HVAC

Michael Davis is the manager of Johnstone Supply of Philadelphia. Johnstone Supply is the top cooperative wholesale distributor in the country and a recognized national leader in the HVACR industry. With regional distribution centers based in Portland, Oregon, Memphis, Tennessee, Allentown, Pennsylvania, Jacksonville, Florida, and Las Vegas, Nevada, the company boasts over 350 independently-owned stores throughout the United States and beyond, totaling over a billion dollars in annual sales.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Go Green with Intellidyne! Consumer Rebate Form

Program_SP1107_Consumer_Rebate-1.pdf Download this file

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Annual Pig Roast and Open House October 2, 2011 9am-3pm

Flyer.pdf Download this file

Basic Hydronics September 14 5pm-7pm

2011_09_14_HTP_WILO_hydronics.pdf Download this file

Uponor Training 9-28 5pm-7pm

2011_9_28_uponor_hydronics.pdf Download this file

Friday, May 6, 2011

The Energy Coordinating Agency Offers Energy Assessment for $150.00!!!

Spring is finally here and we get some welcome relief from high energy bills; but summer is right around the corner with soaring temperatures and cooling costs. Thanks to EnergyWorks, a comprehensive energy efficiency program for homeowners in the Greater Philadelphia region, you can take advantage of cool savings year round.

To enable more homeowners to benefit from the energy savings, we’ve just reduced the cost of an EnergyWorks assessment from $400 to $150, with a $50 rebate. We have also simplified the 0.99% loan to make funding your energy efficient upgrades much easier to access. There are also additional rebates on high efficiency gas heating equipment. Energy saving has never been easier.

The sooner you start, the more you save!

EnergyWorks brings together all available rebates, tax credits and very low-interest loans. EnergyWorks has been carefully designed to increase comfort, eliminate health and safety problems, and deliver real energy savings to customers. EnergyWorks is a program of the Metropolitan Caucus, a coalition of Commissioners and Councilmembers from Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties and the Mayor of Philadelphia. It is supported by a grant from the US Department of Energy’s Better Buildings Program.

To get started visit:

http://ecasavesenergy.org/services/energy-works/energyworks

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

NAOHSM 58th Annual Convention & Trade Show

National Association of Oil Heating Service Managers will be holding their 58th annual convention and trade show May 22-26 in Hershey, PA. For more information visit http://www.naohsm.org/trade_show.cfm or call 1-888-552-0900.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Wireless HVAC Guide System Analyzer - HG3

The new HG3 takes HVAC system analysis to the next level. Specifically designed to optimize HVAC systems, the HG3 combines several tests into one rugged hand-held device. Use the HG3 wireless feature to take multiple measurements thoughout a system simultaneously, all in the palm of your hand.

Check it out at http://www.fieldpiece.com/hvac-guide-system-analyzer/hg3

Friday, April 22, 2011

How the HVAC Professional can make money in the new green economy

A shoe company sends two sales reps to Australia.

First salesman calls and says, "The natives do not wear shoes, there is not business here!"

The second salesman calls and says, "The natives do not wear shoes, there is plenty of business here!"

When you walk into your customer's home, positive attitude is everything. You can say to yourself, these people have no money, the cannot afford a high efficiency system, or you can say, these people have no money, they cannot afford to NOT have a high efficiency system.

You can differentiate yourself from the competition by becoming an energy professional. The major goals of an energy specialists' work are to conserve energy increase efficiency and save money for the homeowner. They should protect the environment by reducing harmful energy by products. Energy professionals should increase comfort in the building, enhance the health and safety of the building's residents and increase public awareness of energy-saving products and procedures.

To accomplish their mission, energy auditors and technicians must understand basic energy principles. Once understood in theory, these principles can better be applied in practice. They must recognize all of a building's important energy saving opportunities and choose the most promising. Then translate energy savings into dollars and compare projected savings with each energy conservation measure's cost. A true energy professional knows about incentives, rebates, and the tax benefits available to customers. They must explain conservation procedures and goals to building owners, fellow energy specialists and technicians. It is very important to educate the building's residents about how they can use energy more efficiently and save money. Finally, they should evaluate and measure the building's performance before and after the energy improvements.

Most importantly, we must remember that there has to be an "I" in ethics. Never make recommendations that will not benefit the customer!

I have compiled a list of areas the HVAC professional can look to save the homeowner money. If the return on investment (ROI) is less than 5 years, because everyone is moving in the next 5 years, it should be easy to schedule the repair.

Water (heat)

water heater blanket
insulate pipes
on demand water heater

Water (conservation)

low flow shower head
low flow aerators
water recirculation system

Home Heating

programmable thermostat
zoning system
high efficiency

Home Heating (hydronic)

insulate pipes
condensing boiler
auto air vent bleeders
auto fill valve
remove furniture at radiators
reflective panels

Home Heating (warm air)

condensing furnace
modulating gas valve
dual fuel system
humidifier
duct sealing
duct insulation

Air Conditioning

duct sealing
routine maintenance
clean filter
ultra-violet light

Domestic Refrigerator

clean condenser coil
Refrigerator temperature 37-41
freezer temperature 5
door seal

Thursday, April 21, 2011

A Little Test on Basic Refrigeration & Charging Practices

This morning I thought we could test your knowledge on the basics of refrigeration and charging practices. I have listed the answers at the bottom ot the page. GOOD LUCK!

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Refrigeration is defined as “the movement of heat from a place it is not wanted to a place it is unobjectionable”.

T F

It is possible to cool air in a house.

T F

Heat flows from:

Cold to hot

Hot to cold

Left to right

Up to down

Another name for evaporator side pressure is:

High side pressure

Low side pressure

Discharge pressure

Head Pressure

Another name for condenser side pressure is:

Low side pressure

Discharge pressure

Back pressure

Static pressure

Which of the following is untrue about the compressor:

Is the heart of the system

Creates the pressure differences necessary between the low and high sides of the system

Pump liquid only

It raises the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor above the ambient temperature

The high and low pressures in a refrigeration system are separated by:

The receiver.

The evaporator.

The metering device.

The filter drier.

The pressure at which the refrigerant changes state from a vapor to a liquid is the:

Evaporation pressure.

Superheat pressure.

Back pressure.

Condensing pressure.

All of the above.

A pressure gauge placed anywhere between the metering device and the compressor (including the compressor crankcase) will read:

The low side or evaporating pressure.

The head pressure.

The total high pressure.

All of the above.

Modern refrigerants exists either in:

The vapor state.

The liquid state.

Answers (a) and (b) are true.

None of the above.

In an operating system, you should have liquid and vapor in the:

Evaporator only.

Condenser only.

Compressor

Evaporator and condenser.

Refrigerant “Conditions” refer to which of the following?

Saturated, superheated, or subcooled.

Pressurized only.

In a complete vacuum.

None of the above.

The heat energy that causes a liquid refrigerant to change to a vapor at a constant saturation temperature for a given pressure is referred to as:

Sensible heat.

Latent heat (hidden heat).

Superheat.

Subcooled.

The temperature/pressure chart is only good when the refrigerant is:

In the liquid state only.

In the vapor state only.

In the superheated state only.

In the liquid and vapor mixed.

Superheat always refers to:

A liquid refrigerant.

A vapor.

A mixture of liquid and vapor.

Both (a) and (c).

Subcooling always refers to:

A vapor below its saturation temperature.

A liquid below its saturation temperature.

The refrigerant that cools the compressor.

The flashing of refrigerant at the metering device.

The basic components of a refrigeration unit are:

Compressor, discharge line, condenser, metering device, receiver, evaporator and suction line.

Filter drier, receiver, high and low sides.

Condenser, discharge line, condenser, metering device, receiver, and suction line.

Compressor, metering device and refrigerant.

In the first few passes of the condenser:

The refrigerant should be de-superheated.

The refrigerant should completely change to a vapor.

The refrigerant should completely change to a liquid.

The pressure should drastically drop.

One of the main functions of a condenser is to:

Change the liquid to a vapor.

Superheat the liquid.

Change the refrigerant vapor to a liquid.

Both a and b.

Subcooling can be defined as:

The cooling effect of an evaporator.

Any sensible heat taken away from 100% saturated liquid.

The superheat that is removed at the top of the condenser.

The cooling of the compressor motor by returning refrigerants.

The component in the refrigeration system used to catch and prevent any liquid from entering the compressor is called the:

The liquid receiver.

The accumulator.

The Bypass solenoid valve.

The filter drier.

The greatest advantage of a TXV over a capillary tube or fixed metering device is:

The cost factor.

The capillary tube can adapt to the load quickly.

The TXV can adapt to the load very quickly.

The TXV can completely stop the refrigerant flow.

The greatest need for “subcooling” the refrigerant is to:

Prevent liquid line flash, thus making the system much more efficient.

Cool the refrigerant suction line.

Prevent liquid from entering the compressor.

To store liquid in the filter drier.

The purpose for a Liquid Pressure Amplification LPA is to:

Increase the superheat.

Increase the liquid pressure.

Help prevent flashing and increase subcooling.

Both b and c are correct.

The refrigerant charge in a TXV remote bulb or power element must:

Be changed when the filter drier is changed.

Be identical to the refrigerant in the system.

Be discharged before it is effective.

Be R-134a.

An External equalizing tube on the TXV is used:

On units with long evaporator.

On units with a pressure drop due to evaporator length.

On all refrigeration applications.

Both a and b are correct.

The factory superheat settings for TXVs used with central air conditioning systems should be:

20 degrees or more.

Less than 5 degrees.

About 10 degrees.

None of the above.

The remote bulb of a TXV should be fastened to the:

Outlet of the TXV, about 6 inches.

Inlet of the TXV, about 6 inches.

Outlet of the condenser and on the superheat line.

None of the above.

The refrigerant passing through a filter drier should be in what state?

Superheated vapor.

Liquid and vapor.

Saturated vapor.

Liquid.

The TXV operates on which of the following pressures?

Remote bulb, spring pressure and superheat.

Remote bulb, spring pressure and evaporator pressure.

Discharge, suction and spring pressures.

All of the above.

At higher loads, a sightglass located in the liquid line will:

Bubble if the system is undercharged.

Have no bubbles.

Be clear.

Turn yellow inside.

Always charge a TXV/receiver/sightglass system under a :

No load condition.

Low load condition.

High load condition.

None of the above.

The initial refrigerant charge into an evacuated system should be made:

Into the compressor as a liquid.

Into the evaporator as a liquid.

A small amount of vapor first, followed by liquid into the high side.

The accumulator.

Compressor superheats should always be:

Between 20 and 30 degrees.

Less than 5 degrees.

Prevented.

Both a and c are correct.

The evaporator temperature on an air conditioning system should be:

40 to 50 degrees F.

No more than 32 degrees F.

More than 50 degrees at all times.

20 to 30 degrees F.

The refrigerant charge on a capillary tube system is:

Not critical on most units.

Very critical on all units.

Critical on some units.

None of the above.

The most accurate method of charging a capillary tube system is to:

Weigh the charge into an empty system.

Check the subcooling system first.

Charge liquid directly into the compressor.

Use the capillary tube subcool method.

An overcharge of refrigerant will result in:

Lower ampere draw for the compressor.

Increased overall efficiency.

Elevated head and suction pressures.

None of the above are correct.

The second best way to charge a capillary tube system is to:

Use the superheat charging table or curve.

Listen to the sounds the compressor makes.

Charge unit and watch for sweating or frost on the suction line.

Add refrigerant until the evaporator gets cold.

An air conditioning system or heat pump must have:

600 cubic feet of air per minute across the evaporator coil.

550 cubic feet of air per minute across the evaporator coil.

400 cubic feet of air per minute across the evaporator coil.

Less than 400.

When using a charging chart on most central air conditioning systems, the following temperatures must be known:

Outdoor dry bulb and superheat.

Indoor wet bulb and superheat.

Indoor wet and dry bulb, outdoor dry bulb, and superheat.

Indoor wet bulb and dry bulb temperatures only.

When charging air conditioning systems with capillary tube or fixed orifice metering devices, the technician should:

Consult with the manufacturer and use their exact method of charging and specifications.

Charge until the unit stops frosting back.

Charge the amount shown on the I.D. tag and add 1 pound for losses.

Turn off most of the registers to slow down the airflow across the evaporator.

ANSWERS

T
F
B
B
B
B
C
D
A
C
D
A
B
D
B
B
A
A
C
B
B
C
A
D
B
D
C
D
D
B
A
C
C
A
A
B
A
C
A
C
C
A

Monday, April 18, 2011

$500 Rebate When You SWITCH from Oil to Natural Gas

Questions and answers

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Why replace your existing oil furnace if it still works?

Natural gas is proven to be more economical and more energy efficient when compared to an aging oil system, so you could save hundreds of dollars each year. And now, PGW is making it even easier to switch by offering a $500 credit on your gas heating bill!

What are the benefits of using natural gas heating?

· Natural gas is conveniently supplied to your home

· There are no more orders, no more deliveries and no more waiting

· Natural gas is better for the environment

· Natural gas burns clean without leaving behind soot, ash or odors

How can you convert to natural gas?

Switching to natural gas is easy. Here are the three simple steps to convert:

1. Contact a plumber or HVAC contractor to let them know you are interested

2. Your plumber or HVAC contractor will help you choose the right equipment and install it for you

3. You will then begin to receive the warmth and comfort of natural gas heating

How to obtain your $500 rebate

If you convert to a natural gas heating system after August 31, 2010, and your PGW gas account is current, you will be eligible for a $500 account credit. Simply fill out the form and send it to PGW with a coup of you signed contract and paid invoice to:

Philadelphia Gas Works

Marketing Department

800 W Montgomery Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19122

For more information visit www.pgworks.com or call 15.684.6700.

Calculate your savings

Check out PGW’s residential, online calculator and see how much money you can save on your fuel costs when you switch to natural gas heat.

www,pgworks.com/requestingservice/index.htm and click on “savings calculator.”

Financial Assistance

Philadelphia Home Improvement Loan (PHIL)

To finance your heater conversion, or other home improvements, consider applying for a Philadelphia home Improvement Loan (PHIL). Available through participating banks, PHIL offers low fixed rates of 3 or 5 percent, terms up to 20 years, no equity or appraisal requirements and no fees. You can borrow up to $25,000.

To be eligible you must be a Philadelphia homeowner and meet other qualifications. For more information on the PHIL Program, visit www.philaload.com or call 1.877.4.U.PHILA.

Keystone Home Energy Loan Program (Keystone HELP)

· Special, low interest rates locked in for the life of the loan

· Longer terms and lower rates than typically available

· No penalty for pre-payment

· You can receive loans from $1,000 to $35,000

Eligible improvements must be installed by a Keystone HELP approved contractors. There are currently over 1,600 approved Keystone HELP contractors in Pennsylvania. For more information visit www.keystonehelp.com or call 1.888.AFC.FIRST.

Friday, April 15, 2011

PGW'S EnergySense Residential Heating Equipment Rebate

PGW is launching a rebate program for energy efficient natural gas furnaces and boilers and programmable thermostats. PGW will give a $250 rebate if you purchase an energy efficient furnace and $1000 rebate if you purchase an energy efficient boiler. Plus, if you purchase and have installed a programmable thermostat, you can earn an additional $30 rebate.

The application process is easy.

Download an application at www.rebate-zone.com/pgworks or call (877) 719-3766 to request a mailed application, attached the required documentation, and you will receive the rebate in 6 to 8 weeks. In order to qualify you must follow this criteria:

Must be a PGW residential/small business customer and your account must be active when the rebate is processed. Renter, with the owner's approval, are also eligible;
The euipment must be installed by a licensed contractor; and
Applications are being accepted from April 15 to August 31, 2011. If the program's funds run out before August 31, 2011, you would need to reapply after September 1, 2011 (funds are replenished every September)

To learn more about EnergySense visit www.pgworks.com/energysense

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Why Navien?

Why choose a Navien Condensing 98% Tankless Water Heater? In a word: Efficiency. You see, Navien utilizes "condensing technology," giving our Water Heaters a 98% efficiency rating. Knocking the competition out of the water, these extremely efficient and eco-friendly units will provide extra savings for you and your family.

Condensing Technology Defined

To help explain "condensing technology," imagine the condensation on a glass of ice water. This condensation is created inside Navien's condensing heat exchanger (secondary heat exchanger) from the incoming cold water cooling the hot gases inside the unit. Navien's state-of-the-art, stainless-steel condensing heat exchanger then traps this condensation and uses it, making the whole process incredibly efficient and economical. This condensation (or vapors and gases) would normally escape through the vents in a conventional tankless water heater. But with Navien's cutting-edge technology, our Water Heaters reuse the condensation, providing you with the most efficient and economical Water Heater on the market today.

Tank, Tankless, and Navien

Because Navien's stainless-steel condensing heat exchanger is able to recover the condensation that would otherwise be lost, the small amount of exhaust that is released from Navien Water Heaters is cool to the touch (about 85˚F-130˚F), allowing the use of PVC venting materials. The use of PVC offers significant cost savings and simplifies installation.

Unfortunately, old-fashioned tank heaters, as well as conventional tankless water heaters, emit harmful Nitrogen (NOx) and Carbon dioxide(CO2 ) directly into the air at a whopping 245˚F-450˚F! These harmful emissions damage both us and the environment in which we live

Navien Condensing 98% Tankless Water Heater's Benefits also Include:

An Endless Supply of Hot Water: Navien's Condensing 98% is an on-demand water heater; thus, the unit is activated the second you turn on the faucet, supplying you with instant hot water. Conventional tank-type water heaters eventually run out of water, but because Navien's units only supply water when needed, running out of hot water is never an issue.

Built-In Circulation Pump & Buffer Tank: These two parts save precious water by recirculating water that would otherwise be lost. Together, they also eliminate the minimum-flow requirement as well as the dreaded "cold-water sandwich."

Automatic Water Leak Detection: Special software detects leaks, preventing damage to the water heater—or worse, a home or business!

In-Take Air Filter: Navien's filter minimizes dirt and debris from collecting inside, reducing service calls.

Eco-Friendly: The Condensing 98% has the lowest levels of Nox and CO2 emissions, a savings equal to about 420 pounds of carbon-dioxide reduction.

Easy Installation: PVC venting is super economical, convenient and easy for professional installers to hook up

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Annual Education Conference April 29-30

The Empire Keystone Association of RSES will host its annual educational conference at the Four Points by Sheraton in Allentown, PA. This two day conference will highlight the following topics: advanced steam applications; preparation and review for industry certification exams; electrical meter usage for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning technician; thermostatic expansion valves and related controls; leak detection; refrigerant identification and indoor environmental quality; and geothermal systems.

"Advanced Steam Applications," will be the topic of Friday's educational program from 8:00am to 3:30pm Presented by Spirax Sarco Inc., this steam seminar will cover many useful topics for the HVAC technician such as: condensate recovery; control valves; metering systems; and energy saving concepts.

Saturday's educational program offers a variety of topics from 8:00am to 4:45pm including: "Prepartaton and Review for Industry Certification," led by Arthur T. Miller, CMS, of Community College of Allegheny County; Geothermal Systems," led by Jon Flem of the Metz Co. and Garth Givson of FHP; "Expansion Valves," led by Kenny Balci of Parker Hannifin Corp. Sporlan Division; "Electrical Meter Usage for the HVAC Technician," led by Thomas Schaefer, CMS; and "Leak Detection, Refrigerant Identification and IEQ," led by Rich Bruno of Bacharach Inc.

In addition, testing opportunities for EPA Section 608 certification; RSES Specialized Member (RSES members only); RSES Certificate Member (RSES members only); RSES Certificate Member Specialist (RSES members only); and NATE certification exams will be available to attendees following the seminar on Saturday. RSES student identification card, RSES membership card, and NATE certification card will be required for applicable exams. Exam fees vary.

Conference registration fees are $84 per day for RSES members and $9 per day for non-members, or $139 for RSES Members and $169 for non-members if attending both days. All registration fees include lunch.

Hotel reservations can be made directly with the Four Points by Sheraton in Allentown, PA. For more hotel information, please call 866-716-8144 or 610-266-1000. When making hotel reservations, please use the group name EKA-RSES for a reduced rate.

For information or to register for the seminar, visit www.rses.org/events/2011eka.aspx, or contact Tom Donmoyer, CM, by phone at 570-657-1018.

Registration deadline is April 22, 2011.

RSES is the world's leading education, training and certification association for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration professionals. RSES credentials include its Active Specialized Member, Certificate Member and Certificate member Specialist categories, as well as one of the largest EPA Section 608 certification programs in the industry. Founded in 1933, RSES is a non-profit organization of more than 15,000 members in nearly 175 chapters in the US and Canada, aw well as affiliate organizations worldwide. For more information on RSES call 800-297-5660 or 847-297-6464, or vsit their web site at www.rses.org.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Energy Efficiency

We have all heard the letters, but what do they all stand for:

EER
Energy Efficiency Ratio
•         Is a measure of how efficiently a cooling system will operate.

•         The larger the number, the higher the efficiency.

•         Is calculated by dividing the BTUs per hour delivered, by the amount of energy used in Watts per hour.

SEER
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
•         Is a measure of seasonal efficiency of a system compared to the energy required for operation.

•         Minimum SEER ratings are established by the Department of Energy.

•         On January 23, 2006, the minimum for residential central air conditioning systems became 13 SEER.
AFUE
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency
•         is a rating of how efficiently a device (furnace or boiler) uses fuel over the heating season.

•         Is measured by how efficiently the appliance uses fuel (gas or oil) over the course of a year.
HSPF
Heating Seasonal Performance Factor
•         Similar to the SEER and Seasonal COP.

•         Relate the efficiency of equipment for a season.

•         Takes into account the normal cycling of the systems components such as compressors, fans, etc.

•         Any fuel can be the source including electricity.

•         Calculations use the total output of a system and the total electrical power used over an entire season.
COP
Coefficient Of Performance
•         Is the efficiency of a heat pump expressed in terms of heat energy moved for every unit of energy consumed.

•         Heat exchangers and compressors need to be matched for best performance.

•         Regulated by the Department of Energy (DOE).

•         Recommendations from the American Society for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

Monday, April 11, 2011

Free Training April 27 form Delaware Valley Chapter of RSES

On April 27, 2011 DelVal Chapter will have their monthly educational meeting. Brian Kegey of Honeywell will be speaking about air conditioning economizers & controls. They have a catered buffet that starts at 6:00pm. The speaker will start at 7:00pm

The meeting takes place at :
The Delaware County Technical High School at Folcroft
701 Henderson Blvd and Delmar Drive
Folcroft, PA

RSES is the world’s leading education, training and certification association for heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration professionals. Founded in 1933, RSES is a non-profit organization of more than 15,000 members in nearly 175 chapters in the US and Canada, as well as affiliate organizations worldwide. For more information on RSES call 800-297-59660 or 847-297-6464, or visit their web site at www.rses.org.

Superheat - Target and Actual

Superheat is the temperature rise in the refrigerant after it boils in the evaporator. The refrigerant leaves the throttle valve (fixed orifice, capillary tube, TXV) and enters the evaporator as a low pressure, low temperature liquid. As air from the building is blown across the evaporator, the heat is taken out of the air and added to the refrigerant. As heat is added to the liquid refrigerant the refrigerant boils and changes to a gas. The temperature at which a substance (in this case a refrigerant) changes from a liquid to a gas is known as the boiling point or saturation temperature. The change of state happens in the evaporator. As the refrigerant continues out of the evaporator and onto the compressor heat is added to the refrigerant. The added heat to the refrigerant between the boiling point and the compressor is the superheat.

Superheat is used for properly charging fixed orifice systems. Superheat is important for two reasons:

The first reason is to know if the evaporator is doing its job and the A/C system is running efficiently. If there is no superheat, very little heat is being taken out of the return air and hence the air being supplied to the space is the same temperature as the air being returned to the evaporator.
The second reason is to save the life of the compressor. The compressor is designed to compress (add pressure) to gas refrigerant. It is not powerful enough to compress liquid refrigerant and it will burn up the compressor. It’s like pushing on a brick wall. The compressor is also designed to be cooled by the refrigerant it compresses. When the superheat is too high the compressor is working at higher than normal temperatures and can cause it to overheat.

To measure the superheat, first you place a thermocouple (there are pipe clamps specifically designed for this) on the suction line near the compressor and record the measured temperature. Next attach a pressure gauge to the suction line service valve, measure and record the reading. Using a pressure/temperature chart or pressure temperature calculator find the boiling point (saturation temperature) of the refrigerant at that specific pressure. Subtract the saturation temperature from the temperature measure from the thermocouple and that is the total system superheat.
We now have the actual superheat but how do we know that is an acceptable superheat? Using the target superheat table from California’s Title 24, which can be found at www.energy.ca.gov/title24, we can look up the target superheat based on the indoor and outdoor conditions.
Important: Rules of thumb are out. Between 8 and 12 degrees of superheat is out. Sophisticated target superheats derived by the experts are in!
Measure and record the ambient air temperature going into the condenser. Make sure to measure in the shade and get the average temperature going into the condenser. Next measure the wet bulb temperature going into the evaporator. Place the thermocouple in the center of the airflow in the duct near the evaporator. If using a wet sock thermocouple, watch the temperature stabilize before recording it. Use the outdoor ambient air temperature and the return air wet bulb to look up the target superheat on the chart.
Compare the actual superheat to the target superheat. If the actual is greater than the target, add refrigerant. If the actual is less than the target, remove refrigerant. Adjust the charge until the actual superheat is within ±3 degrees Fahrenheit of the target superheat. How much refrigerant to add or remove will be based on the size of the system and how far off the superheat is. A good way to dial in the correct charge is by using a digital superheat tool such as Fieldpiece’s ASX14 accessory head, or SSX34 superheat subcooling standalone meter. This way you can watch the superheat live rather than continually recalculating the superheat.

(From A/C Sytem Testing Basic By Russell Harju – Product Manager, Fieldpiece Instruments)

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Introduction to Oil Heat

Combustion is the process of burning!
When fuel oil is burned, the chemical energy that is stored in the oil is released in another form of energy, HEAT.

Fuel Oil
No. 2 distillate fuel oil is a product of the refining of crude oil, which was formed underground through decomposition of marine organisms, fish and vegetation. This organic matter eventually became liquid or gas concentrated underground in pocket or pools.
Oil Delivery Systems
The oil delivery system includes all components required to transport oil from the storage tank to the burner. These include pumps, pipes, valves, filters and controls. Inspecting these components should be a part of scheduled maintenance service.

Oil Burners
The functions of an oil burner are to break fuel oil into small droplets, mix the droplets with air, and ignite the resulting spray to form a flame.
Combustion Chambers
The purpose of the combustion chamber is to reflect heat back into the flame to aid the combustion process and achieve more complete burning of oil.
Heat Exchanger
The purpose of the heat exchanger is to transfer heat from the burner flame to the water or air used to heat the home. The heat exchanger is an integral part of the boiler or furnace.

Flue Pipes
Flue pipes convey combustion gases from the heating appliance to the chimney or vent. Since these gases are potentially harmful to the home and its residents, these pipes must be sealed tightly to prevent leakage.
Flue pipe convey combustion gases that create the draft to assist in drawing combustion air into and through the burner in chimney systems
Draft Regulators
Many flue pipes include a barometric draft regulator.
This consists of a counterweighted swinging door which opens and closes to help maintain a constant level of draft over the fire.
Chimneys
Chimneys have been used since the earliest days of indoor heating to draw combustion gases out of the home and provide draft to help draw in combustion air.

Heat Distribution Systems
With furnaces, warm air, propelled by fans, is distributed throughout the house through metal ducts.
Controls
The controls used to regulate typical oilheat systems include:
Thermostat
The thermostat ‘tells’ the burner when to turn on and off to maintain the desired temperature in the house.

Aquastat
The Aquastat regulates the temperature of boiler water
Fan Control
The Fan Control turns the fan on and off in warm air furnace systems.

Pumps and Zone Valves
Pumps and Zone Valve Controls regulate the flow of water or steam in boiler systems.
Safety Controls
Pressure relief valves, high temperature limits, low water cut off and burner primary controls protect against appliance malfunctions.

What You Should Know Before Using R410-A

The temperature glide for R-410A is less than .3 degrees Fahrenheit over air conditioning and refrigerating operating ranges.
Polyol Ester (POE) Can be irritating to the skin, Is hygroscopic, Has improved heat transfer characteristics over mineral oils.
The low pressure control on R-410a systems will open at 50 psig.
Compression ratio is calculated as absolute discharge pressure divided by absolute suction pressure.
Both suction and discharge pressures of R-410a system are 40% to 70% higher than R-22 systems.
HCFC-22 is scheduled for total phase out in the year 2030.
R-410a Is more efficient than R-22, using less energy, therefore it has a lower TEWI.
If a R-410a system develops a leak the remaining refrigerant is OK to used because R-410a has a low fractionation rate.
When charging a R-410a system that uses a thermostatic expansion valve, proper charge can be determined by measuring sub cooling.
If you are in the Philadelphia area, and would like to earn your R410-A Certification, Johnstone Supply Philadelphia will be holding a class April 20, 2011. Feel free to contact me for sign up sheet at:
michael.davis@johnstonesupply.com

Summary table of conversion factors

x means 'multiply by'
/ means 'divide by'
# means it is an exact value
All other values given to an appropriate degree of accuracy.

To change . .	into . .	do this . .	To change . .	into . .	do this . .
acres	hectares	x 0.4047	kilograms	ounces	x 35.3
acres	sq. kilometers	/ 247	kilograms	pounds	x 2.2046
acres	sq. meters	x 4047	kilograms	tonnes	/ 1000 #
acres	sq. miles	/ 640 #	kilograms	tons (UK/long)	/ 1016
barrels (oil)	cu. meters	/ 6.29	kilograms	tons (US/short)	/ 907
barrels (oil)	gallons (UK)	x 34.97	kilometers	meters	x 1000 #
barrels (oil)	gallons (US)	x 42 #	kilometers	miles	x 0.6214
barrels (oil)	liters	x 159	liters	cu. inches	x 61.02
centimeters	feet	/ 30.48 #	liters	gallons (UK)	x 0.2200
centimeters	inches	/ 2.54 #	liters	gallons (US)	x 0.2642
centimeters	meters	/ 100 #	liters	pints (UK)	x 1.760
centimeters	millimeters	x 10 #	liters	pints (US liquid)	x 2.113
cubic cm	cubic inches	x 0.06102	meters	yards	/ 0.9144 #
cubic cm	liters	/ 1000 #	meters	centimeters	x 100 #
cubic cm	milliliters	x 1 #	miles	kilometers	x 1.609
cubic feet	cubic inches	x 1728 #	millimeters	inches	/ 25.4 #
cubic feet	cubic meters	x 0.0283	ounces	grams	x 28.35
cubic feet	cubic yards	/ 27 #	pints (UK)	liters	x 0.5683
cubic feet	gallons (UK)	x 6.229	pints (UK)	pints (US liquid)	x 1.201
cubic feet	gallons (US)	x 7.481	pints (US liquid)	liters	x 0.4732
cubic feet	liters	x 28.32	pints (US liquid)	pints (UK)	x 0.8327
cubic inches	cubic cm	x 16.39	pounds	kilograms	x 0.4536
cubic inches	liters	x 0.01639	pounds	ounces	x 16 #
cubic meters	cubic feet	x 35.31
____________	____________	______________	_____________	_____________	__________
To change . .	into . .	do this . .	To change . .	into . .	do this . .
			square cm	sq. inches	x 0.1550
feet	centimeters	x 30.48 #	square feet	sq. inches	x 144 #
feet	meters	x 0.3048 #	square feet	sq. meters	x 0.0929
feet	yards	/ 3 #	square inches	square cm	x 6.4516 #
fl. ounces (UK)	fl. ounces (US)	x 0.961	square inches	square feet	/ 144 #
fl. ounces (UK)	milliliters	x 28.41	square km	acres	x 247
fl. ounces (US)	fl. ounces (UK)	x 1.041	square km	hectares	x 100 #
fl. ounces (US)	milliliters	x 29.57	square km	square miles	x 0.3861
gallons	pints	x 8 #	square meters	acres	/ 4047
gallons (UK)	cubic feet	x 0.1605	square meters	hectares	/ 10 000 #
gallons (UK)	gallons (US)	x 1.2009	square meters	square feet	x 10.76
gallons (UK)	liters	x 4.54609 #	square meters	square yards	x 1.196
gallons (US)	cubic feet	x 0.1337	square miles	acres	x 640 #
gallons (US)	gallons (UK)	x 0.8327	square miles	hectares	x 259
gallons (US)	liters	x 3.785	square miles	square km	x 2.590
grams	kilograms	/ 1000 #	square yards	square meters	/ 1.196
grams	ounces	/ 28.35	tonnes	kilograms	x 1000 #
grams	grains	x 15.43
grains	grams	/ 15.43
hectares	acres	x 2.471	tonnes	tons (UK/long)	x 0.9842
hectares	square km	/ 100 #	tonnes	tons (US/short)	x 1.1023
hectares	square meters	x 10000 #	tons (UK/long)	kilograms	x 1016
hectares	square miles	/ 259	tons (UK/long)	tonnes	x 1.016
hectares	square yards	x 11 960	tons (US/short)	kilograms	x 907.2
inches	centimeters	x 2.54 #	tons (US/short)	tonnes	x 0.9072
inches	feet	/ 12 #	yards	meters	x 0.9144 #

Pumping Away

In any hydronics system, the point where the thermal expansion tank joins the piping is called the “Point of No Pressure Change.” Since water cannot be compressed or stretched, no water can leave the hydronic loop when a pump starts/stops. Circulator pumps create a pressure differential when running, which upsets the pressure balance and causes fluid to flow. The pump’s differential pressure will be added to the loop if it is installed after the thermal expansion tank – Pumping Away.

The added pressure causes air bubbles to shrink, which makes them less buoyant and helps carry them through the loop where they can be removed by an air elimination device such as an automatic air vent or separator. Pumping Away helps eliminate air, enhances quiet performance, and helps systems run more efficiently.

Warning: Pumping towards a thermal expansion tank has the opposite effect: pressure will decrease at the systems’ highest elevation; air bubbles will expand and gather together; noise will be created during operation; customers will complain; nuisance no-heat calls will occur; and the potential to damage system components will be present.

(from Grundfos Handbook)

CO Effects on People and Animals

Dizziness, headache, Confusion, head stuffiness
Elevated blood carboxyhemoglobin level; Fatigue
Eye and upper respiratory irritation
Persistent cough; Wheezing or bronchial constriction
Increased frequency of angina in persons with coronary heart disease
Endothelium damage (inner lining of blood vessels).
Standard therapy requires supplemental oxygen, ventilatory support and monitoring heart rate.
High exposures require hyperbolic chambers to force CO out of blood, replacing it with oxygen

Web Resources for Contractors Wanting to GO GREEN

GOVERNMENT RESOURCES

US DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

The US Department of Energy (DOE) offers information to the public through the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy information Center and Web site. The site includes information on getting a home energy audit, tips for saving energy throughout the home, guidance on using solar energy, suggestions for re-modelers and apartment dwellers, and a buying guide for purchasing energy efficient appliances. A toll-free number puts you in contact with professional staff that can assist you with questions about home energy use, renewable energy, recycling and related issues.

Phone (877) 337-3463

www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/info/homes/index.html

US EPA

EPA leads the nation's environmental science, research, education and assessment efforts. The mission of the Environmental Protection Agency is to protect human health and the environment. Since 1970, EPA has been working for a cleaner, healthier environment for the American people.WWW.epa.gov

ENERGY STAR

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices.
888-star-yeswww.energystar.gov

LAWRENCE BERKLY NATIONAL LABORATORY

Berkeley Lab is a member of the national laboratory system supported by the U.S. Department of Energy through its Office of Science. It is managed by the University of California (UC) and is charged with conducting unclassified research across a wide range of scientific disciplineswww.lbl.gov

LAWRENCE BERKLY NATIONAL LABORATORY HOME ENERGY SAVER

The Home Energy Saver^TM calculator is designed to help consumers identify the best ways to save energy in their homes, and find the resources to make the savings happen. The Home Energy Saver^TM calculator was the first Internet-based tool for calculating energy use in residential buildings. The project has been sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), as part of the national ENERGY STAR Program for improving energy efficiency in homes, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the US Department of Housing and Urban Development's PATH program, the California Air Resources Board, the California Energy Commission's Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) program, and Touchstone Electric Cooperatives.

hes.lbl.gov/

CONSUMER AND ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS

THE ALLIANCE TO SAVE ENERGY

The Alliance to Save Energy offers consumers all the information they need to save money, increase comfort, and even reduce pollution through energy efficiency.

(202) 857-0666www.ase.org/consumer

CENTER FOR A NEW AMERICAN DREAM

New American Dream helps Americans consume responsibly to protect the environment, enhance quality of life, and promote social justice.

(877) 68-dreamwww.newdream.org

CONSUMER FEDERATION OF AMERICA/ CONSUMER RESEARCH COUNCIL

BuyEnergyEfficient.org is dedicated to education and choice. Our goal is to give you the information and products you need to make sound lifestyle and purchasing choices that improve your energy efficiency and environmental footprint.

(202) 387-6121www.buyenergyefficient.org

NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL (NRDC)

NRDC is the nation's most effective environmental action group, combining the grassroots power of 1.2 million members and online activists with the courtroom clout and expertise of more than 350 lawyers, scientists and other professionals.www.nrdc.org

ASSOCIATION OF HOME APPLIANCE MANUFACTURERS (AHAM)

AHAM is the U.S. based trade association of the home appliance manufacturing industry. Its members include the manufacturers of “major,” “portable,” and "floor care" home appliances and the companies who supply and service these manufacturers. www.aham.org/consumer

THE CONSORTIUM FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY (CEE)

CEE is a consortium of efficiency program administrators from across the U.S. and Canada who work together on common approaches to advancing efficiency. Through joining forces, the individual efficiency programs of CEE are able to partner not only with each other, but with other industries, trade associations, and government agencies.
www.cee1.org

ENERGY FEDERATION INCORPORATED (EFI)

EFI believes it is essential to encourage environmentally benign and sustainable use of our planet's limited energy and water resources. Through the distribution of resource conserving products and the provision of objective, accurate information, they strive to assist people in their efforts to use energy and water efficiently.www.efi.org

GAIAM REAL GOODS

Real Goods is your source for simple living products to power your conscious lifestyle. Since 1978, we've been passionate about bringing people practical ways to conserve the Earth's precious resources and live more in balance with nature. Real Goods is proud to be the planet's oldest solar outfitter and the most complete, most trusted source of renewable energy products to help you reduce your energy consumption - from solar panels and wind turbines to complete solar power systems.
(800) 762-7325www.realgoods.com

OIKOS GREEN BUILDING SOURCE

Oikos is a World Wide Web site devoted to serving professionals whose work promotes sustainable design and construction. That's a broad goal, but then environmental sustainability touches virtually every aspect of a building.
800-346-0104www.oikos.com

HOME ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PUBLICATIONS AND NEWSLETTERS

GREENERCHOICES.ORG
GreenerChoices.org, launched on Earth Day 2005 by Consumers Union, the non-profit publisher of Consumer Reports, is a Web-based initiative to inform, engage, and empower consumers about environmentally-friendly products and practices. GreenerChoices.org offers an accessible, reliable, and practical source of information on buying “greener” products that have minimal environmental impact and meet personal needs.www.greenerchoices.org

BUILDING GREEN

Building Green is an independent company committed to providing accurate, unbiased, and timely information designed to help building-industry professionals and policy makers improve the environmental performance, and reduce the adverse impacts, of buildings.
http://www.buildinggreen.com/

GREEN RESOURCES

GREEN BUILDING RESOURCE GUIDE

The Green Building Resource Guide is a database of over 600 green building materials and products selected specifically for their usefulness to the design and building professions, rather than merely their green material content

http://www.greenguide.com/

ACEEE GREEN CARS

This official website for ACEEE's Green Book is a unique consumer resource providing Green Scores rating the environmental friendliness of every vehicle on market.
http://www.greenercars.org/

THIS GREEN LIFE

NRDC’s online journal that covers tips and tricks to living ‘This Green Life.’

www.nrdc.org/thisgreenlife

GRIST MAGAZINE

Grist has been dishing out environmental news and commentary with a wry twist since 1999 -- which, to be frank, was way before most people cared about such things. Now that green is in every headline and on every store shelf (bamboo hair gel, anyone?), Grist is the one site you can count on to help you make sense of it all.www.grist.org

PGW offers a $500 rebate when homeowner switches from oil to natural gas

Currently, Philadelphia Gas Works is offering a $500 credit on customer's account for converting from oil to natural gas. To qualify for this credit, customer must convert to natural gas after August 31, 2010 and have gas account up to date with PGW. For more information visit http://www.pgworks.com/ or give PGW a call at (215) 684-6700.