Practically all items inside buildings contribute to indoor air quality. Everything from carpeting to furniture release gases and particles known as volatile organic compounds. However, the most referenced cause is the heating and air conditioning system (HVAC).

The concerns are a result of the strength and frequency of undesirable odors being disseminated by home heating and air conditioning systems. Contaminated outside air, bacteria and mold are thought to contribute to many health issues. Unfortunately this is quite common, as the interior of HVAC systems provide the prefect growth environment for spores to become active. Along with providing a dark, temperature-controlled area HVAC systems remove moisture from the atmosphere providing mold spores with water, and remove dirt and debris providing mold spores with food.

Look for our follow up article in December to see how regular maintenance can help improve your indoor air quality. Contact Us for home air conditioning service or an estimate on system replacement.

Reference: Today’s AC & Refrigeration Guide

Energy Star promotes energy efficiency in residential heat pumps, air conditioning units and thermostats, among other products. Today, protecting the environment is among the top priorities of the government and us, as consumers. If you’re concerned about protecting the environment for future generations, take a moment to learn how you can make a difference.

When evaluating your home heating and air conditioning options, efficiency and cost savings are a top priority. One of the best ways a homeowner can help to protect the environment is by using energy efficient products in your home that require fewer energy resources to operate. It’s important to remember that a higher efficiency rating in air conditioners and heat pumps usually equates to a higher initial cost for equipment, but lower long-term energy costs and a greater savings overall. Living in our hot and humid climate, you can expect to realize a cost-payback through lower utility bills in just a few short years. Not only will you make a difference by helping preserve our environment, but you’ll also save on energy costs. It’s a win-win situation.

By choosing to install higher efficient rating air conditioning or heat pump equipment that use Puron refrigerant, you’ll enjoy enhanced comfort, greater reliability through environmentally sound products and increased savings. If you are environmentally conscious, Bryant HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) products can help you realize these savings while using fewer energy resources. Beyond using less energy, Bryant products incorporate Puron refrigerant. Non-ozone-depleting, chlorine-free, environmentally sound and efficient Puron 410-A refrigerant replaces the R-22 refrigerant found in older air conditioning and heat pump systems. R-22 refrigerant is being phased out and is not expected to be available after 2012.

Now through December 31, 2010, if your home qualifies, you can receive an Energy Star stimulus rebate, which when combined with the Federal Tax Credit offered by the U.S. government, will greatly reduce the cost of replacing your home air conditioning or heat pump system. These rebates are offered on a “first come – first served” basis until the rebate fund is exhausted. Funds Are Limited. Don’t Delay!

Call or email us today for information on the application process. Click here to learn more about the requirements of the programs at http://www.scgov.net/retrofit/.

References:
Bryant Heating and Cooling Systems
Energy Star – Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency