Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Blog: Archive for the ‘Energy Savings’ Category

Simple HVAC Efficiency Tips—Emphasis on “Simple”!

Monday, November 20th, 2017

folded-money-shape-of-houseWhether in regards to your incredibly hard-working air conditioning system or your much-less-frequently used heater—which is still very important, remember—you want to know that your home comfort systems are operating in an efficient manner. Nobody wants to be overpaying for their comfort, right? Well, our team is here to help you heat and cool your home in a more efficient and affordable manner. And don’t worry, we’re not just going to suggest that you invest in a brand new system!

If you have a heater or an AC with a relatively low energy efficiency rating, then investing in a system is obviously going to show some great results in terms of increasing efficiency. However, a new HVAC system is also a pretty major investment, and one that you aren’t likely to make when your system is only a few years old. With these smaller scale tweaks and changes, you can enjoy improved energy efficiency from your HVAC systems in Brooksville, FL without breaking the bank.

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The End is Near: When to Replace Your Heating/AC Unit

Wednesday, July 16th, 2014

Buying a new AC may not be at the top of your list of what you want to spend your hard-earned money on, but not replacing it when it’s time will often cost you more in the long run. It comes down to efficiency. Some of the signs to look out for are easy to see, such as:

  1. Is the unit over 10 years old?
  2. Does your home feel humid even when the unit is running?
  3. Is it unnecessarily noisy?
  4. Has your monthly bill increased?
  5. Is the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) number on your current unit 10 or under?

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the above, you are probably at a point where maintenance is required or, more likely, a new, more efficient unit should be considered.

Like anything mechanical, energy efficient and appropriately sized units are the key to optimum operating costs and peak functionality. Today’s air conditioners must have a minimum SEER rating of 13, and must use the more environmentally friendly R-410A refrigerant. The most efficient models have SEER ratings up to 26. Still, even the most effective units work best when they operate in the ideal environment. Some questions to ask are:

Is your home well insulated to protect its interior from drafts/warm air?

  • Is the duct system that distributes the cool air properly sealed?
  • Do you have more than one return in your home?

If you suspect any issues exist, be sure to correct those before installing new units.

So if you believe it’s time to replace your AC unit, a tremendous selection is available at a wide range of price points. The right one, installed with an upgrade like a programmable thermostat, will provide an excellent return on your investment.

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Re-Designing Your Bathroom? Check Out These 3 Luxurious Plumbing Components!

Wednesday, June 4th, 2014

The latest trend in bathrooms? Indulgence. Obviously, the price tag on extravagance can be high, but a wide array of fixtures and updates can give a bathroom renovation with even the most meager of budgets a hefty boost of luxury.

From heated towel racks to stand-up steam showers, today’s bathrooms trend toward the spa experience by embracing that little something special that sets it apart, elevating the bathroom from the practical to the spectacular.

Besides vessel sinks and electronic faucets that are hands-free and promote efficient water usage, shower head fixtures have undergone a virtual revolution in their extravagant designs and placement. Typical single-head spray showerheads are being abandoned for those providing a “rain shower” effect and have a stylish look and a gentler flow rate. Used alone or paired with dual and multiple showerheads and body spray jets, these can be mounted in several arrangements for the ultimate shower experience.

Steam showers are the rage for the ultimate home spa treatment. An existing stand-up shower can be retrofitted by using an adjacent closet to accommodate the generator. The shower stall is moisture-sealed and equipped with controls to adjust the clouds of soothing and cleansing steam. Additions like ambient lighting, sound systems, and oil and lotion dispensers will easily transform the bath suite into a bath retreat.

Roman tubs are also a deluxe addition to your master bath. They offer the customization in size, shape, and style unavailable in preformed tubs. When outfitted with water and air jets you can have a deluxe soaking tub you’ll absolutely fall in love with.

Whether you’re on a budget or want to break the bank in the name of luxury, indulgent options abound to turn your bathroom into your own private relaxation sanctuary.

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Keep Your Cooling Bills Down This Summer

Friday, April 26th, 2013

The thermometer is beginning to creep higher in the Tampa area. It calls to mind the end of school, the beginning of beaches and vacation season, but it also finds residents closing those windows at night and running the air conditioning all day–and all night.

The next unavoidable event is the onset of higher power bills. It’s inevitable: no other appliance uses as much electricity as your air conditioner. In fact, in many homes, it can be the cause of up to 60 percent of the bill.

Don’t fret, because Bayonet has some simple tips to help you save money this season!

  • Get a thorough system cleaning. That’s stating the obvious, isn’t it? Almost everyone knows that AC units require maintenance to be efficient. Do you know why? The air passes over a very cold cold in the air handler. As it is drawn across the coil, it cools off, providing the cool air to your home. Dirt and debris can also accumulate on those coils, which minimizes the surface area for the air to contact the coils. When left dirty, eventually it can become so clogged that it will “freeze” coil and put strain on your compressor. If slightly dirty, the system has to run longer to achieve your set temperature level, and the longer that unit runs the higher the power bills climb!
  • BE CAREFUL when you choose the maintenance package! Caveat emptor is an ancient maxim that is quite applicable today. If you see an advertisement for a “tune-up” that is less than about $80, be very cautious. Truly, your system needs to have all mechanical parts checked, all amp draws checked and verified to be within normal limits, a refrigerant system check, both the indoor and outdoor coil cleaned, and a drain line and pan flush. That’s the minimum. Rare is the company that can do all of that for less than $80 in this economy. It should take more than an hour. Be a smart consumer and be sure you get what you need. Many of the companies who offer a dirt cheap “tune up” will be looking for ways to upsell you when they arrive.
  • Set your system to 78 degrees or higher…According to Florida Power, your savings begin to kick in when the thermostat is 78 degrees or higher. You can save more than 3 percent per degree over 78, so while you’re away, turn it up to cash in on some easy savings. If you have pets, no higher than 82, please…
  • If you’re considering system replacement, consider two speed systems! Yes, SEER is where it’s at for savings, but in our wonderfully tropical climate, humidity removal is not to be overlooked. Two-speed systems, especially today’s communicating ones, are especially good at removing humidity. A home at 78 degrees and 50 percent humidity feels like 74 degrees! Now that’s saving money without sacrifice!

If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask our experts or email us. We’re here when you need us, so don’t sweat, call Bayonet!

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Water Heater Maintenance…Tips and Tricks

Monday, July 23rd, 2012

A water heater is an appliance that your family uses every day.  When it fails to provide adequate hot water, clothing starts coming out of the wash looking dingy, dishes just aren’t as sparkly as they once were, showers aren’t long or comfortable enough and  it’s noticeable to all!  Know how to recognize the warning signs and know what to do when your water heater is not making the grade.

Some of the thing to keep an eye out for are:

  • Running out of hot water quicker than normal
    • This could indicate that you’re a victim of sedimentation, which is a buildup of sediment in the bottom of the tank. Sometimes, your water heater isn’t failing, the sediment  is the reason for running out of water too soon.  Sediment collects in the bottom of the water heater creating sludge that replaces water.  As a result the volume of water gets reduced and yout water heater has to work harder. Part of out MVP inspection is the draining and flushing of sediment from your water heater. It is the most overlooked task around a home, and we have some of the most sediment heavy water in the country!
  • Water suddenly looks rusty and smells bad
    • Rusty water can mean there is corrosion inside your water heater.  If this is the case, the tank and anode rods need to be checked, so we can determine which is the culprit and repair or replace the part if possible.
    • Bad odor in water.  This is also caused by sediment.  Over time sediment breeds bacteria.  A decaying anode gives off hydrogen gas, which nourishes the bacteria; these bacteria produce a nasty smell, like rotten eggs.  Get rid of the sediment to get rid of the smell.
  • Water heater makes noises
    • If your water heater is making noises, that may mean the water is overheating.  This again is attributed to the sediment buildup.  The noise is produced when the water in the tank begins to boil.
  • Water heater is leaking
    • If you have a puddle underneath your water heater, check it out.  This can be due to gaskets or fittings or nearby pipes.
    • The temperature pressure valve (TPR) can also create a puddle, make sure the TPR is closing correctly.   Sometimes the TPR is defective and will need to be replaced.  A non-functioning TPR valve is very serious and can even cause your tank to explode.  Have a professional plumber replace defective TPR valves immediately.
    • If you notice rusty water around the bottom of your water heater chances are the bottom has rusted out and it is leaking.  The only solution at this point is to replace your water heater.

 

One of the most important ways to prevent these common problems is to make sure you are following a regular maintenance plan with your water heater.  It is very important to drain your water heater annually.  This rids the tank of sediment buildup, which left unchecked causes a multitude of problems.

 

You can save money in the long run by avoiding breakdowns and extending the life of your appliance with regular water heater maintenance. So don’t sweat, call Bayonet, and you’ll be protected with 5 year warranties on any repair we make for as long as you’re an MVP member.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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“My AC is Low on Gas”

Thursday, May 3rd, 2012

It’s such a common problem when the weather heats up like it has this past week. We hear it all the time, “my system is low on gas,” or “my freon is low again.” If your system “uses” refrigerant, you have a larger problem!

Here’s what you need to know: air conditioning systems aren’t like a car; they don’t burn gas to operate. Your air conditioner is a closed loop, it cools the air by changing the refrigerant inside the copper coils from its liquid state to its gaseous state. In its liquid state, R410a and R22 are very cold. In the gaseous state, both chemical compounds are hot.

It’s your compressor’s job to compress the gas back into the liquid and pump the gas from the outdoor unit, where the heat is released into the air to help cool the gas back into liquid form, back through the copper lineset and into the air handling unit that is usually located inside your house. The air handler brings the warm air in through the returns and draws it across the cold coil to cool it, conditioning your home.

So, should your system need gas?

No, it shouldn’t, not unless there’s been a leak or a technician adjusted your charge. Refrigerant is costly. An improper charge makes your system work harder than it has to, increasing run time AND your power bills.

Getting really low on refrigerant can cause your system to freeze up. That can cause many different problems. First of all, it will stress the compressor as it tries to pump and can’t. Then, the system will shut down, then the ice will melt–rapidly. When that happens, the water can’t be contained by the drain lines as they can’t handle so much water. This leads to water in your home, on your ceiling, or on your floors, which is never good!

So, if you think your system isn’t cooling well, maybe it’s time for a tune up. If you’re told that you need to add refrigerant, be careful! Many companies will offer a tune up for a ultra low price just to find things wrong with your system and get a repair. Our precision tune up specials are located in the promotions section of our website and are very thorough and competitive. Preventative maintenance is the best way to prevent leaks in the system. Thorough cleanings are the only way to keep the corrosion in the environment from wearing away the metal and allowing your coils to spring leaks. Besides, the unit will be more efficient when clean!

A Word on Freon or R22

Recently, the EPA decided to uphold the limits on how much Freon can be made and sold. It contains chemicals that have been proven to be harmful to the ozone layer. So, when that leaks into the environment, it can cause damage to it. Because of the production limits, the price of R22, also known as Freon, has skyrocketed. So, be prepared to pay more for that recharge, should your system require it.

It’s our policy to only charge a system with a leak check. We will identify the leak for you and offer a repair or replacement of the leaking part. Some copper coils can be welded and fixed, but many coils are made of aluminum and can’t be welded. They simply have to be replaced. Sometimes, replacing the unit makes more sense, but we can help with providing the information that you need to make an informed decision.

When you need us, we’re here. So Don’t Sweat, Call Bayonet!

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What happened to heating season??

Sunday, February 26th, 2012

We Floridians have enjoyed our non-winter thoroughly this year! It has been true “Chamber of Commerce” weather. We haven’t experienced the few weeks of chilly weather we usually get, and the 80s haven’t been uncommon over the holidays and throughout the typically chillier months.

What does all of that mean to your AC unit? Well, the heating features likely didn’t get used much this winter! So the run time on those parts is down some from normal, but the air conditioning parts might need a little love. Air conditioners are like cars: they need regular maintenance to keep running efficiently. So if you haven’t had your system fully maintained recently, you might want to give it some serious thought, before it decides to throw in the towel on the hottest day of the year.

Be careful: if you try to find the least expensive price, you might not get a thorough maintenance, just an “inspection” during which the company might tell you that you need a maintenance or parts replaced at an additional fee. Consider instead one of our pre-planned maintenance agreements. We call them MVPs because contracting for one entitles the homeowner to many additional benefits that they wouldn’t have with simply a standard maintenance.

During our maintenance visits, we inspect all the parts that can break and test the ones we can test to ensure you that you’re given an opportunity to repair the ones that are near failure before they fail and cause you a loss of comfort. We also thoroughly clean your outdoor AND indoor coil (in place) to make sure dirt and other debris aren’t robbing you of efficiency, increasing your unit’s run time, and increasing your power bill. Just a tiny layer of dirt on the coil increases your power bill, according to an LSU study.

So, don’t keep neglecting your poor, overworked AC unit. Find out about our unique MVP agreements today or schedule a maintenance.

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Tankless or Tank? That is today’s question!

Monday, January 23rd, 2012

Calls come in everyday with people enamored with the idea of installing a tankless water heater in their home. The idea of not heating water unless you’re using hot water–and the idea of not running out of hot water or wait for the tank to refill with hot water–is rather alluring. It’s especially interesting when you add electricity savings to the equation.

There are definite upsides, but the are some downsides too.

You see, the great savings is only realized when a gas-powered tankless water heater is installed. Sorry if this is bad news for your application! The electric tankless water heaters use a great deal of electricity. Here’s something few people consider: an electric tankless won’t ever run out of hot water. Your electric meter will just keep spinning, and spinning, and spinning as that teenager takes her 2-hour shower. Heaven for her, but for your electric bill: not so much!

Additionally, you have to be careful about the amount of power running to your home. Make sure to have a professional check the available breakers and the service coming into your home against the requirements of the tankless heater. You might find that an electric tankless just doesn’t make sense.

If you already have natural gas service, a tankless may be just the ticket! If you don’t, there are ways to make a tankless work, such as propane. The major manufacturers like Rinnai make tankless water heaters in propane and natural gas and many gas companies even provide leasing options.

Both tankless propane and natural gas are great performers, use very little electricity and require the installation of a combustion air vent. They will use up gas or propane, but it should be kinder to your pocketbook than the conventional electric appliance would be!

If you’re interested in a tankless water heater, don’t sweat, call the professionals at Bayonet and get a solid estimate on the installation today.

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What’s the buzz on two-speed systems?

Monday, January 16th, 2012

They’re among the latest and greatest in heat pump technology, and they’re super efficient. The only higher rated systems are geothermal, rotary compressor, and solar systems. Many Lennox two-speed systems are solar ready.

So how do two-speed systems work? It’s a matter of a the compressor really. Two-speed systems typically have a two-stage or true-variable compressor in the outdoor unit. They’re best paired with a variable speed air handler and are great in zoned applications.

When the thermostat calls for cooling or heating and is within three degrees of the set point, the compressor ramps on in low speed. So a five-ton compressor acts like a 2.5 ton, drawing less amps and using less power. It will cool or heat the area more slowly but the byproduct of that is greater humidity control and more efficient operation. The only time the compressor is at full speed is during very high demand times, such as if the unit was shut off or if there is a larger number of people than normal in the room.

Typically, you can expect to see two-speed systems achieving 16 SEER and higher efficiency ratings. Many manufacturers add communicating features, fancy thermostats, and much of their own terminology to these two-speed systems. They’re a step above standard and typically come with a 10-year parts warranty directly from the manufacturer. If yours does not, make sure you double check this fact our and do your due diligence when selecting a contractor.

Two-speed systems are sophisticated and required adequate airflow for proper operation. If the static pressure in your duct system is too high or you don’t have multiple returns in your home, you may need to augment your duct system for proper system function.

When getting your home sized for a potential installation of a two-speed system, it is imperative that the contractor run a heat load of your home. Most two-speed systems come in whole sizes only. If you have a 3.5-ton unit right now, you will have to go up to a four-ton or down to a three-ton unit. How do you know which is best? For us, the best answer lies in education. You have to make an educated decision based on the btus your home requires to heat and cool it. This can only be determined by a trained professional performing a heat load calculation. It’s a free service we extend on all of our estimates, so don’t fret call Bayonet and we will help you. If you’re not local to the Tampa area, make sure you request that the contractor perform one during the estimate and confirm prior to making the appointment what the fees are–if any–for this service. Every system has a maximum btu output and your home may have had alterations to it over time, changing the required btus for the home as well. For example, many homeowners tint their windows, add insulation, install patios and upgrade the windows to double pane, low-e windows, which all have an effect on the btus required to heat and cool your home.

When selecting an AC unit, bigger isn’t always better! Don’t just assume that you want to go up in size, as super sizing can lead to super problems! Short cycling can increase the humidity levels in your home and mke if feel like a dank cave instead of a comfortable abode. If you choose to go bigger, know that your duct system will almost always need alterations too. Be very cautious of the contractor you’re using if they tell you otherwise. Most homes built before 2007 are running with undersized returns to begin with, so if you’re installing a larger system, count on duct improvements as well.

Besides bringing about a more comfortable home climate, two-speed systems are often much quieter than their single-speed counterparts. Most of that quietness is due to the low-speed operation and improved insulation and sound deadeners inside the cabinet. Inquire as to available rebates and incentives when inquiring as well, as these systems frequently have some immediate savings you can count on–even from your power company!

As always, don’t sweat, call Bayonet if you have further questions. From our homepage, you can always click the “Ask An Expert” graphic and one of our resident experts in their field will answer your question in 24 hours—or less!

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Raising The Efficiency on Water Heating

Monday, January 9th, 2012

When focusing on making your home more energy efficient, savvy homeowners take aim at their air conditioning unit first. That’s a smart thing to do. But what appliance should be next in line for improvement? You guessed it: your water heater.

Most homeowners in the Tampa area have a standard electric water heater with 40, 50, or 80 gallon capacity depending on the size of the home. Some homeowners are option for the tankless style water heaters. Check back on the 23rd of January for lots of information on those units.

For now, let’s discuss efficiency of those standard, tried-and-true electric, tank style water heaters. Simply put, there’s no way to make them super efficient, but you can help make the one you have work to its fullest potential. First, make sure your anode rod is not disintegrated and if it is replace it with a new one. This keeps the metal parts from corroding over time and extends the longevity of the water heater. Next, ask yourself this question: when was the last time the water heater was drained and cleared of sediment? Most homeowners answer that question with: “that needs to be done?” Yes, it does! Our Florida water is hard, which means it contains lots of minerals; minerals that build up in your tank and collect on the heating elements making the heater work harder to bring your water to an acceptable temperature.

If you’re an MVP member with Bayonet, this is a routine maintenance job that is included as part of the annual plumbing inspection. If you’ve never had it done, give your water heater some attention soon! Your wallet will thank you when you pay your next power bill.

If your water heater has reached the end of its life span and you’re shopping for a new one, heat pump water heaters are the most efficient available in a standard tank-style heater. They employ a small compressor that blows cool air out of the top of the unit, and the waste energy actually heats the water. It’s a great side benefit, as most water heaters are in garages and everyone in the garage benefits from a little cool down!

As a GE factory authorized dealer, we’re big fans of the GE heat pump water heater. It’s 10-year parts warranty shows consumers how much GE believes in it. It only comes in a 50 gallon tall model presently.

If you’ve recently replaced a tank style heater and didn’t know about this technology, you can still employ it thanks to the retro-fitted Air Tap, which converts the standard electric water heater into a heat pump with relative ease. We tested the Air Tap by installing it in an employee’s barn. She gets plenty of hot water, even on very cold days, and never even hooked the power up to the water heater. The beauty of the Air Tap–and all heat pump water heaters, for that matter–is how very little energy they use to heat water!

If you’re upgrading appliances this year, the water heater is a great place to focus!

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