An air conditioning unit in Jupiter, FL resulted in a smoky haze wafting through a store tonight. Fire crews arrived to the Palm Beach County store located at the 6600 block of West Indiantown Road. The store was evacuated, though the smoky haze never mounted to an actual fire stemming from the rooftop air conditioning unit. The Miami air conditioning experts haven't heard all the details yet as to what caused the smoke, but it's an ominous reminder that you certainly need to have your air conditioner checked and fluids and filters maintained to prevent smoke, such as this, or something worse.
Over the summer, we shared reports of air conditioner fires that resulted from pooled water, loose wiring, and overall lack of maintenance. Be sure to prevent something of this caliber happening to you and give your air units the attention and preventative care they require.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
How Much More Energy Consumption is Coming?
Energy efficient air conditioner systems are still a relevant and attention-getting topic. Not so long ago, power went out throughout the northern part of India, an effect of excessive energy consumption due to the new and plentiful use of air conditioners. India isn't the only region to have had this happen--its becoming an increasingly common occurrence and energy allotments are exceeded and overworked. New countries adopting the air condition culture are a sign that consumption is only going to increase--in fact, a recent Science Direct study fund that the air conditioning use is projected to be so high in Mumbai (just one city in India) that Mumbai alone will use 25% of the total American air conditioning consumption.
The Miami air conditioning repair team is nervous at what kind of global impact air conditioning use will soon take. As more cities grow economically, the need for air conditioning will also rise. Cities like Rio de Janeiro, New Delhi, and Shanghai, among others, are hot much of the year and therefore require large ac usage.
The Miami air conditioning repair team is nervous at what kind of global impact air conditioning use will soon take. As more cities grow economically, the need for air conditioning will also rise. Cities like Rio de Janeiro, New Delhi, and Shanghai, among others, are hot much of the year and therefore require large ac usage.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Which Air Filter to Choose?
We've told you time and again how important it is to keep the air conditioning filter clean and free or debris. We've also discussed the importance of changing the filter--and we realize we haven't really offered guidance on how to pick a new one when the need arises. You want to be sure that the filter you get is one of good quality and simple in its design. The Miami air conditioning repair team is here to offer tips & tricks on knowing which model is best for you.
The best choice for a filter used to be fiberglass, but these days the most common options are the pleated style which offer optimal energy efficiency. Media filters are a common feature in new construction homes. Basically, this is a large filter on the backside of the furnace system that filters everything from the house and requires replacement every 6 months.
If you're in doubt and need a quick bit of expert advice, take a few photos of your current filter and head to a hardware store.
The best choice for a filter used to be fiberglass, but these days the most common options are the pleated style which offer optimal energy efficiency. Media filters are a common feature in new construction homes. Basically, this is a large filter on the backside of the furnace system that filters everything from the house and requires replacement every 6 months.
If you're in doubt and need a quick bit of expert advice, take a few photos of your current filter and head to a hardware store.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Seal Gaps to Maximize Your AC
Sealing gaps in your home is a low expense, high result way to ensure that you keep cool air inside your home and rather than leaking out the windows and doors. Weather stripping, caulking, and insulation methods are all materials available at a local hardware store where you can save yourself substantial money and also save your air conditioner from cranking extensively without satisfactory cooling as a result.
The Miami air conditioner professionals have a few ways for you to ensure that cracks and other air leaks are sealed and closed up:
Check windows. Cracks in the windows, windows that don't close all the way or don't line up properly can be an easy escape route for central air to escape.
Doors. Door frames with poor alignment or aged insulation strips can be a sneaky way for air to escape your home. Re-applying weatherstripping and replaced old warped food can help you fix these potential leaks.
Insulation. In the attic, pipes, and around the air conditioner there are areas where air can potentially leak out. Picking up some rolls of insulation is an inexpensive and effective way to seal up where leaks can be remedied and you can get the most cooling for your buck.
The Miami air conditioner professionals have a few ways for you to ensure that cracks and other air leaks are sealed and closed up:
Check windows. Cracks in the windows, windows that don't close all the way or don't line up properly can be an easy escape route for central air to escape.
Doors. Door frames with poor alignment or aged insulation strips can be a sneaky way for air to escape your home. Re-applying weatherstripping and replaced old warped food can help you fix these potential leaks.
Insulation. In the attic, pipes, and around the air conditioner there are areas where air can potentially leak out. Picking up some rolls of insulation is an inexpensive and effective way to seal up where leaks can be remedied and you can get the most cooling for your buck.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
American Schools Look for AC Solutions
Throughout the nation, schools are still trying to devise plans to work adequate air conditioning into their school year budgets. While it should seem to be a no-brainer that air conditioning is a valid expense, the debate seems to lay around what date to begin turning on air conditioning from the county office to the district schools. Classroom temperatures are controlled by an offsite office, so in the classroom teachers and officials have no control on in classroom settings, which is why the county needs to come to an agreement where students will be able to get the fresh flowing air that they need to stay healthy and focused in the classroom.
From Chicago to Baltimore, among other cities, these air conditioning debates are rising. Here in Miami, we know how essential air conditioning is, but in states where they get significant winter months, its easier to understand the confusion on when the need for air conditioning truly begins. Generally, the school year was the coolest time in many cities, but as annual temps continue to rise the need is greater.
From Chicago to Baltimore, among other cities, these air conditioning debates are rising. Here in Miami, we know how essential air conditioning is, but in states where they get significant winter months, its easier to understand the confusion on when the need for air conditioning truly begins. Generally, the school year was the coolest time in many cities, but as annual temps continue to rise the need is greater.
Friday, September 7, 2012
The Best Way to Use Your AC
When it comes to the air conditioning, there are a lot of unanswered questions and theories on how to get the most out of your own air unit. Popular site Angie's List has asked a few questions to industry professionals for top tips on using your air conditioner to its fullest potential. The Miami air conditioner team wanted to share these ideas with you and ensure that you are troubleshooting problems and preventing breakdowns. We know how important air conditioning is here in Miami!
Programmable Digital Thermostat. This is the best way to use less energy and also to have it reach desired temps at various scheduled times.
Wi-Fi Thermostat. Take control of your home a/c settings by remotely accessing your system via wireless connection. Your computer or smartphone will be able to make this happen.
Maintenance. Low-fee preventative checks for your system are a way to curtail problems down the road.
Filters. Clean & change filters regularly to ensure there is no blockage through your vents and that dust and debris are cleared away.
Programmable Digital Thermostat. This is the best way to use less energy and also to have it reach desired temps at various scheduled times.
Wi-Fi Thermostat. Take control of your home a/c settings by remotely accessing your system via wireless connection. Your computer or smartphone will be able to make this happen.
Maintenance. Low-fee preventative checks for your system are a way to curtail problems down the road.
Filters. Clean & change filters regularly to ensure there is no blockage through your vents and that dust and debris are cleared away.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
How to Pick an Efficient Air Unit
In South Florida, an air conditioner is not a luxury--it's a necessity. With temperatures regularly in the 90s and even into the 100s, you have to have an affordable and effective method of cooling your home and beating the heat when the summer is at its most brutal.
One key element of getting a highly efficient air conditioner involves getting a unit sized right to your space. The right air conditioner is an essential decision as your family will rely on it heavily through much of the year here in South Florida. Not to mention, air conditioning units cost several thousands of dollars, so you want to research what made, model, and size are best for you. Don't be afraid to read reviews and explore consumer reports. The Miami air conditioning installation team have a few easy things to remember when it comes to selecting a model:
-Quieter models usually have less problems and are made to last
-SEER ratings are definitely worth reading--the higher the number, the more efficient
-Research which models and brands pride themselves on using the least energy
-Measure the area of your home, of course factoring in the ceilings, to get an accurate number of how much space the air unit will have to cool
One key element of getting a highly efficient air conditioner involves getting a unit sized right to your space. The right air conditioner is an essential decision as your family will rely on it heavily through much of the year here in South Florida. Not to mention, air conditioning units cost several thousands of dollars, so you want to research what made, model, and size are best for you. Don't be afraid to read reviews and explore consumer reports. The Miami air conditioning installation team have a few easy things to remember when it comes to selecting a model:
-Quieter models usually have less problems and are made to last
-SEER ratings are definitely worth reading--the higher the number, the more efficient
-Research which models and brands pride themselves on using the least energy
-Measure the area of your home, of course factoring in the ceilings, to get an accurate number of how much space the air unit will have to cool
Monday, September 3, 2012
Time to Check Your Air Units
As we near the closing months of 2012, your friends at the Miami air conditioning team want to urge you to have a maintenance and efficiency inspection performed on your air unit. Although many of us won't actually make a switch from using a/c to using our heater functions, it is important that we inspect and troubleshoot any issues that could arise in our air systems. Generally, performing these checks once or twice a year is encouraged. Ideally, you are able to use less cool air lately, and a great time to do these inspections is after the heaviest usage period--aka summer.
Many people make the incorrect assumption that they don't need someone to look at their air unit until something acts up or seems fishy. This is a dangerous misconception, especially since 99 percent of air conditioner breakdowns are preventable and usually traced back to lack of maintenance as a trigger for error. Save yourself from whopping air conditioner repair bills and the potential for dangerous error by getting your air unit inspected by a professional today.
Many people make the incorrect assumption that they don't need someone to look at their air unit until something acts up or seems fishy. This is a dangerous misconception, especially since 99 percent of air conditioner breakdowns are preventable and usually traced back to lack of maintenance as a trigger for error. Save yourself from whopping air conditioner repair bills and the potential for dangerous error by getting your air unit inspected by a professional today.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Growing Up Without AC
Today, many Americans are dependent on their air conditioning like never before in history. While the temperatures are getting warmer in recent years, the dependence on ac is seemingly all around. Unfortunately, the problem with many homeowners and consumers is the way that they use air conditioning. Homes and offices are cooled to frigid temps where people are forced to pile on sweaters in the middle of summer. While we believe in the benefits of air conditioning, the Miami air conditioning team is also cautious to point out that people need to use their units in the right way.
One of the best ways to do this is by regulating air flow on a timer. There is no sense in letting air crank full blast while no one is in the space being cooled. Additionally, timers can allow units to turn on a period of time before people enter the building so that it is comfortable and cool upon arrival.
Also, people should rely on other entities aside from the air conditioning system to cool their homes. Using ceiling and oscillating fans and also keeping curtains drawn can contribute to a cooler climate in your space.
Aside from actual usage, there are also maintenance steps you can take to get the most out of your air conditioner. Cleaning the filter, having bi-annual checkups and draining coils and pans will be essential in a healthy and top-notch air conditioner.
One of the best ways to do this is by regulating air flow on a timer. There is no sense in letting air crank full blast while no one is in the space being cooled. Additionally, timers can allow units to turn on a period of time before people enter the building so that it is comfortable and cool upon arrival.
Also, people should rely on other entities aside from the air conditioning system to cool their homes. Using ceiling and oscillating fans and also keeping curtains drawn can contribute to a cooler climate in your space.
Aside from actual usage, there are also maintenance steps you can take to get the most out of your air conditioner. Cleaning the filter, having bi-annual checkups and draining coils and pans will be essential in a healthy and top-notch air conditioner.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Extreme Summer Heat Now the Norm?
It's hot outside here in Miami, and the Miami air conditioner team knows the value and need of a well-functioning air conditioner to make it through these sweaty summer months with ease. Maintenance is essential to well-working air unit that is easy on your bill each month and also efficient at keeping your home at a comfortable temperature.
Thankfully, there are ways to keep your house cool without spending a fortune in the summer. Tricks to the windows can keep spaces cooler--such as self-stick window tint. These sheets adhere to the window and can make the room significantly cooler, even in a room with notoriously strong west-setting sun rays.
Additionally, you shouldn't underestimate the value of quality blinds, shutters, and drapes. Aside from aesthetic value, they can also go a long way in keeping out obnoxious heat-seeking rays of sunlight. Outfit your windows with quality elements and it will go a long way--inversely, using low quality pieces may serve to just be a waste of money.
Thankfully, there are ways to keep your house cool without spending a fortune in the summer. Tricks to the windows can keep spaces cooler--such as self-stick window tint. These sheets adhere to the window and can make the room significantly cooler, even in a room with notoriously strong west-setting sun rays.
Additionally, you shouldn't underestimate the value of quality blinds, shutters, and drapes. Aside from aesthetic value, they can also go a long way in keeping out obnoxious heat-seeking rays of sunlight. Outfit your windows with quality elements and it will go a long way--inversely, using low quality pieces may serve to just be a waste of money.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Why Air Conditioning Matters
Many people misuse air conditioning, which is something that we have addressed before. Inversely, some people don't use air conditioning at all. We aren't fans of extremism, we do believe there is healthy medium to using air conditioning for health reasons without having a largely detrimental impact on your energy consumption. While record heat is a definite occurrence this summer, you can still use ac in moderation and maintain a comfortable temperature.
In current US numbers, 87% of American homes are equipped with air conditioning. While multiple literary pieces de resistance have been published recently, touting the evils of air conditioning, have praised the benefit of lounging in the heat and encouraging fresh, warm, balmy air over engineered and chemical ridden air conditioning air.
The criticism is interesting--as very few bash the use of a heater in the cool winter months, many are ready to speak the evils of using air conditioning in the summer. While environmental factors are certainly changing, for the scarier, the fact is air conditioning alone can't be the cause. Scientific data has shown that more energy is used to heat homes than to cool them. The point is that you can use air conditioning wisely, in moderation and with the help of ceiling and stationary fans, and be comfortable. Browse our Miami air conditioning blog for more tips on using less and staying comfortably cool.
In current US numbers, 87% of American homes are equipped with air conditioning. While multiple literary pieces de resistance have been published recently, touting the evils of air conditioning, have praised the benefit of lounging in the heat and encouraging fresh, warm, balmy air over engineered and chemical ridden air conditioning air.
The criticism is interesting--as very few bash the use of a heater in the cool winter months, many are ready to speak the evils of using air conditioning in the summer. While environmental factors are certainly changing, for the scarier, the fact is air conditioning alone can't be the cause. Scientific data has shown that more energy is used to heat homes than to cool them. The point is that you can use air conditioning wisely, in moderation and with the help of ceiling and stationary fans, and be comfortable. Browse our Miami air conditioning blog for more tips on using less and staying comfortably cool.
Monday, August 13, 2012
AC & The Planet
With many concerned about environmental issues, living more "green," and global warming- we have to address the role of air conditioning and how you can consume less energy and reduce your impact on the environment. The Miami air conditioner experts want to help you stay cool by consuming less--let's examine why that's important.
You've probably noticed that temperatures are rising with each year that passes. Air conditioning is used more and more each year also, to maintain comfort.
Developing countries are adding air conditioning, meaning thousands more are going to be using air conditioners throughout the months and years that pass. Electricity will be used more and more to power these units.
Freon was replaced with new HFCs, which are supposed to help lessen the impact on the ozone layer. Unfortunately, HFCs are greenhouse gases and they too will eventually leak out. Air conditioning has also made unlivable areas like Arizona and New Mexico livable. These areas do not have water and inflows of energy, and air conditioning is a necessity to survive in these areas. In the US, air conditioning byproduct accounts for half a million metric tons of energy. Air conditioning is often overused and is handled in a non-essential way by users--cranking it all day, setting thermostats in the 60s when a cool climate can be in the 70s and use less energy.
We want to encourage using your air smartly, not only for environmental reasons but also to lessen your utility bills. Keep the air on a timer, and if you have pets in the home all day you will need some air flow, but not set at 60. You can even have it go on and off and hour intervals, which is better than running all day.
You've probably noticed that temperatures are rising with each year that passes. Air conditioning is used more and more each year also, to maintain comfort.
Developing countries are adding air conditioning, meaning thousands more are going to be using air conditioners throughout the months and years that pass. Electricity will be used more and more to power these units.
Freon was replaced with new HFCs, which are supposed to help lessen the impact on the ozone layer. Unfortunately, HFCs are greenhouse gases and they too will eventually leak out. Air conditioning has also made unlivable areas like Arizona and New Mexico livable. These areas do not have water and inflows of energy, and air conditioning is a necessity to survive in these areas. In the US, air conditioning byproduct accounts for half a million metric tons of energy. Air conditioning is often overused and is handled in a non-essential way by users--cranking it all day, setting thermostats in the 60s when a cool climate can be in the 70s and use less energy.
We want to encourage using your air smartly, not only for environmental reasons but also to lessen your utility bills. Keep the air on a timer, and if you have pets in the home all day you will need some air flow, but not set at 60. You can even have it go on and off and hour intervals, which is better than running all day.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
What's the Deal on AC Pollution?
Improper use of air conditioning equipment can cause dangerous and severe indoor air pollution. So how do you protect yourself and your loved ones? The South Florida air conditioning team is here to tell you. First, let's examine possible illness or problems that can arise from air conditioners.
Air conditioning and it's pollutants may cause bacteria based respiratory tract infections. Pollutants flow into the home through the ventilation system and they come in a variety of types--biological, physical and chemical. Biological pollutants can accumulate in the air system and multiply throughout the fan coil and heat sinks. They are very dangerous to your health. Allergic diseases may also arise from pollutants.
Filters and heat sinks can accumulate a lot of debris and dirt--and these particles are transferred into the air supply. Bacteria, viruses, and other dangerous microorganisms can multiply rapidly. Heat sinks and filters need to be cleaned out and maintained to avoid health risks and complications. The air conditioner and all of its components should be cleaned once (or twice) each year to ensure that there is nothing breeding and growing inside the coils or vents that could harm you or your loved ones.
Air conditioning and it's pollutants may cause bacteria based respiratory tract infections. Pollutants flow into the home through the ventilation system and they come in a variety of types--biological, physical and chemical. Biological pollutants can accumulate in the air system and multiply throughout the fan coil and heat sinks. They are very dangerous to your health. Allergic diseases may also arise from pollutants.
Filters and heat sinks can accumulate a lot of debris and dirt--and these particles are transferred into the air supply. Bacteria, viruses, and other dangerous microorganisms can multiply rapidly. Heat sinks and filters need to be cleaned out and maintained to avoid health risks and complications. The air conditioner and all of its components should be cleaned once (or twice) each year to ensure that there is nothing breeding and growing inside the coils or vents that could harm you or your loved ones.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Prep Your Air Conditioner Before Storms
Hurricane season is one of the potential dangers that we must cope with as South Florida residents. Few things can be more troublesome than a storm headed straight for us, excessive winds, power outages and of course torrential downpour. There are precautions you need to take to protect machinery and other areas of your home, such as the windows. As Miami air conditioning repair professionals, we are going to focus on prepping your air conditioning unit for a storm.
Regular maintenance is a key element to a well-functioning air conditioner, whether in a storm or not. So keeping up on diagnostic checkups and easy tasks like changing the filter are a mandatory element of a healthy functioning air unit. As far as further storm precaution, you want to make sure the outdoor unit of your central air conditioning is strapped down to the concrete, which is a requirement of hurricane-prone areas.
Cool your home as much as you can pre-storm, then turn it off when the storm actually hits. The unit off will prevent the likelihood of power surges of system burnouts. Make sure the outdoor unit is free of damage before switching it back on. Also be sure there is not a puddle or pool of water around it, which can fry the unit when it is turned on.
Regular maintenance is a key element to a well-functioning air conditioner, whether in a storm or not. So keeping up on diagnostic checkups and easy tasks like changing the filter are a mandatory element of a healthy functioning air unit. As far as further storm precaution, you want to make sure the outdoor unit of your central air conditioning is strapped down to the concrete, which is a requirement of hurricane-prone areas.
Cool your home as much as you can pre-storm, then turn it off when the storm actually hits. The unit off will prevent the likelihood of power surges of system burnouts. Make sure the outdoor unit is free of damage before switching it back on. Also be sure there is not a puddle or pool of water around it, which can fry the unit when it is turned on.
Monday, August 6, 2012
Air Conditioning Helps Many Withstand Heat
With the increasing heat levels throughout South Florida this summer, homeowners are not only relying on their existing air conditioning units, but also buying additional units and undergoing upgrades and repairs to ensure their homes are steadily cooled and comfortable. The Miami air conditioner experts know how hot is is outside--and the importance of air conditioning not only on your comfort, but also on your health.
In addition to tending to your air conditioner, there are steps which need to be taken to ensure your home is also conducive to conserving energy. Utility bills will reflect how efficient your home is- and there are also a few key elements to inspect in your home to see how it fares in energy efficiency. First of all, you should inspect your air unit. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) is a rating that can tell you about your energy usage. Air units from about 10 years ago have ratings between 5-10 SEER, and more current models that are designed with more modern environmental concerns in mind have around a 13 SEER on average.
Keep in mind, the higher the SEER, the higher the efficiency of the unit!
In addition to tending to your air conditioner, there are steps which need to be taken to ensure your home is also conducive to conserving energy. Utility bills will reflect how efficient your home is- and there are also a few key elements to inspect in your home to see how it fares in energy efficiency. First of all, you should inspect your air unit. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) is a rating that can tell you about your energy usage. Air units from about 10 years ago have ratings between 5-10 SEER, and more current models that are designed with more modern environmental concerns in mind have around a 13 SEER on average.
Keep in mind, the higher the SEER, the higher the efficiency of the unit!
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Happy 110th Birthday to Air Conditioning!
Or should we say Happy Belated? Two weeks ago, on July 17th, the air conditioner turned 110. For over a century, some form of cooling apparatus has been utilized by people to make temperatures and living conditions more tolerable. The first unit to change the way indoor air conditioning worked was in 1902 at a Brooklyn office building. This device not only served to provide cool air, but also to remove humidity from the space--a first of its kind.
The model in 1902 was created by Willis Carrier, "The Father of Air Conditioning" and the namesake behind today's Carrier air conditioners. The Miami air conditioning experts are thankful by Carrier's skill and study, and glad that he sought to improve the existing air conditioner models. Happy Birthday to the air conditioner, and may you continue to grow, evolve, and improve!
The model in 1902 was created by Willis Carrier, "The Father of Air Conditioning" and the namesake behind today's Carrier air conditioners. The Miami air conditioning experts are thankful by Carrier's skill and study, and glad that he sought to improve the existing air conditioner models. Happy Birthday to the air conditioner, and may you continue to grow, evolve, and improve!
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
The Importance of AC Maintenance
In the summer, you use your air conditioning a lot. What would happen if you woke up one morning and it wasn't on--or you woke up in a sweat from lack of air flow? Avoiding these scenarios is crucial to your well-being and health. Poor air circulation or lack of air conditioning can lead to moisture and mold problems, in addition to creating an uncomfortable environment to live in.
That's why at Edd Helms, your go-to Miami air conditioning resource, we value maintenance on your air unit. Stop a problem before it starts--and you could save yourself time, discomfort, and of course, money! We've been helping families and individuals in the South Florida area for decades. As you probably are aware, summers in Miami are brutal. Without air conditioning, you can fall susceptible to heat exhaustion and other ailments. Call Edd Helms today for a diagnostic check up of your air conditioner and ensure that you've got a cool time ahead.
That's why at Edd Helms, your go-to Miami air conditioning resource, we value maintenance on your air unit. Stop a problem before it starts--and you could save yourself time, discomfort, and of course, money! We've been helping families and individuals in the South Florida area for decades. As you probably are aware, summers in Miami are brutal. Without air conditioning, you can fall susceptible to heat exhaustion and other ailments. Call Edd Helms today for a diagnostic check up of your air conditioner and ensure that you've got a cool time ahead.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Fixing Your AC Can Cost a Lot
We've mentioned the likelihood of sticker shock in terms of air conditioning repair, but its official: RU-22 is expensive to replace. The chemical commonly used as Freon in air conditioners across the globe for the past 40 years skyrocketed in price in recent months due to the federal government's call to quit producing it. Specifically, it's about a 300 percent uptick in price compared to last year.
The Miami air conditioner experts know its put air conditioner owners in quite a predicament-after all, with costs exceeding $500 to repair Freon leaks, it makes you wonder if it's cheaper or more cost efficient to upgrade to a newer unit that doesn't require Freon. Considering that Freon is already up to $90 a pound, up from $10 a pound a few years ago, the trend is likely to continually rise.
The Miami air conditioner experts know its put air conditioner owners in quite a predicament-after all, with costs exceeding $500 to repair Freon leaks, it makes you wonder if it's cheaper or more cost efficient to upgrade to a newer unit that doesn't require Freon. Considering that Freon is already up to $90 a pound, up from $10 a pound a few years ago, the trend is likely to continually rise.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Renters & Their Rights for AC
Believe it or not, here in Florida, tenants are not entitled to working air conditioner in their leased residences. As if that isn't enough, mold and leaks aren't legitimate excuses to exit a lease. Inside some apartments, it can reach in excess of 90 degrees. We hear horror stories in the news of people found dead in apartments with soaring temperatures--so what gives?
Apparently, the law in Florida requires landlords to provide heating in the wintertime, but no requirements for cooling in the summertime. When temps easily hit 100 degrees, it's quite a confusing law. Basically, what this teaches tenants (whether its intended to or not) is that you should read your lease with a fine tooth comb and be sure any amenities, such as ac, are clearly spelled out and provided to you.
The Miami air conditioning team want to be sure you are happy with your living arrangements and also living in comfortable temperatures. Be sure to take the necessary steps and protect yourself--don't trust that someone will fix a broken ac out of the goodness of their hearts.
Apparently, the law in Florida requires landlords to provide heating in the wintertime, but no requirements for cooling in the summertime. When temps easily hit 100 degrees, it's quite a confusing law. Basically, what this teaches tenants (whether its intended to or not) is that you should read your lease with a fine tooth comb and be sure any amenities, such as ac, are clearly spelled out and provided to you.
The Miami air conditioning team want to be sure you are happy with your living arrangements and also living in comfortable temperatures. Be sure to take the necessary steps and protect yourself--don't trust that someone will fix a broken ac out of the goodness of their hearts.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Air Conditioning & the Economy
A new book has been released detailing the effects of air conditioning in terms of productivity and the economy. While some third world countries experience droughts and other conditions that have debilitated their economies, the United States is an example of a western civilization that has increased its productivity output thanks to air conditioning. Let's examine.
According to Stan Cox, author of "Losing Our Cool," U.S. historically had work patterns that mimicked the weather. In historical times prior to air conditioning, worker productivity and store hours were grossly affected. Cities were emptied in summer months and many Americans spent time on porches and by the water. The advent of air conditioning allowed for city populations to resume in the summer, and for stores to stay open year 'round.
However, the impact of ac has not been all positive. In fact, air conditioning consumption in American homes has doubled in the past 12 years, and now is a whopping 20 percent of the average household's electricity use. As air conditioners gain popularity in China and India, the global use of air conditioning will be quite damaging in terms of emissions. Here at the Miami air conditioning experts, we recommend using a smart and programmable air conditioner with Energy Star approval ratings.
According to Stan Cox, author of "Losing Our Cool," U.S. historically had work patterns that mimicked the weather. In historical times prior to air conditioning, worker productivity and store hours were grossly affected. Cities were emptied in summer months and many Americans spent time on porches and by the water. The advent of air conditioning allowed for city populations to resume in the summer, and for stores to stay open year 'round.
However, the impact of ac has not been all positive. In fact, air conditioning consumption in American homes has doubled in the past 12 years, and now is a whopping 20 percent of the average household's electricity use. As air conditioners gain popularity in China and India, the global use of air conditioning will be quite damaging in terms of emissions. Here at the Miami air conditioning experts, we recommend using a smart and programmable air conditioner with Energy Star approval ratings.
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