system efficiently working throughout its lifespan. It only makes practical and financial sense to apply for an HVAC maintenance plan with the HVAC contractor who will perform the installation process, since licensed HVAC contractors help ensure compliance with local building codes and handle permit documentation tied to the original installation. It will help you build a positive working relationship with the company and its technicians since they will be familiar with your home’s structure and history better than anyone else. Incentives can also help offset the upfront cost of different system types, from central AC and heat pumps to ductless and geothermal options. Representative costs often range from $3,000 to $15,000 for central AC, $6,000 to $25,000 for heat pumps, $2,000 to $10,500 for ductless mini splits, $3,800 to $12,000 for gas furnaces, and $12,000 to $45,000 for geothermal heat pumps. High-efficiency units may cost more at first, but they can lower monthly utility bills and overall energy costs over time, especially when you are installing a new ac system in a hot climate. ENERGY STAR-rated models and Nevada standards aligned with the IECC can also affect rebate eligibility and long-term value.

When you apply for a maintenance program, an HVAC technician will come into your house at least twice a year to evaluate your system’s efficiency and conduct any minor repair when necessary. Technicians also use the necessary tools and wear protective equipment when handling HVAC components. If you smell gas or smoke, stop work and call authorities instead of inspecting the equipment yourself. Regular service can also catch poor airflow, strange noises, and frequent breakdowns before they turn into bigger problems or lead to AC repair needs.

Your HVAC system is a lifetime investment. Therefore, you should make careful decisions, rough estimates and conduct some researchers before you engage in purchases. Knowledge from HVAC contractors can also help you make the right decisions in buying an HVAC unit since they will provide you with helpful tips and suggestions. Working with licensed professionals and certified technicians also supports professional installation, helps protect manufacturer warranties and warranty coverage, and gives you a clear path to air conditioning installation services with an in home consultation and a free estimate; they must also obtain permits before work begins, and proper setup can help keep las vegas homes home cool while supporting home resale value.

For your Las Vegas HVAC concerns, visit us at Johnny On The Spot or call us at (725) 977-9461. Our experts will guide you all the way for your pre-purchasing concerns to after installation.

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HVAC Questions To Ask When Buying a Home

September 14th, 2017

The HVAC system should be on your list of priorities to check when buying a home. Depending on its condition, it’s one of the biggest financial costs on its own and affects your monthly bills. It also plays a major factor in the home’s livability, determining the resident’s comfort. Knowing what to ask helps you get the necessary information to spot current problems and foresee potential ones.

What type of HVAC system is installed?

The kind of HVAC system would gives you a good idea on the several important things to note. Older models run on Freon and are less energy efficient than the newer ones. Freon is currently being phased out so it might be more difficult to find and costly to replace. Newer refrigerants are cleaner and safer for the environment. Being less energy efficient is not only harmful to nature, but it also costs more to operate. Older systems could also be an indication of the system’s age. Bear in mind the average lifespan of an HVAC system is 10-15 years. If you do find a home close to this range, don’t immediately back out of the deal as quality regular maintenance would have a great impact on the machine’s condition.

Has the system seen regular servicing?

Ask for documentation. These would tell you what company they trusted to maintain and fix their HVAC units. Begin from the time of installation and have repairs and replacements included. You’ll find out both the company name and when it was installed so you get the exact age of the HVAC system. Take note whether they previous owners consistently stuck with a certain HVAC maintenance company or switched often. The latter would give cause for concern as a new technician would be unfamiliar with the machine’s history. This often results in a different level of care. Research on the companies who’ve previously serviced the HVAC units and ductwork, including repairs and replacements. Find out whether these were trusted names in their respective areas. Lack of regular maintenance would be cause for concern but provides leverage in negotiating the price of the home.

How effective and efficient is the system?

You can easily judge its effectiveness by the temperature levels of the different rooms. Inconsistency would tell you otherwise but be clear if there are rooms that require a different temperature than the rest. As a rule of thumb, older models are less efficient than newer ones. Take into account the brand name, too. Also, check for the Energy Efficiency Rating and the Energy Star rating. The former rates the performance of the machine at its best while the latter indicates the overall energy efficiency of the machine. The monthly utility costs would also indicate how much you’d be spending regularly to keep ideal temperatures in your home.

Is the warranty still effective and transferable?

Newer units are given lifetime warranties but are limited to only the original purchasers. Once the house is sold, the warranty ends as well. Others continue for just a short time after the transfer of ownership. If warranty does continue beyond the sale, request to have the documentation verifying this. Study the terms and conditions of the warranty carefully to prevent voiding it.

While these are questions you could ask and research on yourself, always have an inspector to help you properly evaluate the HVAC system’s condition and effectiveness. They’d be able to point out certain details only a trained eye would identify. With their years of experience, an inspector would also know what else to look for. For advice and service of reliable HVAC technicians, reach out to Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

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What Kind Of Air Filter Is The Best?

September 1st, 2017

Ever walked into the store to purchase an air filter only to find shelves upon shelves of them and not know which one to choose? It’s a common dilemma most homeowners face. In cases like these, it’s easy to go for the cheapest but you might not be getting the best one for you. It’s a simple task that, when done with lack of information and thought, could easily have serious effects on indoor air.

What Kind of Air Filter Is Best for Indoor Air Quality?

  • MERV 8 to MERV 13 filters: Ideal for most homes, capturing dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other common airborne particles.
  • Balanced filtration and airflow: These filters improve indoor air quality without restricting your HVAC system’s performance.
  • Higher MERV ratings: Provide greater particle removal but may reduce airflow if your system is not designed for them.
  • HEPA filters: Trap very fine particles like smoke and microscopic allergens but typically require specialized equipment or standalone air purifiers.

What Is a MERV Rating and Why Does It Matter for Your Air Filter?

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value ranks air filters according to how well they do their job at preventing air particles from entering your home and spreading around. It’s a scale of 1 to 20 with 1 as the lowest and 20 as the highest. While it sounds like getting the filter with the highest rating would be the smartest thing to do, not all HVAC systems were designed to carry powerful filters. Check if your HVAC fan can handle at least a MERV 16 filter. You can easily find this information in the manual but if you no longer have it, or the manual doesn’t state it, you can do a simple experiment.

Begin with lower rated air filters and move up a rank with every filter. Observe your HVAC and how it handles the new filter and check for signs of strain. You can also ask your trusted HVAC maintenance company for recommendations.

Other Air Filter Rating Scales You Should Know

Since the MERV isn’t mandatory, you might notice other brands using a different ranking system for their own filters. If you decide to opt for a filter from one of these, get to know their rating scale by doing a little research. Simply ask the manufacturers or go online. The information should be readily available. Do this before you decide to make your purchase.

Types of Mechanical Air Filters for Home HVAC Systems

Fiberglass: It’s the thinnest and simplest in design among the four and do the poorest job when it comes to improving air quality because it wasn’t made to do that. It’s purpose is only to protect your equipment and cost roughly around a dollar each.

MERV Rating: 1-4

Pleated: The higher the number of pleats per foot, the better the airflow which means it passes through the filter more frequently, giving you cleaner air each time. It shields your home from up to 45% of air pollutants at around $10 a piece. For homeowners looking to boost air quality affordably, pleated filters can be a smart and affordable choice.

MERV Rating: 10-13

High-efficiency: These filters offer the best value for residential owners. They can pick up extremely small particles and some come coated with bacteria-killing chemicals so your air isn’t only clean but safer and healthier. Other filters are created similar to your car’s air filter. Because of their highly efficient nature, hence the name, expect your operating costs to drop. They can filter up to 85% of pollutants from your indoor air and work well when combined with enhanced whole-home ventilation tips to ensure consistent air circulation.

MERV Rating: 14-16

True HEPA (or High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters: It’s the most effective in improving air quality but they’re normally not used for homes. Because of the gaps for airflow are so small, in order to filter 98% of air pollutants, they need stronger air pressure which most home HVAC systems don’t have.

MERV Rating: 17-20

Still trying to determine what air filter will work for your unit? Call Johnny’s today at (725) 977-9461 and we will help you determine what is right for your home!

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What does the MERV rating on an air filter mean?
Answer: The MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, measures how effectively an air filter captures airborne particles. The scale ranges from 1 to 20. Higher numbers indicate better filtration of smaller particles, but not every HVAC system is designed to handle the highest ratings without affecting airflow.

Question: What MERV rating is best for most homes?
Answer: For most residential HVAC systems, a MERV rating between 8 and 11 offers a strong balance between air filtration and system performance. These filters capture common pollutants like dust, pollen, and pet dander while still allowing proper airflow through the system.

Question: Are HEPA filters a good choice for residential HVAC systems?
Answer: True HEPA filters capture extremely small particles and provide advanced filtration. However, most standard home HVAC systems are not designed to handle the airflow resistance of HEPA filters. They are typically used in standalone air purifiers or specialized systems.

Question: What type of air filter is recommended for better indoor air quality?
Answer: Pleated air filters are commonly recommended for improving indoor air quality. They offer better particle capture than basic fiberglass filters and are available in various MERV ratings. Choosing the right pleated filter depends on your home’s air quality needs and HVAC system compatibility.

Question: How do I choose the right air filter for my HVAC system?
Answer: Start by checking your HVAC manufacturer’s recommendations for compatible MERV ratings. Then consider your indoor air concerns, such as allergies or pets. A mid range pleated filter is often ideal for general use, while higher rated options may benefit households with respiratory sensitivities.

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4 Mistakes You Are Making With A/C Maintenance

August 15th, 2017

During summer an air conditioning system is sort of a necessity to some residents for a cooler environment. It does help in so many ways from the struggles of the burning heat, which affects the state of persona in the household. However, there are a lot of considerations in owning an air conditioning system and most especially in the maintenance of it. Although their function is pretty simple, air conditioners are fairly complex machines that rely on several components to work properly. As such, even a small mistake can have huge ramifications for the whole AC unit and thus your home comfort. Here are 4 of the most common AC mistakes in the A/C maintenance.

What mistakes should I avoid with heating and cooling maintenance service?

Avoid these common mistakes to get the most out of your heating and cooling maintenance service:

  • Skipping seasonal maintenance before peak heating or cooling periods
  • Setting your thermostat too low or making frequent drastic changes
  • Not replacing or cleaning air filters regularly
  • Closing air vents or unused rooms, which strains your system

Consistent professional maintenance helps prevent these issues, keeping your HVAC system efficient and extending its lifespan.

Skipping Regular AC Maintenance

Maintenance is extremely important for appliances, especially for air conditioners. Failure to maintain your unit will cause it break down more often or wear out easily. It is advisable that you have a seasonal AC maintenance schedule and routinely check your air conditioner. When you’re switching from heating to cooling or the other way around, it is best to have it checked by a professional technician to ensure that all is well.

Thermostat Mistakes That Harm Your AC

If you still use the traditional thermostat, do not set it to a very low temperature at once. If your unit will skip temperatures, you will be wasting more energy and you’ll only make yourself uncomfortable due to rapid shifts in the temperature. Sudden changes like that could even lead to an AC emergency repair visit when you least expect it.

Forgetting to Replace AC Filters

Your HVAC system has an air filter that needs to be cleaned or replaced every so often, and this is one of the reasons seasonal AC maintenance matters. Depending on the type of unit and its amount of usage, you might need to change the filter as often as every three months or as little as once a year. Failing to change the filter will not only allow dirt and debris to build up, but will also reduce the efficiency of your overall system.

Why Closing Vents Can Hurt Your AC

You’ve probably heard people say that you can save money on heating and cooling costs by closing off rooms you don’t use. That may have worked in the days of wall-mounted air conditioners and fireplace heating, but with modern central air and heat systems, it actually has the opposite effect. Closing off rooms makes your system work harder, which makes your heating and cooling costs rise.

If you need a new air conditioner, make sure your contractor does a complete load calculation to determine exactly how much cooling capacity your home needs. By taking square footage, layout, insulation, and load-generating appliances into account, your HVAC professional can find your home’s cooling load and recommend an air conditioner that is perfectly sized to meet that cooling need. If you require professional help but don’t know where to start looking, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals over at Johnny On The Spot at (725) 977-9461.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What happens if I neglect regular A/C maintenance?
Answer: Neglecting regular maintenance causes your air conditioner to break down more often, wear out faster, and work inefficiently. It’s best to follow a seasonal maintenance schedule and have a professional check your system when switching between heating and cooling.

Question: How can incorrect thermostat use affect my A/C?
Answer: Setting a traditional thermostat to a very low temperature too fast wastes energy and may make your home uncomfortable due to rapid temperature swings. Gradual adjustments save energy and improve comfort.

Question: Why is changing the air filter important?
Answer: Your HVAC system’s air filter traps dirt and debris. If not cleaned or replaced regularly, typically every 3 months or as needed, it reduces airflow and system efficiency, which can increase energy use and wear on components.

Question: Does closing vents or rooms save on cooling costs?
Answer: No. With modern central HVAC systems, closing vents makes the system work harder, raising energy costs rather than lowering them. It’s better to keep vents open for balanced airflow.

Question: What is a good maintenance tip beyond these common mistakes?
Answer: In addition to avoiding mistakes like filter neglect, consider regular professional tuneups. Pro technicians can spot issues early and help extend your system’s lifespan, reduce costly repairs, and keep it running efficiently.

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