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How To Most Efficiently Use Your Air Conditioner

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How To Most Efficiently Use Your Air Conditioner

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As temperatures rise and energy costs soar, it’s time to unlock the secrets of running your air conditioner like a pro. With a few simple tips and strategies, you can unleash the full potential of your cooling system, slash energy consumption, prevent inconvenient breakdowns, and watch those utility bills shrink—all while staying blissfully comfortable!

Here’s what you can do to get your AC running as efficiently as possible:

Set It and Forget It

When you’re hot and sweaty, the temptation to tinker with the thermostat is strong. However, it’s best to find a temperature that’s tolerable for you and stick with it. Whether that’s 75 degrees or 82 degrees, once you’ve settled on your ideal setting, resist the urge to adjust it. Cranking your AC down to 60 degrees won’t cool your home any faster than your preferred setting of 75 degrees, so let your air conditioner work its magic at a consistent setting.  

Embrace the Power of Curtains & Blinds

During warm, sunny days, keep your curtains and blinds drawn. Sunlight streaming into your home, even indirectly, can turn up indoor temperatures faster than you can say “heatwave.” Blocking out the sun’s rays will prevent your home from becoming a sauna and give your hardworking AC system a break. 

Use Fans to Keep the Air Circulating

Fans aren’t just budget-friendly—they’re also an incredibly effective way to cool down any room. Ceiling fans, floor fans, and even small desktop fans can work wonders by circulating the air and bringing down temperatures. Even better, if you need some instant relief from the heat, you can position fans to blow on you directly. You may even find that with your fans in action, you can adjust your air conditioner to a warmer setting. 

Banish Hot Air

When it comes to cooling your home, you don’t want to counteract your AC’s efforts by inadvertently adding more heat to your living space. If you’re cooking, make sure to use the exhaust fan to whisk away steam, smoke, and heat. If you don’t have an exhaust fan, you can use your trusty floor fan to move hot air away from the kitchen.  

Use a Dehumidifier

High humidity can turn even moderate temperatures into a sticky, uncomfortable ordeal. Fortunately, a dehumidifier can help make warm temperatures feel less oppressive. You might even discover that you can dial up your AC to a warmer temperature or use it less frequently when you combine your dehumidifier with floor and ceiling fans. 

Give Your Outdoor AC Unit Some Shade

Although placing your outdoor AC unit on the north side of your home is optimal, it’s not always feasible. If your unit is located in a sunny location, consider planting trees or shrubs strategically around it to provide some natural shade. This will shield your unit from the scorching South Carolina sun and help it operate more efficiently. Not only will this keep your unit cooler, but it will also prolong its lifespan and reduce energy consumption. 

Save the Evenings for Chores

Cooking, using the dishwasher, and doing laundry all generate heat—so why not save them until later in the day when temperatures have dropped? By shifting these chores to the cooler evening hours, you’ll not only keep your home pleasantly cool but also potentially save money on your electric bill. With summer peak-hour electricity rates, doing your chores after the sun goes down can also help you avoid higher charges. 

Clean Your Filters

The simple act of cleaning or changing your filters can work wonders for your AC system. Clogged filters force your system to work harder, leading to unnecessary strain and potential breakdowns. By keeping the filters clean, your air conditioner can operate smoothly and effortlessly, resulting in a cooler home with minimal energy expenditure. 

A common misunderstanding of central AC system

It’s often thought: “If you’re not home or certain areas of your house are unoccupied, there’s no need to waste energy cooling them so close the vents in that room” OR “Only use the AC when you’re home turning it off when you are away”  

Seems to make sense….right…this is a common mistake that can cost more money, add stress to your AC system and possibly introduce mold into your home. The duct system in your home is designed for your AC system to allow the proper air flow and capacity of your system.  If you purposely shut off that air flow you can risk freezing your coils (which leads to future leaks) or cause refrigerant problems for your compressor. Your HVAC system will still use the same energy whether vents are closed or not.   Since ducts are designed for specific air flow, shutting the vents or door to a room will not give you more air in the other spaces.

Turning your system off when you are away will cause the entire contents of your home to reach higher or lower than normal temperatures.  When you return home to a house that is 8+ degrees off your desired setting and turn on your AC, you will not feel the effects of the heating or cooling until your furniture, walls, floors, ceiling, etc. in your home reaches that temperature first.  This means your system will be running continuously for hours….and typically you’re tempted to set it lower than you want hoping it will change temperature faster. Setting it outside your normal temperature range will not speed up the process.

Set it and forget it is best….or adjust the range within 3 degrees of what you like, but not more.

Contact PECO Heating & Cooling For All Your Air Conditioning Needs

Whether you need AC maintenance or repairs, or you’d like to upgrade to a more efficient system, PECO Heating and Cooling is here to help you stay cool all summer long. Our HVAC experts offer a wide range of services, from checking freon pressure and testing electrical systems to repairing electrical and plumbing issues, replacing water heaters, and installing air quality systems. To protect your HVAC investment and ensure optimal performance, we also offer maintenance service plans that include regular inspections, cleanings, and discounts on repairs.

Don’t let inefficient cooling get you down—contact PECO Heating & Cooling today at (864) 639-2424!

Is a Backup Generator Worth the Investment?

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Is a Backup Generator Worth the Investment?

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Are you having trouble justifying the expense of a backup generator? You’re not alone! Many homeowners shy away from purchasing a backup generator because they view it as an unnecessary expense. While it’s true that a backup generator can be a significant investment, the benefits far outweigh the cost. If you’re still on the fence, here are some compelling reasons you should consider investing in a backup generator. 

Whole-Home Backup Generators Vs. Portable Generators

Portable generators can be very convenient if you only want to power a few items, such as lights and small appliances, but they simply can’t provide enough power for essential systems, like electric heating, cooling, and water pumps. Permanent backup generators, however, are the ultimate solution for uninterrupted power to your entire home during an outage.

Portable generators also need to be set up before you can use them, which can be especially inconvenient if you’re away from home during a power outage. A backup generator is hard-wired to your home’s electrical system, so it’s always on standby and ready to take over once your main power goes out. 

Powering Essential Systems

Although some consider backup generators a luxury item, they can be lifesavers in many ways, from keeping you warm and comfortable during a brutal winter storm outage to powering medical devices that are critical for your health. Backup generators can also keep the essential systems in your home running, such as sump pumps, septic lift stations and water pumps—and prevent costly damage from occurring. 

Keeping You Connected and Powering Non-Essential Items

Picture this: a natural disaster strikes and the power goes out for days. Your phone’s battery is running out, the food in your fridge is spoiling, and the silence and darkness in your home are making you a little stir-crazy. This is where a backup generator comes in handy. 

A backup generator can also provide a connection to the outside world by powering your electronics. You can keep up with the news, communicate with loved ones, and even watch a movie. Plus, it can keep your home security system operational. Even though many of these systems have battery backups, battery power could run out during an extended power outage. 

Adding Value to Your Home

Not only will having a backup generator make your home more attractive to potential buyers, but it can also increase your property value. In fact, many real estate experts agree that homes with backup generators can sell for up to 5% more than similar homes without them—especially in areas that are prone to natural disasters like severe winter storms and hurricanes. 

But the benefits don’t stop there; insurance companies also recognize the value of backup generators. Many insurers offer discounts on premiums for homes that have backup generators due to the reduced risk of damage caused by power outages. 

Maintaining Your Quality of Life

When the power goes out, life can suddenly become challenging, especially for families with children, older adults, or individuals with medical conditions. However, with a backup generator, you can maintain your quality of life, whether it’s staying warm or cool, keeping your food fresh, or powering up medical equipment.

Backup generators can also help boost your morale and keep your spirits up during extended outages. You can listen to music, watch your favorite TV shows, or have enough light to play a board game with your family. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference in stressful situations!

Expert Backup Generator Installation and Maintenance

Investing in a backup generator is a wise decision that can give you peace of mind and help you and your loved ones stay safe and comfortable during power outages. At PECO Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of keeping your home powered, which is why we offer reliable backup generation installation and maintenance services. Don’t wait for the next outage to strike—contact us today at (864) 639-2424 to learn more or schedule an appointment! 

Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

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Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

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Many of us tend to think air pollution is only found outdoors. In fact, the air inside our homes can be as much as 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Although many people recognize the hazards posed by outdoor air pollution, there tends to be less concern over the health hazards caused by indoor air pollution—even though it often has the same effects. 

What Causes Indoor Air Pollution?

Indoor air quality refers to the quality of the air in and around buildings—specifically as it relates to human health and comfort. The primary sources of indoor air pollution are items in the home that release particles or gases into the environment. If there’s not enough ventilation to disperse these pollutants, they can build up and become concentrated in the home. High temperatures and humidity levels can also increase the concentration of some pollutants. 

Some of the most common sources of poor indoor air quality include:

  • Gas appliances
  • Tobacco products
  • Building materials and furnishings, such as asbestos-based insulation, carpet, pressed-wood cabinetry, and upholstery
  • Household cleaning products
  • Personal care products
  • Products used for hobbies, such as paint or glue
  • Excess moisture
  • Outdoor sources, such as pesticides
  • Dirty or poorly maintained furnaces or air conditioners
  • Dust
  • Pet dander
  • Cooking

How Does Indoor Air Quality Affect Health?

Indoor air pollutants may cause health issues shortly after exposure or years later. Immediate effects tend to be short-term and go away after treatment. Some immediate effects include:

  • Eye, nose, and throat irritation
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue

Everyone’s reaction to indoor pollutants can vary depending on age, preexisting medical conditions, and individual sensitivity. Long-term health effects may show up years after exposure or after prolonged exposure to indoor air pollutants, including:

  • Respiratory conditions
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Even if there are no noticeable symptoms, it’s still recommended to take steps to improve indoor air quality to prevent potential long-term effects. 

How to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Although it may not be possible to completely eliminate allergens and pollutants from your home, there are several simple changes you can make to reduce them and your exposure. 

  1. Clean your home regularly to reduce dust, dust mites, animal dander, and mold. Vacuum the carpets and rugs at least once or twice a week using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. Clean up areas of clutter and wash bedding, drapes, and other items that attract tend to attract allergens. 
  2. Use sterile soil for indoor plants and only water them when the soil is dry to prevent mold growth. 
  3. If you have a forced air heating system, change the filters regularly and have the ducts cleaned periodically to remove trapped dust. 
  4. Invest in an air purifier to help capture indoor irritants. 
  5. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home to prevent mold growth. 
  6. Open your windows from time to time to allow fresh air to circulate. 
  7. Use fans while cooking to remove fumes from the kitchen. 

For the Best Air Quality Solutions, Contact PECO

Whether you need your HVAC filters replaced or would like to install an air purification system, PECO Heating & Cooling offers a number of air quality solutions to help you breathe easier. Contact us today at (864) 639-2424 to discuss your needs. 

Getting Your Home Air Conditioner Ready for Summer

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Getting Your Home Air Conditioner
Ready For Summer

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Summer may be months away, but spring is the perfect time to get your air conditioner prepped and ready for warm, sunny days ahead!

Your AC unit sits idle for months during the fall and winter, collecting leaves, twigs, and other debris. If you don’t do a bit of maintenance on it, you might need to have it serviced in the summer—and as the busiest time for AC repair, this means you may end up waiting longer to get your unit up and running again. By doing a little maintenance now, you can keep your AC running great all season long. 

At PECO Heating & Cooling, we’re always happy to help you with any of your air conditioning needs. However, if you’d like to perform some basic maintenance yourself, here are a few helpful tips. Keep in mind that repairs should always be left to the professionals!

Understanding Your Air Conditioner

Central air conditioners have two primary components: the condenser, which is usually located outdoors, and an evaporator, which is mounted on the furnace or air handler. These two components work together to extract heat from the room using refrigeration technology. The furnace or air handler then blows the cooled, dehumidified air through the ducts and into the room. 

1.    Clean and/or Replace Your HVAC Filters 

This is one of the easiest and most important types of AC maintenance you can perform yourself. Most HVAC systems use a reusable or replaceable filter, which is usually located inside the air-inlet side of the air handler or furnace. Some systems also use air filters in the return air registers throughout the home. 

Air filters should be cleaned or replaced at least twice a year or whenever start looking clogged. If you have a large household, pets, or family members with allergies or other respiratory conditions, you may want to consider replacing them more frequently. Replacing your air filters will ensure the airflow doesn’t get restricted and allows your HVAC system to run more efficiently. Clean air filters also prevent dust from being recirculated in your home. 

2.    Clear Debris Away from the Condenser

After you’ve cleaned the condenser, remove any leaves or debris that have collected near its base. If your AC unit has a drain, make sure the drain is clear as well. Cut and remove any hedges, weeds or vines that could obstruct the condenser’s airflow.

3.    Check the Coolant Lines

The refrigerant tubes or pipes that run from the evaporator are usually covered with foam insulation. If any of the insulation is damaged or missing, it should be replaced. Foam insulation sleeves can be purchased online or at a hardware store. Wrap the lines in a spiral around the tubes or pipes and secure them using foam insulation tape. 

Your AC unit should start working again! If you have any issues, contact us to schedule an appointment.  

Get Your AC Ready for Summer with Professional Maintenance & Repairs

PECO is here to help! We’ll perform a thorough inspection and cleaning of the entire system, including the electrical connections, wiring, refrigerant levels, and other components. Don’t wait until summer to get your AC in gear—call PECO today at (864) 639-2424 or schedule an appointment online. 

The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act: HVAC Federal Credit & Rebates Explained

Posted on by Mark Pfeiffer
HVAC Federal Credit Rebates Explained 1

Have you been planning to upgrade your HVAC equipment? Great news—the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which was signed into law in August, may be able to help you save some money. 

Investing $369 billion into the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is the largest federal legislation designed to include significant rebates and tax credits for homeowners who install new energy-efficient furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers, and water heaters. Here’s a breakdown of each of these incentives.

The 25C Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Tax Credit

Although this tax credit has been available for a while, the IRA increased the value of the tax credit by 20%. Instead of being limited to 10% of your project costs, it’s now up to 30%—and it’s now possible to receive a benefit each year. 

The tax credit, which can only be used to offset tax liability, has an annual cap of $1,200, including:

  • Up to $600 for a qualified air conditioner or gas furnace
  • Up to $2,000 for gas and electric heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and boilers
HVAC Federal Credit Rebates Explained 2

This incentive goes into effect in 2023, and if you’re eligible, can be claimed when you file taxes in 2024. There are no income requirements and it can’t be combined with other federal programs such as HEEHR or HOMES. However, the tax credit may be able to be combined with local or utility rebates. Homeowners who had eligible equipment installed on or after January 1, 2022, may also be eligible for retroactive tax credits under this program.

The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate (HEEHR) Program

This new $4.275 billion program covers 100% of electrification project costs for low-income households and up to 50% of project costs for moderate-income households—up to $14,000 for both income groups. Qualifying projects and maximum rebate values include:

  • $8,000 for electric heat pumps
  • $4,000 for an electric panel upgrade
  • $2,500 for electric wiring
  • $1750 for an electric heat pump water heater
  • $1,600 for home insulation

Project costs include both purchase costs and installation costs; rebates are given as point-of-sale discounts. 

The HOMES Rebate Program

Unlike the HEEHR program, the all-new $4.3 billion Home Energy Performance-Based Whole-House (HOMES) rebate program isn’t restricted by income levels; instead, they’re based on the performance of energy efficiency and electrification improvements installed in your home. For example, homeowners who install energy-efficient appliances that allow them to cut their energy usage by at least 35% can get up to $4,000 in rebates—and that amount is doubled for low- and middle-income households. 

It’s important to know that you can’t participate in both the HEEHR and HOMES programs, so you’ll need to decide which program is right for your project. If you would like help deciding which program would be best, we’re always happy to help!

Should You Get Home Upgrades Now or Wait Until 2023?

HVAC Federal Credit Rebates Explained 3

Although these incentives can provide significant savings, there are several reasons why you may not want to wait until 2023 if you’ve been considering upgrading your home:

  • The current state and utility rebates you qualify for now may not be around in 2023—and depending on your income, the federal rebates may not be as much of an incentive. It’s not clear at this point how the federal rebates will work with existing state and utility programs; it’s possible the federal rebates will result in lower local rebates. 
  • Inflation will likely continue (and possibly worsen) in 2023; the rise in equipment prices may offset some of the savings you would receive from the rebate programs. 
  • Energy costs are rising, especially the cost of natural gas—and although costs are expected to stabilize, reducing your home’s energy use today is an excellent way to mitigate uncertainty about energy prices in the future. 
  • Due to the rebate programs, there will be a higher demand for work for HVAC contractors in the future, which could delay your project. Getting ahead of the demand will ensure you have your new equipment installed in a timely manner. 

In addition, you deserve comfort! If your existing equipment isn’t keeping your home comfortable, it’s not worth putting off the work for potential savings. 

Contact PECO to Learn More

Regardless of when you’d like to upgrade your home, PECO Heating & Cooling is here to help! We’re happy to work with you to find the best upgrades and rebate programs to help you save money and improve your home’s energy efficiency. 

If you’re interested in the 25C tax credit, all Dave Lennox Signature Collection products in the Ultimate Comfort System qualify; Lennox also offers an assortment of ENERGY STAR-certified products that are eligible for the rebate program, including the most efficient heat pump (SL25XPV), air conditioner (SL28XCV), and furnace (SLP99V) on the market. For more information on the IRA incentives contact your accountant or to schedule an installation, contact PECO today at 864-639-2424.

Changes in Efficiency Standards Coming to the HVAC Industry in 2023

Posted on by Mark Pfeiffer

The HVAC industry will be experiencing significant changes in efficiency standards starting in January, 2023. 

US DOE

Every six years or so, the Department of Energy evaluates energy conservation standards for appliances with the goal of increasing standards to achieve national energy savings. As of January 1, there will be new minimum efficiency standards in effect for split-system air conditioners and split-system heat pumps; single-packaged ACs and heat pumps will not be affected. 

In addition, the procedure for testing the energy efficiency of appliances, called the M1 Standard, will change, affecting both split-system ACs, split-system heat pumps, and packaged units. The new efficiency rating metrics will be:

  • SEER & SEER2
  • EER & EER2
  • HSPF & HSPF2

The purpose of the new testing procedures is to better represent installed equipment in real-world applications; it will also correspond to a 1% increase in baseline efficiency. 

Here’s a closer look at what will change for our region:

Current standardsNew 2023 Standards(per the current test standard)New 2023 Standards (per new testing procedure/metrics)Enforcement
Split-system AC units (including heat pumps)14 SEER15 SEER up to 45K BTU, 14.5 SEER at/above 45k BTU14.3 SEER2 up to 45K BTU, 13.8 SEER2 at/above 45k BTUBeginning Jan. 1, 2023, any installation of a split system air conditioner not meeting the new standard will violate Department of Energy regulations

Split-system heat pumps (including mini-splits)14 SEER, 8.2 HSPF15 SEER, 8.8 HSPF14.3 SEER2, 7.5 HSPF2Units that don’t meet the new minimum efficiency standard and were manufactured before Jan. 1, 2023, may be installed indefinitely.

Single-packaged AC units14 SEERNo change13.4 SEER2Units that don’t have the new efficiency rating metric and were manufactured before Jan. 1, 2023, may be installed indefinitely.

Single-packaged heat pumps14 SEER, 8.0 HSPFNo change13.4 SEER2, 6.8 HSPF2Units that don’t have the new efficiency rating metric and were manufactured before Jan. 1, 2023, may be installed indefinitely.

What Does This Mean for You?

PECO save 300

All newly manufactured units will need to meet the updated standards, and older equipment will be phased out for installation as of the January 1 deadline. In addition, you can expect to see increases in equipment pricing as new energy regulations are implemented. If you’ve been considering replacing your split-system AC or split-system heat pump, now is a good time to do it. 

We’re currently offering $300 off new 14 SEER and 15 SEER split systems while supplies last. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact PECO Heating & Cooling today at (864) 639-2424!

Can Bad Ductwork Reduce the Efficiency of Your HVAC System?

Posted on by Mark Pfeiffer

When it comes to HVAC systems, most homeowners don’t put much thought into their ductwork. It’s not surprising—although it’s responsible for moving air throughout your home and keeping you comfortable, the ducts are hidden away in the walls, ceilings, floors, and crawlspaces. 

However, if you want your HVAC system to work as efficiently as possible, it’s important to put some attention on the “V”—for ventilation—in HVAC!

Damaged Ductwork

Bad Ductwork Image 1

If your ventilation system is old or it wasn’t installed properly, it may be damaged. Vibrations or improperly installed connections can cause your ductwork to become loose or even collapse, inhibiting the airflow. If the lining begins to pull away, this can create a more significant blockage and cause your HVAC system to work overtime. 

Over time, normal wear and tear can lead to cracks, leaks, and corrosion; damage can also be caused by renovations or pests. If left for too long, the damage will worsen and may eventually cause leaks and blockages. Defects in the ductwork, like sharp bends or dents in the material, can also cause airflow problems that reduce the overall efficiency of your system. 

The bottom line is that the harder your system has to work to compensate for blockages or air leaks, the less efficient it will be. It’s also likely using more energy to heat or cool the air—which also leads to higher energy bills. If your ductwork is over 10 years old, we recommend scheduling an inspection. 

Improperly Sized Ductwork

If your system has always been noisy or became noisy soon after installation, the ducts are likely improperly sized. When the ducts are too large, it causes low airflow. You may find that the temperatures throughout your house are uneven. Ducts that are too small will cause noise from restricted airflow. 

It’s common for ducts to make some noise as your system moves air through them and the temperatures fluctuate, but it shouldn’t be very noticeable. Like damaged ducts, improper ductwork size or installation can put a dent in your efficiency—and your wallet. Your HVAC system will struggle to keep your home comfortable and, as a result, add more wear and tear to the motors, and compressors. This can lead to a more frequent repair cycle or the need for a premature replacement. 

Dirty Ductwork 

Dirty, dusty, or moldy ductwork can cause the air filters to clog up more quickly, increasing airflow resistance and making the system work harder. It can also compromise some of the system’s internal components, resulting in breakdowns and repairs. Keeping the ducts clean will improve performance, efficiency, and longevity while also improving your indoor air quality. 

Is it Time to Schedule Service for Your Ductwork?

Bad Ductwork Image 2

Whether your ventilation system wasn’t installed correctly or it’s started to degrade over time, regular maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your system is running at its most efficient while keeping energy and repair costs low. 

In addition to ductwork repairs and maintenance, we also offer air quality systems to keep your indoor air quality high, including air purification systems that can be added to any existing HVAC system, air filtration add-ons, and germicidal lights. Improve your comfort, reduce energy bills and the need for repairs, and improve the longevity of your system today by calling PECO Heating & Cooling at (864) 639-2424!

Take Advantage of Money-Saving Rebates from Duke Energy

Posted on by Mark Pfeiffer

Have you been considering a new HVAC system for your home? If so, there’s still time to take advantage of Duke Energy’s current rebates on SEER systems before they end! Save hundreds of dollars on a new system and improve the comfort of your home. After December 31, the rebates offered will be significantly less, so now is a perfect time to schedule your installation appointment. 

GettyImages 1126400297

Current Duke Energy Rebates

The following rebate offers are valid now through 1/1/2022:

  • 15 and 16 SEER with ECM – up to $350 back 
  • ≥17 SEER with ECM – up to $450 back 

For rebate applications submitted after 12/31/2021:

Central Air Conditioner

  • SEER 15 and 16 – $100 rebate
  • SEER 17 and higher – $125 rebate

Heat Pumps

  • SEER 15 and 16 – $125 rebate
  • SEER 17 and higher – $250 rebate

Please note that the rebate program for new system installations has changed and rebates are now only available to Duke Energy residential customers in single-family homes, mobile homes, townhouses, or duplexes.  

If your current HVAC system is over 10 years old or isn’t working as efficiently as you like, a new system will help your home stay more comfortable, reduce your energy usage and carbon footprint, and save money on energy costs for years to come. Don’t wait to take advantage of these great savings! Schedule your installation with PECO today. Give us a call at (864) 639-2424 or book your appointment online. 

What Are The Different Kinds Of Furnace HVAC Filters?

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

Not all filters are created equal. Did you know there are different types of filters for HVAC systems? Here are the most common types of furnace filters:

Flat-panel:
This is the type you might typically see in home improvement stores, where fibers (usually fiberglass) are stretched over a flat frame. It is usually the least expensive type of filter, but it tends to be lower quality and many particles can get through.

Closeup view on air filter. Filtration concept.

Pleated:
Pleated filters feature dense screens of plastic or cotton fibers. Just as flat-panel is named because the fibers are stretched flat, pleated filters are named because of their distinctive pleats. The greater surface area allows for better filtration, so these filters stop more particles.

Washable:
Reusable filters can be washed or vacuumed repeatedly to remove debris buildup. They come in pleated and flat-panel options, but they won’t last forever and will eventually need to be replaced.

Electrostatic:
These filters are electrostatically charged to specifically capture more tiny particles from bacteria, smoke, pollen, and other environmental contaminants. These electrostatic filters can come disposable or washable, flat-panel or pleated.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA):
You’ve heard a lot about this type of filter in the last year! The Energy Department supports the use of HEPA for any filter that reliably removes at least 99.97 percent of particles in the air that are 0.3 microns or larger. These are heavily used by hospitals and commercial facilities, although the COVID-19 pandemic saw a rise in residential use as well.

There are many different types of filters for HVAC systems. For consistently clean air, regularly change your filter so that it can keep dust, mold spores, and other contaminants out of your home’s air.

A note regarding COVID-19

Due to shortages caused by the pandemic, the only filters available for standard 1″ filter grilles are pleated filters. These must be changed monthly as most systems that are 14 SEER and less struggle to pull air through them because the blower motors are not strong.

Lennox also offers Healthy Climate 11 filters. These are 5” filters with a deep pleat that captures more particles without making your system overwork or releasing ozone. These are designed for 15 SEER systems and up. They are mounted at the air handler or furnace and only have to be changed annually! If you’re interested in these filters that capture more and last longer, contact PECO at (864) 639-2424.

3 Reasons You Need to Change Your HVAC Filter

Posted on by PECO Heating & Cooling

We recommend changing the filter in your HVAC system on a monthly basis. It’s good for your health, your wallet, and your system. Here are our top 3 reasons you need to change your filter:

cloggedfilter
  1. Pollen
    We have heard reports from many people that their allergies seem worse this year. Pollen season is getting longer and worse. If you suffer from itchy eyes, runny noses, hay fever, or other allergy symptoms, then you might want to look in an unlikely place for comfort: your HVAC system.

    The filter in your air conditioner collects dust and environmental debris as it runs. This pushes clean, cool air out into your home. However, the filter needs to be changed on a regular basis. Otherwise, it gets clogged full of what it has collected. This means it becomes less likely to strain out pollen, and old allergens stay in the system – which can bother you for months. We recommend changing your filter monthly to ensure you have a fresh filter to clear out pollen and keep your allergies at bay.
  1. Energy Bills
    You’ve probably heard tips to lower your energy bill that include raising the temp on the thermostat during summertime. However, did you know that a dirty filter causes your HVAC system to work harder? The fan has to blow harder to get air through the clogged filter, which increases your energy use and your bill. Replacing your filter regularly allows your system to work at optimal levels, which is better for the machine and for your bottom line.
  1. Short Cycling
    So what happens if you don’t change your filter regularly? As your filter becomes clogged, it becomes harder and harder for air to pass through it. The lack of airflow can cause the system to overheat. The limit switch will activate, and the HVAC system will shut down to protect the machinery. Without a new air filter, the HVAC system can continually shut down due to overheating when you turn it on. This is called short-cycling, which limits the performance of the system, puts wear and tear on the equipment, and can lead to costly repairs. If you notice your HVAC system turning on and off every few minutes, immediately switch the thermostat to off and call PECO. The faster you get your system seen by a professional, the better.