HVAC: most of the units have systems that are as old as the buildings themselves. Or, worse yet, the owners of these buildings typically change out equipment with no regard to ensuring that the equipment is “matched”. So, the actual levels of efficiency are rarely even as good as the efficiency level listed on the equipment. And now, even the entry level equipment is 30 to 40 % more efficient than many of the systems installed. New equipment will put more money back into tenants hands.

Insulation: if there is any at all it is typically less than an effective R-10. Current code for our climate zone lists a minimum of R-30 and most places now go to R-38 or higher. Stopping the transfer of hot or cold air through the surface will also put more money back in the pockets of tentants.

Air-sealing: the science around air-sealing the building envelope is unmistakable. By sealing off these leaks tentants can expect to keep more of the air they are paying to condition in the space that is paying for it.

Combustion Safety: how often have you been in an apartment and you see a furnace, an atmospheric water heater, a dryer and a kitchen range hood all w/in a 1o ft radius of one another. The opportunities for back-drafting and on-going CO exposure is substantial.

Comfort: air-distribution through the duct system often leaves some areas of the unit hot and other areas cold. By balancing the systems to provide even distribution of air-flow through the entire unit you will have happier renters.

Multi-family projects and communities tend to make the most money when they are at full capacity. A dilapidated facility that costs a fortune to heat and cool and yet is still uncomfortable is simply not a good investment strategy. Update your facility and see your margins, customer retention and tenant satisfaction improve.

The post Multi-family Energy Upgrades (Performance Matters) appeared first on VIS VIVA Energy Consulting.

Far too often homeowners and builders who haven’t had too much experience with spray foam are finding that not all foam is created equal and neither are the installers. If you look at most of the bad press about spray foam insulation it is usually a problem with the installation or the health and safety practices of the company doing the work. Spray foam is one of those products in the building world that doesn’t come ready-made from a store. It has to be mixed on-site and the mixing can be equal parts science and art. The chemicals that have to be mixed are also hazardous before they are mixed. So installation expertise is only part of the problem. The other part is knowing how to install the foam without putting everyone on the job site, including homeowners, at risk for some serious health hazards. Unfortunately there are contractors out there who have figured out that they keep their prices low by using laborers who have little to no training and avoiding certain safety procedures.

Not all spray foam contractors do this. There are many spray foam contractors out there who are doing a great job with their training and safety practices. It also looks like some of the major manufacturers are getting wise to this problem and requiring more of their distributors and installers. As a consumer you should always remember that higher standards and better safety ALWAYS costs more money. Your spray foam contractor should be every bit as concerned for your safety as you are. If they’re not you may need a new one. If you happen to get a spray foam contractor who doesn’t practice the highest safety and quality standards you can end up in a bad spot quickly. Good spray foam, properly installed and protected, is not a health hazard and it has no adverse effects on the structure or the occupants. Poorly installed spray foam can be hazardous to occupant health, it can have a horrible odor, it can be a fire hazard, and it can damage the structure itself. It can also be very difficult to fix once it is done incorrectly.

Spray foam insulation can be a great investment, both during construction and as a retrofit energy efficiency measure. Applied properly and installed correctly spray foam insulation can increase efficiency, improve occupant comfort, reduce noise pollution, and prevent poor indoor air quality. With the proper application spray foam insulation is far superior than traditional fiberglass insulation in almost every instance. The key to a good spray foam installation is finding a quality contractor who is committed to the highest quality control standards as well as the latest safety practices.  You may pay a little more for their skill, but in the end you won’t be disappointed.

The post Spray Foam Insulation – Cheaper Isn’t Always Better appeared first on VIS VIVA Energy Consulting.

To keep your house healthy, you should inspect its major elements; make minor repairs to avoid larger, future repairs; and rely on professionals with extensive area knowledge to guide your home maintenance program. A professional inspector can outline the benefits of HVAC inspections with specificity, but from a broad overview, here are some of the biggest advantages:

1. Save energy.
As homeowners, we’re all about saving energy and lessening our eco-footprint, and these are both benefits of HVAC inspections. Ensuring your unit is working properly and efficiently will help you save energy…as well as energy costs.

2. Save money.
Saving energy and saving money go hand in hand. If you have to crank up the thermostat too high or down too low to reach desired temperatures in your home, chances are you’re paying too much because your unit isn’t functioning properly.

3. Avoid costly repairs.
Think about more noticeable repairs to the home. If you see water damage, for example, you immediately call a roofing company because you know ignoring the problem will eventually lead to the need for a new roof. The same goes with your heating and cooling units.

One of the greatest benefits of HVAC inspections is that they help you avoid costly repairs, or early replacement, of your heating and cooling units.

4. Protect your home and your family.
Many of us have gas furnaces, and an unattended furnace provides a potential carbon monoxide threat. Skilled inspectors know this; can assess your risk during regular maintenance checks; and if a danger exists, eliminate it before it truly threatens the health of your home and family.

5. Get the most out of your heating and cooling units.
Your HVAC system is a complicated, thus expensive, system. By maintaining it, you extend its life and save yourself time and money.

One other benefit of Atlanta HVAC inspections is that you have a documented maintenance plan in hand when it comes time to sell your home. Buyers and inspectors will look at the age and care history of your home’s major systems, and having proof or regular maintenance will improve your home’s value.

If you’ve never had your HVAC serviced or you want to know more about the benefits of HVAC inspections, our professional team at VIS VIVA Energy & Services will be happy to answer your questions.

Call VIS VIVA at 770-755-1466 for your Atlanta Heating and Cooling needs today!

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Don’t delay service

Many people think that having their heating and cooling systems serviced is unnecessary if they seem to be working. In fact, you should have a professional come to inspect your systems annually to ensure they’re operating optimally. A small, needed adjustment – ignored – can lead to costly repairs in the future.

Be diligent about replacing your filters.

Every three months you should put a new, clean filter in your system. Dusty, clogged filters reduce the airflow and serve no purification purposes. When at the store, don’t necessarily go for the cheapest filter. Spend a little extra for high performers – they’re better for your air and your heating and cooling systems.

Keep your systems’ exteriors clean.

Outdoor units can typically be hosed off and surrounded by a material that inhibits dirt from washing onto them. For others, you may need a hand brush, but when cleaning debris from your units, if you’re ever uncertain, stop. Call a professional and don’t risk damaging them.

Don’t overwork your heating and cooling systems.

Properly setting your thermostat not only saves you money, it gives your heating and cooling systems a longer life.

Check for leaks.

If the air being pumped into the house is slipping right back out, your systems serve little purpose. Look for leaks around windows and door frames, and ensure you’re well insulated. Also inspect your air ducts for cracks or leaks letting air escape.

Basic, simple maintenance is necessary to maintain your heating and cooling systems; however, working systems are different from optimally working systems. Keep yours healthy and functioning efficiently with annual inspections.

Call VIS VIVA at 770-755-1466 for your Atlanta Heating and Cooling needs today!

The post Caring for Atlanta Heating and Cooling Systems appeared first on VIS VIVA Energy Consulting.