So, it seems you are forced to run your electric or fuel-powered furnace as much as is necessary and hope that it’s not too much for the environment — or your wallet — to take.

Beyond the traditional heating methods of electricity, gas, oil and what have you, there are some alternatives out on the market these days that can keep your home warm while also being green.

Geothermal

One solution is geothermal heat, which harnesses the natural heat of the Earth to warm your home. Pipes filled with coolant run through the ground outside your home, absorbing the warmth of the Earth. Then, the warm coolant is pumped into your home through a network of pipes that radiate heat.

This method is effective and requires no additional fuel or energy.

Micro Combined Heat and Power (MCHP) Systems

Relatively new to the game are so-called MCHP systems. These heating systems have on-board power generators with high-efficiency computer modules attached. The power module interfaces with the thermostat, calling for heat when necessary. That activates the generator system, which quietly and efficiently generates all the necessary power to run the heater.

These systems are incredibly efficient and can slash the cost of your heating bill. As an added benefit, they continue to work during power outages, which has obvious utility in areas that experience harsh winter storms.

Solar

Then, of course, there is the most obvious and readily available source of heat to the whole planet: the sun. Solar heating systems can be either active or passive, which essentially just depends on whether additional specialized equipment is to be installed.

Obviously, solar heating systems are a better choice for areas that get a lot of sunlight year round.

Whichever environmentally friendly heating solution you choose, they have the added benefit of lowering your heating bill, which is always welcome.  If you need help making a decision  about which environmentally friendly heating method to use please contact ASI Heating and Air Conditioning 

Heating equipment is rated using AFUE, or annual fuel utilization efficiency, which must be displayed to allow consumers to easily compare products. AFUE is the ratio of heat generated by a furnace compared to the fuel consumed over an average heating season.

A rating of 90 percent indicates that 90 percent of the fuel becomes useful heat in your home, while the other 10 percent of heat energy is lost, escaping up the flue. Heat lost via piping or the duct system is not accounted for in the calculation. Be aware that if the home’s ductwork isn’t properly sealed, insulated and well-designed, that duct-or-pipe heat loss may be significant.

Since older furnaces had efficiency levels between 68 and 72 percent, you will likely save quite a bit on your monthly utility bills once your new system is installed. According to the US Department of Energy website, Energy Savers, current medium-efficiency furnaces are defined as having an AFUE of 80-83 percent, while high efficiency units have a 90-97 percent AFUE ratio. Other hallmarks of high efficiency include a second heat exchanger and sealed combustion. Certain propane, oil or natural gas-fueled models may qualify for a federal tax credit, if the AFUE is at or above 95 percent.

If you have questions about heating system efficiency, contact the local experts at ASI Hastings Heating and Air Conditioning. We provide complete HVAC services from system design to installation, repairs and maintenance. Visit our website to learn more, or just pick up the phone.

A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is the only thing in your home that can alert you and your family to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in properties without working smoke alarms. A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

What types of smoke alarms are available?

There are many different brands of smoke alarms available on the market, but they fall under two basic types: ionization and photoelectric.

It cannot be stated definitively that one is better than the other in every fire situation that could arise in a residence. Because both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms are better at detecting distinctly different, yet potentially fatal fires, and because no one can predict what type of fire might start in a home, the USFA recommends that every residence and place where people sleep be equipped with:

• Both ionization AND photoelectric smoke alarms, OR
• dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors

In addition to the basic types of alarms, there are alarms made to meet the needs of people with hearing disabilities. These alarms may use strobe lights that flash and/or vibrate to assist in alerting those who are unable to hear standard smoke alarms when they sound.

What powers a smoke alarm?

Smoke alarms are powered by battery or they are hardwired into the home’s electrical system. If the smoke alarm is powered by battery, it runs on either a disposable 9-volt battery or a non-replaceable 10-year lithium (“long-life”) battery. A backup battery is usually present on hardwired alarms and may need to be replaced.  These batteries must be tested on a regular basis and, in most cases, should be replaced at least once each year (except for lithium batteries).

Install smoke alarms in key areas of your home

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or early in the morning, so the U.S. Fire Administration recommends installing smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas.

Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Hardwired smoke alarms should be installed by a qualified electrician.

Smoke alarm maintenance

Is your smoke alarm still working? Smoke alarms must be maintained! A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all. A smoke alarm only works when it is properly installed and maintained. Depending on how your smoke alarm is powered (9-volt, 10-year lithium, or hardwired), you’ll have to maintain it according to manufacturer’s instructions. General guidelines for smoke alarm maintenance:

Smoke alarm powered by a 9-volt battery

• Test the alarm monthly.
• Replace the batteries at least once per year.
• The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.

Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long life”) battery

• Test the alarm monthly.
• Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, the entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke alarm that is hardwired into the home’s electrical system

• Test the alarm monthly.
• The backup battery should be replaced at least once per year.
• The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.

Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking

A smoke alarm is just doing its job when it sounds while you’re cooking or taking a shower with lots of steam.

• If a smoke alarm sounds while you’re cooking or taking a shower with lots of steam, do not remove the battery. You should:
• Open a window or door and press the “hush” button,
• Wave a towel at the alarm to clear the air, or
• Move the entire alarm several feet away from the location.

Disabling a smoke alarm or removing the battery can be a deadly mistake.

Information provided by the US Fire Administration:

North American Technician Excellence is a non-profit founded in the early 90s to create an industry-wide certification process. Since then, NATE has become an industry leader, helping technicians advance their careers by participating in continuing education opportunities and skills testing in real-world situations.

Contractors can take classes in the basics of installation and maintenance of HVAC systems, as well as more advanced specialty subjects. Contractors must prove their knowledge through examinations in order to be certified. Participation is voluntary, so you can be assured that certified technicians are devoted to their craft.

Homeowners who’ve hired NATE-certified technicians have mentioned the following benefits:

• Utility savings that result from attention to detail during installation
• Heating and cooling systems that operate at peak efficiency due to careful maintenance
• Work done right the first time
• Few call-backs or product returns
• Quick, efficient, courteous service
• Detailed product knowledge
• Trustworthy, professional advice

When selecting a contractor, it’s also important to verify that they are properly state licensed and insured. Get referrals, preferably from friends, family or neighbors; ask for customer references and be sure to call them; and always make sure potential contractors employ NATE-certified technicians.

It shouldn’t surprise you to learn that at ASI Hastings Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians are NATE-certified. We’re proud of our well-trained and experienced staff, and hope to be able to send one of them to meet you when you need quality HVAC service or professional advice. Visit our website to learn more, or just give us a call.

1. Age - If your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 10 years old or your heating system (boiler or furnace) is more than 15, you’ll save a significant amount on your utility costs by choosing a new Energy Star model. Your new equipment can pay for itself quite quickly through energy savings and potential tax credits.
2. Repairs – If your system needs frequent repairs or even one big-budget repair, it may be cost-effective to go for a new model. It will certainly be more convenient to do so, and with new technology your home will likely be more comfortable and use less energy.
3. Rising energy costs - If your energy bills have been on the rise, this is another low-performance indicator.
4. Comfort level - If you old system is just not doing the job anymore, leaving some rooms uncomfortably hot or too cold, it’s time to weigh your options for repair or replacement.
5. Comfort controls - If your system doesn’t have a programmable thermostat, you are probably wasting energy and money. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat so you can set back your system to save energy when you’re away or sleeping.
6. Humidity control - Consider a new system with humidity control features if your old one lacks in this area. Leaky duct work could also be the culprit of humidity issues.
7. Dust - Excess dust in the home can be caused by leaking ducts. Duct sealing may be in order before installing a new system.
8. Noise -  Noise issues may be due to an undersized duct system or a potentially fixable problem with your indoor A/C coil. New systems are engineered to operate more quietly.

For help solving the repair-or-replace dilemma, contact the experts at ASI Hastings Heating & Air Conditioning.

To accomplish all these great things, the equipment does require a little attention. If the pump is not properly maintained, its performance can suffer and it may end up costing you money. Without proper annual care, for instance, the unit might switch over to auxiliary heating unnecessarily — and there goes the significant energy savings you’ve grown accustomed to enjoying. Here’s what you can do between annual professional maintenance visits to improve the airflow to your home and to keep the equipment clean internally:

• Replace the filter monthly or whenever it appears dirty.
• Keep debris away from the outdoor unit.
• Be sure that the air registers inside your home are not blocked by rugs, curtains or furnishings.

Schedule a preventive maintenance visit and your technician will take care of the following crucial tasks to keep your heat pump in excellent shape. When the items on this list are done, you can expect many years of comfort from your investment in energy-efficient home comfort equipment:

• Replace the air filter.
• Check for duct system leakage.
• Measure airflow and air temperature entering and exiting the equipment.
• Check refrigerant pressure and look for any leaks.
• Inspect and clean the indoor evaporator, and condenser coil and blower.
• Oil moving parts.
• Inspect belts for excess wear and check tension.
• Test controls to be certain heating and cooling can’t be turned on simultaneously.
• Examine electrical wiring and connections, and clean terminals.
• Check compressor operation.
• Test the defrost cycle.
• Clean the condensate drain.
• Calibrate the thermostat.

Talk to the local experts at ASI Hastings Heating and Air Conditioning if you have any questions about heat pumps. Visit our website to learn more about our HVAC services, and the latest products, or just give us a call.

ASI Hastings Heating and Air Earns Coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award

Award reflects businesses’ consistently high level of customer service

ASI Hastings, a leading residential San Diego HVAC contractor has been awarded the prestigious 2011 Angie’s List Super Service Award, an honor bestowed annually on approximately 5 percent of all the businesses rated on the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews on local service and health providers.

“It’s really a testament to our team and their commitment to excellence, commented Ken Justo co-owner of ASI Hastings. We strive every day to be the best heating and air-conditioning company in San Diego County.”

“Only a fraction of the businesses rated on Angie’s List can claim the sterling service record of being a Super Service Award winner because we set a high bar,” said Angie’s List Founder Angie Hicks. “The fact that ASI Hastings can claim Super Service Award status speaks volumes about its dedication to consumers.”

Angie’s List Super Service Award winners have met strict eligibility requirements including earning a minimum number of reports, an exemplary rating from their clients and abiding by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

Ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List, but members can find the 2011 Super Service Award logo next to business names in search results on AngiesList.com. 

If you’re looking for furnace or air conditioner repair, or you’d like to install a new heating and cooling system give ASI Hastings a call. For your convenience they work evenings and weekends at no extra charge. You truly can Trust the White Glove Guys.

Details: As of July 1, 2011, Carbon Monoxide detectors will be REQUIRED in all houses (1 – 4 units) if they have any of the following:

• Any gas appliances such as a gas stove, gas furnace, gas fireplace, gas water heater, etc.
• A fireplace (even if it only burns wood, pellets, or any other material).
• An attached garage (even if there are no gas appliances in the house!). Cars continue to emit CO even after they are shut off.
• ANY rental dwelling that meets the criteria listed above. Yes this means that if you own a house, condo, or townhouse that you rent to another human being, you are REQUIRED to install Carbon Monoxide detectors.
• As of January 1, 2013, ALL multi-family dwellings including multi-family dwellings that meet the criteria listed above will be required to have Carbon Monoxide detectors. Even those that are not being sold will be required to have them just like smoke detectors.

Be sure your home is safe. For details call ASI Hastings Heating and Air at 1-800-481-COOL (2665) or go online at www.asiheatingandair.com. We will provide the information you need to feel confident about your safety and the safety of your home.