Clean Air

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, air pollution has harmful effects on a person's overall health. As such, if pollution is reduced, it adds years onto a person's lifespan. If you are living in a city, like Los Angeles, with high levels of pollution, it is important to realize how clean your air is. Especially since we are spending more and more time inside. It can be very helpful to add on an existing air system. Source: http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/01/22/longer_life_expectancy_is_linked_to_cleaner_air/ (last access 10/5/09.) An air filter in your air conditioning unit should be changed out or cleaned at least every three months (more than that if you are using your system often, like in the peak of summer). If your filter is not changed out, it can cause problems for your system and eventually the unit will not even turn on. There are many different types of filters. The most basic filter is a cut-to fit media filter which is made up of fibers that catch only the biggest dust (etc). particles. Then, there are filters that use carbon, or other materials to clean air. At the higher end, there are hepa and electrostatic filters that use electricity to charge particles and prevent them from entering the home. These filters will help improve your air quality of your home. This is something important to think about, especially since we have had so many fires this year. The less dust that you have in your home, the better the air quality is going to be. Just something to think about. Even if your air conditioner has an existing filter, you might want to upgrade to a better filter, just so that more particles are prevented from re-circulating in the air.

Tax Rebate

The whole tax credit/rebate thing can be a bit difficult to understand. So here it is in the very basic form (more info can be found on our website). When: January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2010. What: a tax credit/rebate to take money off any money you might owe to the government. Qualified Equipment: Air conditioners with a seer higher than 16, Furnaces with an AFUE of more than 95%. MATCHED systems. (talk to your AC installer/tax professional to make sure your units qualify). How Much: 30% of the costs of equipment and installation up to $1,500. Why: To encourage homeowners to upgrade their old equipment, helping the environment, and keeping jobs (in the AC industry) trekking. Benefits: An efficient unit will keep the home more comfortable, and cost less in energy bills than an older unit. Okay, that's the tax rebate in a nutshell. There are also similar rebates being offered for other energy efficient home upgrades, such as installing efficient windows, roofing and solar lighting. You can find information about all of these at www.energystar.gov. For more information, you can always email us: customercare at sinclairair.com or give us a call 626-331-4541.

Edison Rebates

In continuing with my list of rebates and specials regarding energy use/air conditioning etc. The next on my list is Southern California Edison. The electric company has a page dedicated to the residential rebates that they are currently offering in a variety of areas. That page can be found here: http://www.sce.com/residential/rebates-savings/ (last access 9/29/09.)

Currently they are listing rebates for lighting, appliances, pool and heating and cooling as well as multi-family and solar/generated energy.

While the best way to save money and live energy efficient, is to combine all of your resources and make a bunch of small changes in different areas, It is also important to remember that your heating and air conditioning take up over 50% of your yearly energy bill. In which case, if you reduce your energy use in heating and cooling, you can save a substantial amount of money.

So, according to the SCE rebate page for heating & cooling (here: http://www.sce.com/residential/rebates-savings/heating-cooling/heating-cooling.htm#xD;NRMODE=Unpublished&wbc_purpose=Basic&WBCMODE=PresentationUnpublished) there are several things you can do to lower your electricity bill.

Edison advertises five different heating and cooling related ways to save money. The first is their Energy Star qualified room air conditioner rebate. Now as a whole, room air conditioners do not cool as effectively as central air conditioning systems do. However, they are less likely to be energy efficient, and so Edison is providing a rebate for those that are efficient.

The second program Edison offers is the Summer Discount Program. With this, Edison installs a switch in your air conditioner that allows them to turn your air conditioner off at peak times. This in turn, saves you money.

They also provide rebates for installing a whole house fan, which can pull all the hot air out of your home, once it cools down in the evening. Or also for installing evaporative cooling.

They also provide the AC quality program, where if your air conditioner is serviced, they will give you an incentive. This allows the condenser to run at tip-top condition (like a car) and lets out less pollution into our environment.

These programs and the others they offer help to save you money and give back a little to the environment.

Rebates!

We're all looking for a break during these tough economic times. Here are some rebates that you might consider.

All rebates courtesy of the Southern California Gas company, as advertised in their "2009 Energy Efficiency Programs and Rebates For Your Home" http://www.socalgas.com/index/.

APPLIANCES

• Energy Star Rated Clothes Washer - $35
• Energy Star Qualified Dishwasher - $30.

HEATING

• Central Natural Gas Furnace, AFUE of 92% or greater - $200!
• Water Heaters EF of .62 or greater - $30
• Tankless Water Heaters EF .90 or greater - $200! or EF .82 - $150.

INSULATION

• Attic or wall insulation - $0.15/per square foot.

These are just rebates offered by the gas company! I will be cataloging other rebates daily. Or, to find a full list for yourself visit www.fypower.org

New Technology in Air Conditioning

UC Davis, a campus leading the way in many academic areas also leads in environmental advocacy and research. UC Davis holds a national competition (well, several of them) depending on the case, and this year one of the winners was the "Coolerado" Air conditioning system that is designed for light commercial buildings that can cut energy use by 80% over a traditional air conditioning system.

Source: http://www.greentechmedia.com/green-light/post/coolerado-wins-uc-davis-air-conditioning-prize/ - last access 9/23/09, also noted on flex your power's monthly news letter.

These air conditioners were designed to work better in the climates of western states (Southern California). That means that they don't need to waste energy doing processes that may not be needed. These air conditioners would drastically reduce the energy used in the hot summer months. In California, our air conditioners use about 50% of all energy during peek usage. If we could cut that number, we could be freeing up energy for other usage and prevent those rolling black outs.

While this technology is probably out of the price range for most homeowners, the pay offs for larger corperations and industrial buildings are already there. This is just something to keep in mind as our society grows more energy concious and technologically advanced.

Home Humidity?

Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. Humidity, or the levels of water molecules in the air effects a lot of different things in our daily lives. Here in Southern California, we know that during fire season if the level of humidity goes down, we have the potential of dealing with a larger fire. But how does humidity levels affect the inside of your home?

It's actually pretty important. Humidity is what makes you feel warm in the summer and also what makes you feel like you can't quite breathe during the winter. Too much water in the air, and the heat is unbearable, too little and the air feels very thin. In your home, you want to have the optimum levels of humidity. Why? Well, for a couple of reasons. First, it's the most comfortable. You're nice and cool in the summer and nice and warm in the winter. Second, humidity (too much AND too little) can cause damage in your home. If there is too much humidity in your home, you may notice little condensation droplets on windows, or near the refrigerator. These droplets, if left for long enough can cause water damage and mold. If there is not enough humidity in your home, there may be an excess of dust, which causes allergies.

So, how do you keep your home at the levels of humidity you want? There are a couple of different ways to do this. First, there are some thermostats that allow you to control the humidity levels in your home. Every unit has some type of humidity controlling element, but if you want added protection (if someone suffers from allergies or uses certain types of medicines) you can always add a humidifier. Some units will have an external humidifier that you can plug into a unit, and other times you will need an entirely separate humidifier. In my opinion, it is much easier to run the humidity control through the heating and air system. That way it's on an automatic thermostat control, and each room of your home is adjusted equally. In the summer, if there is high humidity outside, your air conditioning unit works harder to cool your space. Likewise, in the winter your furnace (winter - I know it doesn't feel like it - but it's right around the corner) works harder to warm your house if there is low humidity. So installing a humidifier isn't such a bad idea...

There's a Heat Wave Coming!

This weekend is supposed to be rediculously HOT! Here are some summer tips from the California Science Center to help make that weekend more berable!

Source: http://www.californiasciencecenter.org/GenInfo/NewsAndEvents/CAlifestyleTips/EnergyConservation/WarmConserve.php last access 9/17/09.

"Fast and Free Cutting back unnecessary energy use is an easy way to reduce energy consumption while saving money. Here are some suggestions you can do at home, at absolutely no cost to you.

Use your appliances wisely. To help prevent electricity outages, avoid running your appliances during peak hours—from 4p.m. to 6 p.m.—or anytime an electricity emergency is declared. Do your laundry efficiently by using the warm or cold water setting for washing your clothes. Always use cold water to rinse clothes. (Savings: 4%). Line dry clothes whenever you can. (Save up to 5%) When you need to use the dryer, run full loads, use the moisture-sensing setting, and clean the clothes dryer lint trap after each use. (Savings: 0.5%) Conserve energy by running your dishwasher only when it is fully loaded, and turn off the dry cycle and air dry dishes instead. (Savings: 1%) Inexpensive Energy Solutions Make a quick trip to your local hardware store to purchase inexpensive energy saving tools and equipment. Replace air conditioner filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run longer, increasing energy use. Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit. (Savings: 1-2%) Good Energy-Saving Investments Planning to do some remodeling soon? Time to replace old appliances? Consider these energy efficiency suggestions when you make purchases. Install a whole house fan. A whole house fan is permanently installed in your attic and draws cool air into your home through the windows while forcing hot air out through your attic vents. Use after sundown when the outside temperature drops below 80 degrees, and in the early morning to cool your house and help reduce your air conditioning use. (Savings: up to 5%)"

Buying Ac?

As with anything, when you are buying something as expensive (and life changing) as central air conditioning, you want to be sure that you are getting what you pay for and getting equipment that actually works. Where to start? Well, consumer reports prides themselves with providing consumers with an excellent base of information in various fields. One of those fields, is air conditioning. Here are somethings that you might want to know before settling in on that new air conditioner.

Source: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/appliances/heating-cooling-and-air/air-conditioners/air-conditioner-buying-advice/central-air/index.htm last access 9/14/09.

Learn the lingo

Design

In a "split system," the typical design, refrigerant circulates between an indoor coil and a matching outdoor condenser with compressor. The refrigerant cools the air, dehumidifying it in the process; a blower circulates air through ducts throughout the house. A variation is the "heat pump," a type of system that functions as heater and cooler. When used as an air conditioner, a heat pump discharges heat from the house either into the air or deep into the ground. In the winter, a heat pump extracts heat from the ground or the air to warm the house.

Efficiency

This describes how much cooling the unit delivers for each watt of electricity. Efficiency is expressed as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER. At present, a SEER of 10 denotes a low-efficiency unit; medium efficiency is 11 to 14; high efficiency is above 14. New federal regulations that took effect in 2006 set the minimum SEER for a central air conditioner at 13.

Size

A synonym for the air conditioner's cooling capacity, size is measured in British thermal units per hour (Btu/hr.) or in "tons." One ton of cooling equals 12,000 Btu/hr.

Get the right contractor

Finding a trustworthy contractor to install and service an air-conditioning system matters the most. Here's how to choose:

Ask around

Seek referrals from neighbors, family, or business associates. It's wise to get price quotes from at least three contractors.

Check the background

Contractors who bid on your installation should show you proof of bonding and insurance, plus any required contractor's licenses. Check with your local Better Business Bureau and consumer affairs office for complaint records. It's a plus if technicians are certified by a trade organization, such as North American Technician Excellence or HVAC Excellence, to service residential heating and cooling equipment. These and other similar programs assess the technician's knowledge of specific types of equipment and its proper service methods. We believe that a contractor who has made the effort to get certified and has practiced this trade and learned from several years of service and installation experience, will be a better service provider.

Get specifics

Contractors who bid on your job should calculate required cooling capacity by using a recognized method like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America's Residential Load Calculation Manual, also called Manual J. An additional reference for assessing ductwork needs is Manual D. The calculations produce a detailed room-by-room analysis of cooling needs. Ask for a printout of all calculations and assumptions, including ductwork design. Be leery of a contractor who bases estimates merely on house size or vague rules of thumb.

Expect maintenance

A service plan that combines regular inspections with discounts on repairs and a labor warranty is worth negotiating into the overall price. Prices for such service vary widely.

At a minimum, regular inspections should include these steps:

• Check for and repair refrigerant leaks.
• Detect and correct duct leaks.
• Inspect and tighten the electrical connections, checking for damage.
• Clean the coils, drain pan, and drainage system.
• Vacuum the blower compartment.
• Replace filter monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Choose the right unit

If you're replacing an old central-air system, you can expect to pay around $3,000 for the equipment. If you need ductwork installed because you're starting completely from scratch or are upgrading a forced-air heating system, expect to pay $6,000 or more. Improving the system's air-filtration capabilities is also easiest to do as part of a general upgrade.

Brand plays some role in the selection.

Here are other factors that may affect reliability:

• Matching new equipment with old. If you replace only the condenser, you have a "field-matched" system that can be less efficient than advertised and that may require more repairs because of undetected incompatibilities between the two.
• Damper-zoned cooling. A large or multistory house is often divided into several heating and cooling zones to improve temperature control. However, this type of system is complex and has many more moving parts and controls and so may require more repairs.

These are just some suggestions about how to choose the best possible unit for your situation. When talking to an air conditioning professional, it is important to ask any questions you have and make sure that your questions are answered in ways that you understand. This also applies for service. If your air conditioner breaks down, it is important to know what the contractor is going to do to fix it as well as their pricing ahead of time.

Please also make sure that you are dealing with a REGISTERED contractor in GOOD standing!!

45 Ways to Save

"45 Ways to Save" via a brochure from the gas company.

It's that time of year again - the fair is in town. Sinclair Air Systems sponsors a train at the garden railroad and while we were there watching the train, we decided to get some information about how our customers can save money.

I would like to share the contents of a brochure supplied by the gas company offering 45 ways to save.

First, they break up the brochure into 7 different appliances. So I would like to highlight one simple step and one energy upgrade per each. We are hoping to offer these brochures as part of our 'customer packages' so if you are interested in getting a copy for yourself, we would love to pass one on to you.

1. Heater - Simple step: "Keep your heating system tuned-up to operate at maximum efficiency." If your heater has dust/debris in it (especially from the fires this summer) the air is going to have to push past all that dirt to actually get out into your home. Of course you are not going to have the power that you would if it were cleaned. Leaks and other things can come undone over the years. Maintenance keeps your unit running smoothly. Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "When buying a new gas furnace, choose an energy-efficient model. Look for a unit with a higher Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), or an ENERGY STAR label."
2. Air Conditioner - Simple step: "Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher (health permitting)." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "When buying a new electric air conditioner or evaporative cooler, choose an energy-efficient model. Look for a unit with a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and consider an ENERGY STAR model. An ENERGY STAR central air conditioner saves, on average, 20% on cooling costs."
3. Water Heater - Simple step: "Fix leaky faucets. One drop of hot water per second can waste 500 gallons per year." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Install low-flow, water-saving shower heads to cut water use and save up to 10% on water heating costs."
4. Lights - Simple step: "Turn off lights (and other appliances) when they are not being used and when you leave a room." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Save up to 10% by installing dimmer switches or lighting motion sensors."
5. Refrigerator - Simple step: "Dirty coils on the back or bottom front of your refrigerator can make it work harder than necessary. Clean and vacuum them at least twice a year." Energy -Efficient Upgrade: "When buying a new refrigerator, choose an energy-efficient model. An ENERGY STAR refrigerator could save you up to 40% on refrigerator costs."
6. Clothes Washers & Dryers - Simple step: "Save up to 10% of hot water heating costs by washing and rinsing your clothes in cold water." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Consider switching to a natural gas clothes dryer. Gas dryers are generally less expensive to operate than electric dryers - saving up to 50% on operating costs."
7. Pool and Spa- Simple step: "Keep your pool or spa covered when not in use. Well-fitted pool and spa covers help prevent heat loss for energy savings of up to 50%." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Consider purchasing a solar pool cover. It uses the sun to heat the water's surface."

There are many more simple steps and energy-efficient upgrade tips on the brochure, so look it up for yourself.

For more information, contact us or visit the southern California gas company's website: www.socalgas.com

State Level Rebates

According to a Department of Energy Press Release dated 7/14/2009, many states will be providing extra money in the form of rebates for homeowners who want to upgrade their appliances to newer, more energy efficient models. Source: http://www.energy.gov/news2009/7634.htm

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced the availability of nearly $300 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for state-run rebate programs for consumer purchases of new ENERGY STAR® qualified home appliances. The new program underscores the Obama Administration’s commitment to make American homes more energy efficient, while helping to support the nation’s economic recovery. “Appliances consume a huge amount of our electricity, so there’s enormous potential to both save energy and save families money every month,” said Secretary Chu. “These rebates will help families make the transition to more efficient appliances, making purchases that will directly stimulate the economy and create jobs.”

The states will submit their plans in August and their final participation requirements in October. After that, we should see some new programs providing incentives for more energy efficient appliances. THEN, you will have NO excuse. The Federal Government is already proving a huge tax break up to $1,500 for installing efficient appliances and add to that state incentives and the units will practically pay for themselves! Who said staying cool was expensive?

Is Your AC a Clunker?

All this talk about cars and clunkers...and you start to wonder...what else is the government going to pay me to replace? Actually, the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009, has enacted several different programs to promote energy efficiency through creating tax and other types of rebates. Here's the good news: If your air isn't working as well as it could be, or your home is too hot - there may be some government money out there for you. Step One: How to tell if your AC is a Clunker - Your AC may be a "clunker" if it is over 10 years old. Refrigerant technologies have improved and the part that makes the air "cold" is now much more environmentally friendly. Other things have also come a long way, such as noise reduction and energy use. It is MUCH cheaper to run a newer central air unit than an older unit. For example, if your 10 year old unit has a SEER (seasonal energy efficiency) of 8 (which most units installed in the 80s or 90s did) and you install a new basic 13 SEER unit, you can save over 30% of energy costs. If you want to go higher efficiency, say a 16 SEER which will give you the tax credit, you're looking at about a 60% savings. You have an abundance of dust in your home or not all the rooms are feeling cool. This means that your ducts aren't sealed like they should be. As units age, things come loose. Duct work is no different. If you are getting dust through the registers and into your home, that means the air system may be drawing that dust from the insulation in the attic - meaning your system is no longer sealed - and therefore no longer efficient. When your unit works harder to cool your space, you feel it as higher energy bills. Your air conditioner is LOUD - this is also related to the first point. Noise reduction technology and the shape of compressors have allowed units to run 'faster' but also much quieter. That means that every time your air kicks on, the floor won't shake like a mini earthquake. This will make your neighbors VERY happy. See other reasons to replace your air conditioner here: http://www.residential.carrier.com/knowledge/askme/replaceac.shtml and from Energy Star here: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=heat_cool.pr_checklist_consumers Okay, so second part - If your Air Conditioner IS a Clunker, what should you do: The answer in short: replace it, and take advantage of money the government is going to give you! More efficient units may be a little pricer, but if your unit is running the refrigerant R-22, it's going to become harder and harder to service. R-22 refrigerants are being/are almost completely phased out due to the Montreal Protocol. That means that if you need a charge for your older unit, it's going to cost you. Plus, the new units save a substantial amount of money! And besides...when does the government actually give you some cash back in such a large denomination? The tax credit for increasing your energy efficiency runs $1,500! That's up from the $300 they were offering last year. The tax credit applies to new heating and air conditioning, new windows, roofing and insulation. Check with your local dealer to see if you can trade in your clunker!

Troubleshoot

When it's hot, it can be hard to think about anything else. Here are some simple tips that may help to troubleshoot any problems with your central AC. Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_2085858_troubleshoot-central-air-conditioners.html Courtesy E-How, last access 8/12/09. (please note that these are merely suggestions and any advice specific to your unit requires diagnosis from a certified technician. If you are interested in service, please call 626-331-4541 to set up an appointment.) They recommend first of all checking your filter - I CAN'T STRESS THIS ONE ENOUGH! First of all your furnace is usually located in your furnace. There will be a little door or a little hatch that will open and the filter just 'pops' out. The furnace needs to be cleaned at least every 4 months, but if it is used frequently, more often than that. Then, they recommend checking your circuit breaker. These can get tripped fairly easily during the summer months, especially at peak usage. It just needs to be flipped and the unit will continue working. They give other tips and helpful suggestions. For more information, check out their page.

Summer Tips for the Kitchen

Staying cool during a heat wave can be difficult! Especially when dinner needs to be cooked. The Consumer Energy Center provides tips and tricks to help your home stay comfortable no matter what the season. Source: http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/tips/cool_in_the_kitchen.html They recommend cooking extra meals on cooler days to be frozen and then using the microwave to re-heat them. They also recommend using skillets to cook if you need to and then covering any pans (to prevent the heat from filling up the kitchen). The best part of their tips is that they provide, nice "cool" summer recipies. There are several different options, I'm only attaching one "food' and one 'drink.' To see the others, you'll have to visit their site for yourself.

Ginger-Lemon Salad Soup

PREP AND COOK TIME: About 40 minutes if quick-chilled NOTES: Serve with chopsticks and a spoon, or a fork and spoon. MAKES: 4 servings

2 stalks (each 12 to 15 in.) fresh lemon grass 1/4 cup minced fresh ginger 1 quart fat-skimmed chicken broth or vegetable broth 2 ounces dried thin rice noodles (mai fun or rice sticks) 2/3 cup long, thin carrot shreds 2/3 cup long, thin daikon shreds 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves 2 tablespoons slivered fresh mint leaves Asian fish sauce (nuoc mam or nam pla) or salt

1. Rinse lemon grass; trim and discard stem ends and leaves, and pull off and discard coarse outer layer. Cut stalks into 1/2-inch pieces.

2. In a 2- to 3-quart pan over high heat, combine lemon grass, ginger, and broth. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes. Quick-chill soup or cover and refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour or up to 1 day.

3. Meanwhile, in a 1- to 1 1/2-quart pan, bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add rice noodles and stir to separate. Cook until tender to bite, about 3 minutes. Pour into a fine strainer over the sink and rinse with cold water until cool, about 1 minute. With scissors, cut noodles in 2 or 3 places to make smaller pieces.

4. In a bowl, mix noodles, carrot, and daikon.

5. Pour broth mixture through a fine strainer into four wide bowls; discard residue. Mound noodle mixture equally in centers of bowls. Scatter cilantro and mint on top. Add fish sauce to taste.

Per serving: 102 cal., 0.9% (0.9 cal.) from fat; 8.5 g protein; 0.1 g fat (0 g sat.); 16 g carbo (0.8 g fiber); 111 mg sodium; 0 mg chol.

Virgin Piña Colada

The tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut are perfect together blended with ice.

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup pineapple juice 1 cup crushed pineapple 1/2 cup coconut milk (canned or fresh) juice from one lime ice to top of blender

PREPARATION:

Blend ingredients until ice is slushy. Pour into frosted glasses and enjoy immediately.

Tough Economic Times

If you are feeling the pinch of this economy like so many, there may be some local programs that can help out a bit. Many of the local energy companies are offering help in retrograding homes or businesses, subsidizing energy costs and even upgrading weatherization. To find out more, please check out the Flex Your Power page on http://www.fypower.org/feature/lowincome/. They provide a list of companies that are offering income-qualified programs to help out local homeowners. California provides an abundance of resources for homeowners, why not take advantage of them? These initiatives are also helpful for the environment (as well as your pocket book) if we all use less energy, it's better all around. If you're looking for other ways to help the environment or to save on your energy bills, fypower.org (flex your power) is a great place to start. This California non-profit provides tips and tricks for homeowners seasonally and keeps a database of rebates and other economic incentives.

Green Your Browser

As technology gets more advanced, appliances generally become more energy efficient. There are also more virtual tools to help you keep track of your energy use. Microsoft has a virtual energy calculator and there are a couple of other big sites that will help calculate your carbon footprint. One of the easiest to use is part of firefox's add ons. These 'green' applications do several different things to help you keep track of your energy use as well as support businesses that are helping the environment. To see for yourself, watch the video.

Things to Know About AC

As it heats up, many homeowners are stuck making the difficult choice between buying a new air conditioner, or 'getting by' with their existing equipment. Here is an article that may add some perspective to the argument. Source: "Air Conditioners Cut Out Ozone Depeleting Gas Under New Rules" From USA Today http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/environment/2009-08-05-air-conditioner_N.htm This story highlights the use of R-22 (a common refrigerant) that is being phased out by next year. It looks at the costs of new installations and the differences between savings depending on SEER ratings. This article may make it easier to choose between installing a more efficient, more expensive unit now, or watching the prices of repairs go up later.

Older refrigerant will be harder to find

The phase-out of R-22 does not mean service and used parts will be unavailable for older air-conditioning models, Schneider says. The Montreal Protocol calls for a gradual elimination of all HCFC refrigerants in new equipment in developed countries by 2010. Service for older models could disappear by 2020.

The one drawback to purchasing a new ozone-conscious air conditioner is its price, which could stretch above the $10,000 mark. The cost all depends on how efficient homeowners decide to make their new system.

Air conditioners are graded on a scale known as SEER (seasonal energy efficiency rating). The more efficient a system is, the higher its rating and price tag.

SEER "is the best measure of energy savings for the homeowner throughout the year," Schneider says.

A 13 SEER system, the bare minimum efficiency now required of all new air conditioners, using R-410A costs $5,000 to $8,000 depending on the region and the specifics of the installation, Schneider says. Ramping it up to 16 SEER would cost $8,000 to $11,000. An R-410A unit would cost about 5% more than a new one using R-22, but the service costs with R-22 could be higher.

Rebates offered for high-efficiency units

To ease the pain of the initial cost, air-conditioner manufacturers and even utility companies offer rebates as a reward for purchasing a "green" piece of equipment. Also, if homeowners decide to ratchet up the efficiency to 16 SEER, they are eligible for $1,500 in stimulus bill tax credits from the government, Schneider says.

"It made the most sense to go a little bit more efficient," says Jan Bohrer of Fairfax, Va., who recently had a new R-410A air-conditioning system with a 17 SEER rating installed into her house. She also says that her whole house feels cooler when her thermostat is set at a higher temperature and that she is able to control humidity far more effectively, which translates to comfort. The new system is also much quieter, she says.

"My old system sounded like aircraft carriers taking off when it was on," Bohrer says.

Because these new air conditioners operate with much higher pressure, they consume less energy.

Schneider says the average annual energy consumption cost of a 13 SEER machine is $665, which would save about $200 (or 23%) vs. the average energy cost of a typical existing unit. There is no difference between R-22 and R-410A energy costs when both are used in a 13 SEER system, because they are equally efficient, Schneider says.

HFCs have received scrutiny from some participants of the Kyoto Protocol, an international environmental treaty dedicated to combating global warming, based on concern that molecules of R-410A in its gaseous state trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere more than carbon dioxide. HFCs also have been criticized by Allan Thornton, president of the Environmental Investigation Agency, who says certain HFCs will be a major global warming threat in the future.

5 Green Ideas for Summer Fun

Originally posted at the Low Impact Living Blog: http://www.lowimpactliving.com/blog/2009/08/05/five-green-ideas-for-summer-fun/

The Low Impact Living site provides information about how to calculate your carbon footprint, how to choose 'greener' services and tips on things to do to lower your emissions.

August 5th, 2009
Five Green Ideas for Summer Fun
Posted by Cassie Walker
Stumble it!digg it add to del.icio.ustechnoratiShareThis With summer in full swing, it might be time for some new ideas for entertainment. New green ideas, of course! Whether it’s catching a movie in a theater powered by solar power or hosting a barbecue using (gulp) reusable plates and utensils, check out our suggestions on how to close out summer with a (green) bang.
1. Take in a flick. OK, not exactly an original idea, but cooling off in a dark movie theater is one of America’s favorite summer pastimes. Especially when enjoyed during the heat of the day, it feels like a true escape…at least for a few hours.
Regardless of whether you’re going to see the new indie flick or the latest summer blockbuster, consider the environment as you make your choices. Cut your transportation emissions by rallying the troops for a bike ride to the theater, or try taking public transportation. Eat something healthy before you go to avoid the over packaged, over-sugared junk food at the theater. Or, bring a large purse…I’m not advocating anything here, I’m just saying, it’s an option.
Though most theaters are kept at temperatures that seem to be just above freezing, there are a few that reduce their impact by drawing power from alternative energy. For example, Livermoore Cinemas in Livermoore, CA gets 35% of its energy needs from a solar installation on the roof. Or, for something a little more old-school, check out the wind-powered Harvest Moon Drive-In in Gibson City, IL. Though you’ll have to drive there (it being a drive-in and all) you can bring your own food and drinks. Bring unprocessed, organic treats and you’ll be saving more than money.
For an even greener experience – of both the environmental and cash varieties – consider joining one of the DVD services, like Netflix, which delivers movies right to your mailbox via the postal service. Less fun, perhaps, but perfect for a Tuesday night with the kids.
2. Catch up on your green TV So many programs, so little time! If you’re like me, your DVR gets backed up with shows during the busy spring months. With reruns ruling the airwaves this summer, check out some of the entertaining, educational programming on networks like Planet Green and Sundance. From cooking and home renovations to style and even science, there are shows about greening every aspect of work and play.
3. Throw a party Summer is the perfect time to throw a party, considering the long days and warm nights. Use e-vites to spread the word, and encourage people to carpool. If you’re up for a bit of cooking, scour your local farmers’ market or your garden to come up with the freshest, tastiest treats – your guests will thank you. Add wonderful sustainable wine, and you’re a hero!
If you’re the queen or king of the grill, choose propane over charcoal to minimize emissions. Don’t take the easy route with disposable plates and utensils – use reusable items and enlist a friend or two to help with clean-up. If you can’t swing reusables due to the number of people expected, look for biodegradable or compostable disposables. To keep pests at bay, try some of the more natural insect repellants, like those from Burt’s Bees. It only takes a little forethought to reduce the impact of your celebrations!
4. Have a garage sale Have your kids outgrown last year’s school clothes? Got a bunch of stuff stacked in the garage that’s still working or in good shape? Sounds like it’s time for a yard sale. Selling your old stuff will not only reduce your clutter, but will provide a new life for many of the things you can no longer use. Talk to others in your neighborhood about putting on a multi-family sale to garner additional buyers. Plus, they might have something that you could use! Get to know your neighbors, make a little extra money, and advance the concept of “reuse” – sounds like a good Saturday morning!
5. Do nothing at all My favorite. If just hanging out sounds like your speed (or you’re exhausted after your garage sale) consider hitting your local park, beach, lake, or even your own back yard. Pack some snacks, a blanket, and maybe a football or your trusty Scrabble board (depending on your sensibilities) and chill. Summer is prime relaxation time, so take advantage of the slower pace to decompress and recharge. Whatever you do this summer, consider the environment, but most importantly, have fun!

Check out their site for more information about being "green."

Electric Bill

Did your electric bill go up this month? You may have thought...hmm...a little high, but...I have been running the air conditioner almost constantly. While the constant cooling may have attributed some to the high costs of energy this last month, it may not be the sole cause. California regulators gave Edison the 'OK' to raise their rates in Southern California as of March 2009.

Read the story here: http://articles.latimes.com/2009/mar/13/business/fi-edison13

So, while there may not be anything you can do about your increased rate - if ever there was a time to start conserving electricity it's now!

Consider using lights only when they are needed. If natural light from the windows will suffice, don't turn on the lights, especially since lighting can increase the overall temperature of the room. Make sure to turn lights off when they are not needed, or when you leave a room. If you haven't switched over to efficient light bulbs, do so - they do actually conserve energy and last longer to boot.

Keep the drapes closed! If you have one side of the house that gets major sun consider installing outside shades to block and deflect some of the heat.

Focus on your attic - a lot of cool air can be lost through the attic. So if you have an older home (with less insulation) consider getting more insulation or even a radiant barrier installed to prevent the heat from your attic from getting into your home.

Time to Replace AC?

It's always difficult to know when it's time to repair your air conditioning, or just replace it. Here are some helpful tips that might help in the decision making process.

Sources: "When Is It Time To Replace" Energy Star http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=heat_cool.pr_checklist_consumers

"Determining If You Should Replace or Repair Your Air Conditioner" Air Conditioning Helper http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=heat_cool.pr_checklist_consumers

TIPS:

Please note: all suggestions are made in a specifically general sense and are not meant to be understood as prescriptions. Please contact us (www.sinclairair.com) to provide information about your specific situation for advice regarding your personal air conditioning system and whether repairs or replacement would be best for you.

Age Matters

If your unit is 5 or under, we usually recommend repairs. If your unit is 7 years or older we recommend replacing. Energy Star recommends that you replace your unit if it is older than 10 years old.

Why?

• Well, age matters for a couple different reasons. When your unit becomes older, it becomes less efficient. Just like the longer you drive your car, the more frequent service calls become. Older units just need to be used more carefully than a brand new unit. Maintenance is also very important for older units. While a newer unit may be able to 'get away' with running a dirty filter, that same dirty filter may cause the older unit to break down. PLEASE NOTE: It is VERY important (READ: VERY IMPORTANT) to change/clean your filters regularly (no less than every 3 months and more in the summer/winter depending on use).
• Age also affects the technology of the unit. If a newer, more efficient, environmentally friendly refrigerant is running in the newer units, it's a good idea to upgrade. This lessens your carbon footprint AS well as saving you money on your energy bills.

Repair Bills Piling Up

It is important to keep your unit properly maintained. That means keeping it clean, keeping dirt/plants/etc. debris away from the outdoor unit and having a contractor come out once a year to check it. However, if you are having frequent "break downs" or periods where your air system is not working, it's time to consider replacing the unit.

Let's say a repair bill is going to cost $500 - a whole new unit (change out with existing duct work etc.) can run a couple thousand dollars. At $500, you're almost already there, and there isn't any assurances that after you replace that certain part that something else won't break.

Humidity/Dust Problems

If your home is not getting cool enough, or there is a dust problem, this could be related to the age of your air conditioning unit.

A large part of the air conditioner's job is to remove moisture from the air. Humidity is what makes you feel warm, if the humidity level in your home is controlled, you will feel more comfortable. If you have noticed lately that you have to keep pumping the air conditioner to a lower temperature and you're still not feeling comfortable, it's probably time for a new unit.

Dust is also a problem indicating that your ducts may need to be resealed or replaced. If you have particles from the attic or crawl space, your unit is not running at top efficiency. If particles are being drawn in, that means cooled air is leaking into the attic (or non-livable spaces in your house) - that's basically like paying to cool the outside.

Your Heating System is Noisy

If your unit makes banging sounds or the air is loud, there could be a problem with the indoor unit, or the duct work. Either way, technology in air conditioning has come to the point where the 'hum' of the units should be softer than conversation. This is meant to help keep your home comfortable and also prevent the disturbance of the neighbors every time your unit kicks on. So, if your unit is louder than conversation, it is time to consider replacing it.

If your home is experiencing any of the above 'symptoms' it is at the very least a good idea to start looking into replacement options. There is a considerable amount of terminology involved with the purchase of an air system and it's good to know what the contractor is trying to sell you. If you don't understand something ASK questions! Think about your decision, don't rush into this investment.

Tax Credit FAQ

Source: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=tax_credits.tx_index http://www.ahrinet.org/Content/FederalTaxCredits_896.aspx

While the 2009-2010 Tax Credit ($1,500) is pretty appetizing, it can be confusing wading through all of the qualification steps. So at Sinclair Air, we thought that we would post some answers to commonly asked questions to help alleviate some stress.

What units qualify?

• Qualified furnaces have an AFUE (or air fuel utilization efficiency) of 95%. AFUE is expressed as a percentage because it shows how much of the energy used to heat the unit is actually expressed as heat and what the exhaust is. So with a 95% furnace, 95% of the energy is expressed as heat for your home. Only 5% is exhaust. The qualified units also have fans that use no more than 2% of the total energy. The SEER for air conditioners (Seasonal energy efficiency ratio) is at 16 or above.
• All of the manufacturers re-examined their units in July, so make sure that your unit qualifies before signing your contract.

Do both my air conditioning unit and furnace need to qualify?

• No. Only one unit may qualify. Or Both units. If it is only one though, your contract needs to be split reflecting the costs of each unit. Because the cost of only the qualifying unit will be applied in the tax credit.

Is the cost of installation included?

• For air conditioning and heating, our portion of the tax credit does include installation costs.

How can I collect the tax credit?

• Tax payers need to fill out IRS form 5695 (http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5695.pdf). For your records, it is also a great idea to keep a copy of your contract, and the manufacturer's certificate for the equipment (to prove that the units do in fact qualify).

How long is the tax credit applicable?

• The tax credit is available until December 31, 2010. If units are placed into service between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010, the tax credit is available.

How does a tax credit work?

• The tax credit is applied not to your income, but to the total at the end. So if you come out owing $100 (FOR EXAMPLE, HYPOTHETICALLY) the tax credit would bring that balance to 0.
• The tax credit is still available to anyone who upgraded energy appliances in 2007.
• The tax credit can be banked. So, for example, say in 2009 you upgrade your windows and in 2010 you upgrade your air conditioning. Both of these upgrades would qualify assuming that you had not met the $1,500 cap.
I hope that this has answered some of your questions. If you have more specific questions about qualifying units or other information, please email me at amandaatsinclairairdotcom, or visit our website: www.sinclairair.com.