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Old homes and modern air conditioning seem to contrast, but there are options!

When renovating an older home for modern living, adding modern conveniences can prove challenging. A prime example is an air conditioning system.
Aside from overcoming ductwork challenges and figuring out how to upgrade HVAC systems without harming the charm of your old Buckhead home, experts have to face numerous obstacles.
That notwithstanding, air conditioning options do exist for old houses. There are a couple of things to consider before embarking on the project. These tips are provided by Derek Dawson of Dawson Property Management, who has experienced this issue many times during his career.

• You may need a larger electrical supply. Modern HVAC systems will overpower a home that’s equipped with a 110-V service.
• You can do without ducts. Believe or not, modern HVAC systems can operate without ducts. Whether you use high-velocity equipment or unobtrusive ductless systems, contractors can keep ductwork to a minimum.
• Proper sizing is crucial. During installation, much of the project’s success depends on how well your contractor has sized the system. Big systems will create challenges when it comes to humidity control, and small systems may end up over-working and having a shorter life-span.
• Your contractor must be creative. Older homes were built before modern HVAC existed. Thus, you’ll need contractors that can get around the challenges posed.

With that in mind, now let’s look at the air conditioning options available for older houses.

High Velocity Systems

A high-velocity, mini-duct HVAC system can bring an old house up-to-date with minimal damage to its historic fabric. Some of the benefits that these high velocity systems provide include:

• Flexible installations. A high velocity system uses small outlets designed to mesh with the current home’s aesthetic. This means that you don’t have to drill any holes or worry about streaks and stains left behind from metal ducts.
• Less draft. High velocity systems use suction to cool a room. Therefore, unlike traditional systems, heating and cooling tend to be less drafty.
• Few alterations. High velocity HVAC systems use flexible ducts that can be installed anywhere.

Ductless Mini Splits

A ductless mini-split air conditioner works like a regular central air conditioner but without the ducts. Like central systems, mini splits have two main components: an indoor air-handling unit, and an outdoor compressor/condenser.
There are many benefits to choosing a ductless mini-split system for your home. They include:

• Air quality improvement. By choosing a ductless option, you can eliminate a substantial number of particles in the air that affect your home’s air quality.
• Ductless options require little installation. Ductless air conditioners take significantly less time to install and require little modification to your home. On the other hand, large duct options require significant upheaval in your home, impeding your daily routine.
• Silent operation. Major parts of a ductless air conditioner unit are placed on the exterior of your home. As such, they won’t distract your ability to relax or work at home.
• Better for the environment. Each component uses significantly less energy than their more traditional counterparts.

VRF Systems

VRF stands for variable refrigerant flow. It works by simultaneously cooling and heating different zones in a building. They are one of the best modern air conditioning options for old houses.
Here are some of the benefits of VRF systems:

• Fewer breakdowns. Inarguably, one of the big benefits of a VRF system is they tend to break down less frequently.
• State of the art controls and smart technology. You can actually use your mobile device to set temperature settings in different zones.
• Heat and cool simultaneously for zoned heating and cooling. VRF systems capture heat recovered from the cooling process and can redistribute this excess heat to an area that requires heat.
• Installation flexibility. Water pumps, hefty pipes to circulate fluids and distribution fans aren’t required for its operation. Essentially, there’s no need to tie up space for a large maintenance room or service shaft.
• Energy efficiency. A VRF system is able to capture heat as part of the cooling process and channel it to other locations in the building, which may need heating.

It’s now easier to retrofit older homes with increasingly compact air conditioning systems. With these three options, you can renovate your older home for modern living without spoiling the character of your charming old house.

If you have further questions please reach out through our website or simply give us a call at (336)627-4989.

After months of searching, you’ve finally found and purchased the perfect home. While buying a home is an exciting venture, it can also be quite the headache, particularly when you consider all the work you need to do to make your home as perfect as possible.

Somewhere between closing the paperwork and booking your North Carolina moving company, it’s easy to forget all about one of the most important features of your new property – your HVAC system. In fact, whether you’re buying your first home, or you’re just moving somewhere new, your HVAC system is one of the most important parts of enjoying a comfortable life in your new neighborhood. Here are a few things you’ll need to know before you’re ready to settle in.

1. Learn What Your HVAC System Includes

The first thing you need to do is find out as early as possible what’s included in your HVAC system, including the age of every part of your system. Ask for documentation from the previous homeowner and call an experienced HVAC contractor to come and inspect the equipment. An HVAC professional will be able to give you a rundown of the system and provide insights into what you need to do to keep it running smoothly.

HVAC experts can also answer any questions you might have about your new HVAC system, and provide you with an insight into how much longer the solution is likely to last. Remember, older systems don’t necessarily need to be replaced straight away, but they may be more prone to issues.

2. Know How the Thermostat Works

While figuring out how your thermostat worked in the past might have been a breeze, the advent of new technology and air conditioning systems means that there’s countless different types of residential heating and cooling solutions available to choose from today. To make sure that you can take full advantage of your HVAC system when you move in, ensure you know how to use it.

If your thermostat isn’t programmable, then you might want to make an upgrade after you’ve purchased your home. Programmable thermostats can save you a lot of money in the long-term by helping you to make your home more energy efficient.

3. Remember to Replace the Filter

Finally, one of the most important things you can do after you buy your new home is replace your filter. Replacing a filter is very simple to do, and it’s a great way to boot the efficiency of your system from day one. It’s not like replacing a roof, or changing the carpet in your living room, replacing a filter can take seconds – but most previous homeowners will forget to do it for you.

Remember, even if you buy a brand-new home, it’s best to replace the filter as quickly as possible, as there could be dust and debris in the system from the construction. Remember, simple things like replacing the filter, and accessing the help of a local HVAC team can help to improve your home comfort for years to come.

Spring is officially here, and homeowners throughout the Reidsville area are turning their thermostats to “cool”. But if your air conditioner is broken and won’t blow cold air, you could be facing a long, miserable spring and summer ahead. Here are Heat & Air Controllers’ to 3 reasons and solutions for this common HVAC problem.

Damaged Ductwork in Eden, NC

Over time, the ductwork in your home undergoes significant wear and tear. Particles and debris can make their way into the ducts, eventually creating small cracks and holes. When this happens, cool air escapes from the ductwork, and warm air from the attic or crawlspace makes its way in. Fortunately, a quick inspection from Heat & Air Controllers will determine whether your ductwork needs repair.

Refrigerant Leak in Reidsville, NC

Refrigerant is a fluid that allows the air conditioner to transfer heat outside of the home. And unlike propane or gas furnace fuel, refrigerant doesn’t get used up when the A/C unit is running. Therefore, if you have low coolant levels, you probably have a refrigerant leak. This can seriously impact your air conditioner’s efficiency, so call Heat & Air Controllers if your refrigerant is leaking.

Air Conditioner Is Broken & Won’t Blow Cold Air? Check Your Filters

Have you checked your air filters? Dirty air filters are an HVAC system’s worst enemy. However, they’re also the easiest problem to fix. The best rule of thumb is to change your air filters at least once a month. This will allow cold air to flow through the ductwork and into your home, keeping you and your family cool all season long. In addition, clean filters reduce allergies, helping you breathe easier this spring. Keep in mind, however, that ultra-high efficiency filters can actually damage the compressor by causing the indoor coil to freeze. Check the cardboard border of the filter to make sure its initial resistance is not greater than .22 inches of water column.

Along with these helpful tips, it’s crucial that your HVAC system receives regular maintenance. Call Heat & Air Controllers today to schedule your spring air conditioner tune-up today!

(336) 627 4989