Let's Talk HVAC

Tips, guides, and honest insight from the Emerald team.

Efficient Air Conditioner Tips

Evaporative Coolers Evaporative coolers may be installed as an alternative to air conditioning, particularly in climates with very dry air. Evaporative coolers provide mechanical cooling to a building by either direct contact of air with water (direct evaporative cooler) or a combination of a first-stage heat exchanger to pre-cool the air and a second stage … [Read More]

How BTUs and EERs Work

Explaining BTUs and EERs Most air conditioners have their capacity rated in BTUs, or British Thermal Units. A BTU is, generally, the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree F. Specifically, a BTU is 1,055 joules, but the first definition is easier to understand in real-life terms. … [Read More]

Interpreting the Sound Ratings of a Unit

SOUND NOISE LEVEL (dBA) EFFECT Jet Engines (Near) 140   Shotgun Firing 130   Jet Takeoff (100-200 Ft.) 130   Rock Concert (Varies) 110-140 Threshold of pain (125 dB) Oxygen Torch 121   Disco/Boom Box 120 Threshold of sensation (120 dB) Thunderclap (Near) 120   Stereo (Over 100 Watts) 110-125   Symphony Orchestra 110 Regular … [Read More]

10 Tips for Hiring a Heating and Cooling Contractor

10 Tips for Hiring an HVAC Contractor 1. Study up Find out about license and insurance requirements for contractors in your state. And before you call a contractor, know the model of your current system and its maintenance history. Also, make note of any uncomfortable rooms. This will help potential contractors better understand your heating … [Read More]

Sizing Heating and Cooling Systems

Incorrect Sizing Methods It is the installer/contractor’s job to perform the correct sizing calculation for the building. However, many installers only check the “nameplate” (the label on the unit that has the Btu per hour output among other things) of the existing system and sell you one just like it, or even worse, one that’s … [Read More]

Replacing Heaters: Limitations You May Face

Switching Electric Resistance or Steam Heating to Hot Water Heating Electric resistance heating, also called electric baseboard heating, is the cheapest to install and the most expensive to operate, as it is the least efficient source of heat. Unfortunately, upgrading to ducted systems, as discussed below, will involve a significant expense for ducting. Another option … [Read More]

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