Greene County commissioners presented a report Thursday from a facility management company indicating various county-owned buildings are in need of improvements in energy efficiency and air quality.

Commissioner Mike Belding said ABM Industries Inc., which is headquartered in New York, has conducted an extensive survey of the buildings – including the county office building, the Fort Jackson, Ben Franklin and Silveus buildings, and the county jail and courthouse – for energy efficiency, air quality, and the life expectancy of major components such as roofs, heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

The survey’s findings, which were released Thursday, indicate although ABM determined the facilities to be generally clean and well-maintained and commended “dedicated staff (that) has allowed the county to maximize asset life,” many of the current assets and systems are not providing optimal indoor quality or building performance.

The findings indicate “some of the current assets have become a burden on the (county’s) general fund, with repairs costs and emergency service calls on the rise.”

ABM also states in its findings “strong financial leadership from the county has created a unique opportunity to make upgrades in a fiscally responsible way.”

The survey also reported potential scopes of work for the county should include LED lighting upgrades, building envelope improvements, water conservation, HVAC replacements and refurbishments, building automation system upgrades, roof replacements and refurbishments and indoor air quality improvements.

“Today was an update of their progress and in the future we will be presented a menu of options to choose potential capital improvements that provide better working conditions, energy savings and money savings over the long-term,” Belding said.

ABM was contracted by the county in May 2021 to conduct the survey.

In another matter, commissioners approved Forgivable Advance for Small Business Assistance grant awards to two area businesses as part of the county’s ninth round of applicants. Jefferson Hotel Inc. was awarded $50,000, while Hydraulic Solutions and Machine Fabrication Inc. was awarded $21,333.41.

Belding said the county is currently working on the final round of FASBA grant funding, and there is roughly $100,000 left of the $1,277,083 available.

Commissioners also approved an agreement with Permitium, LLC to allow for online weapons permit applications with an effective date of April 28, 2022, to April 27, 2023. Belding said the agreement will give individuals an opportunity to apply for weapons permits, such as concealed carry, online without physically visiting the county sheriff’s Office.

“All required information and established criteria still apply in evaluating the applicant and final approval of the application,” he said, adding the agreement is at no cost to the county.

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COLLEGE STATION, Texas — A home should be a safe haven, but new research suggests the very air people breathe in their apartments and houses may be inflicting serious damage. Scientists from Texas A&M University say air quality inside domestic homes may actually be worse than within office buildings.

Study authors investigated indoor air quality and health outcomes among people working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. They measured air quality within both offices and homes among a group of employees between 2019 and 2020. Then, the team looked at the health outcomes of the people living and working in those places.

What causes air pollution within indoor settings?

Most of the time, indoor air pollution has a connection to either harmful building materials or any number of actions people take inside those buildings. More specifically, typical indoor air pollutants include mold, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from carpets, furniture, and paints, as well as fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Studies show extended exposure to these pollutants can cause a wide array of health conditions, ranging from relatively mild symptoms like a headache or dry eyes to much more serious life-threatening afflictions like cardiovascular disease and lung cancer. In recent decades, office buildings across the country have put measures in place to reduce and eliminate indoor air pollution.

Since COVID-19, however, more and more people are working from their homes. So, for perhaps the first time ever, home air quality is becoming a workplace health issue.

To research this topic, study authors analyzed indoor air quality within an office building between May and July 2019. Next, they examined the air quality within employees’ homes between June and September 2020.

Researchers used a standard, readily available to consumers air quality monitor to make these measurements. On a more detailed level, researchers assessed each indoor environment’s air temperature, relative humidity, and PM2.5/VOC concentrations. Simultaneously, the team assessed outdoor air quality conditions thanks to data provided by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Study participants also filled out a survey asking how often they experience various symptoms such as dry or irritated eyes, a stuffy nose, and irritated skin.

All of the participants lived in single-family homes with central air conditioning, and no one smoked or handled hazardous materials on a daily basis.

Converting homes to make remote work healthier

That analysis revealed fine particulate matter concentrations were indeed much higher in residential homes than office buildings. In fact, the PM2.5 amounts recorded in most homes far exceeded levels considered safe for a working environment. Similarly, VOC concentrations were higher in homes as well. However, researchers note that VOC levels recorded in both offices and homes were still well below the limit set by most health standards.

Importantly, most employees reported dealing with more symptoms while working from home as opposed to commuting to an office.

This study confirms that indoor home air quality is almost certainly an issue that needs to be addressed, especially as the world continues to switch toward a work-from-home model more and more due to the pandemic. Luckily, there are a few quick fixes. Assuming local outdoor air is of a high quality, simply opening some windows is one way to let in some fresh air. Alternatively, the team says employers should consider supplying their remote workers with air filters.

The study is published in the journal Atmosphere.

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Stop wasting time, build desalination plant

I am writing in regard to a Marin Voice commentary by Monty Schmitt of the Marin Municipal Water District board (“Water district board member lays out plan to build 3-year supply,” Jan. 17). He focused on creating a resolution, establishing a committee and informing the public. To me, it all just represents procrastination.

Residents are informed: Marin does not have a reliable water supply. We really do not need a resolution, what we need is a permanent water supply solution.

Not long after Schmitt’s commentary appeared, the water board dropped use penalties, but not other restrictions. Board members and some public attendees of the meeting raised concern about sending a mixed message on the need for continued conservation. It was mentioned that the days of washing my car are over.

Do we live in a desert community? There is a whole ocean on our coast, should we really stop washing our cars?

A desalination plant provides a permanent solution to any future water problems. A pipeline to another jurisdiction is not a solution since it is having a drought too. We don’t need more studies and reports. Marin was going to build a desalination plant 20 years ago. We could build such a plant and continue to wash our bodies and our cars. Just do it.

— Bernie Cookson, Mill Valley

Residents’ bold plan builds on legacy of social justice

Residents of public housing have historically suffered worse health outcomes due to mold and rodent infestations, poor indoor air quality and unsafe temperatures.

This is unfortunately also true for residents of Golden Gate Village under the management of the Marin Housing Authority. In the midst of Marin County’s affluence, these residents suffer higher levels of chronic illness and lower life expectancy.

The Golden Gate Village Resident Council’s “deep green” renovation plan will address these unhealthful conditions through the rehabilitation and decarbonization of these historic structures. Replacing outdated cooking and heating appliances will vastly improve indoor air quality. The rehabilitation will also address the chronic pest issues that have plagued Golden Gate Village for years.

In addition to improving community health, the council’s revitalization plan will reduce the comparative construction cost of the project. The council’s recent presentation to the housing board also demonstrated that it will significantly reduce water, gas, electric and other operating expenses. These operational savings will partially offset the construction costs over the life of the project.

Current conditions at Golden Gate Village are not legally or morally acceptable. Golden Gate Village residents deserve to live in conditions that protect their health and respect their dignity. The plan provides a path to accomplish both of these goals. Adopting it will strengthen a historic community and the legacy of civic engagement and social justice which built it.

While I am an elected member of the Marin Municipal Water District Board of Directors, this letter is an expression of my personal opinion and not that of the board or MMWD.

— Larry Bragman, Fairfax

Schools must do more to address diversity issues

I appreciate the well-written “How It Is” commentary recently published in the IJ (“A student’s plea for more diversity in Marin schools,” Jan. 25). I think the author, Redwood High School student Jasmine Estreba, could be on her way to becoming an excellent journalist, should she choose.

Estreba gave suggestions on how to improve the glaring lack of diversity in our local schools, while improving the students’ real-world education. Reading it made me think of the recent controversy in San Anselmo, in which the renaming of Sir Francis Drake High School was opposed by many in the community who saw it as largely symbolic.

The name change was pushed through and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. The money was gathered through fundraising and donations. Nevertheless, that money could have been better spent on some concrete actions to improve diversity at the school now known as Archie Williams High (a name I support). The money could have been used to hire key staff members, as suggested by Estreba.

I would be very interested to know what real-life steps are being taken at the school to address the racial and diversity issues that have long been experienced by people of color there.

— Dave Troup, San Anselmo

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The Takeaway: You don’t need to be an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) professional to install a ductless heating and cooling system. MrCool developed a DIY system where each component comes pre-charged with refrigerant, which is released once everything is connected, eliminating the need for technician to set up the unit. So, with minimal special tools, plus a little home repair or DIY experience, anyone can install one of these mini-split heating and cooling systems.

• Models available for 120 and 240 volts, from 12,000 to 36,000 BTUs
• One system provides both heat and air conditioning
• Ideal solution for shops, garages, studio spaces, or even sheds

Buy 12,000-BTU, 120-Volt System

The min-split system air handler mounts on a wall inside the home.

Courtesy

What is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

A traditional window, or portable, air conditioner has the compressor, fans, and controls combined in one unit. Split systems break the components into two parts: an indoor air handler and an outdoor compressor. This keeps you from having to set aside too much space inside your home for the equipment. A lineset connects the two components and carries refrigerant and communication cable. Typical central air systems are split systems. You’ll need a mini-split either when your home lacks existing ductwork to carry the cooled—or heated—air or when a specific, smaller area cannot be reached with the existing HVAC system, as may be the case with a detached garage or workshop.



The mini-split system compressor sits outside the home.

Courtesy

What is a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps can both heat and cool your home. In the winter, coils in the outdoor unit absorb heat in the air—however improbably that seems—and bring it into your home. In the summer, the system works in reverse. Coils in the air handler inside absorb heat and send it outside. Many heat pumps will work down to about 5 degrees Fahrenheit, at which point performance degrades and they become less efficient.

The MrCool DIY Mini-Split Heat Pump is Different

Traditionally, the lineset connecting split and mini-split systems is made of copper. The set has two lengths of tubing with special flared fittings that connect the indoor air handler with the outdoor compressor. Because the tubing is open on both ends, once it’s connected, a technician needs to use a vacuum pump to draw all the air out of the lines. Once the air is evacuated, they then have to fill and pressurize the lines with refrigerant, a gas that absorbs the heat or cold and moves it from one unit to the other.



The MrCool lineset comes pre-charged with refrigerant. This is made possible due to sealed fittings that automatically open once connected.

Bradley Ford

MrCool’s DIY lineset comes pre-charged with refrigerant and special sealed fittings on the ends. When you screw in and tighten the fittings, the sealed ends open, connecting the system and releasing the refrigerant. Because of this, the entire system is pressurized and charged once connected—no technician or special HVAC tools required.

Why I Chose the MrCool System

My family lives in an old farmhouse with outbuildings, specifically a summer kitchen. These structures were common in this area of eastern Pennsylvania more than a hundred years ago. In the hot summer months, cooking was done on the large hearth in that kitchen to help keep heat out of the house. Over the past few years, I’ve been working to rehab the space to make use of it as a studio and office. Originally, I was going to put in a propane forced-air furnace. However, working from home during the pandemic got me considering the need for a comfortable, year-round workspace—without having to resort to a/c units hanging out the windows and portable heaters.

Whenever I can, I do the work myself to keep costs down. The MrCool system was the simplest and least expensive way for me to install both heat and air conditioning, permanently. The only potential drawback of the system is that it works down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Below that, performance and efficiency will drop off. Since we have no plumbing in the structure, there’s no real danger of it getting too cold—plus, there is a fireplace we can use for supplemental heat if needed. At any rate, we only get a handful of days a year down around zero, so I’m not too concerned about it. This system made the most sense for me.

These systems make sense for a lot people, too. They’re great solutions for heating and cooling needs in specific areas without expanding existing HVAC systems or where no systems exist. While they’re especially useful in detached structures like mine or garages, sheds, and workshops, you can also employ them in older houses with rooms that are typically too hot or cold depending on the season.

Our summer kitchen is 320 square feet, plus a small loft area. I researched mini-splits for a while, and the MrCool 12,000-BTU, 120-volt model will heat/cool up to 500 square feet. So, since I already had a dedicated circuit run for the propane furnace, it made the decision easy. I ultimately purchased the MrCool DIY kit from an online retailer. The structure is insulated well, and during the first week I had the system running, the outside temperature averaged around 20 degrees. The MrCool doesn’t seem to be working very hard to keep it at 62 degrees inside.

Installation

The tools you’ll need to install the system are basic, for the most part. Many people will already have almost all of them. Here’s a list of the critical ones:

• Cordless drill, assorted bits
• 3.5-inch hole saw
• Impact driver, assorted bits
• Utility knife
• Two adjustable wrenches
• Level
• Phillips and flat screwdrivers
• Stud finder
• Pliers/wire cutters

Optional if installing the outdoor unit on a masonry wall:

• Rotary hammer drill
• 1/2-inch masonry drill bit

You’ll need an exterior disconnect box on a dedicated circuit for the mini-split system to connect to. The model I installed needed a 120-volt, 20-amp circuit. The disconnect box I used was a 60-amp, non-fused type (note that you can go to a higher amperage, but not a lower one). In a garage or workshop, you can often locate the unit close to the service or sub-panel and run wire in a conduit through the wall.



Electrical code requires an outdoor disconnect mounted near the mini-split to supply power to it.

Bradley Ford



The disconnect has a pull-out head that physically breaks the circuit so that anyone working on the unit can be certain that power is off to the mini-split, even if the circuit breaker is flipped on. 

Bradley Ford

You should check with local officials to see if permits are required and that your installation for the disconnect is up to code. And, if you’re unsure how to run the circuit, unfamiliar with electrical work, or have a long, complicated path to run the wire, you might consider hiring an electrician to install the disconnect.

MrCool Mini-Split Components

Installation of the MrCool system breaks down into the five basic steps I’ve outlined below. I chose to install the air handler on an interior wall, due to where I needed to situate the outdoor unit. This made installation a little more complicated. A typical installation would place the air handler on an exterior wall—I’ve noted the differences where appropriate.

Installing the Air Handler Inside

Installing the Compressor Outside

Connecting the Indoor and Outdoor Units

Connecting the Outdoor Unit to the Power Disconnect

Covering the Lineset

Starting Up



I put batteries in the remote, turned it on, set the thermostat, and it went right to work.

Bradley Ford

We’ve had the MrCool ductless heat pump running for almost two weeks now, and I’m very pleased with the purchase and the installation. Temperatures outside so far have been between 8 and 40 degrees, and the system has been maintaining a constant 62 degrees. The fan is remarkably quiet, so much so that I often walk over to the air handler to be sure it’s actually running.



12,000-BTU DIY Ductless Heat Pump Split System

MRCOOL
amazon.com

$1,408.27

• Truly DIY; no HVAC pro needed to install
• Efficient 22 SEER rating
• 25-foot lineset means you might have extra line coiled up outside

Bradley Ford
Test Editor
Brad Ford has spent most of his life using tools to fix, build, or make things.

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io

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Freshen indoor air with the Dyson Smart Purifier Humidify + Cool Formaldehyde. This sleek gadget purifies, humidifies, and fans your home’s air. That way, your interior always feels and smells fresh. In fact, its integrated sensors monitor the air continuously, detecting pollutants on a molecular level. This allows it to capture gases and tiny particles. It even destroys formaldehyde which can leach into the air from carpeting and wood floors. Impressively, this gadget has a solid-state sensor that detects formaldehyde molecules. Meanwhile, 99.9% of bacteria in the air get eliminated by UV light. What’s more, the Dyson Air Multiplier technology sends purified, humidified air throughout the room, keeping your airways healthy. What’s more, you can rely on the humidified air to keep you cool in warm weather. Finally, the hassle-free deep clean cycle, easy filter changes, and voice assistant compatibility make this air purifier convenient to own.

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Last year, lawmakers passed Act 74, which allocates $4.5 million to test for PCBs in every Vermont school constructed or renovated before 1980. The legislation gives the Department of Environmental Conservation the authority to require action when elevated levels of PCBs are found, but does not provide any money to fund that action.

The state expects to test between 300 to 400 schools as part of the first such initiative in the country.

Coppolino said testing will begin this spring and take more than two years to complete. Because of the size of the project, the state has contracted with six environmental consulting firms — five in Vermont and one in New Hampshire — to carry out the work. The state will prioritize testing schools with younger students and ones built during “the heyday of PCB use,” between the late 1950s and 1975, Coppolino said.

Consultants will first do an inventory of each school to determine all of the potential building materials that may contain PCBs. Before being banned by the EPA in 1979,  the chemicals were often contained in window caulk, tile adhesive and lighting ballasts.

Coppolino estimates that around 30 percent of rooms in each school will be sampled, depending on what the inventory finds. A pump with a filter must run for 24 hours in each room being tested, Coppolino said, though students can be in school when the testing is underway. Based on the findings, the consultant will provide a report to each school with next steps.

It’s unclear what the new guidance means for Burlington High School. Since last March, students have been learning in a temporary downtown high school, the site of a former Macy’s department store. District officials have decided to forgo $70 million in renovations and instead want to build a new high school.

Despite New PCB Guidance, Burlington Still Needs New High School, Superintendent Says

Despite New PCB Guidance, Burlington Still Needs New High School, Superintendent Says

By Alison Novak

Off Message

Planning is currently underway, and the district is expected to put a bond for the project to voters in November. School officials have defended the decision to build anew, saying PCBs are widespread in building materials as well as the air, and that the district is in dire need of a fresh start.

“It’s hard to look back and see what could have been done differently [in Burlington] if we [had] current practices in place,” Coppolino said.

She said the DEC and Burlington school administrators recently discussed whether the new guidance would allow the reopening of administrative offices in the high school’s Building A. The school district has not asked about using other parts of the building, Coppolino said, but if it did, she said the DEC would work with them to see what was possible.

As for other schools in Vermont, Coppolino said it’s unclear how widespread PCB contamination might be. The only data the state has on PCBs in schools is testing results from Burlington High School and a 2013 pilot study in which four schools in the state were tested for the airborne chemicals. None of those schools showed alarming PCB levels.

One source of potential concern is old fluorescent light ballasts, a common source of PCBs. Lighting ballasts were the main source of widespread PCB contamination at Sky Valley Education Center in Monroe, Wash., where a jury recently awarded $247 million to students, parents and teachers who suffered severe health effects from exposure to the chemicals.

In the mid-1990s, Vermont conducted a light ballast changeout program that many schools participated in, Coppolino said, but there are still some school buildings with old light ballasts. Furthermore, some schools may have taken out fluorescent lights, but not the capacitors in the light fixtures, which are actually the source of PCBs, Coppolino said.

“I don’t know,” Coppolino said when asked what the upcoming testing might find. “I hate to say one way or another what might happen.”

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Installing central air conditioning costs anywhere from about $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the unit you purchase and its features. Adding, replacing, or modifying ductwork increases the price, as can combining the AC unit with a smart thermostat or other HVAC equipment.

Despite the upfront installation costs, over time you can save money by replacing your existing unit with a more efficient air conditioner (or a heat pump that functions as an air conditioner in the summer). Read on to learn about other ways to reduce your HVAC costs. For more on HVAC systems in general, see our guide What is HVAC and How Does it Work? And if you’re shopping for a central air conditioner, check out our rating of the Best HVAC Companies of 2022.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Central Air Installation

Central air conditioner prices vary widely based on many factors, including equipment, system design, ductwork, the HVAC contractor, and project difficulty.

Equipment

The actual AC unit will obviously influence the price you pay for central air. Some brands like Carrier will be more expensive than lower-priced brands like Coleman. In addition, more efficient AC units and heat pumps with higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings will cost more, as will a variable-capacity or two-stage AC unit that can operate at more than one speed. However, over time, more efficient units can make up their initial cost in reduced monthly energy bills.

System Design

Another factor is the actual system you use. For example, an air conditioning unit will typically cost more than a heat pump, which can’t handle extremely hot weather. A mini-split system will cost substantially less than both since it is only meant to cool a small space within the home.

Ductwork 

Ducts move the air through your home. If your home doesn’t have ductwork already, adding it greatly increases the cost of central air, especially in larger homes. Depending on the unit you purchase, you may need to add to or replace existing ductwork.

HVAC Contractor

The contractor you hire can also impact what you pay. The contractor sets the installation fee and marks up (or down) the unit you want to purchase. Some also charge for a preinstallation evaluation, although many provide this for free. For the best prices, get at least three estimates before deciding on a contractor.

Project Difficulty

Contractors charge more to install equipment in hard-to-access spaces. For example, Carrier notes that it will cost more to install a mini-split system in the ceiling than to install one high on a wall. Another consideration is whether the contractor is replacing existing equipment or installing new equipment that needs holes drilled and other prep work completed.

Central air conditioner prices vary widely based on many factors, including equipment, system design, ductwork, the HVAC contractor, and project difficulty.

What to Look for in a Central Air Conditioning System

Cost shouldn’t be the only consideration when it comes to central air. Before taking prices into account, determine your actual cooling needs. Are you trying to cool your whole house or just a room? Do you have space for ductwork in your attic and walls? Do you need heating as well as cooling? The answers to these questions can determine which central air system is best for you.

If you only need to cool a small space, a ducted or ductless mini-split can work well. These systems cost less than a whole-house system and need little or no ductwork. If you want to cool your entire house, York and Lennox explain that a split or forced-air system is probably the better option. This option situates the air conditioner or heat pump outside your home and uses a mechanical blower inside the air handler to force the air throughout the house.

In some climates, hybrid heat pump systems, which include both a heat pump and a furnace, may work better. Hybrid heat pump systems rely on the heat pump to supply heat until temperatures near freezing. At that point, the furnace kicks in. These systems can save considerable money on your monthly bill because it costs less to run a heat pump at temperatures above 35 degrees Fahrenheit than it does a gas furnace.

Packaged systems offer another alternative. These combine cooling and heating capabilities outside of your home and work best for homes where there isn’t enough room inside for heating equipment.

The best solution for your home depends on everything from the size of your home to how many windows and how much shade you have. For the best assessment of your needs, contact a local HVAC contractor for an in-home evaluation. An estimator or technician will take measurements, check existing ductwork and other systems, and determine the right size tonnage based on your home’s size and the climate.

When to Replace Your Central Air Conditioning System

Sometimes it makes more sense to replace your existing central air conditioning system than repair it. Consult with your HVAC technician and consider these factors when deciding whether to repair or replace your AC unit.

Age: Even if your older unit seems to be working well, it can be up to 50% less efficient than newer models and may use R-22 refrigerant, which the government is phasing out in favor of R410a because it’s more efficient and doesn’t deplete the ozone layer. In addition to being less efficient, older units also require more repairs.

Energy efficiency: Regardless of age, you may want to replace your unit to save money on your monthly energy bill. SEER ratings measure how efficient an air conditioning unit is, with high-efficiency units earning a SEER rating of 20 or more. Consider replacing your unit if it falls at the other end of the scale with a SEER rating of 13-15.

Repair costs: According to Trane and Amana, if the repair cost multiplied by the age of the unit is more than $5,000, it usually makes more sense to install a new unit. Usually you can make up the difference with greater energy efficiency and reduced repair costs.

Your cooling needs: If your current central air conditioning unit doesn’t keep your home comfortably cool, it may be time to shop for a new one along with additional HVAC equipment, such as a smart thermostat, air purifier, or whole-house humidifier.

The best solution for your home depends on everything from the size of your home to how many windows and how much shade you have.

What to Look for in a Central Air Conditioning Installer

A central air conditioner’s performance greatly depends on the quality of the installation. That’s why it’s crucial to find a quality central air conditioning installer and not rely only on installation cost alone. When searching for an installer, look for the following.

Licensing 

Anyone that works on your central air conditioner should currently be licensed at the state and/or local level. Depending on where you live, the requirements for licensure may include a certain number of years’ experience, passing a trade exam, or education from an accredited school.

NATE Certification 

Obtaining North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification requires additional training on proper installation and maintenance techniques and tests real-world knowledge of HVAC systems, according to the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society. NATE certification is the highest certification you can achieve in the HVAC industry.

Insurance

You want the HVAC contractor who works on your home to be insured. This protects the company if they damage your property and you if they get hurt installing your air conditioning unit.

Factory Authorization

To become a factory-authorized dealer, contractors must be licensed and insured and hire NATE-certified technicians. Some companies like Carrier also require dealers to a solid business to ensure they will be around to service your equipment over the long term. Factory-authorized contractors’ technicians undergo regular training on the brand’s equipment and how best to maintain it.

Good Reviews

Reviews on Angie’s List and Yelp can provide insight into how the company operates and its level of service. You also might want to check the contractor’s Better Business Bureau ratings.

Experience and Responsiveness

Go with a company that has a long history in your area, not a startup that might fold and be unable to service your equipment in the future. And if you can’t get someone on the phone when you want to make a major purchase, think how difficult it might be to book an appointment when your AC unit fails in July.

In-home Estimates 

Avoid companies that give you estimates over the phone or by email based on your home’s square footage and existing equipment. An HVAC contractor can’t possibly give you an accurate quote without taking in-home measurements and inspecting your current equipment.

Tips for Saving Money on Central Air Conditioning Installation

Installing a new central air conditioner can be one of the most expensive purchases you make as a homeowner. However, manufacturer’s rebates, tax credits, and strategies like getting quotes from several contractors can lower your final cost.

The Least and Most Expensive Times to Install Central Air

The least expensive time of year to install central air is during the spring and fall when temperatures are milder and AC is less critical. Many contractors offer promotions during these seasons, according to Walter Bennett with Green Leaf Air. If you don’t see advertised promotions, ask for an off-season discount. Many companies will also sell their AC units at a discounted rate to contractors during the off season, allowing them to pass the savings on to you.

How to Get the Best Price on Central Air Installation

Central air conditioner prices can vary widely because of installation fees, taxes, and your home’s cooling needs. For this reason, companies like Goodman and Trane won’t list price estimates for their equipment online. That’s why it’s so important to get quotes from at least three different HVAC contractors in your area. This will help ensure you get the best price on the total cost of your system. It also will help ensure you get the right system for your house, since some contractors may try to upsell you on a high-end unit you don’t need.

Installing a new central air conditioner can be one of the most expensive purchases you make as a homeowner. However, you can save money if you buy smart.

Avoid purchasing a unit online from a third-party retailer because you’ll need to find someone to install it. This isn’t a do-it-yourself project, and an installation that isn’t performed by a qualified HVAC contractor (which probably doesn’t include your neighborhood handyman) may void the warranty. Plus, most contractors won’t install a unit they didn’t sell because they can’t guarantee that it works correctly.

How to Get Rebates and Tax Credits on Equipment 

Several rebate and tax credit programs can help lower the price of new air conditioning equipment. Rebates – which are usually only offered on higher-end, higher-efficiency units – can take the form of instant discounts, cash-back offers, financing incentives, or lower interest rates. You can learn about manufacturer rebates by visiting the manufacturer’s website or talking to your local HVAC dealer.

Local utility companies also offer rebates on higher-efficiency units. For air conditioners, these will typically be mail-in rebates or bill credit. You also may be able to get instant discounts if you purchase specified equipment from a particular vendor. You can learn about local utility company rebates directly from the utility company, the manufacturer’s website, or your HVAC dealer. Finally, you can search for rebates from local energy companies at Energstar.gov.

How to Finance Central Air Installation

You have quite a few options when it comes to financing HVAC installation costs. For example, you can use a home equity loan – often referred to as a second mortgage – to purchase a new central air or HVAC system.

Another option is a home equity line of credit. This option allows you to withdraw up to a set amount during a specified period, which is typically 10 years. You can make interest-only payments or a combination of interest and principal payments. As you pay down what you owe, that amount becomes available to you again.

You can also pay installment costs with a personal loan. Compared to the weeks it can take to get a home equity line of credit, a personal loan may only take a few days, something to consider if your current unit fails. However, personal loans are often for smaller amounts and often have higher interest rates than their home equity counterparts.

You have quite a few options when it comes to financing HVAC installation costs.

While you may be able to purchase a central air system using a credit card, you also have the option of financing through the manufacturer. Most manufacturer websites have pages dedicated to financing options. Additionally, some manufacturers have special programs for those who can’t qualify for traditional credit. For example, Carrier has a lease-to-own program.

How to Save Money While Operating Your AC Unit

Once you install a new air conditioner, you can take steps to ensure it runs efficiently, using the least amount of energy necessary. When your unit uses less energy, you save money.

Maintain a Constant temperature

Avoid making major temperature changes or turning your air conditioner off, only to turn it back on when the heat becomes unbearable. Most AC units run best when they run within a controlled temperature range, says Perry Knight, who worked as an HVAC technician for 13 years. He suggests investing in a smart thermostat for the optimal efficiency.

Change Your Air Conditioner Filters

Clogged, dirty filters reduce your airflow, making it harder for your air conditioning system to to cool your home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Additionally, when air can’t flow through the filter, dirt can collect in the evaporator coil and limit its ability to absorb heat. Changing your filters at least twice a year and up to once a month, depending on how dry and dusty it is where you live, can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5-15%. 

Inspect Your Ducts

Contaminants can build up inside the air handler and ducts, reducing air flow. As a result, your AC unit will have to work harder. That not only increases your energy costs but contributes to the wear and tear on the system, according to Rick Bohdel with Ductz. It also reduces indoor air quality because not as much fresh air is circulating in the home. He recommends hiring an HVAC specialist to assess your ducts every two years or after any fire or water damage in your home.

Schedule Regular Maintenance 

In the spring, hire an HVAC technician to provide preventative maintenance. This should include checking for refrigerant leaks, measuring airflow through the evaporator coil, inspecting belts for wear, and confirming the accuracy of the thermostat. By detecting issues before they become a problem, your unit will run more efficiently, and you can avoid costly repairs.

Inspect Equipment for Air Flow 

Bodhel says one easy way to keep costs down is to make sure nothing is impeding air flow. Outside, make sure the condenser unit is clear of any debris, such as grass clippings and leaves, and trim back any overgrown shrubs that could create a blockage. Inside, make sure curtains and other elements don’t cover registers, and look inside the registers you can reach to ensure nothing is obstructing air flow.

Keep Your Dryer Vent Clean

A blockage in your dryer vent or lint trap can force your dryer to run longer than normal and unnecessarily heat your house. In turn, your air conditioner will work harder and cost you extra money. You can avoid this scenario – and reduce your risk of a house fire – by cleaning out your dryer vent once a year.

Best HVAC Companies of 2022

Other Ratings From 360 Reviews

Why You Can Trust Us: 17 HVAC Companies Researched

At U.S. News & World Report, we rank the Best Hospitals, Best Colleges, and Best Cars to guide readers through some of life’s most complicated decisions. Our 360 Reviews team draws on this same unbiased approach to rate the products that you use every day. To build our ratings, we researched more than 17 HVAC companies and analyzed 9 reviews. Our 360 Reviews team does not take samples, gifts, or loans of products or services we review. All sample products provided for review are donated after review. In addition, we maintain a separate business team that has no influence over our methodology or recommendations.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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This February marks UC San Diego’s 20th annual Black History Month celebration. Throughout the month, we recognize the important contributions of our Black students, staff and faculty and invite the entire campus community to join in a series of events that center on the theme of “Black Health and Wellness: UC San Diego Honors Medical Pioneers and Community Healers.” Festivities range from film screenings and music performances to exhibits and lectures.

Here, we highlight and thank UC San Diego community members who are making a difference in the health and wellness of others through their work. They are caring mental health professionals who help others to grow in their wisdom and identity and navigate challenges that may arise. They are advancing science and medicine by unlocking the human virome—collections of viruses in the body—and studying the nearly invisible patterns of aerosols to better understand airborne viruses. And they are addressing gaps in health care by exploring how low-income communities strategically meet their health care needs through informal networks.

“During Black History Month we intentionally celebrate and center the beauty and brilliance of all things Black,” shared Porsia Curry, director of the Black Resource Center. “I am thrilled that as we focus on the theme of Black Health and Wellness, we take the time as a campus to recognize and thank the heroes in our UC San Diego community who have guided, supported, and quite literally saved us all. Know that your work and commitment do not go unnoticed. We sincerely thank you and appreciate you for all you do!”

You are loved

For two decades, Cathy (Cat) Thompson, Ph.D., has helped students navigate and become grounded in their identity at Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS). During her tenure, she served as a liaison to the Campus Community Centers, providing tailored psychological services to underrepresented groups. And just a few weeks ago, she began a new role as a counselor with the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) where she will help campus faculty and staff balance their personal and professional lives.

Thompson shares her pathway to a career in mental health and the importance of finding connection in uncertain times:

“I was inspired to get into the field of psychology as an undergraduate student at UC San Diego. I had come in as pre-med, but me and chemistry didn’t get along and I realized that I didn’t really like the sight of blood or the thought of working on a cadaver. I really wanted to be in a position to help people learn to love themselves and appreciate their strengths and their value. I was naturally open-minded and non-judgmental and had once been helped by a counselor, so I thought that becoming a psychologist could be an option. I started taking psychology classes and really enjoyed them. I could still become a doctor as I’d been planning since age eight, I would just be a different kind of doctor—Ph.D. rather than M.D.!

“More people are talking about the importance of self-care and connection in the context of the pandemic and all of the socio-political upheaval we have been experiencing. Finding ways to connect with each other and validate the feelings we are experiencing is so important. There has been an increased sense of anxiety and uncertainty that often goes unrecognized. It takes a silent toll and folks think it is just them, but we have all been experiencing it in one way or another. Naming it and recognizing it is crucial in helping us to stop personalizing a sense of inadequacy or lack of productivity. We are doing so much just to maintain and need to acknowledge that.”

Friend or foe? Unlocking the human virome

David Pride, MD, PhD, is an associate professor of pathology at UC San Diego School of Medicine and director of the Clinical Molecular Microbiology Laboratory at UC San Diego Health. As an infectious disease specialist, Pride runs a research laboratory that specializes in viruses and has been in a leader in the university’s development of testing strategies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a recent Q&A in Discoveries Magazine, Pride shares more about the human virome and the wily nature of bacteria that can protect or infect:

“Regardless of whether we are healthy or sick, we’ve all got viromes, which essentially are just collections of viruses that inhabit the human body. Many of these viruses infect the many bacteria that also live in the human body, and thus, we probably need to think about ourselves slightly differently than we probably do. That is, that we are collections of microbes that vastly outnumber our own cells, and that our bodies are fertile hunting grounds for viruses to attack their bacterial hosts. All of this goes on pretty much every second of every day, and we have very little insight into the fact that this is happening.

“A key feature of bacteria is that they continually evolve to solve the problems that they are faced with, such as antibiotics. This is exactly what we are observing in the current virus pandemic. We responded by rapidly developing vaccines that had the potential to significantly reduce, if not eradicate, SARS-CoV-2. Instead of simply going away, the virus has evolved specific means to respond to what we have done. The virus has chosen to infect largely those who are unvaccinated and has even mutated to become clever enough to infect some who are vaccinated. This persistence despite our best efforts is real-time proof that this virus will continue to try to respond to what we do to eliminate it.”

Take off your superhero cape

Danielle Simien believes it takes community to heal community. She joined Counseling & Psychological Counseling (CAPS) in Oct. 2021, one of three new hires dedicated to providing culturally responsive mental health services. Simien also serves as a liaison to the Black Resource Center, where she has already begun to hold regular healing circles and a biweekly drop-in group called Black Connections.

Simien shares what she enjoys most about working with students, and how vulnerability can lead to healing:

“As a social worker, I enter people’s lives at their most vulnerable time; it is both an honor and a privilege. I love working with college students because they are just entering adulthood, and for some they are exploring their identity for the first time. It is a prime time for change, and this exploration can really impact their trajectory later. I believe every person I work with has the wisdom, knowledge and capacity to heal. Together we are a mental health team working to improve well-being. I encourage students to share tools and learnings with friends and family after—to become social change agents!

“People are starting to realize how important mental health is, especially during the pandemic when there are less distractions available. Often emotional wellness involves vulnerability, which in some cultures is discouraged or deemed unsafe due to historical and current trauma. For instance, in the Black community we are taught to be strong, to not show emotion, and to push through adversity without tending to our mental health needs. These strategies were necessary for previous generations to survive. We face these cultural and societal pressures all the time and need to feel safe before becoming vulnerable. That’s why the Black Resource Center is so important, it is a safe space for Black students, staff and faculty to take off their superhero cape, acknowledge their humanity and heal.”

Health care off the books

Assistant Professor of Sociology Danielle Raudenbush, Ph.D., centers her research on questions that are fundamental for understanding the health and well-being of minorities and low-income people in the U.S. Her recent book, titled Health Care Off the Books: Poverty, Illness, and Strategies for Survival in Urban America, examines the health care practices of the urban poor.

Raudenbush explains how she was first drawn to the research that informed the book, and what she discovered in the community she visited:

“On my first visit to Jackson Homes, I had no intention of researching the health care experiences of its residents. I was there, instead, as an instructor whose task was to teach a group of students how to conduct qualitative interviews. On that visit, I met two women who were employed at a local community organization that provides services to Jackson Homes residents. In passing, these women mentioned that many residents of the community had significant difficulty getting health care. They also mentioned that some residents had developed what sounded like creative strategies for treating their health problems.

“Over the course of the next three and half years, from 2010 to 2013, I spent many days and evenings at Jackson Homes. I found that people who face obstacles to care gain access to health-related resources through their social ties, meaning connections to other individuals. Some, for instance, get health-related resources from friends, family or street entrepreneurs because they do not trust their doctors or the health care system. Others do this in an attempt to exercise control over their health and health care. And still others use such strategies because it is at times easier or more convenient than going through the formal health care system.”

Tracking tiny climate change culprits

Ke’La Kimble works with the invisible world around us. As a doctoral student in chemistry, she is modifying existing aerosol sampling instruments to enable online detection of airborne viruses with a goal of better understanding how viruses travel in the air. Kimble is a member of Distinguished Professor Kimberly Prather’s atmospheric chemistry laboratory at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and recently received a Graduate Research Fellowship Program award from the National Science Foundation.

Kimble explains the impact of her research and her vision for launching an environmental justice center in her hometown:

“I work with aerosol time-of-flight mass spectrometers, an analytical instrument that uses lasers to size and then ‘break up’ particles so we can study their composition. Studying virus-laden aerosols would give us the chance to observe their behavior, size abundance and reactivity at much faster rates than possible now. The ability to detect viruses in the air in a matter of seconds to minutes could not only improve testing rates, but also serve as guides for social distancing and indoor air filtration methods to slow the spread of a new virus before reaching pandemic levels.

“I have a passion for both the environment and my community, which has always motivated my desire to end the environmental injustice in my hometown and surrounding areas of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I envision launching a research center that that will innovate new ways to reduce the pollution from petrochemical plants and other industrial facilities. In addition to research, the center would have an educational outreach component that would work with schools and nearby communities to teach about the environment, climate, STEM careers and more.”

Join in Black History Month

Feb. 1-28: Black Health and Wellness Exhibit

Feb. 10: AAASRC Panel on the Body and Performance in Africa & the African Diaspora

Feb. 17: Ideology and Social Policy of South Africa by Dr. Brittany Birberick

Feb. 23: ArtPower Presents Makaya McCraven

Feb. 24: Afro-Caribbean Dance and Drumming Workshop with Gene Perry

Feb. 25: 20th Anniversary Black History Month Celebration & Scholarship Awards: This virtual celebration will feature a keynote talk by School of Medicine alumnus Rodney Hood, MD, musical entertainment and recognition of Black student scholars at UC San Diego.

See more events and register on the Black History Month 2022 website.

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MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — Older Vermont schools are going to be tested starting this spring for the presence of a harmful group of chemicals commonly used in building materials and electrical equipment before 1980, state officials said.

If levels of polychlorinated biphenyls or PCBs are detected at or above school action levels, the schools will be required to reduce potential exposure, the state said Wednesday.

Numerous studies in both animals and humans have shown that exposure to PCBs can affect the nervous, immune, reproductive and endocrine systems.

“The effects of PCB exposure may not be immediate, but they can be serious,” Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine said in a statement. “This statewide program will inform the actions needed to protect the health of our children and the health of the teachers and staff in our schools.”

The PCB testing program is part of a law passed by the Legislature last year. It requires every school constructed or renovated before 1980 to test their indoor air for PCBs by July 1, 2024.

The legislation gives the Department of Environmental Conservation authority to require action when PCBs are found at or above school action levels, officials said.

Once testing is underway, schools will be notified of the results, which will be posted online.

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Substandard indoor air quality (IAQ) can cause both immediate and long-term adverse effects on health. Accurately monitoring air quality enables you to take action to reduce health problems caused by poor IAQ.

Poor IAQ causes immediate symptoms such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, although these effects are usually short-term and easily treatable. The only treatment needed is often to simply reduce exposure to the source of pollution.  However, some serious health problems, such as respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancers can occur years after exposure, so it is crucial to attempt to improve indoor air quality, even when nobody seems to be experiencing any health issues.

To improve IAQ, you initially need to measure the quality of the air that you breathe indoors. The Honeywell Air Quality Monitor (HAQ), sold in the UK by Solent Gas Consultants, offers a reliable way to find out what is in the air you breathe. This user-friendly and compact instrument accurately measures the air around you for the most common pollutants and allergens, including carbon dioxide, particulate matter (PM2.5), formaldehyde, and total volatile organic compounds, as well as temperature and humidity. 

When operated with the connected mobile phone app, end-users can use it to check ambient air quality around the clock from anywhere, and respond decisively to protect people in the contaminated area of the building being monitored.

The instrument’s “Intelligence Quotient percentage” (IQ%) displays, in real time, how air quality impacts people’s cognitive abilities. The IQ% app screen will tell the operator how well people can function in their current environment. The tracking screens enables operators to track results over time, allowing them to make any necessary changes.

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