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Temperatures have dropped noticeably in Myrtle Beach as we move from October to November. Average lows are in the 40s this time of year, and colder weather is on the way. That means it's time to prepare your HVAC system and home or business for winter and increased heating use. Here's how to prepare so you won't be caught in a cold house this season:
Of course we're going to mention this as number one, but it's because it can save you some of the frustration and expense of an HVAC problem later, when heat is really needed. A clean and service visit will cover a full inspection of your heating equipment, a chemical cleaning, and a full system test.
Most importantly, we'll make sure your heat pump is in operable condition and, if they exist, identify possible issues affecting performance early. This can extend the life of your heating unit and save you a considerable amount of money in the long-term.
When it comes to lighting solutions, cloud-based systems are at the forefront. Leading the pack is Lightcloud by RAB, a residential and commercial lighting solution that distinguishes itself with its streamlined, easy-to-use mobile apps that allow for total light control from anywhere. With the Lightcloud system, users can access and adjust their lighting from any mobile device through the Lightcloud app, available for free in the Apple store and Google Play store.
There are many commercial applications of this system. Myrtle Beach businesses in food service, hospitality, parking and storage, retail, manufacturing and many more can see benefits from cloud-based lighting solutions. The only requirement is a strong cellular signal from a nearby tower.
Cooper Mechanical Services finds the Lightcloud app to be extremely easy to use. The user experience is streamlined, allowing those with the app to quickly access core features in a simple and clean interface.
Users can create custom lighting presets. For example, a commercial property may want to adjust the lighting for certain times or to accentuate certain moods. In a business or school, you can create a light setting for "presentation" mode, dark enough to see a projected image but light enough to allow people to see one another and take notes.
The software includes an "intuitive" control setting that adapts to changes in facility usage and natural light. The custom controls also allow for businesses to control costs and maximize energy savings.
The appeal of Lightcloud is that you don't need to fumble through settings or deal with a cumbersome app. Changes are fast and easy. According RAB, Lightcloud can cut energy spending by up to 68% when coupled with government incentives, and Lightcloud pays for itself in savings within an average of 6 months.
Another benefit of the system is the setup and short learning curve. Installation and setup is quick. For many, the addition of a new digital interface is overwhelming. Cooper Mechanical Services has found that end-users find the Lightcloud app intuitive and quick to learn.
There is a wide variety of Lightcloud-enabled fixtures for indoor and outdoor settings.
Additionally, Lightcloud by RAB has a resource guide and video tutorials on their website in addition to a customer support service.
If you are interested in learning more about a cloud-based lighting solution for your Myrtle Beach home or business, Call Cooper today.
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Myrtle Beach is hot and humid. Sometimes that excessive moisture in the air finds its way inside. Humid indoor air feels hotter, stickier, and is generally uncomfortable. Without proper humidity control, many attempt to compensate by making their home cooler. This puts extra pressure on your HVAC system and can lead to higher utility bills. The best solution for removing humidity from your condo or small home is a slim-profile in-wall dehumidifier.
In-wall dehumidifiers like the Ultra-Aire MD33 are independent of your HVAC unit and can be hardwired to existing electrical or can be powered by a 110v outlet with the provided cord.
Unlike portable dehumidifiers, there is no manual work involved. No dumping captured water and no turning on and off. In-wall dehumidifiers can remove up to 33 pints of water per day, removing it from your home to the outdoors through a drain pipe.
These systems are incredibly popular in the Myrtle Beach area, especially with condo owners who may be looking for an independent humidity solution at an affordable price. Here are some of the reasons why they are so popular:
Without a dehumidifier, you may be overcooling your condo to feel comfortable. Removing excess moisture will allow you to keep your HVAC thermostat at a more economical setting while still feeling cool and comfortable.
To learn more about a slim profile in-wall dehumidifier, call Cooper Mechanical Services today.
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Every thermostat has a button or feature allowing the user to cycle through different settings. While there may be options for custom cycles, every thermostat has auto, on, and off. If you've ever wondered what the difference between "auto" and "on" is, you're not alone.
"Auto" and "on" are HVAC settings that control your system's fan. The fan is located inside your HVAC unit and its job is to help distribute air. The "V" in HVAC is for ventilation, and your fan is responsible for aiding air circulation.
Auto: In the auto setting, the fan automatically moves air when the HVAC system is cooling or heating. Once the desired temperature setting has been reached, the fan will shut off.
On: In the on setting, the fan will run continuously, even after the set thermostat temperature has been reached.
The "auto setting" is more cost effective since fewer mechanical pieces are running when your home is at your set temperature. The auto setting also is quieter and in the long-term, it means less wear and tear on your unit's fan.
The "on setting" means your fan is always running, so it can clog filters more quickly, add to your electric bill, and make it feel a little chillier in winter with air blowing on you.
However, there are some instances when the on setting is helpful. If some rooms tend to get stuffy, the on setting can help keep air moving and circulating. It can also help you feel more comfortable during Myrtle Beach's hot and sticky months. Some also state that running the fan more often helps the HVAC unit trap more particulates, which may be helpful for those with allergies or asthma.
If you travel or are out of the home for long periods of the day, you may want to consider a smart thermostat. In addition to features that allow customized settings to save money and energy, smart thermostats also allow user to control their thermostat remotely via smartphone or device.
With a smart thermostat, you could keep your thermostat set to a more economical temperature while at work, and then set the thermostat remotely to a more comfortable setting before you leave the office for home.
For more HVAC, electrical, and mechanical services, please Call Cooper!
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843-626-3689
843-626-3689