Portland Heating and Cooling Solutions

Why Have Your Air Conditioner Serviced?

We all know that we can pay our auto mechanics a little now for routine service, or pay them a lot later for a major repair. The same idea holds true for your air conditioner or heat pump. If you don’t service your air conditioner or heat pump regularly, you’ll find yourself uncomfortable, and possibly a hefty bill.

Without regular maintenance an air conditioner loses about 5% of its original efficiency for each year of operation. Example: A 13 SEER unit that you bought just a few years ago may be functioning like a 9 SEER unit today! The good news is that you can recover most of that lost efficiency through regular maintenance. Studies show that with regular tune-ups a unit will maintain up to 95% of its original efficiency. This means that the cost of an annual tune-up is recovered very quickly in savings on your monthly electric bill and reduced repair costs.

The service check should include cleaning the condensing unit coils, checking the amp draw of the compressor and fan motors, oiling the fan motors, and checking the system operating pressures and temperatures against the manufacturer’s specifications. One of the most important items to check is the coolant level (commonly known as Freon) in the air conditioner. A system that is only 10% low on coolant will cost about 20% more to operate! The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) recommends that coolant levels be checked every year.

There are some things in addition to annual air conditioner tune-ups that you can do to help ensure a high level of comfort, help lower your cooling cost and reduce costly repairs.

• Buy good filters and change them regularly.
• Have a programmable thermostat
• Keep bushes and other materials away from the outside unit of your air conditioner.
• Have your ducts checked to be sure they are all connected.
• Have your ducts cleaned if they look dirty.

 

 Another good idea is to avoid closing supply air outlets in your house. In almost all cases, closing supply outlets is harmful to the operation of the overall system.

All equipment, even the most reliable, needs routine maintenance. Complicated equipment like today’s air conditioners or heat pumps benefit in many ways from annual service. They recover much of their lost efficiency, they are less likely to suffer a major break down, they have a longer life span, they increase your comfort, and they operate for less money.

Call today to schedule your service, 503-543-3624

 Like us on Facebook  @ www.facebook.com/columbianw for additional savings

 

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Are You As Comfortable As You Can Be? How about Zoning?

Do you live in a two story house? How about a multiple story or a long ranch style? Did you know you can zone your heating and cooling system? What I mean is, install some dampers and thermostats and be able to control your heating and or cooling system to whatever temperature you would like. For instance, let’s say you have a 2 story home. Typical 2 story homes have the bedrooms upstairs and the living space and kitchen on the main floor. Why heat or cool the main floor at night while everyone is upstairs sleeping? As you start your day why heat or cool the upstairs while everyone is on the main floor. There are many studies on energy savings and zoning and what we have seen is about $365.00 saving per year.

Honeywell makes a simple zoning system that can adapt to most any heat pump, gas, oil, or electric furnace. If you have a Water Furnace Geothermal system they have a zone control that works very well.

Trane has just introduced the Comfort Link II zone system. When installed with a Trane variable speed communicating gas furnace or air handler, XL20I communicating Heat pump or Air Conditioner, and the XL950 thermostat, you can easily have multiple zones with sensors on the wall in each room to communicate back to the XL950 thermostat, then to the zone control. The zone control then will turn on heating or cooling, depending on what’s needed, and open the damper to the room, and allow the room to maintain the temperature you desire. If you would like to lean more, please request a quote.

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Programmable Thermostats Can Save You Money On Your Heating Bill

The US Department of Energy estimates you can save10% on your heating bill by rolling back your thermostat 10-15% for just 8 hours. If you are gone 10 hours a day for work and sleeping 6-8 hours of the day, then you really only need to keep your house warm enough for comfort standards a few hours per day. Reducing your average temperature by 10% for a total of 16 hours per day could save you 20% on your heating bill.

What temperature should you set? Columbia NW Heating recommends setting your thermostat to automatically heat and cool your home to your comfort first. The programmable thermostats today typically have 4 periods that can be set differently for all 7 days of the week.

Suggested winter schedule:

Wake up in the morning at 6:00 to 72 deg.

Leave for work at 7:30 and drop down to 60 deg.        

Come home at 5:30 to a nice warm 72 deg.

Go to bed at 10:00 and let the home go to 64 deg.

If your home is well insulated it may never drop to the lowest temperature. Once you set your thermostat, it will automatically regulate your home’s temperature and you should never have to think about it again – or at least until the seasons change.

We recommend 3 different thermostats to our customers, the Trane TCONT802, The Trane comfort link remote (can use your phone to adjust temps) and the new Trane XL950 comfort link II with a 7 inch display.

Check out what Consumer Reports has to say about the Trane XL950

 

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

5 Tips To Save On Hot Water Heaters And Energy Efficiency

Hot water heaters last approximately ten to fifteen years.  Even if you have an older heater there are things you can do to improve efficiency.  

Most hot water heaters look like a vertical cylinder.  The principle of the water heater is that cool water enters the cylinder and the water is heated.  The hot water is at the top of the system. 

Having hot water available is expected when you get in the shower or do dishes, and yet there are ways to save money if you understand the way a hot water heater works.

Tips To Saving Money on Hot Water:

1. Use an insulating jacket to cover your heater.  The jacket can reduce heat loss by 25 -40 percent, dependent upon the age of your water heater.  
2. Reduce the water heater temperature to 120 Fahrenheit.  Each 10 degree reduction in water temperature saves 3 - 5 % of the energy consumption.
3. Wash clothes in "warm" or "cold" settings.  This is better for most fabrics, and conserves heated water.
4. Lower your thermostat or turn it off when you go on vacation.  You won't need hot water while you are away.  (Be sure you know how to turn on the hot water heater before you turn it off. If it has a pilot light, it may be safer just to lower the temperature instead of turning it off completely.)
5. In addition to the blanket, you may want to consider insulating the pipes as well. This can reduce heat loss from the hot water heater on the way to the tap.

If your hot water heater is older, you may want to consider a new hot water heater.  Have your system evaluated annually to make sure you don't wind up having a hot water emergency when you have a house full of guests for the holiday!   Besides, the newer hot water heaters are more efficient and you could potentially save in energy costs the equivalent of the cost of the heater!

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Ask An Electrician: Hidden Dangers Of Holiday Lighting

Holiday lights can be very beautiful, and hiring an electrical contractor to install your holiday lighting system may not have been a consideration.  Each year, during the holiday season, there are hundreds of fires caused by electrical outlet overloads.  The dangers of the season may be overlooked in the spirit of creating a beautiful environment for the holiday. 

Even if you don't hire an electrician to install your lighting, you may want to have an electrical contractor evaluate your outlets and electrical system before determining where to put the tree.  It may also be prudent to have service upgraded before the holidays if you plan on putting on an extensive lighting display.

There are a few tips to avoid having a dilemma or catastrophe during the holiday season:

• Don't overload the outlet.  Using an extension cord will increase the number of plugs you can utilize, but don't start daisychaining these extension cords to create a fire hazard.  
• Buy UL Aproved holiday lights from a reputable vendor and make sure that they are UL approved.  With so many dollar outlets importing low cost items, it may seem that you are getting a bargain, however, the concern over lead in addition to poor construction may lead to other problems. Better to pay a bit more and get lights that are approved for use in your home by Underwriters Laboratory (UL).
• Keep the tree from drying out, but beware of standing water and electricity. 
• Unplug your tree when you are not home.  Yes, it's beautiful, but if something happened and you are not there to react, it could be the end of the holiday.
• Watch pets around wires, especially young puppies and kittens.  Puppies tend to chew, and even kittens have been known to try to chew on wires.  They also may like to try to climb the tree which can become dangerous if the tree falls over.
• Be aware of tripping hazards.  With the strands of lights and extension cords, you may want to use some electrical tape or duct tape to secure the electrical wiring to the floor and prevent tripping hazards.  Particularly if your relatives may need to use a walker, wheelchair or cane, this would be critical.  They may not see the cord, and then may fall.

Holidays can be safe when you take the precautions of thinking through your holiday plan and planning how and where you want to plug in that tree with the holiday lights.  If in doubt, call a licensed electrician to help and advise for the best and safest holiday season!

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Heating System Updates: How To Keep Your Humidifier Safe

Winter months and heating systems can cause symptoms of dry air.  Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air to alleviate those issues.  There are some concerns, however with humidifiers when not used property, including mold, bacterial growth and dispersal of minerals into the air.

Humidifiers add moisture to the air and can be helpful, especially in the winter.  Dry heated air can cause static and skin conditions to exacerbate, however too much moisture can encourage mold or bacterial contamination.  Use of a humidifier when conditions require correct moisture setting depends upon existing conditions.

Health concerns may result from the dispersal of microorganisms and minerals by humidifiers that haven't been cleaned. There are a few simple steps to protecting your family from airborne contaminents that could be harbored in humidifiers:

• Periodically, you should empty the tank, wipe surfaces dry. After cleaning, refill daily. Daily maintenace of portable units will reduce growth of microorganisms.
• Water with low mineral content may prevent build-up of minerals which woudl be dispersed into the air. Using distilled water instead of tap water may reduce mineral contamination.
• Clean humidifiers using a brush or other scrubber to remove any scale, deposits, or film that has formed on the sides of the tank. Wipe all surfaces dry.
• Cleaning products or disinfectants can also become airbone through ultrasonic humidifiers.  Be cautious when using them.  If in doubt, use water with a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide. Always rinse the tank thoroughly with several changes of water.
• Do not allow water to stand for extended periods of time.  Change water frequently to keep the water clean.
• Set the humidifier to less than 50 percent humidity. High humidity levels encourage growth of biological organisms.
• If you see water condensation on windows, walls, or pictures, lower the humidistat setting, or use the humidifier less.
• Watch for dampness near the humidifier.  If it's a portable unit, don't allow absorbent materials, such as carpeting, drapes, or table cloths, to become damp. If it's a whole house unit, watch for dampness or stickiness on furniture.
• Contact your physician if you have respiratory symptoms which you believe are associated with periods of use of your home humidifier, even if you are following maintenance directions.

Humidifiers can be a terrific device if used properly and maintained correctly.  Be sure to ask your heating and cooling system professional for instruction on setting your humidifier to the proper settings for your home or office.

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

8 Tips To Reduce The Cost Of Heating This Winter

As the temperatures start to dive, it's time to think heating system.  Heating can be expensive. If you’d like to reduce your heating bills even further this season, consider giving some of these free or low-cost tips a try.

1. Lower your thermostat.  The difference of a few degrees may save you 5 to 10 percent on your heating bill, but may not be noticed that much, particularly during the middle of the day when it's warmest outside, or in the middle of the night when you are likely tucked into bed. 

2. Be aware of heat from other sources.  Instead of venting the bathroom shower, keep the bathroom door open to share the warmth.  The oven generates heat when you bake, you can leave the oven door slightly open as it cools to share the heat (Keep children, animals and fingers away though!). 

1. Use blankets or snugglies.  If the house is cold or drafty, you can always wear a sweater or grab a cover.  If you feel a chill while watching television or reading, try a blanket or snuggie.   Your body will also feel warmer if you wear a cap. 

4.Turn down the hot water.  You can fudge on the hot water, and turn the thermostat to 120 instead of 140 degrees and save some heating expense. 

5. Cover windows at night. When it's cold outside, cover your windows to reduce heat loss and keep cold air outside.  Reverse this during the day, and uncover the windows during the day to let the sunlight naturally warm the rooms.

6. Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats range in price, but chances are you'll save more than you spend because you will reduce your heating expense.  Most programmable thermostats have the ability to create a schedule where you can reduce the heating during the day when no one is home, or even when you are sleeping.  Many also have a vacation mode to adjust for times when there is no reason to keep the home as warm.

7. Close the flue to fireplaces or wood stove. If you aren't using that fireplace be sure the flue is closed and install glass doors to minimize heat loss. 

8. Get a heating system checkup. Proper maintenance will help your heating unit run more efficiently. Electric and oil heaters should get professional attention at least once a year and gas heaters every other year. Remember to replace the air filters - dirty filters lead to higher heating costs.

When was the last time you changed your heating filter?  When was the last time you had a professional evaluation of your heating system?    Do you believe your heating system is running efficiently? 

 

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Heating And Ventilation Tips: 5 Keys To Preventing Dryer Fires

One of the most forgotten causes of fires in the home is the clothes dryer.  Every year, thousands of fires have been caused by clothes dryers, resulting in deaths and injuries.  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that fiires can occur from lint build up. Lint accumulates in the dryer or in the exhaust duct and blocks the flow of air.  This can result in excessive heat build-up, potentially causing a fire.

To prevent fires:

1. Clean the lint screen.  Always clean the lint filter or screen before or after each drying cycle.  If you notice that you've gone through a cycle and the clothes are still damp, this may be an indication that there is an accumulation of lint. 
2. Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct. While the dryer is running, check where the exhaust air escapes.  If it's not flowing it's blocked. You can try to clear the exhaust pipe by disconnecting from both ends and using a snake type device, or to be assured of clearing the line, have a professional clean it for you.   Remember to reconnect both ends before attempting to use the dryer after cleaning. 
3. Clean behind the dryer. Have a professional remove the back of the dryer and clean the lint that may have accumulated.  You should have this done at least every 6 months.  In the interim between cleanings, keep the space behind the dryer clear of clutter. 
4. Use a metal duct to replace plastic or foil ducts. The flexible plastic or foil type ducts have spirals that act to trap lint, and are suseptible to kinks and crushing, which will reduce air flow.  Replacing this with a metal duct will improve airflow.
5. Be aware of chemicals.  If the clothing has become soiled with a chemical like gasoline, cleaning agents, cooking oils, it could be volatile and the heat from the dryer could cause a fire.  Wash the clothing more than once, and use a low heat to dry.  Avoid leaving piles of clothing that may have been soiled by chemicals as well - the heat buildup could potentially cause a fire.

When was the last time you cleaned the dryer exhaust or behind your dryer?   To schedule an appointment, give us a call or use the button! (Ask about our FREE dryer vent cleaning with duct cleaning when you call!)

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Fall Heating System Tuneup - 3 Reasons To Schedule Today

As the weather starts to turn colder, we expect to be able to switch systems from cooling to heating easily.   In a perfect world, that's a no-brainer, it can be as simple as pressing a button or changing a setting.  The reality is that our heating system has been dormant all summer, and now it needs some attention to get started.

There are three major benefits to scheduling a fall Tuneup before starting your heating system:

1. Improve Efficiency 21%. When your system is tuned up and running efficiently you will improve the operation and enhance the life of your system. 

2. Improve Capacity 25%.  If you turn on the heat and it takes a long time to get warm, or you feel that it's just not operating quickly, it may be time to have your system tuned up. 

3. Reduce Utility Costs.  As your heating system operates more efficiently it will take less energy to get more results, therefore you will reduce your utility costs.  Dependent upon the type of heating system you have, that can mean less gas usage, less electrical usage or less oil usage.  

Schedule a home heating system tuneup or commercial system heating tuneup today, before the rush! 

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.

Efficient Heating And Cooling? Consider A Geothermal System

A geothermal heat pump collects Earth's natural heat in the winter, and draws heat from your home in the summer.  It's a truly efficient and green way of heating or cooling your home or office. 

Unlike a traditional heating system, geothermal heat isn't created by burning fuel like a furnace. A pre-designed series of pipes, called a loop, is typically installed - sometimes in a nearby pond or lake, or below the surface of the ground. Heat is transferred through the pipe by fluid to your home. An electrically driven heat exchanger compresses this heat and brings it to higher temperature which is then distributed through ductwork in the home.

In summer, the underground loop draws heat to the outside wher it is absorbed by the Earth. Much like the way a refrigerator keeps your food cool, heat is drawn out of the home versus the way an air conditioner cools - by blowing in cool air. 

Geothermal heat pumps require little maintenance. With less mechanical components than traditional systems, most of those components are underground,  and for the most part, worry-free. Geothermal systems are also quiet to operate, especially when compared to noisy furnaces or airconditioner units.

Since geothermal systems rely on the constant temperature of the earth, they are  efficient, comfortable, and quiet.  The cost of installation can usually be offset by the ongoing savings on energy bills - which could be as much as 30 - 40% less, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  The EPA includes geothermal heat pumps in the EnergyStar® program due to the high efficiency. 

 

Columbia NW Heating Inc. specializes in efficiently upgrading or repairing air conditioning, heating, gas furnaces, heat pump, ductless heat pumps, tankless water heaters, geothermal heat pumps, electric furnaces, air filtration systems, oil furnaces,  gas fireplaces and inserts, and all systems related to the comfort of your home or office in Portland and surrounding areas.