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We know that people like to have the inside scoop about home air conditioning systems, but don’t believe everything you hear. There’s a lot of misinformation out there. We have compiled this list of some of our favorite Not-Quite-True Air Conditioning stories, in hopes to spread the word about what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to air conditioning.

Myth #1: Air conditioner filters should be replaced once per year.

Actually, the EPA’s Energy Star program recommends that you change your air filters monthly, or at minimum, every 3 months. Households with pets and people with allergies should be especially careful to replace the filter on a regular basis. Dirty air filters can inhibit air flow and force your A/C to work harder. This wastes energy and may cause the premature death of your air conditioner.

Myth #2: Cranking the thermostat cools the house faster.

Wrong again! Going back to the info found on that handy Energy Star website, your A/C doesn’t work harder just because you lowered the temperature on the thermostat. The thermostat cools and heats the house at a set rate, regardless of the temperature setting.

Myth #3: Ceiling fans keep the house cool.

When moving air touches your body’s perspiration, you experience a pleasant cooling effect. It’s nice for you, but it doesn’t change the temperature of the room. Running the ceiling fan without anyone around is a waste of energy. Actually, the motor in your ceiling fan creates heat, so if you’re run a ceiling fan in an empty room, you may be losing ground.

Myth #4: Turning off your AC while you’re at work saves money and energy.

This myth is actually half true, because turning off the air conditioner while you’re at work does save energy. It also forces your air conditioner to work much harder when it’s finally turned back on. The benefits of turning off the A/C every morning are negated by turning the air back on every evening.

Want to save money while you’re away? Adjust the setting less dramatically in the mornings before you leave. An adjustment to your thermostat of only 5 or 6 degrees allows your your air conditioner to work less hard during the day, while making it easier for the A/C to cool off your house at night.

Myth #5: Closing vents in unused parts of the house will push air where I want it.

Although this may have been true at one time, it’s not anymore. Modern, high performance A/C systems rely on a delicate balance to keep your house sufficiently cool. By closing off parts of the house, you upset the balance and cause your system to work harder in compensation. And don’t forget: A/C systems have a convenient de-humidifying effect. Closing off parts of the house could lead to moisture problems down the road.

If you have additional air conditioning questions, schedule a no-obligation repair service call with the friendly folks at Main Street Heating and Cooling. Call 801-930-5151!

There are a few different common signs owners should be aware of when they want to test out a furnace for themselves. Owners should contact a repair team if they feel like major issues are coming up with their unit. Understanding these common signs could be the first step that owners will need to complete. They should think about the unique aspects of how these systems may be used as well. This could help owners understand whether their furnace is operating less efficiently than it should over time. Main Street Heating & Cooling can lend their support for a few major projects owners may need to complete.

Burning Smells

First, owners may find that their furnace is emitting a burning smell at times throughout the year. Often times, they will smell an intense burning when they first turn on the furnace at the start of the winter season. This could be the furnace burning off dust particles that have accumulated within the different types of components within the unit itself. But there are also times when different types of components may inadvertently be burning within the unit. If the burning smell tends to persist, then this could be a sign that owners should do something to make a major furnace repair soon.

Other Smells

If there are other smells emerging from the furnace, then this may be a sign that the filter needs to be changed. It will be important to change out the filter from time to time as well, since this can keep the furnace operating throughout the year. Every owner will need to think about using the right techniques to keep the furnace operating as it should over time. They should follow factory directions to make sure that the unit is being properly utilized for a few different types of settings.

Gas Smells

A gas smell may actually be a major warning sign for many owners out on the market. This is especially true if they tend to use a gas furnace that will contain a few different types of connections. Many of these connections can wear down or become broken over time as well. If this happens, it will be important for people to quickly find a new replacement to put in to place. They should work with a repair team that will be able to fit new components in to place. Most owners will appreciate the opportunity to replace these elements over time as well.

Loud Noises

Finally, most owners will want to check out how they can watch for sounds emerging from their furnace design. Major sounds could be an indication of mechanical problems, so people will need to work with a repair team soon. They can quickly diagnose the problem, which will be an important issue that people should consider. This will be a worthwhile asset that owners should consider, since they need to keep their systems well maintained over time.

Your furnace is an essential component in your home’s central heating system. The furnace provides warm air for your family during cold season. For this reason, you should clearly understand its mechanisms as well as its ideal location in your house.

How Does a Furnace Work?

All heating systems have three essential parts – the heating source, heat distribution system, and the control system. These individual components perform a unique function in order to function properly.

A furnace is an example of a heating source that is responsible for generating heat inside your home. On the other hand, the heating distribution system supplies and disseminates warm air through various parts of your house. To manage the amount of heat, a control system such as a thermostat is always needed.

Three Crucial Factors

Before installing a heating system in your new home, you may want to consider the following factors first to avoid costly mistakes.

• Size

One of the most important factors to remember is the operational cost of your furnace. Always make sure the size of your furnace is appropriate for your new home. If you cannot find the right size, you may want to consult a professional HVAC specialist.

• Efficiency

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) now expects new heating systems to “display the annual fuel utilization efficiency” (AFUE). This requirement is an initiative to help consumers like you to understand the heating efficiency of a particular product. This information will surely help you effectively make a comparative study between two products.

• Fuel

Your current location dictates the type of fuel you need for your heating system. In general, heating systems use propane, natural gas, electricity, and heating oil. Your personal preference matters as well but most of the time, the most abundant fuel type available in your location is highly recommended.

Ideal Locations to Install Your Furnace

Furnace installation usually requires assistance from a licensed and insured HVAC technicians. The following locations are simply recommendations. Air leaks are common when it comes to furnace installation that is the reason why you should always consult an HVAC specialist for your own safety and convenience.

You can choose to install your furnace either in an unconfined or a confined space. At the same time, this also depends on the type of furnace you choose to install. Here are a few suggestions.

• Basement

If you prefer a gas or electric furnace, you may want to install the furnace in your basement. One major advantage is that you will have an easy access to your unit in case it needs repair. Just make sure the unit is at least four inches off the floor. This allowance will help you protect the furnace from moist and heat issues.

• Attic

Ideally, your furnace should be installed in a secluded area where you will not be disturbed by its noise. If your furnace is installed in your attic, ask an HVAC specialist if you need to a more durable drainage pan system.

• Garage

Your garage is also an ideal location for your furnace especially if you do not have ample living space. Make sure you create a good drainage system that will channel all excess moist from your furnace.

To keep your furnace in good condition, you should make sure you have an easy access for regular maintenance. The unit must be totally free from any items that will obstruct the airflow.

A high quality furnace can keep your family snug and warm during a chilly season. Consider the services of an HVAC technician who can assist you in choosing and installing the best furnace in your new home.

With summer quickly approaching, an air conditioning system in both the car and the home that works properly is essential to staying comfortable and cool. When the sun’s beating down, there’s no better escape than a relaxing and well air conditioned area in which you can lounge in. If you’re curious about the differences between your car and home air conditioning systems, or if you need services to get your air conditioner in tip-top shape for the hot summer months, read on:

How Does a Home Air Conditioning System Work?

A home air conditioner works very similarly to a refrigerator. Essentially, an air conditioner uses refrigeration to cool the air that is already inside your home. The air conditioner does this using chemical compounds called refrigerants in a process known as phase conversion. Within the air conditioning system, there is also a fan that moves the air. The fan moves the air through multiple duct systems where the air passes over coils that contain refrigerants. Once the air has been cooled, the cooled gas is once again converted to a liquid using high amounts of pressure. Then, the process repeats itself. The air is then distributed back to the home, cooling the room that it enters into. This airflow and evaporation is usually powered by an electric motor.

Maintaining your air conditioner is an important part of making sure that it functions as it should and cools your house to the best of its ability. Performing an annual air conditioner maintenance check can help you to lower your energy bills, lower future repair costs, extend the life of your air conditioner, and provide you with peace of mind and a cool home.

How Does a Car Air Conditioning System Work?

A car’s air conditioning system works very similarly to that of a home’s air conditioning unit, only on a much smaller scale. Rather than an electric motor powering the air conditioning unit, as is the case in a house, the air conditioner is powered by the vehicle’s engine, resulting in mechanical compression. Essentially, the parts and the process are the same, while the size of units and the form of power are different. Gas from your vehicle powers your car’s air conditioning system.

Like a home air conditioning system, though, making sure your car’s air conditioner is well maintained will help to keep you cool and save gas during the hottest parts of summer.

Keeping Cool in the Summer Months

Ensuring that your car and home air conditioning units are functioning properly this summer will help you stay cool. An air conditioned home improves its quality, and makes it more enjoyable for relaxing, entertaining guests, or working around the house. Additionally, a well-maintained air conditioning system will operate more efficiently, saving you money on your monthly power bill.

Check Out Our Guide on How to Summertime Savings on Air Conditioning & Cooling Systems!

If you’re in need of central air conditioning repairs, hybrid system repairs, thermostat installation, installation or repair of your cooling system, an air conditioner inspection, or anything else related to your cooling needs, make sure you call the professionals at Main Street Heating & Cooling today.

Companies are always looking at ways to increase profits and reduce costs. One major cost that many businesses face is the energy cost associated with running the office. By focusing on saving energy, a business can reduce its office energy bill. Some key ways to save energy in the office include turning off computers and lights in the office at the end of the work day, having the office air conditioning and heating system maintained and tuned-up on a regular basis, and trading in older office equipment for newer, more energy-efficient equipment.

Here are several tips for reducing your office’s energy bill.

1. Replace aging office equipment.
It is not uncommon for aging computers, copiers, and printers to use anywhere from 50% – 90% more energy than newer more energy-efficient models. Much of the newer office equipment available today will include an “Energy Star” logo, which signifies that the equipment bearing the logo is specifically designed to save energy and reduce cost. A general rule of thumb is to use laptops instead of desktops or ink-jet printers instead of laser printers.

2. Power down at the end of the work day.
Even if your computer is in an idle state, it still uses power. The easiest way to help employees power down their equipment at the end of the work day is to connect all of the electrical devices at a workstation into a single power strip. Employees can then simply turn off the power strip at the end of the day and sever their workstation from using any power unnecessarily. Of course, employees should still properly power down any devices that require it, before turning off the power strip.

3. Make good use of natural light.
Many offices have the ability to let in copious amounts of sunlight. Using natural light can allow for overhead lights to be turned off for the majority of the work day.

4. Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed.
Weather stripping around all doors and windows will prevent energy from escaping the office, when either the heater or the air conditioner is running.

5. Have the office HVAC (heating, venting, and air conditioning) system cleaned and maintained on a regular basis.
A properly functioning and clean HVAC system will contribute to reducing your office energy bills in a major way. The dirtier and less-efficient an HVAC system is, the harder it has to work to heat or cool an office. An HVAC system needs to have evaporators, coils, heat exchanger surfaces, and condensers cleaned every month. The air filters should also be replaced monthly. Most businesses hire a heating and cooling company to handle the upkeep of the HVAC system.

6. Set the office temperature based on work patterns.
The thermostat does not need to maintain an ideal office temperature during non-working days and hours. At night and on weekends, the thermostat can be raised in warm weather and lowered in cold weather. The recommended temperatures are above 80 degrees in the summer and below 65 degrees in the winter. While you wouldn’t want to maintain these temperatures during work hours, there is no reason to maintain perfect working temperatures, when no one is working.

SEER

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio –each air conditioner and heat pump receives a SEER rating, ranging from 13 to 20.  The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the HVAC unit operates.

Evaporative Cooler

The part of an air conditioner or heat pump that absorbs heat.  In an air conditioner, the heat is pushed outside.  In a heat pump, the heat is used to heat the home.

Ductwork

Air flows through this type of system so that it can be distributed through a home.

Humidity

The amount of water vapor that is in the air.

BTU

British Thermal Unit –one BTU equals one unit of heat energy.  It takes one BTU to raise one pound of water one degree.  When a heating unit has a high BTU, this means it has a high heating capacity.

Carbon Monoxide

When carbon burns in a home without sufficient amounts of air, an odorless and poisonous gas known as carbon monoxide will be released.

Compressor

This is the part of an HVAC unit that pumps refrigerant so that cooling requirements can be met and maintained.

Condenser

Part of an air conditioning unit that gets rid of heat.

Evaporator

This part of an air conditioning unit captures heat and removes it from the part of the unit that needs to be cooled.

Furnace

A device used in homes to put out heat.  It can come as a single unit or be combined with an air conditioning unit, commonly referred to as a central heating and cooling unit.

Geothermal heat pump

A type of central heating and cooling unit that takes heat from the ground and uses it to heat a home.

HVAC

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning –a unit used in a home to heat and cool the inside.

Joule

Basic SI unit of energy.

Latent Heat

This heat is required to transform a liquid into a vapor or vice versa without changing the actual temperature.

MERV Rating

Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value –Filters have MERV ratings, which describes how big the holes are in the filters.  A higher MERV rating means the smaller the holes, which translates into higher efficiency.

Refrigerant

A liquid/chemical that’s used in cooling units; this chemical gives off a cooling effect, and it is commonly referred to as Freon.

Split System

When a home has a HVAC unit that has components located both inside and outside of the home, this is known as a split system.

Sensible Heat

When a substance is heated and the temperature itself rises; unlike latent heat where the state of substance changes but the temperature does not.

Static Pressure

The amount of pressure that is exerted on the duct system, but it’s not the pressure coming from any moving air.

Ton

A unit of measurement that is used to identify the cooling capacity of an air conditioning unit.

Ventilator

Part of the HVAC system that ventilates the home.

Watt

The amount of energy that an HVAC uses.  The higher the wattage, the more energy the unit is using.

Zoning

This is a method used in homes when different rooms require different comfort zones.  Zoning provides enhanced heating and cooling, which translates into optimal comfort and efficiency.

At Main Street Heating and Cooling, it is our privilege to partner with you. Committed to exceeding your expectation, our HVAC technicians delivercustomizable solutions that are affordable and energy efficient. Contact Main Street Heating and Cooling for a no-obligation, completely free evaluation, and we gaurantee your satisfaction.

Central Air Conditioning – Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides a consistent temperature.
• Utilizes air filters to provide cleaner air. Air filters decrease the number of airborne particles that you and your family breathe in. These particles may include pollen, dust and dander, among other things. When you inhale these particles, they are deposited in your air passages and on your lung cells.
• Allows for use of a programmable thermostat, which can save you money on your cooling costs.
• Needs very little maintenance.

Cons

• Can be expensive to install.

Swamp Coolers/Evaporative Cooling Systems – Pros & Cons

Pros

• Can decrease outside air temperature by as much as 40 degrees Fahrenheit as it is pulled into your home.
• Are environmentally friendly because they do not use refrigerants like HCFCs and CFCs.
• Only have a few working parts so they do not need to be repaired as frequently as other types of cooling systems do.
• Are more economical than other systems because they use less energy.
• Filter the air because they use moist pads that effectively trap pollen and dust.
• The filters a swamp cooler uses are less expensive than the filters you need for other air conditioner systems.
• Naturally add moisture to your home. This additional moisture can keep your furniture, fabrics and wood from drying out.
• Do not need ductwork.
• Smaller units require little installation.

Cons

• Although an easy task, these systems do require monthly moisture pad maintenance.
• When installed on a roof, roof deterioration may occur due to the required monthly maintenance.
• These pads need to remain moist; otherwise, the cooling system will not work very well.
• Add humidity to the air, so they are not favorable in a humid climate. When outside air is too moist, this kind of system does not work efficiently.
• Moisture buildup could lead to condensation and corrosion.
• Are unable to decrease the temperature in your home as effectively as an air conditioner can.
• Need a sizable opening on the roof or in the wall, which could be a security risk.
• Require that windows remain open, which may also be considered a security risk.
• Continually need water, which may be of concern to homeowners residing in an area with a limited water supply.
• Must be serviced by a technician at the change of seasons to do a ‘startup’ when you need to switch from heating to air conditioning or A/C to heating.

Ductless Air Conditioning Systems – Pros & Cons

Pros

• Are efficient because there is no air loss, as is typical in a forced-air system.
• Can hang from a wall or just sit on the floor.
• Offer convenience with remote controls to adjust settings.
• Larger systems support up to four air handlers and each one has its own thermostat.
• Require no venting.

Cons

• Are initially about 30 percent more expensive than a central system itself is (not including the cost of ductwork) and twice as expensive as window units of the same capacity.
• That have incorrectly positioned or oversized air-handlers will frequently result in ‘short-cycling.’ This wastes energy.
• Have difficulty maintaining the proper temperature and humidity level when ‘short-cycling’ is an issue.

Call 801-930-5151 to  learn more about AC units or to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a Main Street Heating & Cooling team member today!

Rest Easy 24/7 With Our Emergency Repair Service

It’s that time of year again: the weather is still mild, with chillier days right around the corner. You know what lies ahead, and you’ve taken every measure to prepare your home for winter.

That being said, life happens, and things don’t always go as planned. Just when you least expect it, your heater shuts down altogether.

You can’t always predict what’s going to happen with your furnace or heat pump. Luckily, there’s a team nearby that’s always ready to hit the road and restore your comfort. That team, offering HVAC emergency repairs in Salt Lake City, UT, and the surrounding areas, is Main Street Heating & Cooling.

We’re There Through Every Hour

No one likes to get the cold shoulder. Yet, this is exactly what happens when your heater breaks down without warning. In the blink of an eye, your peace of mind has gone from stable to shattered.

Rather than stress over something that’s already happened, take control of your comfort with Main Street Heating & Cooling.

Our trained technicians are available 24/7 to perform your heating repair in Salt Lake City, UT, or anywhere else in our service areas. When you say that it’s an emergency, we never question your judgment. Instead, we make your emergency our emergency and respond with the speed that you deserve.

No matter when you need us, whether it’s at the break of dawn or during the dead of night, our emergency services are here to turn every “brrrr” into “ahhh…much better” all winter long.

Choose The Safest Route With Heating Maintenance

Just because you can’t prevent HVAC repair with absolute certainty, this doesn’t mean that you’re completely powerless. In fact, you can significantly increase the chances that your heater will prevail this winter. How? By preparing your system to fight the good fight with heating maintenance.

As the leaves are still changing color, now is the perfect time to give your furnace or heat pump some much-needed TLC. From tightening electrical connections to checking the airflow, our experienced technicians evaluate your system from top to bottom. Optimizing your system for peak performance, you’ll beat the chills (and cut your bills) in many ways, including:

• Prolonging your heater’s lifespan and getting the most out of your investment
• Catching the minor issues before they turn into major repairs
• Improving your system’s energy efficiency and lowering your utility bills

Cruise Comfortably This Winter With Main Street Heating & Cooling

It’s one thing when the weather is mild—but once temperatures drop, it’s crucial to stay comfortable. You can’t always foresee what’s going to happen with your heater; and you can’t spend a fortune on emergency repair service, either. That’s when Main Street Heating & Cooling comes to the rescue with affordable and reliable heating repairs.

To schedule your maintenance tune-up or request emergency repair service, call Main Street Heating & Cooling at 801.208.9565 today.

The People Have Spoken—And Their Foot Traffic Says It All

There are places in town that fall between the cracks. Sure, there’s a hidden gem here and there. But, when you are looking for the key players, the businesses that are the face and heart of your town, you head down Main Street.

As you stroll down the block, front and center, you will find Main Street Heating & Cooling.

A New Avenue for an Old Approach

Think back to when you learned about the 5 Ws in school: who, what, where, when and why.

At Main Street Heating & Cooling, we’re giving the 5 Ws a fresh new twist:

Who: Superior service isn’t circumstantial—it’s a promise that’s made to every single customer. No matter who you are, our professionals will treat you with the respect and courtesy that you deserve.

What: This is where we really show our stuff. From air conditioning and heating, to thermostats and indoor air quality, we service every nook and cranny for your comfort. Serving with over a decade of HVAC experience, Main Street Heating & Cooling leverages its expertise to find the right solution for your home or business.

Where: We’re honored to expand our reach throughout the Beehive State. Whether you live in Sandy, Sugar House, Granite or elsewhere in Utah, we cherish our connection with each and every community.

When: Your HVAC equipment is like one giant mood swing: sometimes, it’s your friend, and others, it’s your worst enemy. When your system goes AWOL at the worst possible moment, our swift and trusted emergency service saves the day.

Whether it’s during the dead of night, or right before Thanksgiving dinner, we respond 24/7 for your safety and comfort. Even better, our well-stocked vehicles ensure that your repair will be as fast and affordable as possible.

Why: There’s no right or wrong reason for reaching out. When you pick up the phone and call, our team will be more than happy to answer your questions and concerns.

Every Main Street Heating & Cooling representative serves with honesty and integrity. No matter what our team recommends for your home or business, we look out for your safety, your budget and your comfort every step of the way.

Choose the Path Most Traveled with Main Street Heating & Cooling

Whether it’s shouted from the rooftops or whispered in hushed tones, the talk of the town is a powerful thing.

That’s why, at Main Street Heating & Cooling, we have worked to build a name that the locals can trust.

And so, when you are ready to embark on your own journey, we suggest saving the back roads for sightseeing. When you need to take the express route for comfort solutions, your best bet will always be Main Street.