air filter

What Kind of Air Filter Should I Use?

Changing an air filter is one of the easiest tasks you can do as a homeowner. Most people head to the hardware store and just buy what they have always used in the past. However, you should take a moment to learn more about air filters and which one makes sense for your home. The right kind of air filter depends on many factors including:

 

  • Filtration needs
  • Health issues
  • Energy efficiency
  • Ease of maintenance

 

If that seems a bit overwhelming for an item that you haven’t thought that much about before then, let’s take a further look to help you “filter” down the choices.

 

 

Air filters are obviously designed to block dust, dirt and other items from coming into your home. To help evaluate the type of filter you need, you will need to think more in-depth about the items you want to keep from breathing. Every filter has a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or MERV. Low rated MERV filters block smaller amounts of particles compared to filters with high MERV ratings. Depending on the filtration capability, different filters can block:

 

  • Dust – The basic item that all filters seek to trap. Even cheap, low grade filters will provide a barrier to block dust. They can have a MERV of 1 – 4.

 

  • Mold, dust mites and pollen – These contaminants are particularly bad for allergy sufferers. Filters that trap these irritants have a MERV of 5 – 8.

 

  • VOCs – Most commonly associated with paints, VOCs are odors or gases that can be harmful to humans and pets. These filters may include a carbon layer to help prevent odors. They have a MERV of 8 – 16.

 

  • Bacteria – While typically used for hospitals, people with serious illnesses may require filters with a MERV of 13 -17 to block bacteria.

 

  • Viruses – The only type of filters that can block viruses are HEPA filters with a MERV of 15 – 17.

 

The average 1 inch filter that homeowners purchase will have a MERV of 6 – 12. If you suffer from allergies or have a chronic illness then you should focus on filters with a MERV of 8 or higher.

 

 

Air Filter Types

1” Fiberglass Pleated – These types of filters are the most common type and are cheap and easy to replace. While they generally get the job done, the issue with them is that they can restrict the air flow of your HVAC system. This can cause it to work harder and reduce the overall efficiency.

 

Media Filters – This type provides higher MERV filtration without the air flow issues. These are a great balance between effectiveness and value and only have to be changed once a year.

 

HEPA Filters – These are the best filters available on the market. In addition to blocking normal contaminants, they are designed to stop VOCs, viruses and bacteria too. They are the most expensive and require additional fans to help push air through the filter.

 

 

When Should I Replace My Air Filter?

Once you have the right filter that you need for your home, then you need to determine how often to change it. For cheaper, lower quality filters using fiberglass, they should be changed out every 30 days. For pleated filters, which are more efficient, they can be changed out every 3 to 6 months. For expensive, electronic filters, they can be changed every 6 months. Another consideration is how many people and pets you have in the house. If you are living by yourself you can change the air filter less frequently, but if you have a household with several family members and pets, then you should change it more often.

ductless air conditioning system

Why You Should Consider a Ductless Air Conditioning System

Why You Should Consider a Ductless Air Conditioning System

A comfortable environment helps everyone feel at home. Ductless air conditioning systems, or mini-split systems allow you to turn each room into a temperature controlled zone to meet the cooling and heating needs of each individual. Mini-splits are a type of cooling and heating system that permits you to manage the temperature levels in specific spaces or areas. Ductless mini-split systems have 2 primary parts, an outside compressor or condenser and an indoor air-handling systems or evaporator. They are simple to set up, generally only needing just a three-inch hole through a wall for the channel which houses the power and interaction electric line, refrigerant line and a condensation drain line, connecting the outside and indoor systems.

 

Mini-split heat pump are not just excellent options for the entire house or brand-new build outs, but are also a great retrofit add-ons to homes with “non-ducted” heating units, such as radiant panels, hydronic or hot water heat systems and area heating units such as wood, kerosene or gas. They can likewise be an excellent option for space additions where extending or setting up duct work is not possible, and energy effective brand-new houses that need just a conditioning system for a smaller, restricted area.

 

Mini-Split Systems vs. Central Air Conditioning

Mini-split systems have little to no ducts, so they prevent the energy losses connected with the ductwork of main forced air systems. Duct losses can represent more than 30% of energy usage for area conditioning, specifically if the ducts remain in an unconditioned area such as an attic or basement. Central air conditioning systems need costly and invasive ductwork. Any property owner who has actually evaluated having actually central air conditioning set up comprehends how excessively pricey it is.

 

 

The Benefits of Ductless Air Conditioning Systems

There are many benefits to using mini-split systems which includes:

 

  • Efficient – mini-split systems are more energy efficient than regular HVAC systems or window mounted units.

 

  • Easy to install – Since they don’t require air ducts, they are relatively easy to install. They can be completed in a shorter amount of time so you can enjoy a comfortable home sooner.

 

  • Less expensive – Ductless A/C doesn’t require duct work so it is cheaper to install. In addition, they are generally more efficient than traditional HVAC systems so you will save money on your utility bills too. Some energy companies offer rebates and cash incentives to opt for these system saving you even more money.

 

  • Complete control – Each room can be set at different temperatures and can be remotely controlled with timers. So if you have some family members that like it warmer, while some prefer cooler temperatures, you can make everyone happy.

 

  • Quieter – Mini-split systems are quieter than traditional HVAC systems.

 

  • Better appearance – Ductless air conditioning systems have a smaller, sleeker appearance that can be more easily integrated into your home’s design. They are more esthetically pleasing than other types of systems.

 

 

Contact us today if you need ductless air conditioning installation, repair or maintenance for your home or business.

HVAC zoning systems

Improve Your Energy Efficiency With Zoning

Improve Your Energy Efficiency With Zoning

Talk of energy efficiency zoning is widespread these days. That’s due to the fact that residential zoning provide cost savings while keeping your home at a comfortable temperature. If you’re interested in decreasing your energy expenses in a big way, then you may want to explore the possibility of getting an HVAC zoning system. This type of zoning system may be able to do a lot for your household and everyday lifestyle.


Temperature Differences and Zoning
Temperature zoning is a concept that’s easy to understand. It involves keeping separate sections of living spaces at different temperatures. Open windows, direct sunlight and poor ventilation can all contribute to making rooms hotter or cooler than you want. By adding zoning, you can improve your energy efficiency, achieve the temperature you want and lower your utility bills.

 

Heating or cooling a home is typically half of a home’s energy consumption. With a traditional HVAC system you only have one system to cool or heat a building. However, if there are rooms or floors that are rarely used, why waste all that energy when you aren’t using them? A home with HVAC zoning has multiple thermostats to provide more air to specific rooms rather than heating or cooling the entire home.

 

How HVAC Zoning Work?

Zoning systems have a master control pane, dampers and a temperature control for each established zone.

 

Zoning Dampers – These items are installed within the existing duct work and control the amount of air that can pass through at a time. They can be put wherever the air ducts are most accessible. Instead of shutting off a vent, dampers reroute the air to direct it where it is needed.

Zoning Control Panel – This function opens and closes the selected dampers based on the temperature controls in each zone.

Zoning Temperature Controls – These thermostats placed in each of the zones help maintain the selected temperatures through the home.

 

Save Money With HVAC Zoning

Paying for steep energy bills each month can be overwhelming. HVAC zoning can do a lot for people who are interested in maximizing the energy efficiency within their home. Without these systems you can lose significant amounts of energy every day. According to the US Dept. of Energy, HVAC zoning can reduce your energy costs by up to 30%. The financial benefits of zoning are clear and offer substantial savings for families and businesses.


Get Started With a Zoning System for Your Home
Our HVAC technicians have experience installing and maintaining home zoning systems. They understand the ins and outs of energy efficiency zoning and can help optimize your home. If you need professional assistance with energy efficiency zoning in Gilbert, Chandler or anywhere else in the east valley, contact us today.

apache junction az and gold canyon az

Things To Do in Apache Junction and Gold Canyon Arizona

Things To Do in Apache Junction and Gold Canyon Arizona

About Apache Junction, AZ

Located in Pinal County and 40 miles from Phoenix, Apache Junction is near the Superstition Mountains and Tonto National Forest. Gold Canyon Arizona is an unincorporated city that is adjacent to Apache Junction and offers additional activities to explore in this area. Gold Canyon is home to the many “snow birds” which are residents who come to Arizona during the winter to escape the cold and snow in the northern states.

 

Attractions in Apache Junction Arizona and Gold Canyon Arizona

There are numerous activities to do while you are visiting this historical and unique location. Listed below are some of the top attractions and activities to enjoy while in Apache Junction and Gold Canyon.

 

Canyon Lake – One of the reservoirs that was created after the Salt River was dammed in 1925. While it is a smaller lake with a surface area of only 950 acres, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy swimming, water skiing or boating. The lake is open year round and admission is free to the public. The marina at the lake provides tours on the Dolly Steamboat. There are a number of lunch or dinner tours offering great views of the surrounding canyon.

 

Lost Dutchman State Park – Named after the Lost Dutchman, Jacob Waltz and his legendary gold mine this State Park is just outside Apache Junction. The park provides scenic views of the Superstition Mountain, desert hikes, mountain biking and tales of visitors searching for the lost gold. 

 

Superstition Mountain Museum – This 4,900 sq. ft. museum was established to help preserve the lore and legend of the Superstition Mountains. In addition to information about the Lost Dutchman Mine, the museum allows visitors to learn about the native inhabitants of this land the Salado, Apaches and others. Tourists who are driving along Highway 88 (also known as the Apache Trail) can’t miss the museum and should take the opportunity to explore the history of this fascinating area.

 

Goldfield Ghost Town – What started as a mining town in the 1890s, today is a fun way for families to revisit the Wild West. Take a walk down Main Street, witness a gun fight, pan for gold and ride a narrow gauge train around. At the end of it all, stop by the saloon and enjoy a Mammoth Burger and a sarsaparilla.

 

Another popular activity in this area is hiking in the Superstition Mountain wilderness area and the Tonto Forest. There are several interesting trails with some of the most notable being the Hieroglyphic Trail and the Peralta Trail. Apache Junction and Gold Canyon offer exceptional golf courses and great restaurants and shopping to enjoy too!

 

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Apache Junction, AZ Air Conditioner Repair

If you need A/C installation, A/C repair, or HVAC maintenance, and live in the Apache Junction Arizona area, then Valleywide Cooling can help! We are the top HVAC company in the East Valley.

 

Valleywide Cooling

1515 N. Gilbert Rd, Suite 107-333,

Gilbert, AZ 85234

(480) 439-9999

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      1515 N. Gilbert Rd, Suite 107-333, Gilbert, AZ 85234
      Hours: 7:00AM-8:00PM
      Monday-Saturday
      Call us at 480-439-9999