6 Emergency Power Outage Preparedness Tips

The US Department of Energy (DOE) says that there were about 679 power outages in America between 2003 and 2012. What’s more, research from the University of Minnesota shows that the number of non-disaster-related blackouts increased 124% between 1991 and 2010.

These figures show that blackouts in the US have become more severe over the last two decades. For instance, seven of the ten costliest power outages in American history occurred between 2004 and 2012. These outages include the 2015 blackout attributed to Hurricane Karina, the 2012 outage attributed to Hurricane Sandy and the 2012 outage attributed to a windstorm. The effects of these outages included a rise in fatalities, property damage and more. With that in mind, here are six emergency power outage preparedness tips:

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Alternative Lighting Option

You should invest in several alternative lighting options to help meet your lighting needs during a power outage. Examples of such options include candles, oil lamps, solar lights, battery powered flashlights, solar lighting system and LED lights.

Unplug Electrical Equipment

A power surge can damage electrical equipment. For this reason, you should unplug all your electrical equipment as soon as you experience a blackout.

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Always use cooking appliances that emit carbon monoxide outdoors. Such appliances include charcoal grills and camping stoves. Additionally, do not use gasoline or propane-powered equipment such as a portable generator in poorly ventilated areas such as the garage. This is because such appliances emit carbon monoxide as they burn fuel. So,  they could potentially cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Better yet, you should have a carbon monoxide detector at hand because you will likely use an appliance that emits carbon monoxide fumes during a prolonged blackout.

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Powered Medical Devices

If you use a battery-powered medical device or rely on medical equipment that requires power, you should inform your power company in advance. By letting them know, they can prioritize the response to your home. More importantly, you should have backups for all your vital medical equipment/devices.

Garage Door

Learn how to operate your garage door manually. If you are unable to memorize the process, you should keep your owner’s manual somewhere where you would be able to retrieve it easily in the event of an emergency such as a power outage.

Standby Generator

A standby generator is probably the most important equipment during a power outage. This is because it will power all your other electrical equipment, including your HVAC system, which would ensure your home remains comfortable and habitable even in extreme weather conditions such as frigid winters or sweltering summers. Your standby generator would also power your communication gadgets, thereby ensuring you remain connected to the rest of the world,. This is important because you may require some form of assistance. Finally, your generator would help you observe food and water safety by powering your refrigerator and water purification system. Of course, to enjoy these benefits and peace of mind, you should install a standby generator that would be able to meet your energy demands in the event of a power outage.

 

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Standby Generator Edison NJ

The frequency of power outages in America has been increasing steadily over the last two decades. For this reason, you should prepare for an emergency power outage. Some of the things you can do to prepare for such an event include investing in alternative lighting options, learning to operate your garage door manually, installing a carbon monoxide detector, informing your power company about your medical needs (if you have any), and installing a standby generator.

Skylands Energy specializes in the installation of standby generators. Avoid all of the inconveniences of dealing with a power outage by having a generator installed. This will save you money from spoiling food and it adds value to your home. It keeps your home comfortable, regardless of what the temperature is outside. Keep your family safe by installing a standby generator before your next power outage.

We service Colonia NJ 07067, Dunellen NJ 08812, Edison NJ 08817, Fords NJ 08863, Highland Park NJ 08904, Iselin NJ 08830, Keasbey NJ 08832, Metuchen NJ 08840, Milltown NJ 08850, New Brunswick NJ 08901, Parlin NJ 08859, Piscataway NJ 08854, Sayreville NJ 08871, Somerset NJ 08873, South Plainfield NJ 07080, South River NJ 08877, and surrounding areas in New Jersey.

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How Much Does Ductless Heating and Cooling System Cost in New Jersey?

Mitsubishi split-unit ductless systems are fantastic heating and cooling solutions for homeowners and businesses in Central New Jersey. Homeowners that have ductless solutions are extremely pleased with the efficiency, cost savings and quiet operation of these systems. Additionally, they love the high level comfort that they offer. From a cost perspective, the high SEER/HSPF ratings deliver superb energy efficiency thereby reducing your energy costs. This results in a quick payback and return on investment.

How much should a homeowner expect to pay for a ductless AC system installed in New Jersey?

One factor that plays an important role with the installation costs is the familiarity and experience that your NJ HVAC contractor has with ductless technology. Ductless technology is not new however, not all HVAC contractors are well versed with installing and maintaining these systems.

Mini-split heat pump technology was introduced in the 1970s. Unfortunately, mini-split systems did not gain the same popularity as they did in Japan during their early years. Interestingly, in Japan, ductless accounts for 90% of all HVAC systems sold and in more than 80% in Europe.

In the United States, the growth of ductless technology was slower. This is largely due to contractor’s unfamiliarity, limited access to information and the absence of rebates, tax credits and discount incentives. However, high energy savings have caused major utility companies, government agencies and homeowners to take notice. Today, the financial incentives associated with ductless technology has made it one of the fastest growing segments in the HVAC industry in New Jersey.

 

 

Not All Ductless Contractors Are Created Equal

It is important to realize that not all New Jersey HVAC contractors have experience with ductless technology. While the concept of mini-split heat pumps is simple installation, having the appropriate experience will ensure that your installation is a smooth process.

NJ homeowners should hire experienced, ductless, mini-split installers for their home. Be sure to ask your contractor how long they have been installing ductless heat pump heating and cooling systems. Be sure to ask how many ductless systems they have installed. Also ask if they have installed ductless units in homes similar to yours.

Mitsubishi offers additional benefits when a ductless system is installed by one of their trained, certified contractors. Skylands Energy Service is proud to be associated with Mitsubishi Electric Ductless systems, and proud to be recognized as one of Central NJ’s Mitsubishi Diamond Contractors.

 

 

How Much Does a Mitsubishi Ductless System Cost?

There are several factors that go into the pricing of a ductless installation such as;

• The type of unit (AC only, heat & air conditioning, hyperheat, etc)
• The number of areas (or zones) being conditioned
• The size of the unit(s) (BTU’s)
• The capacity of your existing electrical panel
• The degree of difficulty of the installation (How far the indoor and outdoor units are from each other, the construction of the outer wall to be drilled to carry the line sets, etc.)
• Configuration of your system

There are endless possibilities when it pertains to ductless installations because of the flexibility of the installations. This results in pricing that varies across the spectrum. However, all NJ ductless installations consist of these basic parts:

AT LEAST ONE INDOOR WALL UNIT (EVAPORATOR/AIR HANDLER)

AN OUTDOOR CONDENSER

AND, WIRING, LINE SETS AND A DRAIN TO CONNECT THE TWO TOGETHER



 

 

Pricing For Single Zone Ductless Installations in NJ

Professional installations by Skylands Energy Service for a basic, single zone Mitsubishi mini-split system will cost between $3,500 and $5,000. This installation includes one wall unit, one condenser and a line set connecting the outdoor unit to the indoor unit. This installation is perfect for many kinds of situations such as conditioning the air in a sun room, a pool house, a single room, garage, attic, and some smaller homes.

Pricing For Multi-Zone New Jersey Ductless Installations

Homeowners that require multiple zones, the installation will consist of 2, 3, 4 or 5 units. This is completely dependent on the floor plan and layout of your home and what works best for your family’s lifestyle.

A multi-zone system consisting of two indoor evaporator units typically runs between $7,000 and $10,000. A more complex multi-zone system that has 4 zones will run anywhere from $14,000 t0 $17,000.

An attractive feature of ductless solutions is the ability to add-on indoor units in the future. If you anticipate having a need to expand, we can design a system that will accommodate future indoor zones from a single outdoor condenser. This allows you to add a zone(s) based upon your household budget.

At first glance, the cost of ductless heating and air conditioning can seem steep. However, the savings in energy efficiency will soon add up, making this a very attractive investment.

 

 

Ductless Heating & Air Conditioning vs. Central Heating & Air Conditioner

Due to the fact that ductless systems do not require bulky and intrusive ductwork throughout the home, there is no loss of energy result from air flow. In traditional, ducted HVAC systems, the hot or cold air is generated in the basement or attic and then distributed throughout the home via a network of ducts. The average central forced air system experiences a 20% loss of the system’s energy consumption in ductwork. Conversely, ductless systems do not have ducts and therefore no energy loss in the ductwork.

Additionally, the long term maintenance costs of ductless systems is less expensive than a ducted HVAC system. Ductless systems also offer the flexibility to turn on or off a single zone based on usage helps to conserve the total amount of energy being consumed. Finally, when NJ homeowners consider very attractive rebate programs and payment plans, ductless heating and cooling solutions save money over the long run.

Do You Want a Ductless System Installed In Your NJ Home or Business?

If you are ready to get a ductless system installed, you will need an experienced and qualified installer, like Skylands Energy. If you are interested in learn more about ductless solutions for your home, call us at (908) 707-1776 to schedule a free, no obligation, in-home consultation with one of our Home Comfort Specialists or click the button below to schedule an appointment online. Download our Ductless product guide for more details on system specifications, etc.

 

Here is an infographic that provides more great info about ductless, provided by the folks at Gemaire:

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Why Would A Bridgewater Oil Company Service Home Air Conditioning Systems?

There are many companies that deliver heating oil to provide the warmth that you require during the cold NJ winters. However, some of these companies also offer HVAC services such as air conditioning system maintenance. It makes sense considering both of these services enhance the comfort of your home when there are extreme temperatures outside.

Your air conditioning system plays a significant role in the improvement of your home’s internal environment. That is why it is critical that you take good care of it to ensure it continues operating efficiently. When you notice that  your AC is not working as it should, it is important for you to get in touch with an air conditioner maintenance service company to have a look at it.

The Benefits Of Bridgewater AC Service And Tune-Ups

Regular professional A/C maintenance offers many benefits to your air conditioning system. Here are just a few:

Reduces Requirement For Repairs

A great way to maintain your AC and prevent repairs is by giving it regular AC tune-ups. Many repairs on a home’s cooling system are avoidable with proper maintenance, according to HVAC experts. Technicians, that perform regular maintenance, are able to detect problems with components before they escalate in major issues. They can do this to prevent the failure of the A/C unit. For example, this early detection allows them to tighten loose connections and fix them right away which avoids expensive repairs later on.

Improved Comfort Level

Tune-ups clean the system’s components as a way to ensure proper maintenance. Regularly and properly performed maintenance helps your air conditioner perform at top efficiency. This also provides the cool and refreshing air to you and your family. Your home will feel far more comfortable and cool even when the weather is blazing hot outside.

Energy Efficiency Increased

When a homeowner installs a new AC in their home, they need to consider the air conditioner’s capacity to do this. Additionally, the homeowner needs to question how much it will cost for the air conditioner to cool their home. After it has been in use for years, any air conditioning system will lose some of its energy efficiency. You can ensure this doesn’t happen by having regular tune-ups on your A/C unit. Any components that are found to be faulty can be replaced during maintenance and that ensures that its efficiency isn’t compromised. The result is that your and your family can enjoy comfortable conditions at lower cooling costs.

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What To Look For In An AC Service Company Bridgewater NJ

Now that you know more about how regular professional AC tune-ups can benefit you, we should take a good look at how to choose a quality air conditioner service company.

Licensed And Insured

Any AC service company you hire should have current insurance and a license to practice their trade. There are a couple of ways that you will benefit from a company that holds an insurance policy. First, you will not be held liable when a technician is injured while working at your home. Secondly, it also ensures that you will not incur loss in the event that the technician damages your home while servicing your air conditioner.

A current license is important since it acts as proof that the company has received appropriate training. It also means that they are updated on current trends in the air conditioning system industry.

Experienced Knowledgeable Technicians

Search for qualified, experienced, knowledgeable A/C technicians. They should also have all the equipment required to perform the work. When a technician comes to your home to inspect your AC, they should be able to quickly prescribe a solution without the need for numerous questions or an internet search.

Highly Recommended

The best way to know you will get high-quality service is to ask friends and family for recommendations. You can also do some homework. Go online and look at their reviews. Make sure that you don’t spot any red flags. In addition, look for any patterns of poor service.

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What Is Generally Involved In Air Conditioner Tune-Up Services In Bridgewater?

A few things involved with AC tune-ups are:

• The HVAC technician inspects and cleans the coils. This ensures the efficient exchange of heat.
• A tune-up includes an inspection of the air ducts. He looks for obstructions, damage and leaks.
• To prevent damage caused by friction, moving parts receive lubrication.
• The technician will flush the drain and clean the condensate pan. This prevents clogging.
• A tune-up involves the inspection of your electrical components. The tech will tighten electrical connections or any loose wiring. He will inspect the terminals to see if there is any damage on them. He will also apply a non-conductive coating to help prevent corrosion.

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Central AC Bridgewater NJ

By regularly maintaining your air conditioning system, you will avoid unnecessary repairs. At the same time, you will enhance your home’s comfort. Even better than that, your AC system will operate more efficiently and require less energy to do its job. This is the best way to reduce your cooling costs. To receive all these benefits, be sure to contact a reputable HVAC services company right away.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776 

Skylands Energy Service specializes in HVAC services including air conditioner tune-ups, cooling repair services, and the installation of new air conditioning systems. We work with many different makes and models of heating and cooling systems, including ductless systems. Be sure to contact Skylands Energy to schedule a free consultation. Our NATE-certified technicians can get the job done in a quick, clean, and professional manner. They have the skills, knowledge, and years of experience to find the best energy efficient home comfort solutions to suit your needs.

We service Bound Brook NJ 08805, Bridgewater NJ 08807, Manville NJ 08835, Martinsville NJ 08836, Pluckemin NJ 07978, Raritan NJ 08869, Somerville NJ 08876, Zarephath NJ 08890, and surrounding areas.

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The Pros And Cons Of Ductless Heating And Cooling

Ductless heating and cooling systems are popular in Europe and Japan due to their energy efficiency and ease of installation. With this being said, this article covers the pros and cons of ductless heating and cooling systems.

An Overview Of Ductless Heating And Cooling

Ductless heating and cooling systems rely on a pair of indoor and outdoor units to warm and cool indoor spaces. Unlike traditional heating/cooling systems, ductless units utilize heat pump technology to distribute warm/cool air throughout a building. Their major components include an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a control unit.

Pros

Easy To Install

The modular nature of ductless heating and cooling systems makes them easy to install. In fact, a qualified and experienced HVAC technician can install this type of heating/cooling system in a day or even less. This is largely because there are no ducts to install, which translates to minimal changes to your home’s structural edifice. Remember, traditional heating/cooling systems involve installation of ducts throughout a building, which is physically demanding.

Environmentally Friendly

Unlike traditional heating and cooling systems that use R-22 refrigerant, ductless systems use a refrigerant called R410A, an hydrofluorocarbon compound. This is particularly important because R410A lacks ozone-depleting chlorine atoms. In fact, appliances are being phased out that have ozone-depleting R-22 refrigerant. This is in accordance with global environmental regulations such as the Clean Air Act and the Accelerated Phaseout of Class I Ozone Depleting Substances regulation.

Energy Efficient

According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), ductless heating and cooling systems use 60% less energy than traditional systems. They are designed to transfer rather than generate heat. What’s more, Energy Star certified ductless units can lower cooling and heating costs by up to 30% compared to conventional heater and air conditioning systems. This can help you reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs significantly.

 

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Cons

Cost

The average cost of a ductless system that supports a single indoor heating/cooling unit ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, meaning it is not suitable for consumers who cannot afford the substantial upfront investment. If you want a system with multiple heating/cooling units, expect to spend even more. Luckily, some states and utility companies offer significant tax credits and rebates to consumers who install ductless systems. Also, ductless systems significantly reduce energy costs as mentioned earlier. For these reasons, there is a good return on investment.

Maintenance Costs

Since ductless systems contain more components than ducted systems, they can be more expensive to maintain and service. For instance, ducted systems typically have a single indoor air handler, whereas ductless systems have multiple indoor air handlers. However, traditional ducted systems need maintenance as well.  Ducted systems actually end up costing more to be serviced because the ducts need to be maintained as well.

Ductless Air Conditioner Clinton NJ

If you are planning to buy a HVAC unit, consider ductless heating and cooling systems. They are more energy efficient than conventional units. Ductless systems are easy to install, and environmentally friendly. However, ductless heating/cooling units are more expensive than traditional HVAC systems initially. Even so, the initial cost is returned quickly because they are so energy efficient.

Skylands Energy Service specializes in many different makes and models of air conditioning systems, including ductless heating and cooling systems. For maintenance, repair, or installation of your HVAC system, be sure to contact Skylands Energy. Our NATE-certified technicians get the job done and will do so in a clean and professional manner. Their skills, knowledge, and years of experience will help them find the best energy efficient home comfort solutions for you.

We service Annandale NJ 08801, Clinton NJ 08809, Glen Gardner NJ 08826, Hampton NJ 08827, High Bridge NJ 08829, Lebanon NJ 08833, Pittstown NJ 08867, Quakertown NJ 08868, Stanton NJ 08885, and surrounding areas.

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Tips For Choosing An HVAC Filter

Air conditioning is essential for comfort in the modern home. Anyone with an AC system knows that these systems require filters to operate correctly. While the market offers many kinds of air filters, most homeowners do not understand how to choose a good filter. If you know what to look for when you shop for air filters, it is much easier to select the correct one for your AC system.

Kinds Of Air Filters

At the typical hardware store, you are faced with many different types of filters of various prices and qualities. Residential air conditioning systems use mechanical air filters. These filters work by trapping dust, debris and particulate materials on their synthetic fibers.

Air conditioning filters are rated using the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. The MERV scale ranges from 1 to 16, and superior filters have the highest rating. The MERV system is based on the porosity of the filter when trapping particles. They range in size from 0.3 to 10 microns.

Types Of Residential Air Filters:

Fiberglass: These filters use a thin, flat panel to trap particulate matter from the air. While they protect the HVAC system itself, they are unable to remove the very small, yet harmful contaminants that may affect your health. These filters are cheap and usually disposable and carry a 1 to 4 MERV rating.

Pleated: Made from paper or polyester, these filters offer a MERV rating of 5 to 8. They cost more than fiberglass filters, but also provide better filtration. They are able to catch smaller particles that include such health hazards as pet dander, lint, mold spores, dust and pollen. Higher quality, and more expensive, pleated filters have a MERV rating between 9 and 13. These filters offer the ability to capture more particles from the air while providing a better airflow. They include more pleats per inch, which increases their efficiency, and are able to filter up to 45% of the particulate matter that is floating in the air of the home.

High Efficiency: These filters offer a MERV rating from 14 to 16. They are often confused with true HEPA filters because they look very similar. High efficiency filters have the ability to remove 85% of the pollutants from the air. However, they are not ideal for use in residential air conditioning systems, even though they capture very small particles of dust, mold and pollen.

Air Filter Efficiency And Indoor Air Quality

The filter rating is a key factor in determining the quality of the air inside a home. An effective air filter provides the primary protection for the HVAC system and residents of the home against the pollutants that float in the air. The efficiency of the filter describes its ability to purify the indoor air by trapping the airborne particles by size.

Filters are tested to determine their efficiency by finding their performance using 3 size ranges (3-10 microns, 1-3 microns and 0.3 to 1 micron). The efficiency of the filter determines the MERV rating. The most efficient filters have the highest MERV rating, 16. One recent study suggests that a filter with a minimum MERV rating of 9 can remove mold spores, automobile emissions and other small pollutants that might affect a home occupant health while allowing the HVAC system to operate efficiently.

Regular Replacement Of Air Filters Is Necessary

While most residents understand that it is important to replace the air filters in their HVAC system regularly, many tend to ignore or put off the task. Understanding the effect of a dirty filter on the air conditioning system helps them understand why regular replacement is essential. Clogged air filters affect HVAC systems in the following ways:

Energy Consumption: A filter that is clogged by debris increase the energy the system consumes. The clog affects the rate at which air enters the system. This causes the fan motor to work harder to force the air through the clog. The system requires more energy to cool the home and utility bills increase.

Overheating: Fan motors that struggle to move additional air are under more stress and could overheat or burn out. The overheating could eventually lead to system failure.

Heat Exchanger Damage: The clogged filter causes excess heat to accumulate in the heat exchanger, which can lead to cracks. Cracked heat exchangers increase the risk of fire and can require you to replace the whole system. The cracks can also allow carbon monoxide to seep into the home.

To increase efficiency, change air filters a minimum of once per month. This is especially important during the hottest months of the year. This is when systems are operating at maximum capacity. This enhances better system efficiency. Many thermostats have a function that reminds you when it is time to change a filer, but if yours does not simply use the reminder function on your cell phone.

When Is It time To Upgrade Your AC System?

 

 

High Efficiency Air Conditioning Air Filters

While high efficiency air filters are more expensive, they offer several beneficial features. They reduce the energy consumption of the system. You do not need to replace them as often as the cheaper filters. While you might be on a limited budget when shopping, remember high quality filters save money in the end.

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Skylands Energy Service specializes in the maintenance, repair, and installation of many makes and models of air conditioners. You can trust one of our NATE-certified technicians to get the job done well. They have the skills, knowledge, and years of experience to find the best AC solutions to meet your household’s needs. They will also offer suggestions towards making you home much more energy efficient which will cut down on your cooling costs.

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Why You Should Change Your Window AC Units For A High Efficiency Air Conditioner

A lot of people wonder what the world was like before air conditioning systems arrived on the market. What did people do when hot, humid days came along? How did they survive without air conditioners?

The good news is many of us will not have to go through summer without an air conditioning system. With that said, some people are probably wondering what kind of air conditioning system is the best. Let’s discuss a number of options and then you can decide which one you should get.

Window Units

Window units are cheap, and no duct work is required. At first glance, window AC units seem like an easy fix. However, they are not effective, nor are they efficient.

Leakage

Leakage is of concern when it comes to window units. This refers to air leakage. Sure, window AC units are easy to install, but this is actually where the issue stems from. Many units are not one size fits all. This is why cracks appear when they are installed. Since there are cracks present, warm air gets in and the cold air gets out. You cannot properly seal a window unit well without putting in some hard work. Even then, the air leakage will still occur and you can expect your electricity bill to go up.

Issues With Humidity

Window units are not that efficient when they are installed in humid climates. They do not do a good job at battling high moisture levels and they sweat, a lot. Window AC units sweat when they work harder than they are designed to work. This means they are not the ideal option for tropical climates or areas where the summers are very humid. Sweating can be an issue because it can lead to mold growth and water damage. The last thing you want is to be dealing with a mold and mildew growth problem.

Noisy

Window units make a whole bunch of noise when they are running. Even if there’s nothing wrong with them, they make horrific loud noises. There’s nothing more annoying than trying to do tasks around the house when the AC is making a lot of noise. When something gets struck in a unit, even one that is running properly, then the noise level can triple. Fan blades bend which can lead to a rattling noise. A grill that’s loose emits a sound that resembles crushed metal stuck in a running fan.

It’s safe to say that window units are not nearly as desirable as they once were. Not only that, but if your AC breaks down or you have to make constant repairs, then you’ll want to consider replacing it.

Central AC

Central air conditioning is amazing. A central AC is efficient and it’s more affordable than you think. Here are a few highlights of central AC:

Energy Efficient

Sure, a central AC system costs quite a bit of money. It definitely costs more than a window AC unit. These systems also require annual maintenance, which can cost a bit too. However, central AC units are far more energy efficient and in the long run, it is the more cost effective choice.

Increase Resale Value Of Your Home

Installing a central AC system can increase the resale value of your home. If you are going to be selling your home within the next 15 years, then you’ll recoup your investment.

With that said, the main benefit of installing a central AC system is the energy savings you’ll experience. Three small window units use more energy than just one central AC system. Multiple window units means multiple air leakages, which means more money spent on energy costs. If you use your units regularly, then you could end up spending a bunch of money on energy bills.

You can calculate now how much you can save by purchasing a high efficiency cooling system:

Download a Free Savings Calculator To Determine Your Energy Costs Savings

Why You Should Go Ductless

Ductless systems are the best ones to go with because they provide you with the utmost comfort. Not only that, but when compared to other systems, they don’t cost as much to run in the long run. You can save a lot of money on energy, too. However, ductless systems can cost a lot of money to buy and to have installed, but they are well worth the money.

The Compressor

Ductless systems are equipped with variable speed compressors, which means they can monitor a room’s ongoing condition. They can monitor both the temperate and humidity levels. This means your comfort level and demand level can be continuously met by the ductless AC system.

The system features cooling technology that maintains a targeted temperature, all without shutting off or on all the time. Window units continue to run until the room gets too cold. They can also turn off and on constantly. This can quickly create a cold and undesirable environment. The temperature variations are not balanced and this results in extreme temperature changes in a room.

Non-Obtrusive Design

Another good thing about ductless AC systems is their non-obtrusive design. Usually, there’s only one way to install window units and they take up a lot of space. They also block natural light. Ductless systems can be installed in a way that components are virtually hidden. This is one of the main reasons people love ductless AC systems.

The outdoor unit of the system can be placed anywhere on your property, but most people choose to have it installed in an area that is hidden or doesn’t garner a lot of attention. The unit can be concealed by placing it behind shrubs or other landscaping objects. Another way people hide the unit is by installing fencing around it. Those are only a few examples of how the unit can be concealed.

Homeowners can also install the indoor parts in a stealthy way, just like they can with the outdoor unit. They can be mounted pretty much anywhere and they can be installed right near the ground, if that’s what you prefer. A lot of people mount them on a wall because they blend in with the ceiling. It is completely up to you where you want to install the indoor components. When everything is installed, you will barely notice it and so will your guests. With that said, feel free to start exploring your options and decide which kind of ductless AC system you should get.

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Changing From Window AC To Central Air Conditioning

Skylands Energy specializes in all makes and models of high efficiency air conditioning systems. If you are unable to make a decision about what type of system would work best for you, be sure to contact us. One of our NATE certificated technicians will assess your needs and figure out which system would be the most energy efficient. They will also find the right cooling system that provides the comfort level that your home needs. Give us a call today to find the air conditioner that works best for you!

Request a free, No Obligation, In-Home Estimate For A New AC System

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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New Air Conditioners Are More Energy Efficient

Americans used 97.7 quadrillion British thermal units (BTU) of energy in 2015, reports the Energy Information Administration. The top five uses for energy in the United States include the following ranked from greatest to least:

1. Generation of electricity
2. Transportation
3. Industry
4. Residential usage
5. Commercial usage

The Department Of Energy has responded to this large consumption by urging citizens to buy and use appliances that are more energy efficient. Air conditioning systems are one of the major energy users in American homes. Many homes were equipped with standard air conditioning systems at construction, but there are high efficiency models available.

SEER: Energy Efficiency Rating

Air conditioner efficiency is measured by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This ratio measures the cooling efficiency of the air conditioning system. High efficiency systems generally earn a high SEER ratio. The Environmental Protection Agency began requiring all brands of air conditioning systems to have a SEER ratio of 14 or higher, beginning January 1, 2015. Before that time, the EPA required a SEER ratio of 13 or higher. Consumers should know that either one of these numbers is very low. Some modern cooling systems have earned a rating of 30.

When buying an air conditioning system, you can expect a larger initial investment for a higher SEER rating. On the average, each point on the SEER scale increases the cost of the unit by $1000. You can find the SEER rating of units displayed on a yellow Energy Guide label that the manufacturer attaches to the unit. This label is displayed prominently on the unit.

Comparing Heat Pumps And Air Conditioners

There is no functional difference between a heat pump and an air conditioner when the heat pump is in cooling mode during the summer months. An air conditioner takes heat from inside the house, by means of a refrigerant, and expelling the heat outside. this process is cooling the air inside the home.

What makes a heat pump different from an air conditioner? A heat pump can be reversed by means of a device known as a reversing valve. This allows the heat pump to reverse the flow of refrigerant. What does this do? Essentially, it exchanges the outside unit with the inside unit and vice versa. In layman’s terms, this allows a heat pump to cool your home in the summer and heat it in the winter.

Basically, during the summer a heat pump and an air conditioner are virtually the same thing. The real differences arise in the winter heating months.

Benefits Of Updated Systems

Modern cooling systems offer features that improve the comfort inside the home where they are installed. For example, some units offer a variable speed fan. This feature improves the efficiency of the system as it cools the home but does not require you to sacrifice your comfort. High efficiency systems also provide better regulation of humidity levels than standard cooling systems. They use a continuous blower system that circulates the air throughout the day. In contrast, older systems used an intermittent blower and were less effective at removing humidity from the air.

If you currently use a cooling system that cools with an on/off circulation system, you are familiar with the very cold blast of air when the blower first starts. This blast of air makes occupants of the home less comfortable. However, high efficiency cooling systems create less variation in the temperatures in the home. These systems offer a second benefit of reducing the number of system breakdowns. Eliminating the on-off cycling reduces the wear and tear on both the blower and compressor. As a homeowner, this benefit ensures you stay comfortable without breakdowns and saves you money on the cost of air conditioning repairs. If your home does not currently have air conditioning, you can install a modern ductless system for efficient cooling without relying on ducts.

When Is It time To Upgrade Your AC System?

 

Comparing Single Stage And Variable Speed Cooling Systems

Forced air air conditioning systems use a fan or blower unit to push the air through the ducts. Older systems used a single stage motor that was either pushed the air at full speed or turned off once the temperature reached the setting on the thermostat. Once the system shut down, the indoor temperature starts to increase until the thermostat triggered it to start again. This temperature cycle made for inefficient cooling of the space.

Adding two-stage motors to AC units helps to solve this problem. These systems offer a fan or blower that operates at both high and low speeds. Such units blow at a high speed to reduce the temperature to the setting initially, but then lower their speed for maintaining the set temperature with less cycling. This feature also helps to reduce the hot or cold spots in the home while improving energy efficiency.

More recently, manufactures have traded the two-stage motor for a variable speed blower or fan for circulating the air. The variable speed motor adjusts to operate at a wide range of speeds. These units eliminate cycling that is common to the single speed motor and to a lesser extent, the two-stage motor. Some of these systems allow users to adjust the temperature in increments of 0.5 degrees, but also reduce energy consumption by 80 percent, when compared to the single stage cooling system. Variable speed air conditioning systems also reduce air pollution in the home, by filtering the air more frequently than the older types of systems. While the initial expense is more, the cost is often recovered during the first few years of use.

Request a free, No Obligation, In-Home Estimate For A New AC System

 

Comparing High Efficiency vs Standard Air Conditioning

High efficiency systems provide more benefits than standard air conditioning systems. They provide greater energy efficiency and eliminate cycling, which results in less noise. They provide better dehumidification and cooling without making residents less comfortable. You can reduce cooling costs with a high efficiency air conditioning system. While you can expect a higher initial cost, you can get an excellent return on the investment for a new system.

Download a Free Savings Calculator To Determine Your Energy Costs Savings

 

Skylands Energy Service has been providing trusted heating and cooling services for many decades. We install, maintain, and repair all makes and models of air conditioners. We can install a new energy efficient air conditioning system in your home. This reduces your home cooling expenses and while making your home feel much more comfortable. Call us today to discuss your air conditioning needs with one of our specialists!

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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