How Your HVAC System can Help Reduce Allergy Suffering

Over 26 million Americans have asthma, and the most common type of asthma is triggered by allergies. What if there was a way to reduce those allergens indoors, where we spend the majority of our time?  Well, there is!  Here are some ways you can use your HVAC system can do just that.  

1) Clean air ducts. 

Since we don’t really see them, it is easy to forget about them.  But your ductwork can accumulate a build up of dirt, dust and allergens that can be spread around your entire home as your HVAC circulates the air.  Having your ducts checked and cleaned if they are dirty can reduce a significant number of particles in the air that could be affecting your allergies.

2) Clean filter.

For the same reason, having the right filter and replacing it regularly can make a huge improvement in your indoor air quality.  The same filter that will block allergens, can instead spread them throughout your entire home, if your filter gets built up and clogged with contaminants.  Keeping a clean filter not only helps with indoor air quality, it will also help your HVAC work more efficiently and extend the life of your system.

There are even high-efficiency filters such as HEPA filters which filter out more particles.  However, these more powerful filters can create more pressure in your system which can cause damage if your HVAC system is not suited for high-efficiency filters.  So, it is very important to ask your HVAC service technician at the Lake of the Ozarks if your system can handle it.

3) Whole-home Air Purifier.

A whole-home air purifier is a unit that is installed within your HVAC systems air handler, and it is capable of removing 99.97% of pollution and contaminants from the air.  It will do so with much more efficiency than your HVAC system alone.  A whole-home air purifier captures airborne particles from return air before they enter your HVAC system and can also extend the life of your HVAC system.

4) UV Light.

For another layer of protection, UV lights are a wonderful option for reducing pollutants and killing airborne allergens travelling through your return air vents.  There are basically 2 types.  One is installed above the evaporator and prevents the growth of microbes on the coil and drain pan.  The other is installed in the return air ducts and sterilizes the air as it passes through.  Your HVAC technician at the Lake of the Ozarks can advise you on the differences and help you decide which one is best for you.

5) Whole-home dehumidifier.

We have all heard it, “it’s not the heat it’s the humidity” in Missouri.  If the humidity in your home is too high, it can negatively impact your home and its indoor air quality.  With a whole-home dehumidifier you will be able to set and control the moisture level in your home and keep it at the optimal level to reduce airborne contaminants and the potential of mold and mildew growth.  A reputable HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you with choosing and installing one in your home.  

If you are interested in using your HVAC system to reduce your allergy suffering, Royal Heating and Air is here to help.  We are happy to walk you through all your options and help you make the best decision for you and your home.  It is just one more way that Royal Heating and Air really is the King of Comfort.

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

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5 Reasons Why a Career in HVAC Could Be a Good Fit for You

There are a lot of reasons that people are attracted to the HVAC industry for a career.  One of the biggest reasons our technicians enjoy what they do is because they get to work with people and help solve problems.  They enjoy the challenges, they benefit from a vast amount of on-the-job training, and they like the reward of good pay.  If you are curious about becoming an HVAC technician at the Lake of the Ozarks, we would like to share 5 things you might enjoy about it.

1) Critical thinking and problem solving.

That is what we do, every day.  We assess problems, troubleshoot, and bring creative solutions to get someone’s HVAC up and running properly.  It takes technical ability, mechanical skill, and common sense.  Every situation is different, and our technicians enjoy looking at a problem from every angle until they have an answer.  A great HVAC technician is a quick thinker who loves to take on technical challenges.

2) Helping others.

Our technicians work together with our clients to help make them comfortable and happy, often during a stressful situation.  They find it very gratifying to “be the hero” and some of our clients think they should be wearing capes! Besides knowing they are solving an annoyance, we know the service they are providing is very important.  HVAC systems not only control the temperature, but also the humidity and overall air quality in our homes, businesses, hospitals, schools and more.  They don’t just keep us comfortable, they help keep us healthy.

3) Challenges and variety.

Every day is different when you have a career in HVAC at the Lake of the Ozarks.  People who get bored doing the same thing all the time, or who hate sitting at a desk, find HVAC careers more interesting and satisfying.  Technicians learn a wide variety of skills utilizing knowledge in plumbing, framing, electrical, and much more.  These are the kind of skills that will always be useful to them in life and at work.

4) Good pay.

HVAC technicians at the Lake of the Ozarks earn skilled labor wages and make a competitive annual salary.  With a reputable HVAC company like Royal Heating and Air, technicians have a full-time year-round job that is possible to enter straight out of high school.  Also, because this type of work cannot be outsourced and is always in demand, you have great job security in the HVAC industry.

5) On the job training.

Some people think you must have a college degree or trade school training to be successful in an HVAC career, but many HVAC technicians gain most of their knowledge on the job.  At Royal Heating and Air, we see advantages to training people on the job because we know they will be taught right according to our high standards, and they won’t have to unlearn any bad habits.  Plus, we enjoy seeing how multi-talented our technicians become as they learn a such a wide skillset and are always adding to it.

If any of this sounds attractive to you, then you may just have a shining career in HVAC waiting for you out there.  At Royal Heating and Air, we are always looking for great people to add to our team and want to encourage anyone to pursue their interest in HVAC.  We are sure glad we did.  In fact, we are hiring right now, so if you have questions or would like to take the first step towards a new career, reach out to us today. 

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

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When is a ductless mini-split air conditioner a good option for heating and cooling?

Clients are becoming more interested in learning about mini-split air conditioners. While there are pros and cons to both traditional HVAC units and mini-split systems, mini-splits do have some specific applications where they may be a better option for some than going with a ducted HVAC system. We wanted to share some insight to help you decide.  We will start with why a ductless system can be better than a traditional HVAC system.  We will explain some of the disadvantages of going ductless, and let you know what applications are ideal for the use of a mini-split system.  

Energy efficient.

Because the conditioned air is going directly into the room rather than going through ducts, mini-splits are more energy efficient.  Duct work can account for up to 30% more energy use for the same space, especially if the ductwork goes through an attic or crawlspace that is not conditioned.

Cleaner.

Ductless systems can be cleaner for the same reason.  You don’t have dust and allergens collecting in the ductwork and affecting all of the air going through them.  You do still have to clean the filter monthly, but you will never have ductwork to clean.

Overall cost savings.

While mini-splits can sometimes cost more initially than a traditional system, they can actually save you money in the long run.  This is not only because they are more efficient without ducts, but they also allow you to create zones in your house rather than heating or cooling the entire house equally. Instead, you can just heat or cool the rooms you use while you are using them.  Mini-splits also have compressors that adjust their speed to heating and cooling needs rather than shutting off entirely and kicking back on regularly, as a lot of energy is used each time the compressor goes on.  You may also qualify for tax credits and utility incentives with an Energy Star ductless system.

Easier installation.

Installing ductwork throughout a home can be a big project and take much more time that installing a mini-split.  Depending on the number of rooms, you could be up and running in one day with mini-splits versus weeks with a ducted system.  Another advantage is that you don’t have to give up square footage for ductwork or build walls or internal wall space to hide it.  

On the other hand, there are a few ways in which a ductless system is not as appealing.  First, as mentioned, you could have a greater upfront cost with mini-splits.  Where you locate your ductless system is more critical to it’s ability to control the whole house’s temperature.  Also, many people are worried about the aesthetics of the mini-splits compared to the built in look of traditional AC.  However, once installed, most people say they really don’t notice it.  But if you live in areas where it is commonly below zero degrees, mini-splits may not be enough to keep up in extreme cold and may require supplement.

Overall, here are examples of situations when a mini-split can definitely be the best option.  Anytime you need more zone control in a home where you already have traditional HVAC, mini-splits can help.  Rather than closing the vents in rooms you don’t use (which can cause pressure imbalances and lead to unnecessary wear) you can boost the rooms you need help in by adding a mini-split.  An example is if you have a living room that is always hotter than the rest of the house because of large windows, or if you are downsizing in a large home and don’t want to heat and cool the entire home.  If you are doing an addition or turning the detached garage into a man cave and just need to add heating and cooling to one room, going ductless is perfect.  Or it can be a great solution if you are wanting to add heating and cooling to a house without existing ductwork.  Although mini-splits may be more expensive up front, they can be cheaper than installing ductwork throughout an entire house.

Overall, having an HVAC specialist at the Lake of the Ozarks look at your space and walk you through your options is the best bet when trying to decide whether a ductless system is for you.  Not all heating and cooling companies at the Lake of the Ozarks work with mini-splits and one may recommend a traditional system even when it may not be the best option.  Also, as mentioned, location and installation is critical, so you will want to have that done by a trustworthy HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks. If you have any questions about ductless systems, we are happy to help.  Because at Royal Heating and Air, we are proud to be the king of comfort!

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

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CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Why is My AC Not Working? – 7 Troubleshooting Tips

When your AC is not working, it can be hard to know when to try to trouble shoot it yourself, and when it is time to call a professional.  We thought we would share some tips to help you answer that question and give you some guidance on where to start.

1) Thermostat.

First things first, check your thermostat settings.  Make sure it is set to cool, otherwise you are just running the fan (or the heat).  Make sure the temperature on the thermostat is set below the current temperature.  If you don’t see anything displayed on your thermostat, don’t fret.  It is most likely just dead batteries which you can replace yourself.  

2) Circuit Breaker, Fuse or Transformer.

You may have just tripped a breaker.  Check your breaker box and reset it if it has tripped.  If it continues to trip, something is overloading the circuit.  Turn off appliances or other power loads on that circuit, and if it keeps tripping, call an HVAC professional at Lake of the Ozarks for a diagnosis.  There is also a fuse between your thermostat and your AC, if it is blown, we recommend having that fixed by a professional as well. Same thing with a blown transformer.  Blown transformers can be caused by a bad contractor in the outdoor unit, and wiring issues, so it is a good idea to have a professional take a look at it to rule out or fix those underlying issues.

3) Disconnect Switches.

You may not realize it, but you have disconnect switches to your indoor and outdoor units.  On the outside, it will be a service box mounted to the wall near your condenser unit.  Inside it is usually on the side of the furnace or mounted on a wall nearby.  Sometimes the fix is as simple as making sure the disconnect switch is not off.

4) Starting Components.

Most HVAC systems have a start capacitor and a run capacitor that enable your AC to turn on and remain on.  If the capacitors in your HVAC system have stopped working or reach the end of life, you will want to contact an HVAC technician at Lake of the Ozarks to have them replaced.

5) Dirty Coils.

Your HVAC system has two sets of coils that are critical to its proper functioning, one in the inside unit and the other outside.  When dirt collects on those coils it will hinder their ability to remove heat and cool the air as it blows over them.  When you have your system inspected regularly, your HVAC professional at Lake of the Ozarks will make sure they are clean and working at optimum performance.

6) Dirty Filter.

As always, checking your air filter is one of the best things you can do to troubleshoot and maintain your air conditioners efficiency.  A clogged filter will restrict air flow and make it impossible to cool the air.  It can even cause your system to freeze up and lead to other issues.  If your system is freezing up even with a clean filter, there may be a problem with the refrigerant charge or leaks.  Then it is worth calling a professional to take a look.

7) Damage.

Sometimes an air conditioner is not working because of damage or because something has gone bad.  Most of the time, it is possible to identify aging parts before they become an issue, and preventative maintenance is usually cheaper than letting something become a bigger problem.

With our HVAC inspections and maintenance plans in the Lake of the Ozarks area, we aim to make sure you never have to suffer without air conditioning.  We also strive to help our clients achieve maximum efficiency and life span with their HVAC units, and believe that prevention and maintenance are key.  If you want the peace of mind of knowing everything in your HVAC system is in good shape and able to function at peak performance, sign up for a maintenance plan to ensure trouble-free comfort all year round.   Call or sign up online today with Royal Heating and Air, the king of comfort!   

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

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CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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7 Ways to Save Money on Your Heating and Cooling Bills

Now is the time of year when a lot of people start thinking about the electric bill and ways to spend less money.  At Royal Heating and Air we are all about saving on HVAC costs and we wanted to share 7 tips to help you use less energy this summer.

1) Change filters and keep it clean.

It is more important than most people think.  Dirty air filters increase energy use by about 7% and are the most common cause for breakdowns. Changing your HVAC filter monthly could reduce your energy usage by 5-15% and help extend the life of your system.  Clogged filters make your entire system work  harder.  Keeping your outside unit clear and free from debris is also something that will help your system run more efficiently.

2) Keep registers clear.

Just like a clogged filter, anything blocking the register could cause your system to have to strain to produce the proper airflow and work harder to maintain the same temperature.

 

3) Use Ceiling Fans.

Ceiling fans help in a couple ways.  They circulate create air flow which has a cooling effect on the skin by itself.  They also circulate the air, so your system is not trying to cool hot patches while cold air sits static.  Because heat rises and cold air sinks, make sure the fan is blowing up towards the ceiling in the summer to pull cold air up. 

 

4) Windows.

Sunlight is a huge source of indoor heat, and during the summer as much as 30% of undesirable heat comes through the windows in your home.  The more of those rays you can block the better it is for HVAC savings. Using sun blocking curtains, or window tinting film can reduce the temperature in your home and allow your system to work less.  

 

5) Fix leaks.

No matter where they are, leaks rob your system of efficiency and cost you more money. Caulking leaky windows and weatherstripping doors are great starting points.  If your HVAC unit was not installed by Royal Heating and Air, you may have leaky ductwork causing your system to lose efficiency.  Having your ducts sealed can make a difference if that is the case.

6) Programmable thermostat.

When you are at work or on vacation, or other times when you don’t need to keep the house so cool, raising the thermostat can add up to significant savings. We recommend having a programmable thermostat installed.  A programmable thermostat allows you to set your temperatures to adjust automatically for when you are typically home or away.  Properly used, you could save up to 12% over the course of a year.

7) Preventative Maintenance.

An air conditioner that is not properly maintained can use 10%-30% more energy which can reduce its total life span. Every 2- 3 years it is recommended to have a professional tune up to check refrigerant levels, controls, and make sure everything is clean. In addition, it is a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly by a trusted HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks. 

Royal Heating and Air is here to help you lower your energy costs with HVAC service and maintenance you can count on.  Go to our website or call today to schedule your preventative maintenance check now. 

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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5 Things that will Lower the Humidity in your Home

Indoor humidity can have a huge impact on your comfort level in your home.  It also can affect your home itself.  Ideally, the humidity in your home should fall in the range of 30-50%.  If the humidity in your home is too high, it can not only be uncomfortable, it can also lead to condensation and mold growth.  High humidity can lead to wood rot and peeling paint in your home and can even contribute to respiratory problems.  To achieve that proper balance of 30-50%, here are a few things you can do.

Air Conditioning.

First, if you want to get an accurate reading of the humidity in your home you can purchase a hygrometer at your local hardware store. If your humidity is too high, using your air conditioner will help automatically.  By removing hot air and replacing it with cooler air (which holds less moisture), using your air conditioner will naturally help to reduce indoor humidity.  Properly maintaining your air conditioner and changing your filters frequently will help keep airflow unrestricted and reduce humidity as well.  

Exhaust/Ventilation.

Using exhaust fans that ventilate air outside (not into the attic) when cooking and showering can reduce humidity.  It is a good idea to leave them on a little longer than just when you are cooking or showering to reduce the humidity even more.  It can also make a difference to reduce the temperature slightly when you shower as it will introduce less steam into the air.

Fix Leaks.

Anything you can do to lower the amount of moisture that is introduced in your home is good.  If you have leaky or dripping pipes, fixing those, and insulating your pipes to prevent condensation will both help lower the indoor humidity. Also make sure that drip pans and drain lines on your air conditioner are clean and free flowing. Even checking your gutters and areas around your home to make sure there is no standing water is helpful.

Charcoal.

Did you know … that charcoal briquettes can work as a desiccant?  Place a few charcoal briquettes in a plastic coffee container with a vent holes cut in it and replace them every 2-3 months.  It is a great low cost and simple way to pull moisture out of the air.

Dehumidifier.

Of course, the most effective way to reduce indoor humidity is by using a dehumidifier.  You can get portable dehumidifiers that are inexpensive and work very well.  But they do have to be emptied daily.  An even more efficient way to control the humidity in your home is to have a whole-home dehumidifier installed.  A whole-home dehumidifier goes inside your furnace/air handler and will pull moisture out of the air as it passes through.  This brings cooler dryer air into your home and actually helps your air conditioner work less, saving you money on cooling bills.

If you would like to reduce the humidity in your home, Royal Heating and Air can help.  Give us a call or request a quote on our website to learn more about having a whole-home dehumidifier installed, or for routine HVAC maintenance to keep your system working at peak efficiency.  Helping you control your indoor humidity is just one more way that Royal Heating and Air is the King of Comfort!

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

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CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Family Friendly Attractions at the Lake (part 2)

This week, Royal Heating and Air, will continue sharing with you some of the fun things to do with your family here at the Lake of the Ozarks.  We will talk about things to see and learn in the area (for those inquisitive kids).  We will discuss low cost or free activities, so you don’t have to worry about the budget.  We will also talk about some of the more random or miscellaneous things that you might not even think to look for.

Things to See or Learn.

If your kids love seeing and learning new things, there are lots of options at Lake of the Ozarks.  We are fortunate to have several commercial caves including Bridal Cave in Camdenton, Stark Caverns in Eldon, and Jacob’s Cave in Versailles, each with their own unique features. There are also caves in the area State Parks. In addition, we have the Camden County Historical Museum, the Morgan County Historical Society and Museum, the Miller County Museum, and Wilmore Lodge and the Bagnell Dam Historical Museum located near the dam.  If you want to show your kids exactly how the dam was built, that is the place to go.  Also, if you have a budding artist in your family, you could even take art classes at Lake Fine Art Academy and Galleria.

Low or No Cost.

The State Parks at the Lake of the Ozarks are extensive and so beautiful with breathtaking natural beauty.  Whether you are looking for a public beach to swim, or hiking trails, fishing spots, caves, springs, castle ruins and Ozark bluffs, the local State Parks have it all and more.  Check out Ha Ha Tonka in Camdenton, the State Park down Hwy 42, and the State Park Marina in Osage Beach.

More.

Of course, most kids love a good pirate adventure and at the Lake of the Ozarks you have options.  You will love Jolly Roger’s pirate themed restaurant in Rocky Mount where you can even book a cruise on the Pirate Ship Calypso!  Or you can check out famous Captain Ron’s, (home of the Shootout) and enjoy the beach and sand volleyball areas all day long.  If you are in town around the Shootout, you most definitely do not want to miss the kids’ treasure hunt on the beach. 

If you would like to enjoy some mini golf with the family, you may choose from Pirate’s Cove Mini Golf, Putt ‘N’ Stuff, and Sugar Creek Miniature Golf.  Or how about some bowling fun at Eldon Lanes or at the Westside Lanes in Gravois Mills.  Maybe you want to just relax and see a movie … there is Lake West Cinema 5 down O Road in the Laurie/Gravois Mills area, and Marcus Eagles Landing Cinema in Osage Beach.  

For a tasty treat, enjoy a lake favorite with frozen custard at Andy’s, and Randy’s, both in Osage Beach.  Then for a close up look at some of the fastest power boats in the nation, you can venture out to Performance Boat Center’s showroom with an upper viewing balcony so you can even see inside the boats.

We are so proud to live at the Lake of the Ozarks.  We are happy to raise our family here and committed to providing the best HVAC service and maintenance to all our customers, because as a family-owned business, it matters to us.  We just wanted to share these ideas with you because we think there is something for everyone in the family here at Lake of the Ozarks. We hope you enjoy living here just as much as we do. With so much to choose from … memories are waiting to be made!  

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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