The United States Department of Energy has changed the air conditioner and heat pump rating system from SEER, EER and HSPF to SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2. These new ratings better reflect the real-world conditions in which these air conditioners and heat pumps are being installed. Upgrading to an air conditioner or heat pump with the new ratings will help you maximize efficiency and comfort in your home.
Air conditioning is a process that involves the removal of heat and moisture from the air in a room or building. It works by using a refrigerant, a chemical that can change from a gas to a liquid and back again very easily. The air conditioning process involves several components, including:
- Compressor: The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant gas to a high pressure and temperature.
- Condenser: The hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas then moves to the condenser where it releases heat to the outside environment, causing the refrigerant to condense into a liquid.
- Expansion valve: The expansion valve is a small device that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant liquid, causing it to evaporate into a gas again. This process absorbs heat from the surrounding air, cooling it down.
- Evaporator: The evaporator is where the cold refrigerant gas absorbs heat from the indoor air, cooling it down and causing the moisture in the air to condense into water.
- Fan: A fan blows the cooled air back into the room, while another fan blows the warm air outside.
The process of refrigerant gas being compressed, condensed, expanded, and evaporated continues in a cycle, constantly removing heat and moisture from the indoor air until the desired temperature and humidity level is reached. This cycle is controlled by a thermostat, which turns the air conditioning system on and off as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
Your air conditioner is a vital component of your home, keeping you cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. However, like any piece of equipment, your air conditioner requires regular maintenance in order to keep it running at peak efficiency. But how often should you maintain your air conditioner? The experts at A.J. LeBlanc Heating have the answer.
Mini split air conditioning systems are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners, thanks to their energy efficiency, ease of installation, and cost savings. However, some homeowners may be tempted to install a mini split themselves, in order to save money on installation costs. At A.J. LeBlanc Heating, we strongly advise against this approach, and believe that it is important to rely on a professional HVAC contractor for your mini split installation needs. Here's why:
Refrigerant leaks in mini splits, heat pumps, and air conditioners are a common problem that can lead to a range of issues. Not only do they reduce the system's efficiency, but they can also pose a threat to the environment and human health. Learn about the different types of refrigerant leaks and how they can be detected and repaired.
Heat pumps are an efficient and cost-effective way to heat and cool your home, but like any HVAC system, they have special sequences of operation that keep them functioning properly. One important aspect of heat pumps operation is the defrost cycle. It is important for homeowners to understand that steam may come off the outdoor condenser during the defrost process.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of cooling efficiency for air conditioners and heat pumps. It represents the average number of BTUs of cooling provided by each watt-hour of electricity used, over an entire cooling season. While SEER testing protocols conducted in laboratories are precise and reliable, they occur in strictly controlled environments that differ significantly from the varied conditions encountered in a typical home setting. Consequently, the SEER rating of an air conditioning unit might not always accurately predict the actual energy consumption you can expect in your home.
Understanding the 410A Refrigerant Phase-Out and the Transition to R32 and R454B
The HVAC industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the phase-out of the 410A refrigerant. This change is driven by global environmental concerns and regulatory mandates aimed at reducing the impact of refrigerants on climate change. As we move away from 410A, the industry is embracing new, more eco-friendly alternatives: R32 and R454B. Let's delve into the reasons behind this transition and what it means for consumers and HVAC professionals.
