Last updated 5 days ago
At a time when the importance of energy conservation and sustainable living play a more central role in the lives of consumers than ever before, leaders in several industries are placing a greater emphasis on complementary products and services. In the realm of heating and cooling, the use of geothermal energy has emerged as one of the most sustainable options. To learn more about this innovative HVAC trend, read on.
Where Does the Energy Come From?
Heat radiating from the sun is absorbed into the ground, and is stored alongside heat emanating from the earth’s core. This geothermal energy can be used to both heat and cool a building in an eco-conscious fashion.
How Does Geothermal Heating and Cooling Work?
Much like conventional heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps transfer heat between a house and the environment outside of the house. In the case of geothermal heat pumps, however, the external source of heat is deep underground. In the winter, the system pulls latent heat from the ground to heat the home by pumping refrigerant through a buried set of pipes. The process is simply reversed to cool the house on hot days.
What Equipment is Required?
A geothermal HVAC system operates using an energy loop that consists of a geothermal heat pump that connects to a ground pipe network. Property owners looking to maximize the use of geothermal energy in their homes can install a hot water heater that connects to the system as well.
Gains to Consumers and the Environment
Since the sun and the ground do most of the work necessary for heating or cooling a home using a geothermal unit, very little electricity is needed. Geothermal systems are durable and in large-part renewable, saving consumers who make the switch energy while benefiting the environment in the long run.
Before long, geothermal heating and cooling units are likely to be the most in-demand HVAC systems in Michigan. At Northwestern Technological Institute in Detroit, trade school students are equipped with knowledge and hands-on training that will prepare them to meet the HVAC needs of residents and commercial entities for decorations to come. To speak with a representative about our climate control technology and refrigeration maintenance programs, call (248) 327-4578.
Last updated 5 days ago
When a furnace is unable to generate heated air, the homeowner will typically call in a certified HVAC technician to repair the issue. A furnace blower problem can indicate several different issues within the internal systems of the furnace. Here is a guide to different furnace blower problems that HVAC technicians correct:
Furnace Power
When inspecting the furnace blower, it is important to make sure that the furnace has power. A home’s furnace is typically connected to its own electrical circuit. When the furnace’s fuse is blown or circuit breaker is tripped, you may not notice a power outage in any other area of the house.
Thermostat Setting
The furnace relies on the home’s thermostat to power the motor and blower. If the thermostat settings are improperly adjusted, the furnace blower will not function correctly. The thermostat should be set to the fan function so that the blower can produce air. Additionally, the thermostat should be set several degrees above the temperature of the room.
Filter and Vent Cleaning
The furnace filter should be changed at least once a year. If the homeowner has not replaced the filter in a long time, the filter may be dirty and clogged with debris. A dirty filter will prevent warm air from travelling from the furnace to the livings areas of the home. In addition to changing the filters, the furnace ducts should be checked for blockages.
Blower Motor Repair
If the furnace’s other major systems are operating correctly, the problem may be the blower motor. After turning off the power to the furnace, the HVAC technician can check the blower motor for damage or cracks. The blower motor can either be repaired or replaced if it is seriously damaged.
To get started on your career as an HVAC technician, contact Northwestern Technological Institute of Detroit by calling (248) 327-4578. Our HVAC academy offers a 45-week climate control course, as well as property maintenance training and more. Contact us to begin your new career today!
Last updated 13 days ago
Oil-fired furnaces are one of the most common types of furnaces that are used to heat homes. When you are studying to become a professional HVAC technician, you will learn how to troubleshoot and repair this common home heating technology. Here is an HVAC technology student’s introduction to oil-fired furnaces:
Pressure Burner
An oil-fired furnace generates heat using a pressure burner that burns oil continuously. The pressure burner functions by spraying oil from a spray nozzle into a combustion chamber. Once the oil reaches the combustion chamber, it is continually pressurized by a fan. The oil is then ignited using electric spark coils. After the oil is ignited, it will continually burn using oil that is sprayed by the spray nozzle.
Oil-Fired Furnace Repair
Along with the pressure burner, the oil-fired furnace contains many sophisticated components. Commonly, an HVAC technician will be called in to repair parts such as the filters, blower, motor belts, thermostat, or spray nozzles. To access these parts, you can remove the front panel. Before beginning any repairs, it is important to switch off the power supply to the furnace.
Improving the Efficiency of an Oil-Fired Furnace
There are several ways to improve the efficiency of an oil-fired furnace. By adding a vent or flue damper, heat will be prevented from escaping from the chimney. You can also replace the oil burner nozzle so that the furnaces consumes more efficiently. With a few simple adjustments to the system, a homeowner will save money on their monthly heating bill.
When you enroll in the Climate Control Technology program at the Northwestern Technological Institute in Detroit, you will learn how to maintain and repair oil-fired furnaces, and many other home heating and cooling systems. Call our Detroit institute at (248) 327-4578 to learn more about the advantages of training for a career as a technician in the exciting and expanding field of home heating and cooling.
Last updated 13 days ago
HVAC filters are important for several reasons. They contribute to the air quality in a home, promote efficiency in a heating and cooling system, and impact a consumer’s finances. For some tips that will help you give your clients sound advice on choosing the right HVAC filter based on their needs and preferences once you graduate from trade school, read up on the types of HVAC filter discussed below.
Spun-Fiberglass Filter
Still standard for some homeowners but arguably outdated, spun-fiberglass filters are the least effective air filters around. While it is certainly far better for a homeowner to use a spun-fiberglass filter than no filter at all, this type of filter does not keep dust and allergens pouring out of your ductwork the way the filters discussed below do.
Disposable Pleated
Like spun-fiberglass filters, electrostatic pleated filters must be placed every month or two. Unlike their spun-fiberglass counterparts, however, disposable pleated filters with electrostatic properties generally trap even the smallest of particles.
High-Efficiency Pleated
To passionate lovers of the environment, high-efficiency synthetic cotton pleated filters are the most appealing option. These filters screen out virtually everything one wouldn’t want in the air in his or her building. Unfortunately, these filters are so thick that they are not compatible with many homes. They are also expensive, costing around a hundred bucks and requiring replacement once per year.
Permanent Filters
Available at low cost and providing adequate filtration of contaminants from indoor air, permanent electrostatic filters may provide the best value in terms of cost and equality. These filters can be bulky, however, and do require regular cleaning.
For training from a Detroit area heating and cooling school that will equip you with the knowledge you need to provide your customers with answers to any questions they may have about their HVAC systems, call Northwestern Technological Institute at (248) 327-4578 today!
Last updated 17 days ago
Ductwork delivers climate conditioned air to the living spaces of a home and also draws air back into the HVAC system to be filtered and reconditioned. There are several different types of ductwork, and each type of ductwork has its own distinctive advantages. To learn more about heating and cooling systems, here is an overview of the three main types of ductwork:
Flex Duct
Flex ducts are also commonly known as flexible ducts, and this type of ductwork has a variety of uses. Flexible ductwork is constructed with a flexible plastic material that covers a coiled, metal wire. This flexible plastic is insulated using a glass wool insulation material. Because of its ease of installation and affordability, flex duct can be used in almost any area of the heating and cooling system. It is important to install flex duct properly, as this type of ductwork can be inefficient if not sealed correctly.
Rigid Duct Board
Unlike flex duct, which is circular, rigid duct board has a rectangular shape. This type of ductwork is made out of rigid insulation boards that are lined with fiberglass insulation. For added insulation, encapsulated rigid duct board contains an extra layer of fungicidal material. This type of ductwork is often used near vents, and offers superior sound dampening and insulation.
Metal Duct
Metal duct is made out of tough, galvanized steel. The metal exterior can be left bare or can be insulated for improved efficiency. Metal ductwork is used in homes and in commercial settings. The galvanized steel is mold resistant, and easier to clean than other types of ductwork.
To learn more about the various types of ductwork used in home HVAC systems, contact Northwestern Technological Institute. Our Climate Control Technology Program will provide you with the training and skills you need to jump start you career in the growing field of heating and cooling. To register for a course at our Detroit area institute, call us at (248) 327-4578.
