Johnny On the Spot Blog: Posts Tagged ‘Indoor Air Quality’

Why You Shouldn’t Miss Offers on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

Wednesday, October 10th, 2018

Indoor air quality (IAQ) should be a big deal for homes and businesses in the Las Vegas, Nevada, region. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that indoor air is often significantly more polluted than outdoor air. Add that to dry, dusty conditions in our region and indoor air quality can be a year-round battle. Your team at Johnny On The Spot is happy to offer air duct cleaning and IAQ services and savings to protect occupants of area homes and businesses.

Managing IAQ Threats

Dust, pollen, viruses, fungi, and chemicals are among the myriad airborne pollutants found in many homes and businesses. Volatile organic compounds or VOCs, are gases that come from commonly used items like carpet, deodorant, furniture, and paint. Tobacco smoke and pet dander are also a problem for many households. Depending on the nature of the business, indoor air quality can be a real concern.

Pollutants often settle in ductwork and re-enter the indoor air in greater amounts when the HVAC unit cycles on. Excessive dust around vents or on furnishings is a sign on IAQ problems. You might also notice a prevalent musty odor. However, it is important to bear in mind that you cannot see many IAQ threats and some, like carbon monoxide, are odorless and colorless.

Professional Solutions

You also won’t be able to see animal droppings or other debris that build up in the ductwork. We have the equipment and expertise to inspect and sanitize ducts. We also install Trane systems with high-efficiency filters. Be sure to check your air filter regularly and change it when it is dirty.

Contaminants in the air can cause sneezing, headaches, and dizziness or trigger respiratory problems. However, there can be serious long-term consequences like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or even cancer. Businesses and households can reduce medical costs by being vigilant about IAQ.

Free Estimates on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

Johnny On The Spot offers effective duct cleaning and IAQ services in the Las Vegas, Nevada area. Don’t hesitate to find out how you can get a free estimate on air duct cleaning and IAQ services. You’ll have the opportunity to check your indoor air so you can take action. Call us today at(725) 977-9461 to ensure you don’t miss out on this limited time offer!

Image provided by Shutterstock

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in HVAC, Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on Why You Shouldn’t Miss Offers on Air Duct Cleaning & IAQ Services

The Importance of Properly Sized HVAC Coils

Monday, September 17th, 2018

If you want to maintain a comfortable environment in your Henderson, Nevada, home, you have to make sure that your HVAC system is always in tiptop condition. Every component must work properly. HVAC coils transfer heat and moisture from inside your home to the outdoors, and they can cause several problems if they’re not the right size. Find out why it’s essential to have correctly sized coils in your HVAC system.

How HVAC Coils Work

There are two sets of coils in your HVAC system: evaporator and condenser coils. The evaporator coil, located in the indoor air handler, absorbs heat and moisture from the indoor air. Also known as the indoor coil, this component then transfers the heat to the condenser coils via refrigerant coils. The condenser coils then release the heat and moisture into the outdoor air. When the indoor and outdoor coils are the right sizes, your AC system will perform the heat transfer efficiently.

Problems With Incorrect Sizing

If the evaporator and condenser coils aren’t the right sizes, the one that is smaller will not be able to keep up with the larger design. As a result, your AC will have to work harder to keep you comfortable. The additional strain not only makes the system more susceptible to mechanical problems, but it will also cause an increase in your energy bills.

When to Replace Your HVAC Coils

If you need to replace one set of coils, you have to ensure the replacement matches the other set. It’s a good idea to replace both coils at the same time. You’ll avoid damage to your system or a complete system failure because of mismatched coils. If you’re wondering if there’s a problem with your HVAC coils, the best way to know is to consult our service specialists.

You might not be able to tell if the problem with your system is as a result of issues with your coils. Contact the experts at Johnny On The Spot today. We will examine your system and provide an honest assessment. Give us a call at(725) 977-9461 for expert solutions.

Image provided by Shutterstock

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in HVAC | Comments Off on The Importance of Properly Sized HVAC Coils

Three Simple Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Sunday, June 10th, 2018

Living in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area often means exposure to a fair amount of air pollution. The city frequently makes the list as one of the worst in the nation when it comes to air quality. While there’s nothing you can do about the outside air, there is plenty you can do to keep the air in your home clean. Follow these tips to improve your indoor air quality, and reduce allergies, asthma symptoms, and other health problems.

Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity levels impact indoor air quality, as air that is too moist can be a breeding ground for fungi and other allergens. Even worse, high humidity levels can increase the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are gas particles that products in your home release into the surrounding air. A dehumidifier will help to keep humidity between the optimum 30 to 50 percent levels.

Ditch the Chemicals

While keeping your home clean is essential for maintaining good air quality, you have to be careful what cleaning solutions you use. Many common cleaners contain hazardous chemicals that can cause side effects. Using these solutions could expose your household to harmful vapors for prolonged periods. Make the switch to natural cleaning products that do not have toxic ingredients.

Introduce Some Plants

Nature provides abundant, natural air cleaners in the form of plants. Common houseplants do a great job of absorbing air toxins and releasing pure oxygen. Plus, they’ll add a splash of color and bring life to your home. Choose plants like the peace lily, English ivy, variegated snake plant, or chrysanthemum to get the best results.

Your Air Cleaning Experts

While you can use the above steps to help improve your indoor air quality, you get better results when you incorporate professional duct cleaning. The expert service specialists at Johnny On The Spot will remove any buildup of particles so that the air you breathe is fresh and clean. Call us at(725) 977-9461 to get started today.

Image provided by Shutterstock

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on Three Simple Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Did You Know You Can Use a Heat Pump During the Cooling Season?

Thursday, May 10th, 2018

A heat pump is an energy-efficient HVAC system and an alternative to a furnace. However, did you know that these units also cool your home? Along with heating your home or business, a heat pump can provide the cooling you need to get through a Las Vegas, Nevada, summer. Learn more about how a heat pump works and the options and features available in today’s designs.

How a Heat Pump Works

Heat energy is present in the air, the ground and water. A heat pump works by moving heat from one area to another. In the winter, it extracts heat from the energy source and releases warm air indoors. In the summer, it reverses this action to remove heat from your property and release it outside. Heat pumps accomplish this process via a reversing valve which allows you to switch the unit between heating and cooling modes.

Types of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are either geothermal (ground-source or water-source) or air source. We carry air-source heat pumps that offer benefits like:

  • Two-stage Cooling
  • Efficient Performance
  • Energy Savings
  • Durability
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality
  • High Efficiency Ratings
  • Quiet Operation

Geothermal systems transfer heat energy between the ground or a nearby source of water and your property. They’re more costly to install but cheaper to operate, more durable, and suitable for extreme climates. An absorption system uses gas or another heat source to heat and cool your property. Air-source heat pumps are the most common option. They transfer air between the outdoors and your property. Heat pumps are a worthwhile option for indoor comfort since you get year-long comfort from just one unit.

Choosing Your Heat Pump

Your team at Johnny On The Spot is proud to partner with Trane in bringing you innovative HVAC systems. If you need an upgrade, contact us today at(725) 977-9461 to learn more about heat pumps. You can trust our expert team for accurate installation services. We’ll make sure you choose the system that is right for your home or business. Call now to get started.

Image provided by Trane

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Heat Pumps, Heating | Comments Off on Did You Know You Can Use a Heat Pump During the Cooling Season?

Never Cleaned Your Ducts? Learn Why Duct Cleaning Is Important

Sunday, April 22nd, 2018

Your HVAC system’s ductwork distributes heated and cooled air throughout your Las Vegas, NV, home or business. However, because ducts are hidden behind walls, under crawl spaces and in attics, they’re easy to forget. Ducts need maintenance as much your visible HVAC equipment. Here’s why it’s a good idea to invest in duct cleaning for your residential or commercial property.

It Improves Indoor Air Quality for Better Health

Over time, ducts can become infested with allergens and contaminants that cause short and long-term illnesses. Pet dander, dust mites, pollen, bacteria, viruses, spores, and pests can take up residence in the dark and humid environment of the ductwork. Whenever your HVAC system cycles on, these particles can blow into your Las Vegas home and pollute your indoor air. Duct cleaning removes these pollutants from your ducts so that the air you breathe is clean and not detrimental to your health.

Duct Cleaning Increases HVAC Efficiency

Dirt, dust, debris and other obstructions can also impede airflow through the ducts and overwork your system. Overworked HVAC components break down easily, and this wear and tear can also shorten your system’s lifespan because of the damage to the equipment over time. If the units have to work harder to maintain even basic performance levels, energy usage and utility bills will likely increase. Getting rid of ductwork gunk that obstructs airflow helps to keep indoor comfort high and energy bills low.

You Save Money by Preventing Duct Leaks

The buildup of particles can damage your ducts. Ductwork will develop cracks and leaks through which heated and cooled air escapes. The US Department of Energy estimates that the average home loses 20 to 30 percent of treated air through leaky and poorly-connected ducts. During duct cleaning, our technicians will identify any problems and provide honest recommendations. Sealing duct leaks will also prevent energy loss, increase HVAC efficiency and decrease utility bills.

Learn more about how duct cleaning and preventive maintenance protect your equipment, maximize indoor comfort, reduce energy consumption, and improve indoor air quality to support good health. Contact your service specialists at Johnny On The Spot by calling(725) 977-9461.

Image provided by Shutterstock

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Air Conditioning, Heating, HVAC | Comments Off on Never Cleaned Your Ducts? Learn Why Duct Cleaning Is Important

How Spring AC Maintenance Helps You Beat the Summer Heat

Tuesday, April 10th, 2018

With an average annual high of 80 degrees and sweltering summer weather that routinely brings triple-digit temperatures, it’s not easy to keep your cool in the Las Vegas, NV, area. It also isn’t cheap. Effective air conditioning is virtually mandatory to live comfortably in the region, and that can often mean high energy costs. While devices like smart thermostats can offer some energy savings, one of the best energy efficiency boosters is also the simplest: routine maintenance. To learn more, let’s take a look at how spring AC maintenance can help you keep your cool – and your cash.

Prepare Your System for Battle

You wouldn’t embark on a cross-country trip without ensuring your car is tuned up and well-maintained, so why head into the scorching heat of summer without making sure your HVAC system is up to the task? Dirty air filters alone can sap up to 15 percent of your system’s energy. Leaky ducts, worn-out mechanical components, and other potential issues could be preventing your HVAC system from operating properly. Professional inspection and a routine maintenance program can identify and correct these problems during spring. We’ll ensure that you benefit from optimal energy efficiency and real savings on your utility bills when the time comes for you to crank up the air conditioning.

Routine Maintenance Can Boost Reliability

While installing a high-quality air conditioning system is certainly a worthwhile investment, having to replace an existing system that has failed is a surprise that no one wants. HVAC system failures are especially problematic in the summer when an unexpected breakdown can mean having to suffer through the heat until you arrange for a new installation. Regular AC maintenance is a great way to boost the service life and reliability of your system, so you save money on repairs and safeguard your home against a system failure at the worst possible time.

An effective and efficient HVAC system is a must-have when you live in the Las Vegas area. To find out what you can do to keep your system working at its best for years to come, check out Johnny On The Spot’s comprehensive maintenance services or call(725) 977-9461 to speak with a helpful representative today.

Image provided by Trane

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Air Conditioning | Comments Off on How Spring AC Maintenance Helps You Beat the Summer Heat

All You Need to Know About Ductless AC Units

Friday, March 16th, 2018

If you’re in the process of remodeling or adding on to your Summerlin, NV, home, then you are likely thinking of ways to make your home more comfortable without breaking the bank. A ductless AC unit could go a long way toward giving you the energy-saving and comfort benefits you seek. Ductless AC units offer many benefits that their ducted partner cannot—like greater control and improved indoor air quality.

Get in the Zone for Comfort

Flexibility is a significant advantage of ductless AC units or ductless mini-split systems. These units consist of an indoor component that connects to an outdoor compressor via a narrow tube. This design, and the fact that they do not use ducts mean you can easily install them in any room. You can choose single-zone or multi-zone systems.

Each unit comes with a remote control, so persons can set the temperature they prefer in their area or zone. You put an end to thermostat wars with this customization, and you can also activate the system only when needed, so you save energy. Occupants can customize heating and cooling without changing the temperature throughout the house.

Great for Indoor Air Quality

The absence of ductwork means you eliminate the problem of debris collecting in ducts and then circulating through rooms in your home or building. Ductless mini-splits have multi-stage filtration that removes dust, pollen and other contaminants.

Their design also makes cleaning and maintenance easy. Don’t let the IAQ advantage go to waste by neglecting to schedule seasonal tuneup for your ductless AC.

Energy and Cost Efficient

You save energy with a ductless AC. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a ductless mini-split uses 60% less energy than standard electric home heating systems. This is because they transfer rather than, generate heat. Similarly, in cooling mode, you can reduce cooling costs by 30% compared to conventional ACs. Their compressors and fans adjust speeds, so you save energy.

If you’re thinking about upgrading or adding to your home, then maybe you should give ductless AC units some serious consideration. If you would like to learn more about these systems, call Johnny On The Spot today at(725) 977-9461.

Image provided by Shutterstock

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on All You Need to Know About Ductless AC Units

How To Change Your Air Filter

Friday, 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.

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on How To Change Your Air Filter

What Kind Of Air Filter Is The Best?

Friday, 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 long-term impacts on health, equipment lifespan and total expenses.

MERV Rating

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 Rating Scales

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.

Kinds of Mechanical Filters

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.

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.

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!

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Indoor Air Quality | Comments Off on What Kind Of Air Filter Is The Best?

Why Should I Upgrade My Thermostat?

Friday, June 30th, 2017

A programmable thermostat is a valuable investment although you may not realize it. With a programmable thermostat, you’ll be able to control your home’s temperature at any hour on a certain day of your choice. Apart from that, it also has a great impact on your home energy efficiency. In order for you attain energy efficiency, you should update or upgrade to a programmable thermostat. Here are some reasons why:

How Programmable Thermostats Work

A programmable thermostat will obviously allow you to program a more definite heating and cooling schedule. Once you set the program, the programmable thermostat will do the rest of the operation that it is programmed to do. It will eventually turn your system on or off at the time it is scheduled to do so. Some of them even come with remote settings where you are able to access the unit’s settings using your mobile device or desktop.

How Do These Thermostats Help Save Money?

The amount you save on your energy bill each month will depend on what thermostat model you are using. The basic models can help you save about 15 percent of your energy bill while the most advanced ones can help save you up to 20 percent or more. This, of course, is true if your HVAC system is also under in a good condition.

Features Made for Your Convenience

The different designs of modern thermostats come in plenty of excellent features. There are models with filter replacement reminders, intelligent system management, and energy-use tracking capabilities. They also manage your system’s airflow, ventilation, and indoor air quality and so much more. Many models are Wi-Fi capable so you can access your thermostat’s setting on the go. Now that’s awesome, right?

Improve Your Home’s Comfort

Helping you save money is not the only thing that your new thermostat can do. Modern thermostats have the ability optimize your home comfort as well. If you program your thermostat to a certain temperature prior to your family’s arrival, the temperature you desire will already be circulating your home. You will always return to a comfortable atmosphere in your home.

True enough, modern thermostats, specifically the programmable thermostats, may be expensive. However, your benefits from it far outweigh the cost. Investing in it won’t cause you any regrets because the return on your savings is long term and bigger than how much you spent for it.

Do you have questions regarding programmable thermostats? Would you like to know more about their function and efficiency? Or perhaps you need more advice on how to use your thermostats to their full potential? Don’t hesitate to talk to one of our professional technicians. Call Johnny On The Spot now at (725) 977-9461 or visit our website for more useful information.

Continue Reading

Tags: , ,
Posted in Heating | Comments Off on Why Should I Upgrade My Thermostat?