by Sabrina Cox | Feb 17, 2025 | Uncategorized
Can you believe we are halfway through February? We have already seen so many different types of weather this year, including the unexpected snow! And as we have to deal with our ever-changing weather we also have to deal with another issue: cold and flu season. While many focus on flu shots and other preventive measures, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the quality of the air we breathe indoors. Poor indoor air quality can intensify respiratory issues and can create an optimal condition for viruses like the flu, RSV and the common cold to grow and spread. Making sure your home has proper ventilation, effective air filtration and humidity control will not only keep your home comfortable, but will also keep everyone inside it safe and healthy. Continue reading as we discuss the different ways you can protect the quality of your indoor air during cold and flu season.
Let’s begin with discussing the health impacts that poor indoor air quality can have on your health:
Respiratory Issues: Poor air quality can aggravate issues like asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses, leading to increased symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Allergic Reactions: High levels of allergens, such as dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander, can trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and skin irritations.
Increased Risk of Infections: Contaminated air can contribute to the spread of airborne viruses and bacteria, increasing the likelihood of infections, particularly respiratory infections.
Fatigue and Headaches: Poor air circulation, high levels of carbon dioxide, and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to fatigue, headaches, and overall discomfort.
Dizziness and Nausea: Exposure to harmful pollutants and chemicals in the air can cause dizziness, nausea, and even cognitive difficulties, affecting concentration and productivity.
Long-Term Health Effects: Prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants can contribute to long-term health issues, including chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer.
Worsening Mental Health: Poor indoor air quality has been linked to increased stress levels and decreased mental clarity, potentially impacting overall mental well-being.
Now that we understand what can happen to our health if we live in a home with poor indoor air quality, we will explain what you should do to keep the air inside your home healthy.
Ventilation: Even in winter, it’s important to ventilate your home. Open windows on warmer days to allow fresh air in, and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce moisture and odors.
Use Air Purifiers: Invest in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter to capture allergens, dust, and other pollutants in the air. This is especially beneficial if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma.
Maintain Humidity Levels: Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. Also, check out our blog post (LINK) where we discuss indoor humidity and how to keep it under control inside your home.
Regular HVAC Maintenance: Schedule maintenance for your heating system, including changing filters regularly. Clean filters help improve airflow and reduce dust and allergens in your home.
“We work with many Aprilaire products and I always recommend their air filters to my customers, ” says JW East Mechanicical owner Jim East. “They have a new super air filter with a MERV 16 rating and will last three years. It’s a hospital grade filter and is a good option if someone in your home has asthma. For example, a filter with a MERV 6 or 7 rating will only last one year.”
Control Dust Accumulation: Dust and vacuum frequently to reduce allergens. This helps keep the quality of your air clean and healthy.
Check for Mold: Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, for mold growth. Address any leaks quickly and use dehumidifiers in damp areas to prevent mold growth.
We understand that people are going to get sick, but by following the advice listed above you can keep the indoor air inside your home clean, and this in turn will keep everyone inside your home healthier. If you have questions or concerns about the quality of the air inside your home, call the experts at JW East Mechanical.
by Sabrina Cox | Jan 7, 2025 | Uncategorized
When it comes to maintaining a comfortable home, the size of your air ducts plays a big role in the efficiency and effectiveness of your HVAC system. Unfortunately, many homeowners may not realize that their ductwork is too small until they start living with uncomfortable temperatures, high energy bills, and poor indoor air quality. Having the correct size air ducts in your home is a must. And understanding the implications of having air ducts that are too small for your home is essential for making sure you stay comfortable all year long.
There are seven major issues you will face if your home has incorrectly-sized air ducts:
- Poor Airflow
Small air ducts restrict the amount of air that can flow through the HVAC system. This leads to inadequate airflow, making it difficult for the HVAC unit to distribute conditioned or heated air evenly throughout the home. As a result, some rooms may feel uncomfortably warm in summer, while others may stay cold in winter.
- Increased Energy Costs
When air ducts are too small, the HVAC system has to work harder to push air through the restricted pathways. This increased workload causes your system to use more energy because the system has to run longer and more frequently to get to and maintain the desired temperature. This overuse of energy will cause a big increase in your monthly bill.
- Uneven Temperatures
A common complaint among homeowners with small air ducts is uneven temperature distribution. Rooms that are farther away from the HVAC unit may receive less conditioned air, leading to significant temperature differences within the home. For example, bedrooms may be warmer than the living room, or one room might not get as cool or warm as the room next to it.
“When your air ducts are undersized it doesn’t matter how much power you have coming out of your system, your home will not be able to cool or heat correctly,” says Jim East, owner of JW East Mechanical. “This is a very common issue we come across in houses that complain about lack of airflow. Once we fit a house with the correct size air ducts, it revitalizes the entire system by changing the air delivery.”
- Increased Wear and Tear on HVAC Equipment
The strain of pushing air through undersized ducts increases wear and tear on the HVAC system. Continuous operation under stress can lead to frequent breakdowns, costly repairs, and even premature system failure. Homeowners may find themselves needing to replace their HVAC systems sooner than expected due to the increased stress caused by inadequate duct sizing.
- Poor Indoor Air Quality
Small air ducts keep your HVAC system from properly filtering and circulating air, which can lead to a decline in indoor air quality. Dust, allergens, and other pollutants can accumulate in stagnant parts of the home and recirculate, causing allergies and respiratory issues for anyone living inside the home, especially children and the elderly. Poor airflow can also trap moisture in specific areas, leading to mold growth and other humidity-related problems. As Houstonians, humidity-related issues are very common in our homes, which is why we need to do everything possible to keep it under control.
- Noise Problems
When air is forced through small ducts, it creates high-velocity airflow resulting in increased noise levels. Homeowners might notice loud sounds coming from their vents or rattling noises as the system struggles to deliver air. As you know, any strange sound coming from your HVAC system is a sign that something isn’t working as it should, and loud noises are often the first sign a homeowner notices if their air ducts are the incorrect size.
- Humidity Control Issues
Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for our comfort and the overall health of our home. Small ducts limit the system’s ability to dehumidify the air, which leads to higher humidity levels indoors. And the last place we want humidity is inside! Indoor humidity creates a sticky and uncomfortable home, and also makes a perfect environment for mold growth.
If you notice any of the symptoms above and think your home might have undersized air ducts, call the experts at JW East Mechanical. We have years of experience and can help get your house working again in optimal condition.
by Sabrina Cox | Nov 11, 2024 | Uncategorized
As Houstonians, we know how our winters work – cold for 3 days and then hot for a week. But during those 3 days of cold, we all rely on the furnace to keep us warm. And just like having your air conditioner checked in the spring, it’s just as important to have your furnace checked in the early fall to make sure it’s working correctly.
But then the annual furnace check slips to the bottom of the to-do list – which is easy since we don’t use the furnace very often. But it’s when we forget that things start to go wrong. So how do you know if your furnace is starting to go downhill? There are many signs that are visible to HVAC technicians, but to the average homeowner recognizing the more technical signs can be difficult. But not to worry because if you follow the advice listed below you will be able to understand your furnace almost as well as a licensed JW East Mechanical technician (well, not quite!).
According to the experts, the life of a furnace depends on what make and model you purchase and what type of warranty you have. Different parts of the furnace will have a different warranty and some will last longer than others. Heat exchangers usually have a 20-year warranty, but the blower and control boards have around a 5-year warranty. All this depends on usage and maintenance. Knowing when to replace your whole furnace or just some of its parts all depends on what is breaking down and the age of your furnace.
How do I know if my furnace isn’t working correctly?
If you make a point to pay attention to the age of your furnace and the way it responds when turning on and off, you will be able to detect certain signs that are indicators of it not working correctly. Your furnace might need replacement if:
You hear funny noises: When you turn your furnace on and off you can expect to hear some noise, but if you hear excessive rattling, popping, or banging coming from your unit, you have a problem. Noises are an indicator that your furnace or certain parts of it are about to give out. As soon as you hear these strange sounds it is important to call in a professional because the longer you wait, the more damage will be done to your furnace and other parts of your HVAC system.
You smell strange odors: A slight smell is to be expected when you turn on your furnace for the first time during the winter. But if the smell doesn’t go away and seems to get stronger as the days go by, there is an issue. Burnt smells, musky smells, and other off-putting odors are your furnace warning you that parts of it are not functioning properly. The problem might be with the blower or the motor, and the only way to tell is to have a licensed HVAC technician check it out.
Your furnace is old: Maybe you have had your furnace for over 10 years and have never had a major problem with it. However, just because you have never had a problem doesn’t mean you won’t, especially as it ages. As your furnace gets older its parts are no longer able to work as efficiently as they once did. And because of its age you might wake up one morning and find that your furnace completely stopped working while you were asleep. We recommend having your furnace checked out if it is older, even if you have had no problems. It is better to be safe and warm than to take the chance and be cold.
You notice higher bills: Different parts of your furnace use up different amounts of electricity. The blower motor and fan use up a lot, especially if they are about to break down. If you notice your electric bill is exceptionally high, the problem could be that these parts are about to go out and are pulling more amps than they should.
We understand there is a significant cost associated with replacing your entire heating system, but replacing your old and inefficient unit can actually save you money in the long run. With a new furnace you can expect:
Increased Energy Efficiency: Newer furnace models are designed to be more energy-efficient, often with higher AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings. This means they convert a larger percentage of fuel into usable heat, which can lower your energy bills.
Reduced Repair Costs: Older furnaces often require more frequent and costly repairs. By replacing an aging unit, you can reduce the likelihood of unexpected repair expenses and enjoy peace of mind.
Rebates and Incentives: Many utility companies and government programs offer rebates or incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient systems. This can offset some of the initial costs of the replacement.
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: A new furnace often comes with an improved air filtration system that can reduce allergens and pollutants in your home. Better air quality can lead to fewer health issues, reducing healthcare costs.
Longer Lifespan: A new furnace typically has a longer lifespan (15-20 years) compared to an older unit. This means you won’t have to worry about replacing it again for many years, giving you stability in budgeting.
Smart Technology Integration: Many new furnaces feature smart technology that allows for programmable thermostats and remote monitoring. This can help you manage heating more efficiently, further reducing energy costs.
You might not be a professional HVAC technician, but if you know what to look for you can be aware of a potential problem before it becomes serious. If you notice any of the signs listed above, call a professional to come take a look. Our HVAC technicians are thoroughly trained to detect even the smallest problem and can help you decide if replacing your furnace is the best option for your household.
by Sabrina Cox | Oct 15, 2024 | Uncategorized
As winter (slowly) approaches, ensuring that your furnace is in optimal condition becomes essential for maintaining a warm and comfortable home. Understanding the various parts of your furnace and their functions will help you understand the importance of regular maintenance. Each component, from the heat exchanger to the blower motor, plays a crucial role in the efficiency and safety of your heating system. Neglecting these parts can lead to performance issues, higher energy bills, and safety hazards. Keep reading as we discuss the different components of your furnace, why they need to be maintained, and how keeping them in top shape can provide you with reliable heating when you really need it.
Before we talk maintenance, let’s discuss the most important parts of your furnace:
Furnace/Boiler: The main unit that generates heat. A furnace heats air, while a boiler heats water for radiators or baseboard heaters.
Thermostat: The device that allows you to set and control the desired temperature in your home.
Ductwork: These channels are located in your ceiling and walls to distribute heat throughout your home.
Vents and Registers: Openings that allow heated air to enter the living spaces from the ducts.
Heat Exchanger: In a furnace, this component transfers heat from the combustion gasses to the air circulating through your home while keeping combustion byproducts separate.
Air Filter: This removes dust, dirt, and allergens from the air before it is heated and distributed. Air filters require more maintenance than other heater components and should be changed several times a year, depending on usage.
Safety Controls: These include various sensors and shut-off valves designed to prevent overheating and ensure safe operation.
Pilot Light/Ignition System: For gas heating systems, this lights the burner. Some newer systems use electronic ignition.
Blower Motor: In forced-air systems, this motor helps circulate warm air through the ductwork and into your home.
Now that you know the most important components of your heating system, let’s address ongoing maintenance. If you want your heater to operate efficiently and safely, it’s important to perform regular maintenance on its components. We have outlined the most important components to focus on:
Air Filter:
- Frequency: Check monthly and replace or clean every 1 to 3 months.
- Importance: A clean filter ensures proper airflow and improves indoor air quality.
Blower Motor:
- Frequency: Inspect and clean annually.
- Importance: Dust and debris accumulation will slow the efficiency of the blower, causing it to work harder and will cost extra money on your monthly bills.
Heat Exchanger:
- Frequency: Inspect annually during professional maintenance.
- Importance: A clean heat exchanger optimizes efficiency and ensures no leaks occur.
Thermostat:
- Frequency: Test at the beginning of the heating season.
- Importance: Ensure it’s functioning correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for efficiency.
Ductwork:
- Frequency: Inspect annually for leaks and blockages; clean every 3 to 5 years.
- Importance: Well-maintained ducts improve airflow and efficiency.
Pilot Light/Ignition System (for gas furnaces):
- Frequency: Inspect annually.
- Importance: Ensure the pilot light or electronic ignition works properly for safe heating.
Safety Controls:
- Frequency: Test annually during maintenance.
- Importance: These controls are crucial for safe operation; they help prevent overheating and other hazards.
Burners:
- Frequency: Clean and inspect during annual maintenance.
- Importance: Dirty burners can lead to inefficient combustion and affect performance.
Flue Pipe:
- Frequency: Inspect annually for obstructions or damage.
- Importance: Proper exhaust ensures safe removal of combustion gasses.
We recommend scheduling your fall HVAC heater inspection today if you have not already done so. Our experts are trained to recognize and fix any issue that your system might have. Plus, knowing your HVAC system has been tuned up for the fall will provide you with peace of mind all season long.
by Sabrina Cox | Sep 12, 2024 | Uncategorized
It’s almost here. You know, that time of year when we can finally stop running the air conditioner. Sure, we Houstonians appreciate a good AC unit, but after months and months of high bills and high heat we are all ready for a change. Pretty soon the AC will be off for good and in its place the heater will bring nice, warm air into our home. But before you turn on the heater for the first time, it’s important to have it checked out to make sure all its parts are working safely and correctly.
Annual checkups are vital to the efficiency of your heater and air conditioning unit. They should be done twice a year: in early spring for the AC unit, and in early fall for the heater. Doing so will help you spot and fix potential problems before they have a chance to get worse.
During a thorough fall HVAC check, a professional will look for the following:
Blockage in the vent or drainage system- The vent and drain are essential parts of your system. Your heater will perform at its best and last much longer with proper drainage and vent piping care by a qualified technician and will also lower your energy bill..
Accumulation of dust and debris- Over time, dust and other particles can get into your system and cause blockage and other damage. Also, airflow is compromised when dust gets in the way. A professional knows the right way to get around your system and clean it properly.
Rust and corrosion- If a part needs to be replaced, don’t wait to get it fixed before it does additional damage to your system. Metal can rust after not being properly cleaned and maintained for a long period of time, damaging important parts of your system.
Dirty flame sensors- If your flame sensors are dirty your burner cannot turn on, keeping your heater from producing heat. An experienced technician will properly clean the sensors so your system functions correctly.
Physical condition- Even though the individual parts of your system are working, the physical condition of the heater is important too. A technician should make sure that both the interior and exterior of your heater meets the highest standards.
Emission of dangerous, undetectable gasses- HVAC service technicians always check the carbon monoxide levels as well as other gasses in your system to ensure there are no leaks, which can be a threat to your health.
If that last one doesn’t raise any eyebrows, it should. Carbon monoxide can leak and go completely undetected for quite some time, leading to health problems or even death.
Deemed the Silent Killer, carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, and kills on average 169 individuals a year according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In a recent study by the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 72,000 non-fire carbon monoxide incidents were reported between 2015 and 2019. Of those, 94 percent occurred in a home.
A fall HVAC is important for many reasons. It will help you prepare for cooler weather, improve efficiency in your home, prevent breakdowns and will extend the lifespan of your system. Call the experts at JW East today to book your appointment for your fall HVAC checkup!
