Heating and Cooling Solutions

Furnace Replacement and Maintenance Plans

2011-08-23T15:19:00.000-04:00

Fall will be here before we know it, and with it comes the fall weather. Make sure you are prepared by having your heating equipment serviced, or look into replacing your heating system if necessary.

You may want to consider replacing your furnace if:
Your furnace is more than 15 years old. Furnaces built today are more efficient and breakdown less often
You want to change fuel types (e.g., from electric to natural gas)
You have expanded your house and the existing furnace cannot handle the new heating load
You have an older furnace that is not compatible with the new air conditioner you would like to buy

To keep your furnace working at its best, consider investing in a maintenance plan. Early warning signs can be detected and addressed before serious problems occur, saving you money. Also, a well maintained system will minimize energy consumption, prolong the life of your equipment and reduce the likelihood of emergency calls.

To determine the correct furnace size for a given house, a heat-load calculation must be performed. This calculation takes into account a number of factors including the size and orientation of the house, the local landscaping, the number of windows, and the number of occupants. Too large a furnace means you will use (and pay for) more fuel than necessary; too little means you won't be comfortable. Northern Air ClimateCare can advise you which size is best for your situation. The sizing of your furnace is critical to proper operation; never leave this to guess work.

ecoENERGY Retrofit-Homes Program

2011-07-14T10:57:00.001-04:00

The Government of Canada has renewed the popular ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program. From June 6, 2011, until March 31, 2012, homeowners are eligible to receive grants of up to $5,000 to make their homes more energy-efficient. Homeowners who participated in the program to date have saved 20 percent on their energy bills.

There are two important changes to the program. First, there is a requirement for participants to register directly with the program before booking their evaluation. Second, homeowners will now be required to provide receipts to their energy advisor at the time of the post-retrofit evaluation to confirm eligibility for the grant.

http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/retrofithomes-renovationmaisons-eng.cfm

Air Conditioning

2011-06-24T09:55:00.000-04:00

In summer, high relative humidity, elevated air temperatures and sunshine can combine to produce an uncomfortable indoor environment. Air conditioning can provide comfort by lowering the air temperature and also the humidity level in the home. When you're in the market for new cooling products, it pays to learn all you can about them first. With the proper facts in hand, you can make choices that will save you money and help protect the environment. You might also want to take a look at our ductless options. A ductless unit is suitable for apartments, condo living, boiler heated homes and homes without ducting.

There are three main cooling options available:
• central air conditioners
• heat pumps
• room air conditioners

The EnerGuide rating and ENERGY STAR® symbol can help you identify the most energy-efficient products available in Canada.

Central air conditioners cool only, while heat pumps also provide heat in winter. Central air conditioners and heat pumps are used to cool an entire living area. Room air conditioners can effectively cool up to three rooms at low cost, and can be installed with minimum effort.

Before you decide what to buy, ask yourself if the whole house must be air-conditioned or if your needs would be satisfied by cooling one or two rooms. The answer will determine which type of air conditioner would be more appropriate.

No cooling? What to do before calling for service

2011-06-08T16:16:00.000-04:00

The “before you call” 8-point checklist
If homeowners are not comfortable checking these items, they should call a technician.

If a/c unit outside is not on at all, check fuse or breaker. If breaker is tripped off, reset.

Ensure furnace filter is clean. If it is plugged with dirt, etc. replace the filter, turn the system off for 2-3 hours and restart.

Check your thermostat. Make sure it is set to the ‘cool’ position and also that the temperature has been turned down.

Check for ice build up. This could be caused by a dirty air filter or thermostat set too low. If there is ice build up, shut a/c off and let the ice melt.

Check thermostat batteries.

Check outside disconnect. When the box is opened, the black piece inside should say ON.

Check exhaust pipe which is located outside to make sure it is clear or debris.

Make sure you removed the winter a/c cover.

Rinnai Grass is Greener Contest

2011-05-17T11:09:00.002-04:00

Rinnai has launched its Grass Is Greener Contest, giving Rinnai appliance owners a chance to win $5,000 cash.

The grand prize money will be dedicated to the exclusive purchase of a new Condensing Tankless Water Heater, fireplace or other Rinnai product for the winner’s home or a loved one. Each participant is also eligible for a weekly $50 Visa Gift Card drawing.

Enter in just two easy steps:
1. Liking Rinnai's Facebook Fanpage2. Telling on Facebook why you love your energy-efficient Rinnai with words, videos, or image.

Top entries are showcased on the Facebook page for fans to vote for their favorite and select the grand prize winner.

Central Air

2011-04-05T15:19:00.000-04:00

ClimateCARE- Your Personal Climate Experts

2011-03-22T16:41:00.000-04:00

Keeping Your Home and Family Safe

2011-01-20T14:10:00.000-05:00

Sudbury, ON- The presence of carbon monoxide in our homes is dangerous. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas. Because you can’t see, taste or smell it, it can affect you or your family before you even know it’s there. So, how can you protect your family from carbon monoxide? According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), having a qualified technician inspect and clean fuel-burning appliances yearly to ensure they are in good working order is one way to protect you and your family.

“Northern Air ClimateCare is now offering carbon monoxide checks for your furnace, and at a low price”, said Brian Eadie, President of Northern Air ClimateCare. “A trained, licensed technician will visit your home and inspect your furnace, perform a carbon monoxide check, and give any necessary recommendations. If ensuring your home is safe for your family is important to you, we highly recommend getting this done, especially if your furnace is over 15 years old, or you haven’t had it maintained regularly.”

To speak with a representative about scheduling a carbon monoxide check, call Northern Air ClimateCare at 669-HEAT (4328) or visit their website at www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Northern Air ClimateCare has been providing heating, ventilation and air conditioning service in the Greater Sudbury area for over 20 years.

Save Money with Off-Peak Heating

2010-12-29T09:05:00.000-05:00

Sudbury, ON- If saving money while heating your home sounds like a good idea, Electric Thermal Storage may be an option for you. Electric Thermal Storage (ETS) is the technology of converting off-peak electricity to heat, and storing this low cost heat for use in a home or business.

Electricity is more expensive during the on-peak hours, which is when we use a lot of it due to operating various appliances. Off-peak hours are the times of day or night when the power companies usually have excess energy supply due to low demand. Some power companies offer reduced rates or substantial discounts on electricity consumed during off-peak times.

During hours a power company considers off-peak, the electric elements generate the heat that will be stored in the bricks of the ETS Heating Systems. This stored heat is used to satisfy immediate heating requirements and to provide total comfort during peak hours.

Another perk with ETS heating is that it is a more environmentally friendly heating choice. Today there is emphasis being placed on energy efficiency, conservation, and preservation of the environment. ETS makes the most efficient use of power generation, transmission and distribution.

“Electric thermal storage is a great option for anyone who doesn’t want to use natural gas heating, or may not have the option to use it”, stated Brian Eadie, President of Northern Air ClimateCare. The Steffes unit we offer here provides efficient heating and comfort and is a low cost to operate.”

For more information on the Steffes Electric Thermal Storage unit, please contact Northern Air ClimateCare at 669-HEAT (4328).

Northern Air ClimateCare Provides Greater Sudbury Homeowners with Unparalleled Clean Air like Families Featured on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

2010-12-14T16:26:00.001-05:00

Sudbury, ON- The City of Greater Sudbury can now experience the same particulate-free clean air system featured on ABC’s hit reality television show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”. Northern Air ClimateCare announced that the world’s most effective whole-house air filtration system, the IQAir Perfect 16, has joined their selection of home comfort products and services. As a newly-named IQAir independent authorized installer, Northern Air ClimateCare can now transform any home or small business’ existing heating, ventilation and air conditioning system into a medical-grade air scrubber providing ten-times cleaner air.

It’s easy for homeowners to overlook the most basic necessity: the air we breathe. Independent studies have shown that on average, indoor air contains three to five more pollutants than found in air outdoors. The IQAir Perfect 16 is the labour of more than 45 years of Swiss engineering in clean air technology and features the highest filtration efficiency available for removing bacteria, pet allergens, mould, spores, dust, pollen and other airborne contaminants. The Perfect 16 is so effective in providing exceptional air quality that ABC’s hit reality television show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” has called on IQAir to help 10 deserving families stricken with life-threatening medical conditions. The popular Home and Garden Television show “House of Bryan” also relied on IQAir Products.

“Northern Air ClimateCare is showing its continued dedication to our customers in Greater Sudbury by offering the best, most advanced and efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning solutions,” said Brian Eadie, President of Northern Air ClimateCare. “We are excited to be able to offer this medical-grade system to the community.”

A trained specialist of Northern Air ClimateCare will test indoor particulate levels prior to the installation to address unique filtration needs of each individual home. Once the initial inspection is complete, the custom-tailored Perfect 16 is integrated into the home’s existing HVAC system. After the installation, the home’s air quality is tested again.

To speak with a representative about scheduling an air quality inspection, please call Northern Air ClimateCare at 669-HEAT (4328) or visit their website at www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Remember to maintain your heating system

2010-11-22T10:46:00.002-05:00

Annual maintenance is extremely important for your home comfort equipment. Maintenance ensures your system will continue to work at peak efficiency all year long. A system that is maintained experiences considerably fewer breakdowns.

A common misconception about furnace cleanings is that you need to wait until the end of fall to schedule. You can call for your precision tune-up at anytime, and is actually more beneficial to book earlier in the season for shorter wait times. Consider booking a precision tune up today and ensure your system is running properly.

Precision tune ups cut down the need for you to pay for costly repairs. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind in knowing that your system is saving you money on your utility bills. In some instances, the energy savings are enough to pay the cost of the planned annual maintenance service.

If you are located in the Greater Sudbury or Espanola area and would like to book a precision tune up, call Northern Air ClimateCare today at 669-4328.

Win Your Energy Bills Paid for One Year

2010-10-25T15:03:00.004-04:00

Northern Air ClimateCare is participating in a contest and one lucky customer could win their energy bills paid for one year!

This is a province-wide contest, featuring the ClimateCare brand heating and cooling products. The contest ends in December, so visit www.northernairclimatecare.com today to learn more.

New IAQ products available from Northern Air, Sudbury Ontario

2010-09-27T13:56:00.001-04:00

Northern Air ClimateCare is proud to now be a local IQ Air product dealer in the Sudbury, Ontario area.

The HealthPro Plus is a medical grade air purifier and is used in hospitals around the world. When the dreaded disease SARS began to spread, doctors quickly determined that this highly contagious disease was spreading through the air. There was no cure or treatment, and scientists determined that the only way to combat SARS was to stop the spread of the disease. The Hong Kong Hospital Authority tested many air cleaners. They determined that IQAir made the only room air cleaners suitable to be used in the fight against SARS.

The Perfect 16 is a breakthrough in whole-house air cleaning. It eliminates dust, allergens, bacteria, and other harmful particles as much as 100 times more effectively than conventional whole-house air cleaners.

If you would like more information, please visit our website www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Keep Warm with a New Gas Fireplace

2010-08-23T11:42:00.003-04:00

The weather today is a bit dreary and makes you want to curl up on the couch. A great home accessory to have on days like today is a fireplace. Fireplaces are a home comfort necessity and are designed to provide your home with warmth and ambiance.

Not only are fireplaces a great way to be cozy on a cool fall day, or cold winter night, but they are a necessary way to provide your home with a secondary heat source. They provide radiant heat through power outages, which is essential in winter months.

When it comes to choosing a specific fireplace, there are many choices available. There are models ranging from basic to decorative, traditional to modern, clean face and stainless steel. If you are located in the Sudbury, Ontario area, our Home Comfort Advisor from Northern Air ClimateCare can provide a personal, one-on-one consultation to assist you in choosing a suitable model based on your heat, energy, size and visual needs. Call us today for information, or visit our showroom at 1360 Kelly Lake Road in Sudbury.

Annual Furnace Maintenance

2010-08-12T16:30:00.005-04:00

There is nothing better for your heating system than annual maintenance, which allows your system to work at peak efficiency all year long. A system that is maintained experiences considerably fewer breakdowns.

Precision tune ups cut down the need for you to pay for costly repairs. You’ll enjoy the peace of mind in knowing that your system is saving you money on your utility bills. In some instances, the energy savings are enough to pay the cost of the planned annual maintenance service.

A common misconception about furnace cleanings are that you need to wait until the end of fall to schedule. You can call for your cleaning at anytime, and is actually more beneficial to book earlier in the season for shorter wait times. Consider booking a precision tune up in August or early September and ensure your system is running properly. If you are located in Sudbury, Ontario and would like to book a precision tune up, call Northern Air ClimateCare today at 669-4328.

Rinnai Operating Instructions

2010-07-16T12:34:00.001-04:00

· Set the thermostat located on the front cover of the unit to a temperature you would be comfortable (102 to 108 degree)
· Use only the hot water faucet (do not turn on cold water). This will greatly reduce the hot then cold water fluctuations that can occur when trying to mix hot and cold water.
· You can safely operate two typical showers at the same time.
· You can operate 1 shower and dishwasher or clothes washer at the same time.
· Bath tub filler faucets and any other faucets that do not have an aerator on them will greatly reduce the flow of hot water if you attempt to operate them while having a shower. It is recommended to operate the shower first and then fill the bath tub.
· Most dishwashers have a built in electric hot water booster therefore operating at lower temperatures will not alter the dishwasher performance. If you notice spots on the dishes after cycle is complete, possibly change your rinsing product.
· Keep your exterior vent free from debris and have your unit serviced every second year.

If you require any further assistance, please contact us at 669-HEAT (4328) or www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Furnace Replacements

2010-07-08T14:28:00.004-04:00

If you aren't sure about replacing your furnace, you should consider the following:

If your furnace is more than 15 years old you may want to look into replacing. Furnaces built today are more efficient and save you energy dollars.

You want to change fuel types (e.g., from electric to natural gas)

You have expanded your house and the existing furnace cannot handle the new heating load

You have an older furnace that is not compatible with the new air conditioner you would like to buy

To keep your new furnace working at its best, consider investing in a maintenance plan. Early warning signs can be detected and addressed before serious problems occur (saving you money!). Also, a well maintained system will minimize energy consumption, prolong the life of your equipment and reduce the likelihood of emergency calls.

What’s the right size of furnace for my home?
To determine the correct furnace size for a given house, a heat-load calculation must be performed. This calculation takes into account a number of factors including the size and orientation of the house, the local landscaping, the number of windows, and the number of occupants. Too large a furnace means you will use (and pay for) more fuel than necessary; too little means you won't be comfortable. Northern Air ClimateCare can advise you which size is best for your situation. The sizing of your furnace is critical to proper operation; never leave this to guess work.

For more information, please visit www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Air Conditioning in Sudbury, Ontario

2010-07-01T11:49:00.005-04:00

In summer, high relative humidity, elevated air temperatures and sunshine can combine to produce an uncomfortable indoor environment. Air conditioning can provide comfort by lowering the air temperature and also the humidity level in the home. When you're in the market for new cooling products, it pays to learn all you can about them first. With the proper facts in hand, you can make choices that will save you money and help protect the environment. You might also want to take a look at ductless options. A ductless unit is suitable for apartments, condo living, boiler heated homes and homes without ducting.

There are three main cooling options available:
• central air conditioners
• heat pumps
• room air conditioners

The EnerGuide rating and ENERGY STAR® symbol can help you identify the most energy-efficient products available in Canada.

Central air conditioners cool only, while heat pumps also provide heat in winter. Central air conditioners and heat pumps are used to cool an entire living area. Room air conditioners can effectively cool up to three rooms at low cost, and can be installed with minimum effort.

Before you decide what to buy, ask yourself if the whole house must be air conditioned or if your needs would be satisfied by cooling one or two rooms. The answer will determine which type of air conditioner would be more appropriate.

If you require any further assistance, please contact us at 669-HEAT (4328) or www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Operation of Heat Recovery Ventilators

2010-06-25T08:54:00.001-04:00

The best contractors educate you on your home comfort system and Northern Air is here to help. Here are a few tips for maintaining and operating your hrv.

 Keep intake and exhaust outlets free from debris. Clean any build up of pollen or spider webs from terminations.

 Thoroughly clean inside of HRV annually. You will probably see dirt/ bugs/spider webs inside unit, which is normal.

 Remove the core and clean out all four sides with warm water and liquid soap detergent (this should be done in the summer). If unit is an ERV, vacuum core only.

 Remove the two sponge filters and clean under warm water and squeeze dry (every three months).

 Adjustments to the control should be made frequently as the weather changes from cold to warm. You require more fresh air as it gets colder and less when it gets warmer.

 Winter settings should try to maintain 35 to 40% humidity. This means it will be common to see minimum 3/8” of water collecting at the bottom of your window. Any more than that requires more fresh air to reduce humidity level.

 Summer settings should be in the “off” position.

If you require any further assistance, please contact us at 669-HEAT (4328) or www.northernairclimatecare.com.

Keep Your Cool This Summer

2010-06-18T16:42:00.000-04:00

Keep your cool and your pocket change this summer with this list of energy-wise air conditioning and cooling suggestions:

1. Set the thermostat as high as is comfortable. The typical winter’s setting of 21ºC (69.8ºF) is too chilly for the summer – consider 25ºC (77ºF) for hot weather. Remember: the greater the difference between the temperature outdoors and the temperature indoors, the higher your energy costs will be.

2. Ceiling or portable fans help circulate cool air in the house – you won’t need to set the central air as low to feel comfortable.

3. Keep the blinds and curtains closed during the day on the sunny side of the house.

4. Close all basement ceiling grilles for summer and re-open in the fall.

5. Partially close off the main floor registers.

6. If you’re on holidays, remember to set the air conditioner higher so that a limited amount of dehumidifying will take place.

7. Ensure that the central air conditioning unit is serviced each year for maximum performance and efficiency.

8. Wash down the outside condensing unit with a garden hose when you see a build up of grass or dust. Be careful not to apply too much water pressure as this will damage the fin coils. Ensure the power is OFF.

9. Consider replacing an older central A/C unit. Today’s models offer much higher efficiencies and should have a higher SEER rating than your current model.

10. Have a heating and cooling professional determine if your air conditioner is the right size for your home. Proper sizing and installation are key elements in determining air conditioner efficiency. Also, improper unit location and incorrect refrigerant charge can greatly diminish efficiency.

11. It is not uncommon for your central air system to operate all day and then cycle off and on in the evening. Please keep in mind that any residential central air system will only obtain 9.4ºC (15ºF) difference from outside temperature to inside temperature.

12. If you ever see ice build up on the outside condensing unit, Freon lines, or simply cannot cool your home, please contact our service department.

If you require any further assistance, please contact us at 669-HEAT (4328) or www.northernairclimatecare.com.