How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Spring
The Kitchen Is the Heart—And Heat—of the Home Imagine this: It’s a sunny Saturday morning, and you’re whipping up pancakes and bacon. But as the griddle sizzles, steam and grease start to fog the windows. That lingering haze? It’s not just unpleasant—it’s a sign your ventilation system might not be doing its job. Kitchens generate […]
What Causes High Humidity in a House with AC?
The Invisible Culprit: Cooking Moisture When you’re boiling pasta, simmering sauces, or even baking bread, you’re releasing a surprising amount of moisture into the air. In fact, cooking is one of the top contributors to indoor humidity. Multiply this by three meals a day, and your kitchen becomes a mini-sauna—unless it’s properly ventilated. That’s where […]
Benefits of Installing a Humidifier with Your HVAC System
Why Proper Kitchen Ventilation Matters Cooking, especially on a stovetop, releases a variety of pollutants: steam, grease particles, smoke, odors, and even carbon monoxide. Without proper ventilation, these contaminants hang in the air, settling into fabrics, walls, and HVAC ductwork. What Happens Without a Vent Hood? Lingering odors and airborne grease Excess humidity, especially when […]
How to Troubleshoot Low Airflow from Vents
Why Proper Kitchen Ventilation Matters Cooking releases moisture, grease, heat, smoke, and odors—all of which can linger if not properly vented. Here’s what good ventilation ensures: Improved Air Quality: Removes harmful pollutants and allergens. Moisture Control: Prevents mold and mildew buildup. Temperature Regulation: Keeps your kitchen (and adjacent rooms) from overheating. Appliance Longevity: Protects cabinetry […]
What Is Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV) & Why It Matters?
The Basics: What Is Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV)? Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) is a smart HVAC technology that adjusts the amount of outside air brought into a building based on current occupancy or indoor air quality. Think of it as cruise control for your ventilation system. Instead of running at full speed all the time, DCV systems […]
Are Ductless Mini-Splits Suitable for Year-Round Use in Canada?
Understanding Ductless Mini-Splits Before we get into the nitty-gritty of their winter performance, let’s take a quick detour for those new to the game. Ductless mini-splits are heating and cooling systems that don’t require ductwork. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units. Popular for their energy efficiency and targeted […]
Can a Dehumidifier Replace an AC in Mild Climates?
How Do Dehumidifiers and Air Conditioners Work? Air Conditioners (AC) An air conditioner works by cooling the air and removing humidity. It pulls in warm air, uses refrigerant to cool it, and then recirculates that cooler air back into the room while venting heat outside. Alongside cooling, the AC also removes moisture, making indoor environments […]
Choosing the Right HVAC Tools for DIY Maintenance
Why DIY HVAC Maintenance Matters HVAC systems are the backbone of home comfort. Regular maintenance can: Improve efficiency Lower energy bills Extend system lifespan Prevent expensive repairs With just a few hours a year and the right tools, you can keep your HVAC system humming. Must-Have HVAC DIY Tools Here’s a list of essential tools […]
Selecting the Right Air Filter: MERV vs. HEPA vs. Activated Carbon
What Is a MERV Filter? MERV Explained MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, a rating system developed by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers). It ranges from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating better filtration. What It Filters MERV 1–4: Large particles like dust mites and pollen MERV 5–8: Mold […]
Top 5 Causes of High Energy Bills (And How HVAC Can Help)
1. Air Leaks and Poor Sealing The Problem: Gaps around doors, windows, and ductwork allow conditioned air to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This leads to increased energy consumption and higher bills. HVAC Solution: Duct Sealing: Ensure your ductwork is properly sealed to prevent air leaks. Weatherstripping […]
