Air conditioning tips missed mark
In response to your front page article dated Aug. 4th, there were errors on "Help your house beat the heat" tips.
It read that insufficient air flow from a central air conditioning system can cause freezing of the condenser coil. Wrong. Poor air flow may cause freezing of the evaporating coil which is affixed to the furnace.
Secondly, the recommendation of monthly filter changes is typically unnecessary. A periodic inspection of clogging should necessitate the purpose of replacement.
A better tip should have been to go outside and inspect your air conditioning unit. While operating, the larger insulated pipe from your home should be sweaty cold. If not, it could be a sign of refrigerant shortage which creates prolonged operation and potential system damage.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
First Air Conditioner Guy Says Replace It For $5,000, Second Air Conditioner Guy Fixes It For $250
First Air Conditioner Guy Says Replace It For $5,000, Second Air Conditioner Guy Fixes It For $250
Reader F.'s air conditioner was broken, so he called the company that installed it when the house was built. They came out, charged him $100, and told him that he could repair the unit for $3,000 or replace it for $5,000. It's a good thing he got a second opinion, because the second repair guy fixed the problem for $250.
F. says:
I called the company that installed it 9 years ago, Westminster Mechanical, because it was making a loud noise and the fan was no longer working. They came out yesterday and in minutes declared that all the components need to be replaced. They estimated around $3000 [for the repair] or a new system for around $5000.
So, I called a neighbor in the business and she sent someone out. In about an hour he found a blockage and once again I have air. Do these companies install in new houses so they can slap a sticker with their number on it and years later when you call say it needs to be replaced? Instead it cost me $250, oh plus the $100 I wasted to have the original company tell me to replace it.
It's nearly impossible to say whether or not the first company was trying to mislead you, so we'll concentrate on what you did right. It's certainly not uncommon for companies to try to get unsuspecting homeowners to try to replace an air conditioner or a furnace when, in fact, it just needs a small repair. So, how do you figure out when your repair guy is telling the truth?
First, before you call someone to come in and look at your AC or furnace, do a little research with the BBB and ask your friends to recommend someone that you can trust. Second, if you're told that you may have to replace your equipment or make an expensive repair, thank the representative for his time and start collecting 2 more estimates. If your unit really does have to be replaced, some contractors will waive the fee and offer a free estimate for the new equipment.
If, like F., there was nothing seriously wrong with your AC, an honest contractor will catch it.
We asked the BBB about F.'s case and were told that complaints about AC repair are relatively uncommon, but that they do happen.
"With something like this, it’s hard for the consumer to know if they’re being lied to or not. If an AC repairman were to say to me, “Your flux capacitor is shot,” who am I to argue? That’s why it’s important to research the company first," said Alison Preszler, Media Relations Manager of the BBB.
Reader F.'s air conditioner was broken, so he called the company that installed it when the house was built. They came out, charged him $100, and told him that he could repair the unit for $3,000 or replace it for $5,000. It's a good thing he got a second opinion, because the second repair guy fixed the problem for $250.
F. says:
I called the company that installed it 9 years ago, Westminster Mechanical, because it was making a loud noise and the fan was no longer working. They came out yesterday and in minutes declared that all the components need to be replaced. They estimated around $3000 [for the repair] or a new system for around $5000.
So, I called a neighbor in the business and she sent someone out. In about an hour he found a blockage and once again I have air. Do these companies install in new houses so they can slap a sticker with their number on it and years later when you call say it needs to be replaced? Instead it cost me $250, oh plus the $100 I wasted to have the original company tell me to replace it.
It's nearly impossible to say whether or not the first company was trying to mislead you, so we'll concentrate on what you did right. It's certainly not uncommon for companies to try to get unsuspecting homeowners to try to replace an air conditioner or a furnace when, in fact, it just needs a small repair. So, how do you figure out when your repair guy is telling the truth?
First, before you call someone to come in and look at your AC or furnace, do a little research with the BBB and ask your friends to recommend someone that you can trust. Second, if you're told that you may have to replace your equipment or make an expensive repair, thank the representative for his time and start collecting 2 more estimates. If your unit really does have to be replaced, some contractors will waive the fee and offer a free estimate for the new equipment.
If, like F., there was nothing seriously wrong with your AC, an honest contractor will catch it.
We asked the BBB about F.'s case and were told that complaints about AC repair are relatively uncommon, but that they do happen.
"With something like this, it’s hard for the consumer to know if they’re being lied to or not. If an AC repairman were to say to me, “Your flux capacitor is shot,” who am I to argue? That’s why it’s important to research the company first," said Alison Preszler, Media Relations Manager of the BBB.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Indoor Smog?
Inside air more polluted than outside air - study
Over eighty leading professionals in air-conditioning in hot environments on Friday attended an expert seminar in Dar es Salaam.
Participants came from different countries, from such rare fields as architects, building contractors, project engineers and consultants.
The event was organised by Carrier Air Conditioning, at which issues such as current global warming and energy crisis were discussed at length.
A recent press release from Royal Furnishers Ltd said participants also showcased a wide range of products that are designed to suit the growing requirements of the market.
The adverse impact of sub-standard products flooding the domestic market was also discussed.
According to a recent study carried out in Britain, ``the air inside an office is probably ten times more polluted than the outside air`` and we spend 90 percent of our time in enclosed spaces.
Hence, it was important to use air conditioners in places of work for better health of the workers, it said.
Over eighty leading professionals in air-conditioning in hot environments on Friday attended an expert seminar in Dar es Salaam.
Participants came from different countries, from such rare fields as architects, building contractors, project engineers and consultants.
The event was organised by Carrier Air Conditioning, at which issues such as current global warming and energy crisis were discussed at length.
A recent press release from Royal Furnishers Ltd said participants also showcased a wide range of products that are designed to suit the growing requirements of the market.
The adverse impact of sub-standard products flooding the domestic market was also discussed.
According to a recent study carried out in Britain, ``the air inside an office is probably ten times more polluted than the outside air`` and we spend 90 percent of our time in enclosed spaces.
Hence, it was important to use air conditioners in places of work for better health of the workers, it said.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The Sidewalk Sale, One more Global Warming Casualty
Council Would Fine Stores if They Cool the Sidewalks
Now the City Council is expected to pass legislation on Thursday that would impose fines on stores that leave their doors wide open with the air conditioning on.
Councilwoman Gale A. Brewer, a Manhattan Democrat who is co-sponsoring the bill, said she gets a lot of mail from residents complaining about these stores. She said electronics stores are the biggest offenders, though there are plenty of other shops on Fifth Avenue, 34th Street and other popular areas that keep their doors open.
“I’m calling it the Clyde Haberman bill,” she said, a reference to the NYC columnist for The New York Times, who has written about the topic on several occasions.
Ms. Brewer and 18 other council members signed on to the bill, which would affect any business with at least 4,000 square feet, or small stores that are part of a chain with five or more stores in the city. The Department of Consumer Affairs would issue a warning to first-time offenders who kept their exterior doors open while an air-conditioning system intended to cool the area was in use.
Stores would be fined $200 for a second offense and $400 for subsequent violations within an 18-month period.
“Hopefully, they will get the message to help save the planet,” Ms. Brewer said. “There’s no use cooling the sidewalk.”
Her timing is good. Thursday is the fifth anniversary of the blackout that left tens of millions of residents in the dark in eight states across the Midwest and Northeast.
Kathryn S. Wylde, president of the Partnership for New York City, a business policy and advocacy group, regretted the need to “legislate common sense” but said, “The energy crisis in terms of global warming and fuel costs suggests that air conditioning should be contained as much as possible.”
According to calculations by Steven Winter Associates, a building systems consultant, a 5,000-square-foot store would pay $380 extra over a summer season if it kept its doors open with the air conditioning on, while a 10,000-square-foot store would spend an additional $1,000.
“The only group that should be opposing this sensible legislation is OPEC,” said Eric A. Goldstein, a senior lawyer at the Natural Resources Defense Council, which worked with the City Council on the legislation.
Now the City Council is expected to pass legislation on Thursday that would impose fines on stores that leave their doors wide open with the air conditioning on.
Councilwoman Gale A. Brewer, a Manhattan Democrat who is co-sponsoring the bill, said she gets a lot of mail from residents complaining about these stores. She said electronics stores are the biggest offenders, though there are plenty of other shops on Fifth Avenue, 34th Street and other popular areas that keep their doors open.
“I’m calling it the Clyde Haberman bill,” she said, a reference to the NYC columnist for The New York Times, who has written about the topic on several occasions.
Ms. Brewer and 18 other council members signed on to the bill, which would affect any business with at least 4,000 square feet, or small stores that are part of a chain with five or more stores in the city. The Department of Consumer Affairs would issue a warning to first-time offenders who kept their exterior doors open while an air-conditioning system intended to cool the area was in use.
Stores would be fined $200 for a second offense and $400 for subsequent violations within an 18-month period.
“Hopefully, they will get the message to help save the planet,” Ms. Brewer said. “There’s no use cooling the sidewalk.”
Her timing is good. Thursday is the fifth anniversary of the blackout that left tens of millions of residents in the dark in eight states across the Midwest and Northeast.
Kathryn S. Wylde, president of the Partnership for New York City, a business policy and advocacy group, regretted the need to “legislate common sense” but said, “The energy crisis in terms of global warming and fuel costs suggests that air conditioning should be contained as much as possible.”
According to calculations by Steven Winter Associates, a building systems consultant, a 5,000-square-foot store would pay $380 extra over a summer season if it kept its doors open with the air conditioning on, while a 10,000-square-foot store would spend an additional $1,000.
“The only group that should be opposing this sensible legislation is OPEC,” said Eric A. Goldstein, a senior lawyer at the Natural Resources Defense Council, which worked with the City Council on the legislation.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Another Reason to Do It Yourself
Police warn about thieves posing as repairmen
York Regional Police have issued a warning about three men posing as repairmen after an attempted robbery at a Richmond Hill home Friday.
At about 11:30 a.m., the men knocked on the door of the Yonge Street and 16th Avenue-area home under the guise of Heating and Air Conditioning repair, police said. After forcing their way into the home, the men demanded cash from someone in the home.
The person in the home managed to call to police but was then confronted by the men, who were all holding handguns. With police on the way, the men fled empty-handed. The person in the home was not hurt.
As the men ran north on 16th Avenue, one of them was nearly run over by a vehicle.
Investigators urged the driver of that vehicle and any other witnesses to contact them.
All three would-be robbers are described as black males clad in navy blue golf shirts with patches reading “Heating and Air Conditioning”, long pants and black/orange gloves.
One man, standing five-feet, four-inches tall, was about 20 years old and 160 pounds, has short black hair and was clean shaven.
The other two were five-feet, eight-inches tall with skinny builds and wore their hair in cornrows. One was about 18 years old.
Always ask for identification before allowing anyone into your home and call the company providing the service to confirm the identity of the people at your door, police said.
If you have any information about this case or the people involved, call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip at www.1800222tips.com
York Regional Police have issued a warning about three men posing as repairmen after an attempted robbery at a Richmond Hill home Friday.
At about 11:30 a.m., the men knocked on the door of the Yonge Street and 16th Avenue-area home under the guise of Heating and Air Conditioning repair, police said. After forcing their way into the home, the men demanded cash from someone in the home.
The person in the home managed to call to police but was then confronted by the men, who were all holding handguns. With police on the way, the men fled empty-handed. The person in the home was not hurt.
As the men ran north on 16th Avenue, one of them was nearly run over by a vehicle.
Investigators urged the driver of that vehicle and any other witnesses to contact them.
All three would-be robbers are described as black males clad in navy blue golf shirts with patches reading “Heating and Air Conditioning”, long pants and black/orange gloves.
One man, standing five-feet, four-inches tall, was about 20 years old and 160 pounds, has short black hair and was clean shaven.
The other two were five-feet, eight-inches tall with skinny builds and wore their hair in cornrows. One was about 18 years old.
Always ask for identification before allowing anyone into your home and call the company providing the service to confirm the identity of the people at your door, police said.
If you have any information about this case or the people involved, call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip at www.1800222tips.com
Monday, August 18, 2008
To Repair or not to Repair
Should you fix an ailing A/C unit?
Hot days and a cool economy mean more people consider repairing rather than replacing broken air conditioners.
"With current economic conditions, people are afraid to pay for a replacement when it seems less expensive to repair," says Richard Henderson, president of M.B. Kiser Heating and Air Conditioning in Dallas.
The $5,000 to $15,000 cost of replacing a central air-conditioning system is enough to make homeowners sweat, yet not many are happy with the idea of continually repairing a unit that does not do a good job of cooling.
How does a homeowner know when it is smarter to replace the A/C?
The age of the unit is the first thing to consider in the repair-or-replace debate. Air conditioners start to wear out after about 10 years. That's the lifespan for efficiency recommended by the federal government's Energy Star program.
Yet units may stay in good working order for a few years longer, even in sweltering North Texas where Mr. Henderson estimates A/C units are pressed into service for about 1,750 to 2,000 hours during warm seasons that last from April to October.
Making repairs
The system is bound to fail eventually, and frequent repairs are one sign that replacement is a better option.
"If it costs $200 to repair a 20-year-old unit, you may want to think twice about putting $200 into it over and over," Mr. Henderson says.
Also, consider the type of repairs. Replacing major components is costly, and the piecemeal addition of those crucial parts can cause the whole system to operate less efficiently. Adding a condenser, for instance, can cost $3,000 to $6,000.
New technology and standards also make replacement attractive.
Replacing an ailing unit that uses an old style of refrigerant is likely to be a smarter choice than repairing it, notes Colin Creel, service manager of the Air Comfort Company in Richardson.
Under the U.S. Clean Air Act, an official phase-out of a common air-conditioner refrigerant known as R-22 begins in 2010. R-22 has been in use in home systems for about 40 years, and it is associated with greenhouse gases that can cause global warming. The Environmental Protection Agency predicts the cost of the refrigerant will climb as it gradually disappears from the market.
Newer units also run more efficiently. An air conditioner's ability to cool is measured by what's known as seasonal energy efficiency ratings (SEER). The higher the SEER number, the more efficient the unit. If a unit with a SEER rating of 8 is replaced with one with a 15 SEER rating, a homeowner can reduce energy costs by almost half, estimates Bill Cunningham, a specialist with Lennox.
Payback time
The savings offered by newer units can be substantial if the homeowner is planning to stay in the house long enough to recover the costs of replacing the system.
"If you are going to stay in the house less than five years, it is going to be difficult to pay for A/C replacement," says Mr. Henderson of M.B. Kiser.
A new, high-efficiency system may give the home an edge in a slow housing market, but the cost of the unit might not be recovered during a sale, he says.
Smart homeowners have regular, annual inspections of their cooling system, Mr. Creel of Air Comfort says. "The system needs maintenance. It's like a car."
Inspectors can find the minor problems that shorten the life of the system and detect faulty ductwork, lack of insulation or an improperly sized unit, all of which can lead to an uncomfortable home.
Jessie Milligan is a Fort Worth freelance writer.
When to replace the A/C
• If the air inside is cool but the humidity is high, the unit may be oversize for the job. (Leaky ductwork also can lead to high humidity, so have the repairman look at the ducts first.)
• If the air conditioner runs constantly but doesn't adequately cool the air, there could be several causes. The unit may be undersize for the area you're trying to cool or, depending on the age of the equipment, parts could be failing.
• If repairs are frequent.
• If a major component such as the outside condenser box is failing and the warranty has expired.
• If the unit is more than 10 years old, especially if it uses the old form of refrigerant known as R-22.
SOURCES: Energy Star, M.B. Kiser, the Air Comfort Company, Lennox
Guide to shopping for window units
The new generation of window-unit air conditioners comes with lower prices and high efficiency, making them good choices for cooling one or two rooms, according to recent ratings in Consumer Reports.
1. Expect to pay $100 to $700, although good units can be had for $150 to $240.
2. Pay attention to British Thermal Units or Btu. Choose units that use:
• 5,000 to 6,000 Btu per hour for rooms of 100 to 300 square feet.
• 7,000 to 8,200 Btu per hour for 250 to 550 square feet.
• 9,800 to 12,500 Btu for rooms of 350 to 950 square feet.
3. Pick a model that allows you to control the direction of airflow. The window it is placed in may be off to one side of the room. You want to be able to direct the airflow to the area of the room in use.
4. Look for certification stickers. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) or the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) monitor energy efficiency ratings.
Here are room units that Consumer Reports
Hot days and a cool economy mean more people consider repairing rather than replacing broken air conditioners.
"With current economic conditions, people are afraid to pay for a replacement when it seems less expensive to repair," says Richard Henderson, president of M.B. Kiser Heating and Air Conditioning in Dallas.
The $5,000 to $15,000 cost of replacing a central air-conditioning system is enough to make homeowners sweat, yet not many are happy with the idea of continually repairing a unit that does not do a good job of cooling.
How does a homeowner know when it is smarter to replace the A/C?
The age of the unit is the first thing to consider in the repair-or-replace debate. Air conditioners start to wear out after about 10 years. That's the lifespan for efficiency recommended by the federal government's Energy Star program.
Yet units may stay in good working order for a few years longer, even in sweltering North Texas where Mr. Henderson estimates A/C units are pressed into service for about 1,750 to 2,000 hours during warm seasons that last from April to October.
Making repairs
The system is bound to fail eventually, and frequent repairs are one sign that replacement is a better option.
"If it costs $200 to repair a 20-year-old unit, you may want to think twice about putting $200 into it over and over," Mr. Henderson says.
Also, consider the type of repairs. Replacing major components is costly, and the piecemeal addition of those crucial parts can cause the whole system to operate less efficiently. Adding a condenser, for instance, can cost $3,000 to $6,000.
New technology and standards also make replacement attractive.
Replacing an ailing unit that uses an old style of refrigerant is likely to be a smarter choice than repairing it, notes Colin Creel, service manager of the Air Comfort Company in Richardson.
Under the U.S. Clean Air Act, an official phase-out of a common air-conditioner refrigerant known as R-22 begins in 2010. R-22 has been in use in home systems for about 40 years, and it is associated with greenhouse gases that can cause global warming. The Environmental Protection Agency predicts the cost of the refrigerant will climb as it gradually disappears from the market.
Newer units also run more efficiently. An air conditioner's ability to cool is measured by what's known as seasonal energy efficiency ratings (SEER). The higher the SEER number, the more efficient the unit. If a unit with a SEER rating of 8 is replaced with one with a 15 SEER rating, a homeowner can reduce energy costs by almost half, estimates Bill Cunningham, a specialist with Lennox.
Payback time
The savings offered by newer units can be substantial if the homeowner is planning to stay in the house long enough to recover the costs of replacing the system.
"If you are going to stay in the house less than five years, it is going to be difficult to pay for A/C replacement," says Mr. Henderson of M.B. Kiser.
A new, high-efficiency system may give the home an edge in a slow housing market, but the cost of the unit might not be recovered during a sale, he says.
Smart homeowners have regular, annual inspections of their cooling system, Mr. Creel of Air Comfort says. "The system needs maintenance. It's like a car."
Inspectors can find the minor problems that shorten the life of the system and detect faulty ductwork, lack of insulation or an improperly sized unit, all of which can lead to an uncomfortable home.
Jessie Milligan is a Fort Worth freelance writer.
When to replace the A/C
• If the air inside is cool but the humidity is high, the unit may be oversize for the job. (Leaky ductwork also can lead to high humidity, so have the repairman look at the ducts first.)
• If the air conditioner runs constantly but doesn't adequately cool the air, there could be several causes. The unit may be undersize for the area you're trying to cool or, depending on the age of the equipment, parts could be failing.
• If repairs are frequent.
• If a major component such as the outside condenser box is failing and the warranty has expired.
• If the unit is more than 10 years old, especially if it uses the old form of refrigerant known as R-22.
SOURCES: Energy Star, M.B. Kiser, the Air Comfort Company, Lennox
Guide to shopping for window units
The new generation of window-unit air conditioners comes with lower prices and high efficiency, making them good choices for cooling one or two rooms, according to recent ratings in Consumer Reports.
1. Expect to pay $100 to $700, although good units can be had for $150 to $240.
2. Pay attention to British Thermal Units or Btu. Choose units that use:
• 5,000 to 6,000 Btu per hour for rooms of 100 to 300 square feet.
• 7,000 to 8,200 Btu per hour for 250 to 550 square feet.
• 9,800 to 12,500 Btu for rooms of 350 to 950 square feet.
3. Pick a model that allows you to control the direction of airflow. The window it is placed in may be off to one side of the room. You want to be able to direct the airflow to the area of the room in use.
4. Look for certification stickers. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) or the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) monitor energy efficiency ratings.
Here are room units that Consumer Reports
Friday, August 15, 2008
All about Scroll Compressors
The Breakthrough of the Scroll Compressor
The first Copeland Scroll® rolled off the production line in 1987, and the cooling industry was changed in a way that would benefit contractors and their customers in many, many ways. The prime benefits have been efficiency and product reliability.
Many features of the Scroll focus on preventing compressor failures, but the Scroll’s primary design also improves efficiency and reliability thanks to its classic, concentric compression scroll, in which one spiral-shaped part fits into another; the space between the two parts contains crescent-shaped gas pockets.
CLASSIC SCROLL OPERATION
In operation, one Scroll is fixed in place while the other orbits within the first. The refrigerant gas is drawn in by the movement and forced toward the center of the scroll through successively smaller pockets, thereby increasing the gas pressure until it reaches its maximum pressure. Then it’s released through a discharge port in the fixed scroll.
Copeland Scroll compressors are unique in the industry because they feature both axial and radial compliance in their design, whereas other scroll models utilize a mechanically fixed design and scroll tip seals.
Axial compliance refers to the ability of the scrolls to separate in the axial — or vertical — direction remaining in continuous contact around an axis, in all normal operating conditions, ensuring minimal leakage without the use of tip seals. Radial compliance refers to the ability of the scroll flanks to separate. These features of the Scroll design allow the compressor to be more tolerant of liquid refrigerant or debris than other technologies, making for a compressor that is extremely durable and reliable.
The combination of axial and radial compliance means that Scroll compressors actually “wear in” rather than wearing out. Continuous flank contact, maintained by centrifugal force, also minimizes gas leakage and maximizes efficiency of the compressor.
The first Copeland Scroll® rolled off the production line in 1987, and the cooling industry was changed in a way that would benefit contractors and their customers in many, many ways. The prime benefits have been efficiency and product reliability.
Many features of the Scroll focus on preventing compressor failures, but the Scroll’s primary design also improves efficiency and reliability thanks to its classic, concentric compression scroll, in which one spiral-shaped part fits into another; the space between the two parts contains crescent-shaped gas pockets.
CLASSIC SCROLL OPERATION
In operation, one Scroll is fixed in place while the other orbits within the first. The refrigerant gas is drawn in by the movement and forced toward the center of the scroll through successively smaller pockets, thereby increasing the gas pressure until it reaches its maximum pressure. Then it’s released through a discharge port in the fixed scroll.
Copeland Scroll compressors are unique in the industry because they feature both axial and radial compliance in their design, whereas other scroll models utilize a mechanically fixed design and scroll tip seals.
Axial compliance refers to the ability of the scrolls to separate in the axial — or vertical — direction remaining in continuous contact around an axis, in all normal operating conditions, ensuring minimal leakage without the use of tip seals. Radial compliance refers to the ability of the scroll flanks to separate. These features of the Scroll design allow the compressor to be more tolerant of liquid refrigerant or debris than other technologies, making for a compressor that is extremely durable and reliable.
The combination of axial and radial compliance means that Scroll compressors actually “wear in” rather than wearing out. Continuous flank contact, maintained by centrifugal force, also minimizes gas leakage and maximizes efficiency of the compressor.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Why won't China buy their own Air Conditioners
Carrier Corp. Secures Nearly 70 Percent of HVAC Contracts for Beijing Games
Last update: 11:29 a.m. EDT Aug. 13, 2008
BEIJING, Aug 13, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Carrier Corp., a unit of United Technologies Corp., achieved another milestone in its connection to the 2008 Beijing Games, securing nearly 70 percent of all heating, ventilating and air-conditioning contracts for the venues. Carrier supplied a full line of integrated systems to the Summer Games facilities, ranging from AquaSnap(R) air-cooled chillers with Puron(R) refrigerant to large centrifugal chillers to air-handling units, fan coil units and the Carrier Comfort Network (CCN) controls system.
The "Water Cube" National Aquatics Center, one of the major venues for the Beijing Games, utilizes four Carrier Centrifugal Chillers, a control network and air-side products. Carrier's innovative technology recovers more than 50 percent of the exhaust heat in the aquatics center and then uses it to warm the swimming pool. "This technology reduces heat emission in the environment as well as the energy consumed for heating," stated Ross Shuster, president, Carrier Building Systems and Services, Asia. "Additionally, our high tier air-handling units have gone through a strict anticorrosive process to ensure long-term operation under a damp and high-chlorine indoor environment."
Another application featuring Carrier's customized solutions is the Beijing University of Technology Gymnasium for badminton and rhythmic gymnastics. Carrier's uniquely designed air-conditioning system uses a water-source heat pump to employ ground water to prepare cold and hot water for air conditioning.
The "Bird's Nest" National Stadium features the first Chinese-produced HVAC product certified by EN 1886, the highest international HVAC standards. Carrier's air-handling units have air leakage rate of less then 1 percent and each unit is equipped with Carrier's new high-voltage electrostatic air cleaner to remove airborne particles which improves indoor air quality.
To ensure that the air-conditioning systems in all venues operate smoothly and efficiently, Carrier established a Remote Monitoring Center for the Beijing Games. The high-tech center can trace and analyze the data of air-conditioning system operations and release warnings. "This service helps ensure that Carrier's air-conditioning systems are operating under optimized conditions with maximum energy efficiency," added Shuster.
One important venue in Beijing is a multi-building community that will house athletes during the games. The Beijing Olympic Village achieved LEED(R) ND (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighborhood Development) certification with design consultation support from Environmental Market Solutions, Inc. (EMSI). EMSI is an environmental and green building company owned by Carrier Corp. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awards the venue LEED ND certification at the Gold level.
With a long tradition of environmental leadership, Carrier's forward- looking view drives the company to address the environmental effect of products well in advance of regulatory timetables. Carrier was the pioneer in the global phase-out of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in 1994 and introduced Puron(R) refrigerant, a non-ozone depleting refrigerant, into air-conditioning systems in 1996. Carrier is leading the transition away from hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) as well to further promoting ozone preservation. Carrier's environmental stewardship extends beyond its products. Since 1997, Carrier has doubled sales but kept energy use flat.
Carrier's Environmental Leadership
For its environmental leadership around the world, Carrier Corp. was awarded the 2007 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award as well as the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chinese Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In addition, Carrier was the first HVAC manufacturer to be permitted entry into the U.S. EPA's Climate Leader program and a corporate founding member of the U.S. Green Building Council.
"Worldwide, Carrier invests in innovative products and solutions that meet the varied needs of customers in an environmentally sound manner," said Kelly Romano, president, Building Systems and Services, Carrier. "The 'green' values that are apparent in Carrier's work for the 2008 Beijing Games are the same principles that have built both the success of Carrier Corp. and our reputation for visionary environmental leadership."
For more information on these and other Carrier and EMSI projects and services visit www.carrier.com.
About Carrier Corp.
Carrier Corp., headquartered in Farmington, Conn., is the world's largest provider of heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. With 2007 revenues of $14.6 billion, Carrier has approximately 43,000 employees worldwide and operations in more than 170 countries. Carrier is part of United Technologies Corp., a Hartford, Connecticut-based provider of products and services to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. Visit www.carrier.com for more information.
About EMSI
Established in 2000, Environmental Market Solutions, Inc. (EMSI) is an environmental and green building consulting company with offices in Washington, D.C., Missouri, Beijing and Shanghai. The company provides sustainable design consulting services to building developers and owners to create energy-efficient and LEED-certified buildings.
Last update: 11:29 a.m. EDT Aug. 13, 2008
BEIJING, Aug 13, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Carrier Corp., a unit of United Technologies Corp., achieved another milestone in its connection to the 2008 Beijing Games, securing nearly 70 percent of all heating, ventilating and air-conditioning contracts for the venues. Carrier supplied a full line of integrated systems to the Summer Games facilities, ranging from AquaSnap(R) air-cooled chillers with Puron(R) refrigerant to large centrifugal chillers to air-handling units, fan coil units and the Carrier Comfort Network (CCN) controls system.
The "Water Cube" National Aquatics Center, one of the major venues for the Beijing Games, utilizes four Carrier Centrifugal Chillers, a control network and air-side products. Carrier's innovative technology recovers more than 50 percent of the exhaust heat in the aquatics center and then uses it to warm the swimming pool. "This technology reduces heat emission in the environment as well as the energy consumed for heating," stated Ross Shuster, president, Carrier Building Systems and Services, Asia. "Additionally, our high tier air-handling units have gone through a strict anticorrosive process to ensure long-term operation under a damp and high-chlorine indoor environment."
Another application featuring Carrier's customized solutions is the Beijing University of Technology Gymnasium for badminton and rhythmic gymnastics. Carrier's uniquely designed air-conditioning system uses a water-source heat pump to employ ground water to prepare cold and hot water for air conditioning.
The "Bird's Nest" National Stadium features the first Chinese-produced HVAC product certified by EN 1886, the highest international HVAC standards. Carrier's air-handling units have air leakage rate of less then 1 percent and each unit is equipped with Carrier's new high-voltage electrostatic air cleaner to remove airborne particles which improves indoor air quality.
To ensure that the air-conditioning systems in all venues operate smoothly and efficiently, Carrier established a Remote Monitoring Center for the Beijing Games. The high-tech center can trace and analyze the data of air-conditioning system operations and release warnings. "This service helps ensure that Carrier's air-conditioning systems are operating under optimized conditions with maximum energy efficiency," added Shuster.
One important venue in Beijing is a multi-building community that will house athletes during the games. The Beijing Olympic Village achieved LEED(R) ND (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighborhood Development) certification with design consultation support from Environmental Market Solutions, Inc. (EMSI). EMSI is an environmental and green building company owned by Carrier Corp. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awards the venue LEED ND certification at the Gold level.
With a long tradition of environmental leadership, Carrier's forward- looking view drives the company to address the environmental effect of products well in advance of regulatory timetables. Carrier was the pioneer in the global phase-out of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in 1994 and introduced Puron(R) refrigerant, a non-ozone depleting refrigerant, into air-conditioning systems in 1996. Carrier is leading the transition away from hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) as well to further promoting ozone preservation. Carrier's environmental stewardship extends beyond its products. Since 1997, Carrier has doubled sales but kept energy use flat.
Carrier's Environmental Leadership
For its environmental leadership around the world, Carrier Corp. was awarded the 2007 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award as well as the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chinese Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In addition, Carrier was the first HVAC manufacturer to be permitted entry into the U.S. EPA's Climate Leader program and a corporate founding member of the U.S. Green Building Council.
"Worldwide, Carrier invests in innovative products and solutions that meet the varied needs of customers in an environmentally sound manner," said Kelly Romano, president, Building Systems and Services, Carrier. "The 'green' values that are apparent in Carrier's work for the 2008 Beijing Games are the same principles that have built both the success of Carrier Corp. and our reputation for visionary environmental leadership."
For more information on these and other Carrier and EMSI projects and services visit www.carrier.com.
About Carrier Corp.
Carrier Corp., headquartered in Farmington, Conn., is the world's largest provider of heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions. With 2007 revenues of $14.6 billion, Carrier has approximately 43,000 employees worldwide and operations in more than 170 countries. Carrier is part of United Technologies Corp., a Hartford, Connecticut-based provider of products and services to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. Visit www.carrier.com for more information.
About EMSI
Established in 2000, Environmental Market Solutions, Inc. (EMSI) is an environmental and green building consulting company with offices in Washington, D.C., Missouri, Beijing and Shanghai. The company provides sustainable design consulting services to building developers and owners to create energy-efficient and LEED-certified buildings.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Fast Food Goes Green
GreenCore Solar Air Conditioners to Be Installed in McDonald's Restaurant
Marketwire
McDonald's Franchisee in Dallas, TX Purchases GreenCore Solar Air Conditioners
August 06, 2008: 08:00 AM EST
GreenCore Technology, Inc., formerly AquaCell Technologies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: AQUA) announced today that its Texas distributor, Solar Green Solutions, has sold the Company's GreenCore 10200 solar powered DC air conditioners to a McDonald's franchisee for installation in a McDonald's restaurant. McDonald's will be supplementing its traditional air conditioning system with the GreenCore solar DC air conditioners in order to reduce energy usage and related monthly operating costs.
Brian Becker, President of Solar Green Solutions, said, "McDonald's is a great high-profile application for the GreenCore Solar Air Conditioner. The ability to bring hybrid air conditioning to reduce the McDonald's restaurant's operating costs was very important to the franchisee for many reasons, not the least of which is their desire to 'go green.'"
Mr. Becker continued, "We are very optimistic about expanding this market application beyond this particular franchisee. With the recent heat wave we have experienced in the Dallas area, we are even more excited about the opportunity to bring this alternative energy climate control product to our growing customer base."
Kevin Spence, GreenCore's President and Chief Financial Officer, said, "We are extremely excited about this customer opportunity for our GreenCore solar powered DC air conditioner brought to us by Solar Green Solutions. We are convinced that as exposure to our product becomes more widespread, applications for our solar powered DC air conditioner will expand far beyond our initial target markets."
The GreenCore solar powered DC air conditioner (www.greencoreair.com) combines the most efficient photovoltaic technology with DC engineered air conditioning innovation to provide climate control that does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. The system has been designed to efficiently operate completely grid-free or as a hybrid air conditioning unit.
About GreenCore Technology
GreenCore Technology, Inc., formerly AquaCell Technologies, Inc. (www.aquacell.com) is based in Rancho Cucamonga CA. GreenCore develops, manufactures and markets "green" technology products. GreenCore is dedicated to helping conserve energy and natural resources while reducing pollutants and unwanted biological agents.
GreenCore is the world's only producer of a patented DC air conditioner powered by solar energy. The Company also manufactures earth-friendly water coolers designed to eliminate the energy required to produce and deliver traditional bottled water, as well as the waste generated in landfills.
Marketwire
McDonald's Franchisee in Dallas, TX Purchases GreenCore Solar Air Conditioners
August 06, 2008: 08:00 AM EST
GreenCore Technology, Inc., formerly AquaCell Technologies, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: AQUA) announced today that its Texas distributor, Solar Green Solutions, has sold the Company's GreenCore 10200 solar powered DC air conditioners to a McDonald's franchisee for installation in a McDonald's restaurant. McDonald's will be supplementing its traditional air conditioning system with the GreenCore solar DC air conditioners in order to reduce energy usage and related monthly operating costs.
Brian Becker, President of Solar Green Solutions, said, "McDonald's is a great high-profile application for the GreenCore Solar Air Conditioner. The ability to bring hybrid air conditioning to reduce the McDonald's restaurant's operating costs was very important to the franchisee for many reasons, not the least of which is their desire to 'go green.'"
Mr. Becker continued, "We are very optimistic about expanding this market application beyond this particular franchisee. With the recent heat wave we have experienced in the Dallas area, we are even more excited about the opportunity to bring this alternative energy climate control product to our growing customer base."
Kevin Spence, GreenCore's President and Chief Financial Officer, said, "We are extremely excited about this customer opportunity for our GreenCore solar powered DC air conditioner brought to us by Solar Green Solutions. We are convinced that as exposure to our product becomes more widespread, applications for our solar powered DC air conditioner will expand far beyond our initial target markets."
The GreenCore solar powered DC air conditioner (www.greencoreair.com) combines the most efficient photovoltaic technology with DC engineered air conditioning innovation to provide climate control that does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. The system has been designed to efficiently operate completely grid-free or as a hybrid air conditioning unit.
About GreenCore Technology
GreenCore Technology, Inc., formerly AquaCell Technologies, Inc. (www.aquacell.com) is based in Rancho Cucamonga CA. GreenCore develops, manufactures and markets "green" technology products. GreenCore is dedicated to helping conserve energy and natural resources while reducing pollutants and unwanted biological agents.
GreenCore is the world's only producer of a patented DC air conditioner powered by solar energy. The Company also manufactures earth-friendly water coolers designed to eliminate the energy required to produce and deliver traditional bottled water, as well as the waste generated in landfills.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
There are no silly questions
Q: My husband thinks you get better cooling and airflow if you leave some windows open while running the air conditioning. He leaves two windows open on the second floor of our house 2 or 3 inches.
One of the windows is above the air conditioning unit. I think it is inefficient and wasteful.
A: It's not wise.
"Operating the air conditioner with the window open negates the dehumidification that the AC would be providing," said Phil Smith, energy specialist with the Minnesota Department of Energy Security.
"The Dehumidification of air is one of the key elements to the comfort we get in air conditioning."
In the situation you describe, the open window above the compressor and coils could serve as a "short circuit," permitting heat you have just removed to simply blow back in, he added.
Close the windows when using air conditioning. But be mindful of outdoor conditions so you can turn off the AC and open your windows when the weather permits.
Other home-cooling tips from the Department of Energy Security:
Run the dishwasher at night, turn off lights when not needed, and use bath and kitchen fans to exhaust hot, moist air from bathing and cooking to the outside.
- Use a ceiling fan. Although ceilings fan don't cool a house, they help people feel cool by moving air over them. Energy Star-qualified ceiling fans have optimized fan blades and motors; those with qualified light kits are 50 percent more energy-efficient than standard models.
- If you use window fans, place them on the cool side of the house, blowing inward. Fans blowing to the outside can depressurize a house, creating dangerous back-drafting problems with water heaters or other combustion appliances. Attic fans and whole house fans are not recommended for the same reason.
One of the windows is above the air conditioning unit. I think it is inefficient and wasteful.
A: It's not wise.
"Operating the air conditioner with the window open negates the dehumidification that the AC would be providing," said Phil Smith, energy specialist with the Minnesota Department of Energy Security.
"The Dehumidification of air is one of the key elements to the comfort we get in air conditioning."
In the situation you describe, the open window above the compressor and coils could serve as a "short circuit," permitting heat you have just removed to simply blow back in, he added.
Close the windows when using air conditioning. But be mindful of outdoor conditions so you can turn off the AC and open your windows when the weather permits.
Other home-cooling tips from the Department of Energy Security:
Run the dishwasher at night, turn off lights when not needed, and use bath and kitchen fans to exhaust hot, moist air from bathing and cooking to the outside.
- Use a ceiling fan. Although ceilings fan don't cool a house, they help people feel cool by moving air over them. Energy Star-qualified ceiling fans have optimized fan blades and motors; those with qualified light kits are 50 percent more energy-efficient than standard models.
- If you use window fans, place them on the cool side of the house, blowing inward. Fans blowing to the outside can depressurize a house, creating dangerous back-drafting problems with water heaters or other combustion appliances. Attic fans and whole house fans are not recommended for the same reason.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Air Conditioning Basics
Air-conditioning Basics
An air conditioner is basically a refrigerator without the insulated box. It uses the evaporation of a refrigerant, like Freon, to provide cooling. The mechanics of the Freon evaporation cycle are the same in a refrigerator as in an air conditioner. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary Online, the term Freon is generically "used for any of various nonflammable fluorocarbons used as refrigerants and as propellants for aerosols."
The compressor compresses cool Freon gas, causing it to become hot, high-pressure Freon gas (red in the diagram above).
This hot gas runs through a set of coils so it can dissipate its heat, and it condenses into a liquid.
The Freon liquid runs through an expansion valve, and in the process it evaporates to become cold, low-pressure Freon gas (light blue in the diagram above).
This cold gas runs through a set of coils that allow the gas to absorb heat and cool down the air inside the building.
Mixed in with the Freon is a small amount of a lightweight oil. This oil lubricates the compressor.
An air conditioner is basically a refrigerator without the insulated box. It uses the evaporation of a refrigerant, like Freon, to provide cooling. The mechanics of the Freon evaporation cycle are the same in a refrigerator as in an air conditioner. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary Online, the term Freon is generically "used for any of various nonflammable fluorocarbons used as refrigerants and as propellants for aerosols."
The compressor compresses cool Freon gas, causing it to become hot, high-pressure Freon gas (red in the diagram above).
This hot gas runs through a set of coils so it can dissipate its heat, and it condenses into a liquid.
The Freon liquid runs through an expansion valve, and in the process it evaporates to become cold, low-pressure Freon gas (light blue in the diagram above).
This cold gas runs through a set of coils that allow the gas to absorb heat and cool down the air inside the building.
Mixed in with the Freon is a small amount of a lightweight oil. This oil lubricates the compressor.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
UN goes green, orders drastic cut of air-conditioning use
UN goes green, orders drastic cut of air-conditioning use
The United Nations on Wednesday announced a drastic cut of air-conditioning usage at its New York headquarters for the month of August that will raise the temperature from a crisp 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius) to a balmy 77.
Under a directive from UN chief Ban Ki-moon, the air-conditioning in the 39-floor Secretariat building will be turned off on weekends.
Assuming the temperature change goes smoothly, the ‘Cool UN’ initiative to cut down on energy costs and implement climate change solutions could be extended for a full year, saving the world body one million dollars and reducing the building’s carbon dioxide emmissions by 2,800 tonnes.
During the winter, the process would be reversed and the thermostat would be lowered by five degrees Fahrenheit.
“We have succeeded in moving climate change to the top of the international agenda for action, and this means that the UN must take action itself,” Ban said in a statement. “We must lead by example and if we are to ask others to take action, we must do so as well.”
As part of the initiative, Ban is encouraging staff, delegates and diplomats to relax clothing protocols and wear lighter attire or don their national dress rather than wear business suits as of August 1.
Asked whether the secretary general would be setting an example in this regard as well, Janos Pasztor, head of the the Secretary General Climate Support Team, told reporters: “He will be wearing lighter clothes as well, he has confirmed that.” afp
The United Nations on Wednesday announced a drastic cut of air-conditioning usage at its New York headquarters for the month of August that will raise the temperature from a crisp 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius) to a balmy 77.
Under a directive from UN chief Ban Ki-moon, the air-conditioning in the 39-floor Secretariat building will be turned off on weekends.
Assuming the temperature change goes smoothly, the ‘Cool UN’ initiative to cut down on energy costs and implement climate change solutions could be extended for a full year, saving the world body one million dollars and reducing the building’s carbon dioxide emmissions by 2,800 tonnes.
During the winter, the process would be reversed and the thermostat would be lowered by five degrees Fahrenheit.
“We have succeeded in moving climate change to the top of the international agenda for action, and this means that the UN must take action itself,” Ban said in a statement. “We must lead by example and if we are to ask others to take action, we must do so as well.”
As part of the initiative, Ban is encouraging staff, delegates and diplomats to relax clothing protocols and wear lighter attire or don their national dress rather than wear business suits as of August 1.
Asked whether the secretary general would be setting an example in this regard as well, Janos Pasztor, head of the the Secretary General Climate Support Team, told reporters: “He will be wearing lighter clothes as well, he has confirmed that.” afp
Friday, August 1, 2008
I Love Engineers but they don't know it all
Just finished a Walk through on a new school we did the Mechanical on (we are in the mid south so we build alot of schools) and we found one system for the common area/ hallway the unit was running fine with proper superheat and subcooling the temperature drop was 18 degrees the problem was they had us install the system in a closet in an unconditioned closet in the outside wall I did not notice it on the plans and during start up it never occurred to anyone until the space temp and humidity were an issue guess it happens to us all
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