Are you looking for a career that is exciting and stable? Becoming an HVAC technician could be just the job for you. Beginning the process of changing careers or starting a new one can be daunting, but becoming an HVAC technician does not have to be.

What an HVAC technician does

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning.

HVAC techs deal with installing and maintenance related to air conditioning, ventilation, and heat in homes and businesses.

First Steps in HVAC Training

The first step for anyone thinking about becoming an HVAC tech is to research what is involved in the required training. Many community colleges offer programs that will train students to become HVAC techs. These hvac training programs prepare students to work in the HVAC field are usually between six months and two years. In classes, students will learn the tools needed, the anatomy of systems, and how to work safely with heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems.

HVAC Apprenticeship and Learning on the Job

Once you have obtained your degree from a trade school or community college, the next step is to become an apprentice. Apprenticeships last between two and five years based on your school or program. In an apprenticeship, the understudy will follow an HVAC tech around and learn by helping him /her. During this phase of your training, you will be actively participating in fixing and maintaining various units. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable experience while under a trained HVAC technician’s wing. This step in obtaining experience also exposes you to several professionals and possible connections for future employment.

Acquiring License

Some states and employers require their HVAC technicians to obtain a license. What this requires varies by state and employer. If you want to work with refrigerators, you most likely will need to obtain a special certification stating that you are trained in that area. Having a license could possibly mean you would make a higher salary in some cases.

Benefits of Working in the HVAC Field

There are some excellent benefits to becoming an HVAC tech such as plenty of work year round, great pay, and ability to find work easily in many locations. Year round work is often provided because people rely on their heat to keep them warm in the winter and air conditioning to keep them cool in the summer. When these units break or need maintenance, people generally do not put off getting them fixed.

If you’re interested in working as a HVAC technician, contact your local trade school and get started on your training.

Getting the best hvac training depends on finding the best trade school. The articles written by this author are handy guides when it comes to choosing the best trade school for hvac training.

Author: Willi Hauselberg
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Almost every manufacturer of furnaces and HVAC systems recommend that you have the unit inspected and serviced at yearly intervals. However, many people overlook this necessity and forego service for longer periods of time, either due to cost issues or forgetfulness. Skipping annual service on you HVAC system could lead to spending more money in energy bills, not to mention put the health and safety of you and your family at risk. A licensed HVAC service technician will ensure your HVAC unit is operating properly and at maximum efficiency – which will save you money and heartache in the long run.

If you have an oil or natural gas furnace, your HVAC system burns fossil fuel. The burning of these fossil fuels can result in a deadly byproduct – Carbon Monoxide. An HVAC service technician will make certain that there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning coming from your furnace. Even small leaks can be hazardous, so an annual service inspection to check for the deadly poisonous gas is highly recommended.

Also, furnaces that use oil or natural gas are also at a higher risk of fire because these fuels are highly flammable. An HVAC specialist will ensure your unit is operating properly and is clean of dirt, dust, debris and other materials that can easily catch fire.

One of the most advantageous benefits of having your HVAC system annually serviced is maximizing its efficiency. Home heating fuel is very expensive, so making sure your HVAC system is burning it at an efficient rate is directly related to the amount of your energy bills. A professional HVAC service technician can adjust your furnace to ensure it is operating at its highest efficiency. Inspections and “tune ups” will result in less fuel consumption and lower bills.

Having your HVAC system serviced on an annual basis is a great way to have preventative maintenance done. It is recommended that annual service be performed before the winter months to ensure the furnace will work properly throughout the cold season. Often times, an HVAC contractor will notice potential problems before they begin and offer solutions for repair or replacement of parts. This can be extremely beneficial to a homeowner because they will not have to go through the struggle of having their furnace break down in the dead of winter, leaving their family with no heat for days or weeks until it can be repaired.

The advantages of having a furnace inspected and serviced by a professional HVAC technician are tremendous. You’ll save money on your fuel costs and energy bills, and have peace of mind that your furnace will run properly on even the coldest of winter days. Your be sure your HVAC system is operating safely and at the highest efficiency by hiring a professional HVAC engineer to inspect and service your furnace on a yearly basis.

Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent of Arundel Heating and Cooling. The HVAC specialists offer maintenance, repair, and new system installation for homeowners with trusted service they can depend on. Arundel offers the latest in energy-efficient models to keep your home comfortable while lowering your monthly energy bills. For more information on their HVAC Contractor Baltimore Maryland please visit their website.

Author: Budda Oliver
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Why is residential HVAC Installation important?

Humidity and temperature are two conditions that have to be closely synchronized. Both of these factors influence the safe and healthy conditions. Residential facilities are more at risk if temperatures and humidity are not monitored, which can cause dangerous health hazards. You do not want to take risk especially with little kids at home and even the adults who are susceptible to health conditions.

HVAC regulates the temperature or climate control. It provides higher efficiency and system control that helps to balance the temperatures. Its three functions of heating, ventilation and air conditioning provide thermal comfort and indoor air quality; hence residential HVAC installation is important.

Residential HVAC Installation

Residential HVAC installation first depends on the quality of HVAC equipment. Good quality HVAC equipment will ensure the following:

• That it is properly sized allowing approved air flow
• Installed correctly to examine the fixed air force drop that is within the specifications.
• It should have balanced air flows between supply and return systems to neutralize the pressure in home.
• Should be charged effectively with the refrigerant.
• Should have proper draft and proper burner operation.
• Should have sealed ductwork that provides accurate air stream.
• Sealed ductwork should prohibit air inflowing the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning system from fumes that come from autos, attic particulates and accumulated chemicals.

Most companies follow the similar protocol in residential HVAC installations. HVAC installation usually follows procedure below for installation:

• Installation of equipments and ducts according to design specifications.
• Verifying charge with the sub-cooling method or evaporator superheat method
• Verify for fire-box drafting and proper furnace burner.
• Following ACCA Manual S procedures ensuring proper size of HVAC equipment
• Determination on registered types and locations, connections and duct lengths that require producing layout of specified construction limitation.
• Following ‘ACCA Manual D’ calculation measures.
• Following the use of SMACNA, the A.D.C, UMC, C.R.E.E.S and manufacturers specifications using the method of installation procedures and requirements.

Residential HVAC installation would help you to have comfortable and pleasant atmosphere at home. Though the installation process seems to be a lengthy one, technicians who have expertise in residential HVAC installation would guide you through some of the directions and procedures as per the guidelines so that you do not panic and you would know what to do when there is any problem with installation.

Residential HVAC installation comes with a ‘guide’ that would help you understand the basic requirements involved in the installation process. Many times most customers try and experiment in fixing HVAC if it doesn’t work right. This is not recommended, unless directed by an experienced technician. You have to understand that, HVAC is connected to a high voltage and that can be health hazardous.

Why do I need certified technician for Residential HVAC installation?

Hired certified technician will ensure the following benefits for you

• Will help you cut your utility bills by proper maintenance and installation
• You will have access to warranty returns
• Efficient and reliable service
• Equipment will run at peak efficiency
• You will have greater peace of mind.

There is nothing like having peace of mind when your Job is done right!

Hvac installation – WC Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. offers state-of-the-art Air Conditioning & Heating services for both residential and commercial customers at reasonable prices in California.

Author: Kilian Allen
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Energy Efficient Hospital HVAC Design Solutions

When it comes to increasing efficiencies and saving money, one of the smartest moves you can make is to retrofit your old Florida hospital with an energy efficient HVAC system. Redesigning and updating your existing HVAC architecture to a more energy efficient, “green minded” alternative will not only improve your hospital’s air quality but is like money in the bank.

The healthcare industry spends over $65 billion on energy each year. Florida hospitals are waking up to the fact that they can do something about reducing costs and preventing greenhouse gas emissions.

Florida hospitals can increase earnings by reducing energy costs by only 5%-one of the easiest sources for cost reducing measures is through HVAC green technology solutions.

HVAC Green Technology Solutions

What can you do to reduce your Florida hospital’s energy usage, while enhancing revenues? One important step is to examine your current HVAC system and consider going green. HVAC green technology solutions will significantly cut costs, reduce your carbon footprint and improve the air quality throughout your facility. What HVAC services and green solutions will work for you? Consider implementing some of these newest technologies:

Alternative dehumidification systems
Chilled beam cooling
Air filtration and cleaning systems
On-site renewable and co-generation power sources

Choosing an HVAC Services Company for Your Hospital

From new construction to retrofitting your existing HVAC design, you should choose an industry expert in green HVAC technology. Florida hospitals know that Hill York has the leading team of HVAC design specialists and technicians. Seasoned experts with experience in green HVAC technology installations, they are easily the best choice for HVAC design and services in Florida.

Hill York takes a holistic approach to HVAC design, considering all aspects of your hospital. Also, we are the only MSCA Green Star certified mechanical contractor recognized by USGBC in Florida so you know you are working with a specialist.

We respond to all emergency calls 24/7, staff only specially certified technicians and have been a Florida favorite for over 74 years! Don’t take our word for it, read what our clients have to say.

Hill York is the only MSCA Green Star Certified mechanical contractor recognized by USGBC in Florida Provides Energy Efficient HVAC. We offers full-service air conditioning and energy solutions including Energy Management, Design/Build, Facility Management. For more visit http://www.hillyork.com

Author: Sophie Kaye
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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HVAC systems can either run up the energy bill or help improve efficiencies. It’s all in the HVAC design and installation that will determine whether your system is friend or foe.

Understanding how your commercial HVAC system works is critical to deciding if it’s time to update and replace the system. Commercial establishments that improve energy efficiencies by as little as 5% can boost revenue exponentially.

So let’s crawl into your HVAC system and see how it works:

Your system design is based on the floor plan layout, allowing for ductwork and ventilation to hit every area
Duct registers and air flow vents are strategically placed in each room for optimal air flow
Air is pulled from the outside environment and is filtered through the ERV/HRVs, which essentially disinfects and cleans the air
The air blows through evaporator coils which removes humidity and cools the temperature
The blower and wheel propel the air through the HVAC

Energy Saving HVAC Systems and HVAC Units

While understanding how your commercial HVAC Unit works may help you decide whether to revise and update it, determining which energy saving HVAC unit is right for you is also critical.

Property administrators should understand the important factors that contribute to a quality HVAC unit:

The system or unit must be properly sized and designed to accommodate your specific building
Systems have sealed supply ductwork for efficient and proper energy flow
Balanced air flow between supply and return system
Filled with proper refrigerant, plus an efficiently working burner operation and draft

HVAC Contractors and Maintenance Plans

How can you determine which HVAC contractor to hire when you have a specific maintenance plan and specially designed system? While many HVAC contractors say they specialize in commercial HVAC, most don’t understand the complexities and specifics required on a larger, commercial scale. When it comes to your system HVAC, trust only the leading commercial HVAC contractor.

Hill York is the only MSCA Green Star Certified mechanical contractor recognized by USGBC in Florida Provides Commercial HVAC Systems. We offers full-service air conditioning and energy solutions including Energy Management, Design/Build, Facility Management. For more visit http://www.hillyork.com

Author: Sophie Kaye
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Let’s talk about 30-40% of your electricity bill. That’s how much it costs the average homeowner or commercial building owner to provide proper heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC). A good HVAC system is the key to maintaining a comfortable, healthy and interior environment. Through the years, I have been asked by many owners for a strategy to reduce their cost of energy and HVAC. They don’t want to sacrifice the interior environmental conditions, but they do want a point-by-point plan to follow. The interesting thing that often happens is that energy bills are lowered substantially and the HVAC system performance is improved. This is a standard function of any mechanical engineer specializing in energy and HVAC.

The information on this page will help homeowners, building owners and building operators make informed decisions about existing HVAC systems or future upgrades.

• Load Reduction
• HVAC Systems
• Control Systems
• Operation and Maintenance

Load Reduction

The first step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is load reduction. This step normally consists of a long range plan which itemizes the actions to be taken based on best return on investment. Reducing your building load allows the existing HVAC system to operate more efficiently. If a new system or systems are being considered, it will be more cost effective to design for the reduced load as opposed to the existing load. A few common load reduction strategies include:

• Tighten the building shell and add additional insulation. Adding insulation in existing buildings may not be achievable in some instances, so more consideration should be aimed at the exterior shell, especially windows and doors.
• Installing energy-efficient windows. This is a big item on some buildings that still have single pane windows. The installation of double pane windows with a thermal break is a great return on investment. Make sure they are ENERGY STAR qualified windows. Tinting or Low-E coatings will even be better.
• Upgrading lighting systems. The average commercial building has a lighting density of 2-3 watts per square foot which maintains proper lighting levels. This is a significant part of the HVAC load and almost any efforts in this direction will lower the cooling requirement for the building. Accent lighting (sometimes called architectural lighting) are not always energy efficient and should not be considered if you want to reduce energy and HVAC costs. Energy-efficient lighting systems emit less heat into conditioned space than older incandescent technology. If you have a return air plenum instead of return air ductwork, consider light troffers so that some of the heat from the lights is returned to the HVAC system instead of going into the occupied area.
• Selecting efficient equipment and electronic devices that have a power saver option will reduce the sensible heat gain in the space. Items to consider include copy machines, kitchen equipment, computers and refrigerators.
• Control ventilation by having your outside air balanced. Most building owners have drawings of the original HVAC system installation. Have the drawings reviewed by a mechanical engineer to confirm your outside air flow rates conform to the latest code requirements. If no drawings are available, your mechanical engineer should still be able to make recommendations for improvement.

Addressing these items is your first step to reducing energy and HVAC costs.

HVAC Systems

The second step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is knowing your system. Your HVAC system is critical to your interior environment, but it also represents a large component of your utility expenses. While it is beyond the scope of this article to discuss every system, a few recommendations can be addressed. Every HVAC system component has increased in efficiency over the years. If your system is more than 13 years old, it’s time to begin planning for an upgrade to new equipment. Well maintained residential systems have a life expectancy of about 15 years or so but seem to fail at the worse times. Have a replacement plan ready for the day your equipment fails.

Commercial systems vary, but if your building is using packaged equipment or split systems, the same lifetime can be expected. For larger commercial systems and industrial applications, the HVAC system may be more complex and require an individual analysis by a mechanical engineer. As I said, HVAC systems vary and no one-size-fits-all analysis works for larger systems. What all these systems have in common is they are normally fueled by electricity. Electricity cost money, so any efforts in the direction of increased efficiency is a plus.

HVAC System Tips:

• Find a qualified consultant you trust. If you are a home owner or small commercial building owner, find a good HVAC company or mechanic to evaluate and maintain your system. If you are a large commercial building owner, find a commercial HVAC company for normal maintenance and a good mechanical engineer for specific guidance. I do not recommend using a mechanical engineer employed by the HVAC Company; find a third party engineer for unbiased information.
• Verify your HVAC system load. Home owners should use ACCA’s Manual J calculation method and all others should have a load conducted by a mechanical engineer. Commercial buildings have more requirements related to code conformance, minimum ventilation rates, etc and are individual to each building.
• Load reduction-Read the information above.
• Select equipment sized for your load. NEVER OVERSIZE! More-is-better does not apply for HVAC systems. It will cost more to purchase the equipment as well as operate it. Get the load and the equipment selection right the first time.
• Purchase high efficiency or Energy Star equipment. Many of the new systems include variable speed drives for fans and compressors. Over the years of ownership this will be paid back many times over. Compare standard efficiency equipment to high efficiency equipment in terms of initial cost and life cycle costs. Any good HVAC company or mechanical engineer can obtain this information.
• Consider some form of energy recovery for any air exhausted from the building and use it to condition the incoming fresh air. This is air you have paid to condition, so extracting some of the energy before exhausting it should be a priority.
• For large commercial buildings, consider conditioning the outside air with a dedicated outside air unit. This will eliminate any problems related to humidity control in most instances. It will also increase occupant comfort and allow for further downsizing of equipment.
• Commercial buildings should consider economizers on their equipment. Most current codes require economizers on equipment over 15 tons in size. Often available at a low incremental cost, these units draw in fresh air from the outside when the temperature (sometimes humidity) outside is lower than the temperature inside.
• Home owners and small commercial building owners should install programmable thermostats. Commercial building owners should install a Direct Digital Control (DDC) system. The investment in either of these will pay back more than the cost in a small amount of time. Read more below.

Control Systems

The third step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is controlling your system.

• Programmable Thermostats-The age of digital controls has made saving energy easy. One of the best investments for the homeowner or small commercial building owner is a programmable thermostat. These are simple to use and incorporate strategies based on time scheduling. Most manufacturers offer 7 day programs and setback/setup programs which will turn the HVAC system on and off to compliment your schedule and desired indoor temperature. This is a great way to ensure HVAC systems are used only when necessary.
• DDC Systems-For the large commercial building, I consider this as a must have system. Installation costs have steadily decreased and the performance reliability has steadily increased. They can be integrated into any system and expanded as required. Some of the more popular features of these systems are optimized start/stop of the HVAC system, multiple zone control, multiple temperature sensor locations and ventilation control. The best part of these systems is their ability to be scaled up to the largest of commercial applications. This means you can install a simple system and add more controls later to incorporate your whole HVAC system. Again, the payback is short and well worth the investment.

Operation and Maintenance

The fourth and last step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is operation and maintenance. The most efficient HVAC systems are well maintained. Ensure reliability, efficiency and a long life for your HVAC system by following these tips.

• Find a qualified consultant you trust. If you are a home owner or small commercial building owner, find a good HVAC company or mechanic to evaluate and maintain your system. If you are a large commercial building owner, find a commercial HVAC company for normal maintenance. Make sure you record and document all servicing with dates, times and names of the servicing person.
• Home owners should always get a seasonal tune up. The operation of your system will vary with the seasons of the year.
• Replace your air filters regularly. Don’t use anything less then a MERV 5 filter to assure dust and fibers are removed. Clean filters will save fan energy.
• Coil Cleaning-This is always a big item overlooked by residential and commercial building owners. Condenser coils collect dirt and debris on their surfaces because they are outside. This makes the compressor work harder and results in a higher refrigerant temperature in your refrigeration system. Evaporator and heating coils collect dust and fibers that circulate inside your home or building. Clean them at least once a year

Summary

Energy and HVAC optimization will reduce your electricity costs. A little time getting to know your system and familiarizing yourself with improvement strategies will save money and increase the life of your equipment.

Visit my site for more information on Energy and HVAC optimization.

I am a professional engineer with over 30 years of design experience relating to plumbing and mechanical systems. The articles I write are the result of many successful commercial and residential installations.

Author: Patrick Propst
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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