843-626-3689
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.
Chlorodifluoromethane, commonly known as R-22, is a colorless gas and a popular refrigerant used in older HVAC systems. It's use has been steadily decreased over the last couple of decades because of its adverse environmental effects. R-22 is a greenhouse gas and a big ozone depleter. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has made it illegal to produce R-22 after January 1, 2020. So that's it for R-22. What is out there now can be used, but once it is unavailable, it will no longer be produced. So what does this mean for people with HVAC systems that run on R-22?
Essentially, the disappearance of R-22 leaves you with two choices: adapt now or upgrade when your current HVAC system breaks or R-22 becomes too scarce or too expensive. It is possible to retrofit your current HVAC system so it will run on R-410A, the refrigerant that has replaced R-22. The skyrocketing price of R-22 is expected as the remaining amounts dwindle. However, most systems still using R-22 are probably nearing then end of their normal lifespan, so replacement is a much more economical decision.
We completely understand that a full HVAC system replacement is a large cost. If you are currently using R-22, consider budgeting some each month to plan ahead for your eventual upgrade to a R-410A system.
There may even be tax credits that you can take advantage of to help offset some of the costs. Federal tax credits for HVAC upgrades can be found on the EnergyStar.gov website.
Additionally, Cooper Mechanical Services may be able to help you take advantage of South Carolina rebates like the Santee Cooper Energy Efficiency Rebates for home and businesses.
Finally, if you plan ahead, you can schedule your retrofit or system upgrade between seasons. Summer in Myrtle Beach is a very busy time for all HVAC companies, and if your old R-22 unit fails, you may need to wait before a new unit can be installed. Planning ahead allows us to schedule an installation during a more temperate time of year.
If your R-22 HVAC unit is leaking refrigerant or not cooling like it once was, it might be time to replace it. Cooper Mechanical Services can help you find a properly-sized unit as well as take advantage of any rebates and tax credits that might help offset the cost.
For commercial and residential HVAC sales, installation, maintenance, and repair, Call Cooper!
Read more
Looking out the window on a muggy day in late June, I can see the stickiness in the air. The humidity in Conway and Myrtle Beach can be visible, especially in summer months with extreme heat, where humidity levels can make being outdoors downright miserable.
In the coastal South Carolina region, relative humidity typically ranges from 46% (comfortable) to 92% (very humid) over the course of the year, rarely dropping below 25% (dry) and reaching as high as 100% (very humid). With high humidity outside, it is possible that some of that excessive moisture is finding its way into your home.
When humidity levels start to get above the comfortable 30%-50% range and up toward 60% and higher, you’ll notice it. Things indoors will feel moist and sticky, and you’ll probably see the effects of this excess moisture as well.
Here’s what you’ll notice:Airflow: To help evaporate the water in the air, keep it moving.
Turn on ceiling fans and position plug-in fans to move air between rooms in your home.
Circulating air is less likely to result in condensation.
Air-Conditioning: Turn your AC thermostat to a “dry” setting, which runs the system’s fans at low speed and your unit’s compressor in intervals to remove excessive moisture from the air. This cycle can help evaporate the moisture without significantly lowering the temperature in your home.
Replace Filters: Dirty and clogged filters may restrict airflow and ventilation and contribute to excessive indoor humidity.
Check for Leaks: Check water pipes for condensation and leaks as well as things like your washing machine and dryer vent. Make sure water and moisture that is supposed to leave your home is not leaking in.
Showers: Try taking shorter or cooler showers to cut down on steam. Although this may not help significantly, long, hot showers aren’t helping anything.
Nothing’s worked. Now what? If all else fails, you can try a standalone dehumidifier to help reduce the indoor humidity. You can also call a Cooper Mechanical Services professional to come inspect your home. Cooper Mechanical Services provides fast, reliable service at competitive prices. Don’t be sticky and miserable; call Cooper!
Read more
Photo: Flickr user Media Director
What light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.
It could be love, Romeo. Or maybe just some strategically placed landscape lighting. Outdoor lighting can be more than just a porch light. Modern lighting solutions add safety, security and beauty to your home, and new LED technology make them energy efficient and long-lasting.
From a purely functional standpoint, a well-lit walkway and front door minimizes chances of injury from tripping or falling. If the path of entry includes stairs or uneven walkways, proper lighting is critical for the safety of you and your family.
Small landscape garden lights can line a walkway, and bullet lamps can highlight door and stairways. Flood and well lights are also helpful in brightening the path from the road to your door.
Last week we discussed indoor lighting solutions and the security that comes from a well-lit home. Outdoor lighting, especially when used with timers or automation systems, can help deter intruders from selecting you or your home as a target. Lighting foliage, landscaping and shrubbery can easily turn a great hiding spot into a well-lit stage.
Does your home have curb appeal? One way to enhance the attractiveness of your home is to use outdoor lighting to highlight architectural features and landscaping. A beautifully lit exterior creates ambiance and warmth in addition to providing safety and security. Looking at home, garden and architectural websites and magazines is a great way to get ideas for creating the perfect outdoor atmosphere with well-placed outdoor lighting.
One of the great advances of modern lighting solutions are that many manufacturers' products can be connected to your home network and controlled wirelessly via a mobile device. The benefits of automated lighting systems, or smart light, are many. Create custom settings for different seasons, or rely upon sensor controls to adjust the amount of light emitted. Modern technology allows for an unprecedented amount of customization and control, all while maximizing efficiency and cost-savings.
Cooper Mechanical Services has nearly 30 years of HVAC, electrical and refrigeration service in the greater Myrtle Beach area. Let our professionals find the lighting solutions that help keep you safe and secure while also showcasing your home in its best light.
Read more
843-626-3689
843-626-3689