As a significant portion of energy consumption in both residential and commercial settings, HVAC systems offer plenty of opportunities for efficient improvements. HVAC and plumbing provide crucial comfort and sanitary systems for each building, but the systems are not always installed, implemented, or used efficiently. Ineffective use of these systems can lead to lost energy, an excessively high comfort threshold, or greater stress on the equipment. By considering these factors, HVAC professionals can target their efforts to greater efficiency and optimal system performance.

Ensure Optimal Installation

Optimal installation can improve output, decrease the likelihood of overuse or system failure, and maintain a higher level of efficiency. Proper sizing is key. HVAC specialists should perform thorough load calculations and estimate the needs for temperature and humidity control in the space to determine the correct output range for the equipment. Installing temperature sensors in places without sun exposure or drafts can help to ensure accurate temperature control. Comprehensive testing of the equipment post-installation can confirm that the system works properly with correct output and high efficiency.

Optimize Damper Position

Damper position controls the volume of air that can enter a space at any given time. Variable air volume (VAV) boxes adjust the temperature and rate of airflow based on the load. In many cases, a VAV box’s damper position sits open to a higher degree than necessary, leading to wasted energy and improper temperature control. Setting the damper position to the minimum according to ASHRAE standards can minimize energy consumption without compromising performance.

Utilize Smart Data Systems

Smart systems can predict usage needs based on existing data about operation in similar spaces and can also adjust schedules and other controls for the needs of a particular space. Systems collect data about routine usage and use that information to create efficient settings for HVAC and plumbing. Sensors track temperature in individual rooms, providing real-time data about system efficacy and allowing owners to tailor usage for maximum comfort and efficiency. Use of these systems can decrease the number of manual overrides, as well as maintaining a precise level of temperature and humidity control.

Implement Temperature Controls

Dynamic temperature controls can minimize the use of energy to heat supply air or water, reducing energy consumption without compromising the ability to meet demand. Supply air controls can dictate the temperature of the supply air, adjusting upward or downward depending on the load. Similarly, boiler and water heater temperature controls can adjust the minimum or maximum temperature of the operating limit based on demand. Systems that change these limits dynamically can provide better heating for high demand, while minimizing use during lower load times.

Decrease Unnecessary Operations

A system that works automatically can provide heating, cooling, and ventilation when none is needed, calling for attention to unnecessary operation. Inaccurate scheduling, excessive manual overrides, and a lack of zoning systems can contribute to wasted energy. Specifically, owners should create commercial HVAC settings that maintain the proper temperature and humidity for the right times, minimizing use outside of peak hours. Adjusting ventilation based on occupancy can help to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature for areas with fewer numbers, while maintaining ideal ventilation in crowded spaces. Implementing smart automated systems can make the transition effortless, allowing building owners to manage dynamic heating, cooling, and plumbing needs.

Designing an HVAC or plumbing system to meet the needs of a space requires some analysis of overall efficiency. Overuse or ineffective use of a system can make a space feel uncomfortable or unsanitary, while contributing to high energy usage or increased repair needs. Evaluating the installation, setup, and use of each system can highlight ways for HVAC professionals to improve efficiency and performance. By adding smart technology and following best practices in mechanical systems, HVAC technicians and plumbers can eliminate wasted energy and accurately reach the comfort goals for the space.

Author Bio: Michael Carlson is the President of Gene May Heating & Cooling. He has been in the heating and cooling industry for more than 32 years and is the sole owner of the business.

Through preventative AC maintenance, you may be able to prevent thousands of dollars in repair costs. For instance, a new compressor or evaporator coils can easily cost more than $1,000 to repair. By taking care of your AC, you can prevent emergency repairs from happening.

When your AC breaks down, it’s never at a convenient time. Air conditioners break when they’re being used the most, which means your emergency repairs will most likely occur during peak usage times. Worse still, everyone else will also need emergency repairs at the same time.

If your AC does need repairs, it’s important to turn to a reliable company to help. With the assistance of an experienced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technician, you can get the problem diagnosed and repaired right away.

Why Preventative Maintenance is Essential for Your AC System

By getting preventative maintenance, you can enjoy a number of important benefits.

• Prevent Costly Repairs: The best AC maintenance tips can help you prevent costly repairs from happening because a well-maintained AC is less likely to break down.
• Improve Energy Efficiency: Many maintenance issues, like dirty filters, force your AC to work harder. By changing your filter and maintaining your AC, you can spend less money on your energy bills.
• Boost AC Lifespan: If your AC is maintained and needs fewer repairs, it will likely last longer. A typical air conditioner can last 15 to 20 years if it is properly cared for.
• Avoid System Failures: The last thing you want during a heat wave is a surprise system failure. By taking care of your AC, you’re reducing emergency AC repairs and system failures.
• Increase Performance: Additionally, better maintenance helps your system achieve its maximum performance during critical times.

Key Maintenance Tips to Prevent Emergency AC Repairs

To minimize the likelihood of emergency AC repairs, use the following AC maintenance tips. For more complicated maintenance tasks, reach out to an HVAC professional for expert assistance.

• Regularly Replace Air Filters: The AC filter is supposed to be cleaned or replaced every 30 to 90 days. If this doesn’t happen, it can cause extra strain on your system and reduce the AC’s efficiency.
• Inspect and Clean Condenser Coils: Condenser coils must be free from dirt and debris. You can wash off the dirt with a hose or get an HVAC technician to help you.
• Check Refrigerant Levels: If the refrigerant is low, it can cause overheating and system failure. Low refrigerant is often due to leaks, which must be repaired by an HVAC professional. In addition, anyone who recharges refrigerant must have a special certification.
• Ensure Proper Thermostat Function: When your thermostat isn’t working, it can cause the rest of your AC to work harder than necessary. If the sensor is broken, the AC may also have issues kicking on when it needs to.
• Inspect Ductwork for Leaks: If there are gaps in your ductwork, cold air can escape. This means your system will have to work harder and use more energy to cool your home. Additionally, it can cause uneven cooling. Fortunately, a professional technician can quickly find and repair leaks if this is the problem.

Seasonal Maintenance Checklist for Optimal Performance

Air conditioning upkeep isn’t just for the summertime. There are preventative AC maintenance tasks you can do during each season to keep your HVAC system working its best.

• Spring: During the springtime, it’s important to schedule a professional inspection and tune-up. You want your system to be ready before summer arrives. Other than scheduling an inspection, you should also clean the coils and replace the filters.
• Summer: When summer arrives, it is important to pay attention to unusual noises or cooling issues. These may indicate a repair requirement or a strain on your system.
• Fall: Once fall sets in, it is time to clean around your outdoor unit. Then, cover it up to prevent debris from getting inside during the off-season.
• Winter: When your AC isn’t in use, it’s important to turn it off properly. You should make sure it is protected from winter weather.

The Role of Professional HVAC Services in Preventative Maintenance

A professional HVAC company, like Rogue Valley Heating & Air, can help you diagnose and repair problems. By scheduling a professional inspection, you can catch potential issues before they spiral out of control. Partnering with a professional for your comprehensive maintenance can help you save money in the long run and keep your system functioning smoothly.

When to Seek Help from an Emergency AC Repair Service

With proper HVAC maintenance, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns. However, even the best preventative care can’t stop every emergency issue from happening. Through the best emergency AC repair service, you can get help for important problems, like frequent cycling, a lack of cool air, and strange noises.

Preventative Maintenance Can Prevent Costly Repairs

Getting preventative AC maintenance on a regular basis can help by reducing emergency AC repairs, boosting your energy efficiency, and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. Other than using the best HVAC maintenance tips, you can also protect your system by scheduling regular inspections with a company like Rogue Valley Heating & Air.

When an issue occurs, it needs to be dealt with before it becomes a larger problem. With the help of a trusted emergency AC repair service, you can quickly address the problem and find a solution.

When she was young, Sara Mazin moved around a lot. That’s because her family wanted the best opportunities for her that she coundn’t have in a third-world country. Born in Mauritania, North Africa, and after just one month, Mazin initially moved to Berwyn, Ill. and lived there until she was 16. She moved across the country to Irvine, Calif. to live with her sister so she could have a fresh start, and graduate high school.

As a young adult, Sara entered the trades by completing nine months at the now closed WyoTech College in Long Beach, focusing on the plumbing trades. Right after finishing the program, at the age of 19, Mazin was hired as a plumbing apprentice at Rescue Rooter Riverside. “I was bored, frankly,” says Mazin. “But by the time I worked my way up to plumbing service tech after six months, that’s when I fell in love with the trade.”

Working for the company was a good experience, but Mazin felt it was too big for her so she looked for a smaller company to work for where she could continue to learn, and have more opportunities. Mazin spent eight years with Kalka Plumbing Heating and Air as a plumbing service technician and field supervisor before she left to start her own company—Sara’s Best Plumbing, Orange County, Calif. Some two short years later, Sara runs a successful plumbing service and repair company with five employees.

You see Sara is a fast riser. What started as digging trenches, Sara worked her way up to the top, becoming a licensed Master Plumber. “When I realized I had that really strong passion for the trade, I had a vision to build a company that would impact not only my family, but other families throughout the plumbing trade and industry,” says Mazin.

Sara started Sara’s Best Plumbing in 2022, and early on, “I was extremely nervous to get the phone to ring,” says Mazin. “At first, I reached out and networked with everyone I knew. I focused on developing my online platforms—Instagram, facebook, Yelp, TikTok—to reach as many people as I could. I also focused on registering as a certified contractor with all the major manufacturers in the plumbing industry.”

Mentoring and Moving Forward

Mazin has gained such an admiration for the trades over the years. “I have so much respect and appreciation for the trade. There is literally nothing that I do not like about the trade,” she says.

Mazin recalls some of her mentors to help her get to where she is today. Thomas Gillespie, former plumbing manager at Kalka Plumbing and current GM at NexGen, taught Sara a lot of the sales and service and side of the industry. Kevin Kalka, owner of Kalka Plumbing really taught Sara a lot about the trade and plumbing. And lastly, Sara’s brother Abdul and sister Amna are mentors and role models in both business and life.

Loving the the problem-solving side of the trade and being able to solve problems for her clients, Sara absolutely considers herself a mentor. “I love leading by example, and passing on my knowledge and experience. I have always done that with my previous coworkers and now my employees at Sara’s Best Plumbing. I wish I was more of a mentor to women and would love that opportunity,” says Mazin.

And while Sara welcomes the role of mentoring for women, “I think the industry needs to be more diverse in bringing more minorities to leadership roles. They, in turn, can be role models for more people,” says Mazin. “It is really hard being what you haven’t seen. Meaning, we need more women/minorities in roles of leadership to open up more opportunities.”

In her “spare” time, Sara likes to be active: go on hikes, workout and trying any new activities. To decompress, she enjoys listening to music, cooking, and watching Netflix. Her bucket list items include 1) Going on a Safari in Africa 2) Sitting courtside at an NBA Game and 3) Visiting Italy or Fiji.

And while every day Sara is thankful everyday for the opportunities given to her, the last time she said “Today is a great day, ‘It was on the 4th of July when I got to spend time and hang out with my family eating BBQ’d and watching fireworks.’”