Senior male reaching up to open filter holder for air conditioning filter in ceiling

Are HEPA Air Filters Necessary?

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling. No Comments on Are HEPA Air Filters Necessary?

High-efficiency particulate air filters are a class of filters that offer an extremely high rate of filtration. Capturing up to 99.73% of matter in the air down to a measurement of just 0.3 microns, HEPA filters are the go-to solution for removing many types of viruses, pollen, mold, bacteria, dust and debris from the air. However, you should know when HEPA filters are necessary, how they might cause problems if misused and how to address your indoor air quality needs with filtration.

When Are HEPA Filters Necessary?

The extreme level of filtration that comes with a HEPA system is essential in settings like clinics, labs and hospitals. Many factories in industries that require heightened air purity to keep contaminants out of materials also use HEPA filters.

In residential settings, HEPA filters are popular with individuals who have specific health concerns. Many people who have breathing issues use HEPA filtration to reduce irritants in their homes. The classic example would be a family with a child who has asthma. Similarly, someone who has a condition like COPD might install HEPA filtration in the home to minimize irritants.

Note that some systems require HEPA filters and shouldn’t use non-HEPA ones. For example, some modern HVAC systems also serve as whole-house HEPA filters. These systems operate at high efficiency levels with clean air, and you must install HEPA filters or you could reduce the lifespan of the system.

Potential Problems with HEPA Filters

As HVAC technicians, our main concern involves a HEPA filter being a mismatch with an existing heating or cooling system. You can purchase HEPA-grade filters at many stores, and they will physically fit into your HVAC unit’s filtration slots as long as they’re the right size.

However, physical compatibility with your HVAC doesn’t presuppose mechanical compatibility. That is, many HVAC systems can’t handle the constricted air supply that comes with a HEPA filter. If the system doesn’t support HEPA filtration, using a HEPA filter will cause mechanical strain and potentially shorten the operating life of the HVAC system.

HEPA Doesn’t Have to Slot into the HVAC

The main benefit of pairing HVAC and HEPA filtration is simplicity. After all, why add components to the system if you can put in a filter? If you’re sure that you need or want HEPA filtration in your home, you won’t be out of options just because the HVAC doesn’t support it. There are other ways to add HEPA filtration to a home without directly mounting it to heating and cooling systems.

One of the most common solutions is to install an air exchanger. The idea is to draw fresh air in before it reaches the HVAC. The exchanger provides a place to clean the air, and then the air can travel to the HVAC at a pressure that’s compatible with its normal operation.

Another alternative is to use an improved filter that isn’t a full-on HEPA filter. This solution might not work for people who have serious needs, but it can make a difference in less demanding settings.

Alternatively, electrostatic filters can use electrical charges to attract particles. While they won’t provide quite the extreme level of filtration associated with HEPA, they can clean the air enough to reduce irritation for most people. These filters are often reusable, too.

Finally, you might install an in-room solution. If you’re having trouble only at night, for example, you might install a standalone air filtration unit in your bedroom.

Deciding if HEPA Filtration Is Necessary

HEPA filters are excellent for a wide range of people, and the systems can significantly improve indoor air quality. The important thing is to figure out how much HEPA filtration makes sense for your situation. If you have an older HVAC that’ll soon require upgrades, for example, this is an excellent time to move to a unit that integrates HEPA filtration. Also, there may be medical reasons why you have to adopt HEPA filters. Remember, there are plenty of ways to implement HEPA filtration in your home.

Based in South Charleston, WV, at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we provide many types of plumbing and HVAC services, including installation, repair and maintenance. Specials and financing options for installation are available, too. Contact us today and discover why our neighbors have trusted us to handle their plumbing, heating, and air conditioning needs for decades.

Forced air heating ducts in new house basement construction.

How Do You Know if Ductwork is Bad?

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling, Heating. No Comments on How Do You Know if Ductwork is Bad?

The HVAC system plays a significant role for homeowners in South Charleston and the Kanawha Valley. When properly installed and maintained, your system can regulate your indoor climate throughout the year. However, the ductwork, which is used to transport air throughout the home, can become compromised. The following signs will let you know if your ductwork is bad.

1. Visible Damage

Your ductwork should maintain its structural integrity for your HVAC system to operate correctly. Visible damage, such as cranks, dents, and punctures, can affect your system’s functioning by restricting or leaking heated and cooled air. Be sure to talk to a certified technician for repair services whenever you spot visible damage on your ductwork. In addition, always keep your ductwork free of leaning objects leaning protect its construction.

In many cases, your ductwork will be behind walls, under floors, and in ceilings, where it is hard to view. In this case, you can still remove the covers on your vents and look inside with a flashlight. Many ductwork professionals have long cameras that can go much further into the system to spot potential issues.

2. Strange Odors

Have you noticed strange odors in your home, particularly when the HVAC system is running? If so, your ductwork is bad. A musty smell may mean mold or mildew is growing in the ductwork. Scents of decay or urine can suggest that animals are living in the ducts. A professional will identify the primary cause of scents coming from your ductwork. Duct cleaning professionals can clean the ducts and sanitize them against microbes like mold. If the issue is related to animals, you might need to work with a wildlife removal specialist before the cleaning to remove the cause of the issue.

3. Poor Indoor Air Quality

If the air inside your home becomes dustier when the vents are on, your ductwork may be compromised. This occurs when holes in the ductwork pull dirty air from crawl spaces or other areas. A dusty interior can result in respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing, coughing, and sneezing.

4. Uneven Heating and Cooling

Your HVAC systems should maintain the same temperature conditions throughout your home. If some of your rooms feel warmer than others, the ductwork could be to blame. This is especially true if you find that the ducts closest to your HVAC unit are the hottest when heating or the coolest when the air conditioning is on. You may be able to tell which branch of your ductwork has issues if you can take note of which rooms are the most different from your intended temperature.

5. Sudden Increase in Energy Bills

If you experience a sudden increase in energy bills while your consumption levels have remained the same, the issue could be your duct. Leaky ductwork throws away heated and cooled air in the attic, forcing your system to work harder and use more energy to achieve the desired results. Leaky ductwork has been estimated to cause as much as 30% efficiency loss for your HVAC system.

6. Restricted Airflow

Poor or restricted airflow may be caused by compromised ductwork. Cracks, broken seals, and disconnected joints can lead to poor airflow output at your vents. The issues can result from bent and crushed ducts as well. Ductwork blocked by debris buildup can also cause poor airflow. Other causes of restricted airflow include closed dampers and clogged filters in air intake vents.

7. Loud Noises

The HVAC system is built to operate with minimal noise. Therefore, if your notice any loud, strange noises coming from your ductwork, talk to an expert for a lasting solution. Rattling noises can be due to loose parts in the HVAC or ductwork connections. Scratching noises are the work of pests settling in your ductwork. Whistling noises can be a clue that there are smaller holes in your ducts.

Turn to HVAC Experts

If your ductwork has any of the signs discussed above or any other issues, talk to our HVAC experts at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling. Our company has been diligently offering superior-quality HVAC services to clients in South Charleston and the Kanawha Valley since 1950. We provide heating and cooling maintenance, repair, and installation, plus fall tune-ups, ductwork, and indoor air quality services. Our plumbing staff can help with repair, water heaters, drain cleaning, faucet or toilet repair and installation, gas, water and sewer lines, water heaters, and backflow prevention. Contact us today at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling to schedule professional HVAC services.

Residential equipment for lowering the indoor temperature in warmer climates

6 Reasons to Replace Your 20-Year-Old Air Conditioner

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling. No Comments on 6 Reasons to Replace Your 20-Year-Old Air Conditioner

If the air conditioner in your South Charleston, WV home is 20 years old, you should probably count yourself lucky. After all, many of your friends, family members, and neighbors have likely replaced their air conditioners twice throughout this time. However, even though your old air conditioner is still running, this doesn’t mean that it’s working as it should. Read on to discover six reasons why your AC should be retired after two decades of service.

1. Your Air Conditioner Has Lost at Least Half of Its Efficiency

Most air conditioners lose about half of their efficiency after just one decade of service. After your air conditioner reached its 10-year mark, its efficiency losses were both cumulative and progressive. This means that your old AC is currently using twice the energy it once required to get the same job done, if not more. Having a new one installed will result in a dramatic decrease in your home energy costs.

2. Residential AC Refrigerants Have Changed

A lot has happened in the residential cooling industry over the past 20 years. For instance, modern air conditioners no longer use the R-22 refrigerant known as Freon. Moreover, the importation and domestic production of R-22 have been outlawed. If you’re still relying on Freon, your next refrigerant recharge service could cost you a veritable fortune, if you’re able to find Freon at all.

Freon’s replacement, R-401a (Puron), has also been phased out. Both of these phase-outs were aimed at reducing carbon emissions. If you’re worried about your carbon footprint and your overall environmental impact, it’s time to get on board with new efficiency standards and new AC products that don’t harm the earth’s ozone layer.

3. Your Indoor Air Quality and Health Are Suffering

Your air conditioner probably didn’t last two full decades by accident. It likely received annual tune-up service from a licensed professional, regular filter changes, and the benefits of routine HVAC air duct cleaning. All of these measures support optimal AC performance. They also have a hand in protecting and improving your indoor air quality (IAQ).

Unfortunately, over time, air conditioners become less effective at everything they do. Their cooling power diminishes, and their ability to filter air and regulate indoor humidity diminishes, too. Worse still, they’re often harboring a number of trapped allergens and pollutants that may be causing headaches, fatigue, coughing, sneezing, and other unpleasant symptoms.

Older air conditioners can also develop and distribute some pretty rank smells. Just like old heaters can smell a bit dusty when first turned on, some older ACs release a “dirty gym sock” aroma that’s hardly ideal. This is the result of built-up bacteria, algae, and other germs within their condensate drain lines and increasing, age-related problems with humidity in other areas. Swapping your old air conditioner out for a brand-new one will give you cleaner, fresher, and fresher-smelling indoor air.

4. Your Total Repair Costs Could Exceed the Cost of Replacement

The biggest factor affecting your decision to replace your AC is likely cost. Even if you can comfortably afford to put a new unit in, doing so might not make much sense if your current AC is costing you absolutely nothing at all. However, just like air conditioners are expected to last between 15 and 20 years, their internal components have finite lifespans, too. When your air conditioner passes its 20th year, you may find yourself having to replace multiple parts at once. As the cumulative cost of repairs rises, you should also account for the ongoing savings that will come with improved AC efficiency and lower monthly energy bills.

5. You’ll Sleep Better at Night

After 20 years of service, you may find yourself having to make questionable trade-offs when your air conditioner is on. For instance, do you want to hear your television or do you want to watch TV in a comfortably cool room? Do you want to sleep in a hot, stuffy room or do you want to listen to the rattle, clang, and increasingly loud humming sound of an air conditioner that’s old?

New air conditioners offer whisper-quiet operation. With a modern unit, you’ll barely hear it cycle on. This means that you can nod off easily and sleep deeply while running your air conditioner. You can also hold quiet conversations with other residents or simply revel in peaceful silence.

6. The Need for AC Replacement Is Inevitable

The eventual need for air conditioner replacement is inescapable, even in homes where air conditioners reliably run for two decades or more. These units aren’t built to last forever, and after 20 years of service, your air conditioner is likely on its last leg. Replacing it now will prevent the hassle and financial hardship of having to pay for urgent AC replacement when you least expect it.

We’re proud to serve residents of South Charleston, WV. We offer AC installation, maintenance, and repair services. We also provide heating, plumbing, and indoor air quality services. If the time has come to replace your air conditioner, give Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling a call!

Technician working on an ac unit outside

5 Disadvantages of DIY AC Servicing

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling. No Comments on 5 Disadvantages of DIY AC Servicing

It can create a sense of urgency when your air conditioner starts to malfunction during the sweltering heat of summer. It is normal to feel worried about expensive AC repairs. In an attempt to save money, do-it-yourself AC maintenance may seem like a great idea. In the heat of the moment, you may think watching how-to videos on the internet may be helpful when attempting a DIY. However, each AC unit model is different, and the content you watch may not apply to your unit. In addition, watching a few videos does not offer you the specialized training and experience that gives a HVAC professional the ability to diagnose, maintain and fix cooling systems. The following are the main reasons why you should avoid DIY air conditioner maintenance.

1. You Lack the Proper Tools

AC problems require special tools to diagnose and repair. There is a high likelihood that your homeowner toolbox does not have those necessary special tools. These tools can often be very expensive to buy, and they require special training to use effectively. Licensed HVAC technicians can access all the necessary tools, usually right from their company vehicle.

2. Voiding Your Warranty

A manufacturer’s warranty usually covers AC units for about a decade after installation. This means the manufacturer will pay the costs of fixing your air conditioner if it fails to work during that time or will at least give you discounted services. This warranty will remain effective if you stick to the terms and conditions provided by the manufacturer. One of the conditions in most of these contracts is that you hire a certified HVAC technician to maintain or repair your unit. As an unauthorized individual, attempting DIY repairs on your cooling system will automatically void your warranty. Therefore, you cease to enjoy the benefits of free or discounted repairs from the manufacturer and have to pay for everything from your pocket, which can be a hefty sum, especially if you end up having to replace the unit. Warranty terms and conditions are complicated documents with legal speak and abundant fine print. However, it would be best if you took the time to understand the benefits of your coverage and any actions on your part that may void the warranty.

3. Electricity Is Dangerous

AC units are powerful appliances that need high-voltage electrical power to run. If you do not have the proper training and experience, you might not know what to avoid when trying to service your unit. Even if you have some basic electrical knowledge, one wrong move could lead you to be electrocuted, which can often be life-threatening and require a trip to the emergency room. Additionally, central air conditioning units are connected to your entire home’s electrical system. Making a mistake could affect more than just the air conditioner. Instead of adding more bills that can result from the risks posed by working with high-voltage electricity, it is better to call a technician.

4. Repairs Are Time-consuming and Stressful

Diagnosing and repairing air conditioner issues can be hard even for the most experienced professionals and can take a significant amount of time. Therefore, when you attempt DIY AC maintenance, you might find that the process becomes longer than anticipated. If you do not have the required expertise, you will mostly spend a lot of time being stressed out trying to find the problem and, in the end, may not be successful with your repair. Leaving the issue in the hands of professionals will save you time and give you peace of mind.

5. DIY Repairs Can Be Costly

Attempting DIY air conditioner repairs may cost you. When disassembling or reassembling your unit to try to figure out the issue, you may damage a part of the unit that was in good working order. Replacing damaged parts may cost you more money than a professional repair bill would have. Furthermore, it is possible you may do major damage to your unit, requiring you to replace the unit altogether.

Call the Experts

At Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we have been serving the residents of South Charleston, WV since 1979. We install, repair, and maintain heating and cooling systems. In addition, if you have a plumbing issue or are concerned about your indoor air quality, our experts can help.

If it is time for a tune-up or you need your air conditioner repaired, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today so that we can get started!

How Cold Weather Affects Air Quality

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling, Heating. No Comments on How Cold Weather Affects Air Quality

When the temperatures start to dip, you may wrap yourself in scarves, jackets, gloves, and other warm gear to keep out the frigid chill. In addition to having chillier skin, you might also notice that you’re coughing, sneezing, and experiencing itchy, dry eyes in the winter weather. These uncomfortable situations can lead you to question if the cold weather somehow affects air quality. The short answer is yes, cold weather can reduce the quality of indoor air. Learning about the connection can help you to find ways to ameliorate the issue, create a more comfortable environment at home, and reduce health issues associated with poor air quality.

HVAC Problems

During the winter months, you’re likely using your home’s heating system more frequently. If the system has problems or is older, the unit could be releasing irritants or pollutants into the air. One of our team members can identify any such problems and offer resolutions. Also, you might have a heating system that isn’t energy efficient. The extra energy demands could cause problems with indoor air quality. By getting a more energy-efficient system, you can improve your home’s air quality while cutting down on the monthly bills.

Dry Air

Both inside and outside of the home, the cold weather can lead to dry air. If you’ve noticed that your lips or hands are chapped more regularly in the winter, dry air is likely the culprit. Adding moisture back into the air with a device such as a humidifier is a step that many people have taken to make their homes more comfortable. You could, for example, add a humidifier to each bedroom if the dry air is keeping you up at night. You can put humidifiers in any other rooms where the air quality is poor too.

Time Spent Indoors

If you’re like many people, you simply spend more time inside during the winter months. This extra time indoors can mean that you’re dragging more pollutants around the house. For example, you might be carrying dirt, dust, and other particles around the house on your shoes. Keep in mind that the windows are probably closed for most of the winter season. Therefore, the irritants have nowhere to go. Instead, these substances just stay in your home polluting the air. Also, plenty of people host holidays in their homes during the winter. Not only are your own household members and pets bringing a mess into the house, but so are all of your guests. This situation can contribute to a further decline in air quality.

Use of Fireplaces and Ovens

Some people like to curl up next to the fireplace with a good book on the coldest days of winter, and other individuals like to get the kids together to bake cookies and other treats. In other words, you may be using some of your appliances more regularly during the winter. These appliances can emit fumes or other pollutants into the air. Getting a professional inspection is critical here. These issues can become dangerous or even fatal if not identified and treated properly.

Residual Dirty Air

You can take many steps to address the source of air pollutants in your home. For example, you might choose to get a new, energy-efficient heating unit, or you may decide to make important upgrades to your oven. However, these fixes won’t get rid of the dirty air already circulating in your home. Fortunately, you can purchase devices that are specifically designed to clean the dirty air. Our team of professionals can install devices too.

Our team members at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling improve the air quality in your home. We conduct indoor air quality checks and offer solutions to air quality problems. Our team also provides a wide range of other services in South Charleston and the surrounding areas. We offer repair, installation, and maintenance services for heating and cooling systems. In addition, we provide an array of plumbing services, including faucet repair and installation, drain cleaning, backflow prevention, and toilet repair and replacement. Staff members are available to answer the phone 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Ask about our financing plans, too. To schedule an appointment to get started on the path toward a more comfortable home, contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today.

Why is My Air Conditioner Making Noises?

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling. No Comments on Why is My Air Conditioner Making Noises?

A well-maintained and functional air conditioner shouldn’t be noisy. A soft hum coming from your air conditioning unit shouldn’t worry you much, either. Every Kanawha Valley resident needs a reliable AC to combat the humid summer days and nights. What should worry you, therefore, are any unusual AC sounds. A noisy AC is a sign that the system is malfunctioning. In order to avoid expensive repairs, schedule repair services as soon as you notice strange or loud noises from your AC. You can read on to discover some common causes of loud air conditioners.

Loose Parts

Loud buzzing or humming noises are usually due to loose AC components such as screws, nuts, and bolts. It’s likely that the fan blades are loose or out-of-balance. A detached panel can also cause loud humming or buzzing sounds. Call a professional HVAC technician to tighten the loose parts immediately to prevent them from completely detaching. Additionally, a loose panel is likely to allow contaminants into the air conditioning system, causing a faster accumulation of debris and dust. Accumulation of dirt in your AC leaves it prone to inefficiencies. Also, the contaminants can mix with your indoor air and circulate in the house, leading to allergic reactions and other health risks due to poor indoor air quality.

Air Flow Problems

Airflow issues are common culprits of noisy air conditioners. However, these problems are common in older AC units built with different pieces that can sometimes fail to work well together. The high volume of air that pushes through an AC with too small ductwork can cause a whistling sound. Small vents can also cause airflow problems that cause noisy air conditioners. Damaged ductwork also causes whistling noises, which you will likely need a technician to remedy. Additionally, dirty or clogged air filters can cause noisy air conditioners, necessitating a clean-up or replacement.

Worn-Out Compressor

Air conditioner compressors are almost always a little noisy. However, you should be worried if the component makes unusual noises or is louder than usual. It could be that the compressor is worn out or about to malfunction. This would be a good time to call an expert for repairs.

Faulty Fan

Air conditioners have two fans, one at the rear end and another at the front end. Fans need to be clear for them to function well. Fan blades can cause a rattling or humming noise, especially if they come from the fan area. Usually, debris, insulation, or other items may fall into an air conditioner, explaining the loud rattling or humming noise caused by the blade movements. You could also check if you have loose blades and tighten them to eliminate the noise.

Refrigerant Leak

A buzzing air conditioner can be due to a leaking refrigerant. Contact your HVAC technician to check on your AC immediately you notice a loud buzzing sound. Refrigerants are dangerous because of their toxicity, and even a tiny leak exposes your family to breathing complications.

Motor Issues

A bad fan motor can cause loud banging sounds. When fan motors are off balance, they can bang inside the outdoor air conditioner unit and cause loud irritating noises. A dirty blower can also get off-balance and cause unusual noises.

You can experience motor malfunctions that can affect the AC’s interior, too, causing the system to make screeching noises. Therefore, if you hear loud screeching noises from the inside of the house, it could be an issue with the blower fan motor. Loud squealing sounds could indicate a worn-out fan belt. It’s best to hire an expert to inspect your noisy AC and fix the underlying issue.

Excessive Friction

Lubrication is vital in preventing overheating of all moving components of an air conditioning unit. If your air conditioner makes squealing, wailing, or squeaking noises, then you could be having an issue with dry AC components. It’s wise to lubricate all AC moving parts often because the longer they remain unlubricated, the higher the chances of premature breakdown. Dislodged parts can also cause a loud banging noise from an AC. The sound comes from the impact that a detached part makes after hitting the AC blades.

The best thing to do with a loud or noisy air conditioner is to call our friendly and experienced HVAC technicians. We provide dependable residential and commercial HVAC services in the Kanawha Valley area. We can also help you with sewer and drain issues, water leak repairs, gas line repair, and heating installations. Contact Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in South Charleston today to book an appointment with our technicians.

Should You Invest in a Larger HVAC System for Your Home?

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling, Heating. No Comments on Should You Invest in a Larger HVAC System for Your Home?

If you’re frustrated by your HVAC system’s lack of heating or cooling capacity, you may think that it’s time to upgrade to a bigger unit. However, finding the right HVAC system for your Charleston, WV, home involves far more than simply choosing the largest one available. In fact, utilizing this approach may actually have detrimental effects on your indoor comfort. To help you choose an HVAC system that will work well for your house, we at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling offer the following tips.

The Goldilocks Approach to HVAC Sizing Needs

When it comes to your property’s HVAC system, size does matter. However, we at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling want you to know that finding an HVAC unit that’s appropriately sized for your home requires a “Goldilocks” approach. In other words, your system needs to be “just right.” This means that a unit that’s either too large or too small for your house won’t deliver the efficient performance that you deserve.

The reason that a poorly sized system won’t work well in your residence comes down to heating and cooling capacity. A unit that’s too large will provide too much heating and cooling capacity, meaning that your home will reach the desired temperature too quickly. While this might seem like a good thing, the short operating cycles will have a detrimental effect on the lifespan of your equipment, meaning that you won’t get as much out of your initial investment.

On the other hand, a system that’s too small will have to work harder and longer to get your house to the desired temperature. This extended running time can shorten your unit’s lifespan, leading to premature replacement. Ultimately, then, you want a system that can heat and cool your home efficiently without putting excess wear and tear on the equipment due to excessively short or long runtimes.

How Is the Correct Size Determined?

There’s a lot of careful calculations that go into determining the size of an HVAC system that’s needed for a property. Therefore, it’s important to have an experienced HVAC installation company like Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling handle the job.

First, the volume of the livable space in the house must be calculated. This determines how much space will need to be heated and cooled by the equipment. If your house is especially large, it may be better to utilize HVAC zones, which are multiple HVAC systems that heat and cool various areas in your residence independently.

Once the heating and cooling needs of your house are determined, then it’s time to choose a system that will meet those needs. A unit is selected based on its heating and cooling output capacity. This capacity is calculated by the manufacturer and easily accessible by contractors and homeowners. Once all of this has been done, the best system for your house can be determined so that you can enjoy a comfortable home for many years to come.

What if My System Isn’t Heating or Cooling Correctly?

If you’ve recently had a new HVAC system installed in your house and your indoor environment isn’t comfortable, it’s likely that the unit isn’t properly sized for your property. Fortunately, there are a few things that we at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling can do to help overcome this issue.

If it’s determined that your system is too small for your house, we can add a separate unit to create a zoned approach to ensure that you have adequate heating and cooling capacity. If the system is too large, we can rework how your ducts move air through your residence so that your home changes its temperature in the proper amount of time.

Get a Well-Designed System From the Start

At Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, we believe in helping our customers to save as much money as possible. Whether that’s through exceptional maintenance and repair services for your air conditioner and furnace or by designing and installing top-notch HVAC systems, we can do it all.

You’ll be glad to know that we can also take care of a variety of other maintenance and repair needs, including home remodeling, ductwork repair and installation, plumbing services of all types, and more. For 70 years, we’ve been glad to serve this area with high-quality services that help to keep our customers happy and comfortable.

This consistent commitment to excellence has earned us countless five-star reviews. If you’re wondering if we can really deliver on all that we say we can, we encourage you to read through some of these reviews for yourself to see the difference that we can make in your life. For more information about installing a new HVAC system, contact us at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today. We look forward to serving your indoor home climate comfort needs.

Reasons Why Upgrading Your Insulation Is Not a DIY Job

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling, Heating. No Comments on Reasons Why Upgrading Your Insulation Is Not a DIY Job

For most homeowners in South Charleston, WV, correct attic insulation is a major concern and an easy goal for enhancing energy efficiency. Many older homes and newer ones lack the correct volume of insulation in their attic. However, there are many things to weigh up when resolving to add or improve insulation.

It might seem like an easy DIY project for the most skilled homeowner. However, improper setup or installation might result in poor outcomes and a lower return on investment. Here are the reasons why insulation is another task that you’ll want to leave to the professionals:

More Options

For many DIY insulation tasks, the homeowner will install fiberglass blocks. Supplied on a roll, they are typically 15 inches wide to perfectly fit between wall posts. Some homeowners who have a slightly more mechanical tendency may also choose to rent an insulation fan for an inflated barrier. An expert installer has the right equipment to provide these and many other options, including spray foam insulation, which can add another layer of protection.

Expert Installation

There is more than just applying insulation the right way, ensuring that it’s the correct thickness, and ensuring that you cover all the open spaces. Also, there is the aspect of providing ventilation, selecting the correct R-value, applying the necessary humidity barriers, and sealing the outside gaps. This kind of work requires experience and expertise. Professionals will also obtain the necessary permits and ensure that the work is done per local construction codes.

Increased Cost Savings

It may seem obvious that it is always cheaper to do the work yourself than to hire someone. However, with insulation, you have to consider the long-term and short-term cost savings. Because a professional insulation company can give you more choices, you have the option of installing blown-in or spray foam insulation that lasts much longer and provides a stronger barrier than the fiberglass blocks. If you evaluate an insulation job, an expert can usually do it with minimal damage to the trim, drywall, etc. that would otherwise need costly replacement. Experts also get the work done faster, saving you time that could be spent elsewhere.

Convenience

Convenience may be the best motive to hire an expert to insulate your house. Fiberglass blocks are some of the most unforgiving pieces of textiles in the home construction industry. DIYers may itch, cough, and sometimes lose sleep for several nights because the fibers can settle in your eyes, body, lungs, and nose. Professionals have protective equipment that helps them in getting the job done with less irritation.

Correct Disassembly and Installation by Experts

If you decide to install new insulation by yourself, how do you know if you have done it right? You can view articles and videos online, but nothing replaces the hands-on experience of an experienced insulation company like Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling. We recognize the easy-to-miss places where insulation is frequently lacking. We also have the diagnostic equipment to check if and where you require an air seal.

Improving the Performance of Your Home Through Insulation

If you are making a significant investment to re-insulate your household, you need your money to be worth it. With an expert contractor like Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, you will be sure to get the biggest boost in your home’s power efficiency. New insulation offers benefits such as:

Lower utility bills
Less deterioration on the HVAC system
More indoor comfort year-round
Better indoor air quality

Qualified Insulation Technicians

Insulation is good for your home all year; it keeps your household warm when it is cold outside and cool when it is hot. With so much relying on good insulation, replacing it is not a task you want to do yourself or trust to an inexperienced company.

At Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, our team has over 500 years of combined experience in insulation installment, and we will give our undivided attention to every job in South Charleston. We can install and repair any insulation and make sure it is adequate for your property. Our technicians respond very fast, and they will address your issues as quickly as possible. We will do your South Charleston insulation so that you can focus on other tasks. Our workmanship is never lacking, and we strive to provide the best results.

Our highly skilled team also performs HVAC repairs, maintenance, and installations. We even offer indoor air quality, plumbing, and ductwork services. Learn more regarding our reliable services in South Charleston by calling Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling today.

Can you do Zoning with Smart Thermostats?

Written by Kevin on December 2, 2024. Posted in Cooling, Heating. No Comments on Can you do Zoning with Smart Thermostats?

Updated On: 10/25/2023

Smart thermostats are the future of cooling. These products get the job done every time and in an efficient manner. Furthermore, smart thermostats allow for a certain level of zoning, which is a popular concept for homeowners who want complete control over their homes.

What Is Zoning?

To start, you’ll need to understand the principles of zoning. It’s the practice of controlling the temperature of your home in multiple zones. When you think about it, your living room doesn’t need to be cooled in the same manner as your kitchen. Your bedrooms are another topic altogether. You can create different zones in your home to satisfy these needs. Simply put, zoning gives you more freedom and choices when it comes to cooling the different areas of your home.

There are way more options than simply off and on. You can use zoning options to meet the needs of household members with different preferences. Importantly, zoning goes far beyond just a couple of numbers on a screen. There are so many factors such as ventilation, positioning, and airflow that affect zones for the better or worse. Because no two homes are exactly the same, you can’t simply replicate the zones of a home you find online. You’ll need to consider the layout of your home and how the rooms are connected to one another. A little bit of smart zoning goes a long way when trying to stay cool in the summer.

How Do Smart Thermostats Accomplish Zoning?

Smart thermostats can control temperatures in different rooms through a process called sensor-based zoning. Essentially, the sensors send temperature information back to the thermostat, which can then make the necessary adjustments to match your settings.

Zoning by Floor

Zoning by floor is a common way of zoning. It’s very natural to separate your home by the first floor and the second floor. Smart thermostats align with this approach as there are different mechanisms for each floor. It’s very easy to set the bottom floor of your home to a cool temperature and the upper floor of your home to a warm temperature. Smart thermostats are extremely responsive in this regard, and you can even extend the principle to your basement and attic. We all know that warm air tends to settle, and cool air tends to rise. So, basic science helps a smart thermostat create zones by elevation.

Zoning by Room

Zoning by room takes this concept to the next level. Fortunately, a smart thermostat is just what you want for this task. When installing the thermostat, it’s quite easy to put a dial or an interface in every room of your home. All of these interfaces are connected to the central system, and they can each request their own temperatures simultaneously. Smart thermostats ensure that the rooms don’t conflict with one another. When trying to zone with a conventional thermostat, one room might be dragging the others down if it is requesting a cooler temperature. Smart thermostats give an additional degree of separation that allows for complete control over the climate.

Advantages of Smart Thermostats

What are some unique advantages of smart thermostats when it comes to zoning? One great thing is how smart thermostats can be controlled from everywhere. Traditional thermostats have a single dial that sits in your living room. By now, you’re probably aware that smart thermostats have remote controls and multiple dials all over your home. When one room feels too hot or cold, you can set up a zone on demand without heading out to the living room. It’s simply more convenient overall.

Smart thermostats can also hone in on specific temperatures better than their counterparts. When you prescribe 70 degrees for one room and 65 degrees for another, you’ll get exactly those temperatures. This is a much better deal than older thermostat models that are only able to approximate the zones you desire. If you close doors and windows, you can create enclosed pockets in your home for even better results.

Contact Professional Services Today

With the right smart thermostat, you’ll be able to do zoning in your home. A professional HVAC company such as Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in South Charleston, WV, can bring you up to speed on both zoning and smart thermostats. We can install thermostats in just a matter of hours for your comfort. In addition, we specialize in water tank replacement, sewer issues, and faucet repairs. For heating and cooling services and more, give us a call at Mullen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling.

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