Are you finding your Phoenix home just doesn’t feel comfortable temperature-wise in the winter? Is your family constantly complaining about being too cold? If this sounds familiar, you might not be using your system effectively. If you’ve noticed the words “aux heat” on your digital thermostat, this might help with your thermostat settings. This heat pump feature stands for auxiliary heat.

The reason your thermostat has aux heat is that it indicates when gas or electric power has been triggered to help your heat pump reach a warm enough temperature when the weather outside is extremely cold. Unlike emergency heat settings, which are run if your heat pump breaks, aux heat only kicks in when your heat pump can’t reach targeted settings and then turns off once the temperature is comfortable. It keeps your entire system running more efficiently while compensating when the heat pump just can’t provide enough heat quickly.

So, what is aux heat on my thermostat and how do I use it?

Why Your Thermostat Shows Aux Heat

As mentioned above, your aux heat indicator turns on when your heat pump can’t reach the ideal temperature setting. Aux heat offers some help for your heat pump. While it comes from the same source as emergency heat, it actually is designed to support your heat pump to become more efficient as opposed to taking over completely. So it doesn’t cost as much to run as your emergency heat.

How Does the Aux Heat Work?

Basically, when your heat pump detects it can’t heat up to reach the ideal temperature, it automatically energizes the aux “heat strip”. The heat strip is located inside your secondary heating source and helps your system reach warmer temperatures quickly. It’s like a boost to your heat pump.

How Does It Know When to Kick In?

The need for that boost of auxiliary heat is determined by your thermostat. Your thermostat monitors any drop in temperature inside your home, and typically when it drops below your set temperature by 1.5-2 degrees, your thermostat knows it’s time for your auxiliary heat to kick in. You know your aux heat is on when the aux heat indicator is on. Once your home reaches the ideal temperature, it will turn off the aux heat.

How Do I Set My Thermostat to React in Cold Temperatures?

If you aren’t sure if everything is set and working to keep your home comfortable in cold temperatures, you aren’t alone. Many people are unaware they even have an aux indicator. However, the first thing to know is that air exchange and geothermal heat pumps don’t remain efficient when the temperatures outside see extreme drops. Heat pumps often can’t work as hard as they should to counteract that outdoor cold and often struggle to maintain ideal temperatures once they reach the temperature setting.

When this happens, you might be wasting money because your aux heat keeps having to run. So, to keep your heat running efficiently, you should use these heat pump thermostat tips:

• Tip #1: Set temperatures higher in two-degree increments: While dropping temperatures might make it tempting to turn on your emergency heat setting, never do this. As mentioned, your emergency heat is designed for use in emergencies when your heat pump breaks. Instead, rely on your aux heat to work with your secondary heat source and your home’s heat pump to reach the right temperature. When you set your thermostat two degrees higher, you automatically trigger the aux heat. You reach your target heat quickly, and then it turns off, so you don’t waste more energy.
• Tip #2: Watch the indicator to make sure it doesn’t turn on for outdoor temperatures higher than 40 degrees: If you notice your aux heat indicator is on even when temperatures outside aren’t so cold, it isn’t working properly. This wastes energy and requires the attention of a professional heat pump expert.

While your aux heat provides added comfort for your home in the cold of winter, whenever you find your home is constantly too hot or too cold, there is something not working with your heating system. In this case, you really should reach out to your local heating and cooling experts to have them come in and find out if you need repairs or even a system replacement.

Find Long-Term Solutions

This is where we come in. As your Phoenix home comfort experts, we can ensure your home remains comfortable all year round. We can help reduce energy waste and keep everyone happy. Give us a call at Ideal Energy today!

You might not need your gas furnace for most of the year in the Phoenix area, but it can get chilly in the evenings and at night from November to March, and that’s when you’ll be looking for your heating system to deliver reliable warm air to heat your home.

If your home has a heat pump, cold air momentarily coming out of your vents when your system starts up isn’t a cause for alarm—it’s part of normal heat pump operation. But if your furnace isn’t blowing hot air or heating, you likely have an HVAC problem on your hand. Here’s what could be going on if your furnace isn’t heating, along with three DIY solutions to help you avoid emergency furnace repair for your Phoenix, Chandler, Scottsdale, Tempe, or Mesa home.

1. Your Furnace Thermostat Is Set Incorrectly

Some programmable thermostats can be a little confusing to read—if the fan on your thermostat is set to “ON,” that means everything’s good, right? Actually, the “ON” setting means that only your fan is running, and not the furnace itself. “AUTO” is the correct setting—that means the fan will only run when the furnace is on. If your furnace won’t turn off and is blowing cold air, the first place you should check is your thermostat—it’s an easy fix!

2. Your Pilot Light Has Gone Out

While newer models have electronic ignition systems, older furnace models used a standing pilot light—a small flame that never goes out—to start the gas burner when your furnace turned on. If your vents are blowing cold air when the heat is on, it could be because your pilot light has blown out and your furnace won’t ignite. We generally don’t see many furnaces here in the Phoenix metropolitan area that use pilot lights, but in the rare instance you have this – keep reading!

It isn’t difficult to relight a pilot light—often a furnace will have step-by-step instructions on the side of the unit. But if your pilot light isn’t staying lit, you could be dealing with:

• A faulty thermocouple
• A pilot orifice that’s covered with dirt and debris
• Not enough gas to keep the flame lit

If your pilot light goes out once or twice but you’re able to relight it, it could have just been a draft. But if it repeatedly goes out, and your furnace is blowing cold air constantly, it’s probably time to call for professional HVAC assistance.

3. Your Air Filters Are Dirty

Your furnace filters help trap dust, dirt, pet dander, mold spores, and other unwanted particles from circulating in your indoor air and from gumming up your furnace. But they need to be changed regularly—if they’re left for too long, they’ll collect enough particulate matter that it will eventually start to restrict airflow in your forced air system.

When that happens, your furnace’s heat exchanger is in danger of overheating, and as a safety precaution, a limit switch will be triggered and the furnace burners will automatically turn off to avoid a cracked heat exchanger (which is a costly problem to fix). Air filters can be inspected and replaced in seconds—so if you have cold air coming through the vents when your furnace is on, make sure you don’t need new air filters.

When Should You Call an HVAC Company for Furnace Help?

So you’ve gone through each of the steps above—checking the thermostat, your pilot light, and air filters—and your furnace is blowing cool air still. Now’s the time to reach out to a local heating company near you for heating repair that will fix the problem. At Ideal Energy, our trained and certified HVAC technicians service all makes and models, and our top priority is identifying the issue quickly and finding a long-lasting solution, not band-aid fixes that will have you on the phone looking for help again in a few weeks.

We know how frustrating it can be to reach out to an HVAC company only to have them spend the entire service call trying to upsell you on an expensive new unit that you don’t think you need. That’s why the Ideal Energy team treats your HVAC system as if it were our own—and whether it’s a simple furnace repair or we actually believe your best solution is furnace replacement, we’ll explain our reasoning and work within your budget to find the best heating solution for your Arizona home.

Cold air coming from your vents when the heat is on? Call 480-839-0082 or contact us today for expert furnace advice and repair from Ideal Energy.

Reliable heating for your metro Phoenix area home is essential to getting through the chilly months of the year in Arizona. The traditional heating system that many homes have is a gas furnace, but if your system is getting old or has been breaking down a lot recently, or if your energy bills have been on the rise, you may be looking to upgrade and wondering if there are better HVAC replacement options available.

What’s the best heating system for Arizona homes? Today we’ll explore some of the differences between gas furnaces and heat pumps to help you decide.

How Do Heat Pumps and Furnaces Work?

The first thing we need to understand is how the two systems are different.

Gas furnaces are combustion heating systems—burning natural gas heats air that’s circulated via your ductwork throughout your house. Air source heat pumps are different. First, they run entirely on electricity. Second, they don’t create heat like furnaces do, they simply move it from one place to another. Third, heat pumps have both heating and cooling settings, so you can use them in the winter to keep your home warm, and then turn them to the cooling setting to keep you cool as the outdoor temperatures rise.

Now that we understand how each system operates, let’s look into the pros and cons of each system.

Advantages of a Gas Furnace in Your Arizona Home

Gas furnaces offer a few benefits over heat pumps that make them attractive options for Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa, or Tempe homeowners.

• Less expensive installation costs
• Longer lifespan (if properly maintained)
• Hotter air temperatures

Furnaces are often more affordable than heat pumps, in part because they only have one mode—heating—and not two like most heat pumps. Because you’ll only be using them for a few months every year, they’ll also likely have a longer lifespan than a heat pump, which you’ll be using year-round to keep your home comfortable.

Furnaces are also able to generate hotter air than heat pumps (usually about 20 degrees warmer). This decreases efficiency but can be important for homeowners with particular comfort preferences.

Advantages of a Heat Pump in Your Arizona Home

Heat pumps are often less familiar to Arizona homeowners, as they’re newer HVAC technology for residential buildings. But there are many reasons why you might want to use heat pumps in your home.

• Can be used for heating and cooling
• Saves money (uses less energy than furnaces)
• Electric operation (no fossil fuels or CO risk)

The two biggest advantages of heat pumps are that, since they can both heat and cool, you can replace your furnace and air conditioner, and because they’re more energy efficient, you’ll save money keeping your home comfortable. As SRP notes, heat pumps can save 30% on heating costs compared to a gas furnace. Their all-electric operation makes them handy if you don’t have natural gas line access, or if your home has solar panels (free energy for heating and cooling!), or if you’re simply interested in reducing your home’s fossil fuel consumption.

What Are the Different Kinds of Heat Pumps?

Not all heat pumps are the same, of course. Air source heat pumps (heat pumps that move heat found in the air, as opposed to the ground source heat pumps, like geothermal) for homes are split up into two different main groups: ducted heat pumps and mini-splits.

Ducted heat pumps connect to your central ductwork system and deliver conditioned air through your HVAC vents. Most mini-splits, on the other hand, are ductless, and the indoor air handler component is installed right in the room or area you want to keep conditioned. Mini-splits offer lots of flexibility—you can install them throughout your home to create different comfort zones, or they can be used side-by-side with a central air system to make rooms without duct access, like additions, sunrooms, or garages, more comfortable.

Find the Right Heating System for Your Home with Ideal Energy

As you can see, choosing between heating systems for your Phoenix home depends on many different factors, like the size of your home, your budget, the condition of your AC, and your family’s comfort needs.

At Ideal Energy, our team of heating and cooling experts can walk you through each of the options available to help you find the best system for your home and ensure that you don’t overlook any important considerations you’ll later regret. No matter what type of system you choose, we’ll work hard to make sure you end up with a comfortable home that’s affordable to heat, with a system that is correctly sized and installed for years and years of reliable operation.

Need help upgrading your Arizona home’s heating system? Call 480-839-0082 or contact us today for expert HVAC advice.

How do you know when it’s time to replace your AC system or just repair it?

Most air conditioning systems in the Phoenix, Arizona area start to have issues and AC breakdowns at around the 10 to 15 year mark. Sometimes you can get away with a simple and low cost air conditioning repair and fix, but generally, once the breakdowns start to happen, they usually don’t stop on older AC equipment. That’s why replacing your AC system before your air conditioning unit stops cooling in the middle of a hot Arizona summer weekend or Holiday is likely in your best interest. If you have an older system and an ac repair costs more than $500, we recommend seriously considering replacing the AC unit because you start to risk being one of those people who start to dump $500-$1500 every summer in trying to keep your air conditioning system operational.

Sure, you might get lucky and be one off those homeowners that have an AC system that works for 20 years or more, but think of how inefficient it will be to operate! The older an air conditioning system or heat pump is, the more it loses its SEER (or energy efficiency) rating. Besides, newer HVAC systems, especially those with inverter driven technology such as variable capacity AC systems, regulate the air conditioner’s refrigerant flow rate by adjusting the speed of the AC system’s compressor, which in turn increases the energy efficiency of the AC unit, keeps you more comfortable in your home continuously and lowers your utility bill.

Trust our Expert and Honest AC Company

We recommend searching for a reputable AC company like Ideal that will guarantee your satisfaction and a quality AC install for your Arizona home so you get the most bang for your buck and give you peace of mind this summer in Arizona. Keep in mind that both SRP and APS have AC cooling rebates for you to take advantage of! We just hav eyou sign the rebate paperwork that allows us to take the rebates right off of your invoice so you pay just the net amount – that way you don’t have to wait around for the utility to send you a rebate check – we do!

Still Have Questions?

Aren’t sure if you can get away with repairing your air conditioning system before you replace it? Give our expert team a call at 480-839-0082  or contact us to schedule an AC service or AC check up with our team. We’ll give you our honest opinion on what the best direction is to go!

As the chilly winds of winter sweep through our homes, we rely on our heating systems to keep us warm and cozy. For many homeowners, heat pumps have become the go-to solution, providing energy-efficient heating during the colder months. However, a common concern arises when your heat pump blows only cold air, leaving you perplexed and shivering in the icy breeze. 

To compound the issue, you may have even switched to auxiliary heat or your furnace, only to find they are not delivering the expected warmth.

If you are wondering, “Why is my home furnace blowing cold air instead of warm?” or “Outside heat pump running but not blowing cold air,” don’t worry. We have the answers for you.

In this blog, Heat pump and furnace service experts in Phoenix will unravel the mysteries behind heat pump blowing cold air predicaments, delving into the reasons why your heat pump or furnace blows cold air and won’t shut off. We’ll also present the key to preventing such heating woes through proactive heat pump maintenance. 

In fact, studies have shown that regular maintenance can significantly reduce the occurrence of heating system failures and ensure optimal performance.

So, let’s journey together and unlock the secrets to a cozy and worry-free winter!

How Heat Pumps Transfer Heat Vs. Create Heat

When you’re thinking about your home’s heating and cooling system, you probably think about how it transfers heat.

But what does that mean? How does it work? For example, when you put on a sweater, that heat is transferred from your body to the sweater. The same thing happens with your home’s heat pump: it uses electricity to transfer heat from the air outside into your home.

But here’s where things get interesting: a heat pump doesn’t actually create any new heat—it just moves it around. So if you have an air conditioner on during the summer and an electric heater during the winter, your home is still only using as much electricity as it needs to keep its temperature at 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius).

How Do Heat Pumps Compare With Furnace And Ac?

Heat pumps, furnaces, and air conditioners are all common heating and cooling systems used in residential and commercial buildings. Each system has its own characteristics and advantages, and the choice between them depends on factors such as climate, energy costs, installation options, and personal preferences. Let’s compare these systems based on different aspects:

Aspect	Heat Pumps	Furnaces	Air Conditioners
Heating Efficiency	Highly efficient, transfer heat from outdoors or ground	Efficient at generating heat directly through burning fuel or electric resistance	Not applicable. Provide cooling only
Cooling Efficiency	Efficient, work similar to air conditioners but with added heating capabilities	Not applicable, do not provide cooling	Efficient at cooling indoor spaces
Energy Efficiency	Highly energy-efficient, can produce more heating/cooling energy than consumed electrical energy	Efficient, but operating costs depend on fuel type	Efficient at cooling, but no heating capability
Climate Suitability	Best for moderate climates, may need supplemental heating in colder regions	Suitable for all climates	Best for warmer climates
Operating Costs	Generally lower operating costs, especially in moderate climates	Operating costs depend on fuel prices	Moderate operating costs for cooling
Installation Options	Ducted and ductless options are available	Ducted systems are common	Ducted and ductless options are available
Environmental Impact	Environmentally friendly, use electricity for heating/cooling	Emissions depend on the fuel type used	Using electricity and refrigerants may contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Year-round Functionality	Provides heating and cooling throughout the year	Provides heating only	Provides cooling only
Maintenance	Requires regular maintenance, including coil cleaning and refrigerant checks	Requires regular maintenance, such as filter replacement and burner inspection	Requires regular maintenance, including coil cleaning and refrigerant checks
Lifespan	Typically longer lifespan due to fewer mechanical components	Typically shorter lifespan than heat pumps	Similar lifespan to heat pumps
Initial Investment	May have higher upfront costs, but energy savings can offset them	Initial costs vary based on fuel type and system complexity	Generally more affordable upfront
Noise Level	Typically quieter operation compared to furnaces	Varies depending on the furnace type	It can be noisy, especially for older models
Dual Fuel Systems	It can be integrated with gas or oil furnaces for better efficiency in colder climates.	N/A	N/A

Why Is My Heat Pump Blowing Cold Air. Changed To Auxiliary Heat?

If you’re a homeowner, you know that having an efficient heat pump is great for your home. It can keep your energy costs down and help you stay comfortable. But what happens if the heat pump isn’t working properly? What if it starts blowing cold air instead of warm?

Wondering what can be the reasons behind this? 

So, here are some common reasons your heat pump is blowing cold air and what you can do about it:

Defrost Cycle

Your heat pump or heater blowing cold air because it’s in a defrost cycle, which occurs when the outdoor temperature falls below freezing or when there’s ice on your outdoor coil. Your heat pump will automatically start this cycle to remove the frost or ice from your outdoor coil to continue providing heat. This is a normal part of the operation of your heat pump and will not affect the performance of your system.

Incorrect Thermostat Settings

If your heat pump blowing cold air, it could be because your thermostat settings are incorrect. Make sure that the cooling setpoint is lower than the heating setpoint, and also ensure that “auto” is selected for both heat and cool modes if you have an auto-changeover system. If these aren’t set correctly, your heat pump will attempt to run in cooling mode instead of heating mode when it’s cold outside—and this can result in blowing cold air into your home!

Reversing Valve Issue

If you install a reversing valve, you might notice it’s stuck in the “Off” position. This will cause your heat pump to blow cold air instead of the warm air that you’re expecting. To fix this, turn off the power to your thermostat and make sure that all electrical connections are secure. Next, turn on the power to the thermostat and wait for it to reset. Then, press “Auto” on the thermostat and wait for it to cycle through its settings until it reaches its normal setting (usually “Cool”). Once this happens, check to see if your system is blowing warm air again. If not, then repeat the process or call a heat pump repair expert.

Malfunctioning Components

Sometimes malfunctioning components can cause problems with your heat pump and make it seem like it isn’t working properly when it really is just a component failure. If this happens, Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation team can help identify which component failed so you can get back up and running as quickly as possible!

Thermostat Sensor Issue

When a thermostat sensor is not working properly, it can cause your heat pump to blow cold air instead of warm air. In order to fix this problem, you will need to replace the thermostat sensor or clean it thoroughly so that it can function properly again. If you have already tried cleaning the sensor and it still isn’t working, it is likely time to replace it with a new one.

Clean Your Air Filters!

One of the most common issues with heat pumps is clogged air filters—and when they get clogged up with dust and debris from outside? It can cause big problems for your system! That’s why it’s important to regularly clean them out—especially during winter months when pollen counts tend to go up and make breathing more difficult (and therefore make sneezing more likely).

Low Refrigerant Levels

If your heat pump has low refrigerant levels, it will not be able to cool your home as efficiently as it should. This means it will take longer to cool down the air inside your house, resulting in colder temperatures than expected. The best way to fix this problem is by having a heat pump repair technician come out and perform a leak check on your system. The technician will go through a series of steps designed to find any leaks that may be present in the system (there may be a hole where the refrigerant is leaking out). Once identified, these leaks can be fixed using special tools available only to trained professionals like ours here at Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation.

Outdoor Unit Obstruction

If your outdoor unit becomes blocked or obstructed by dirt or debris (such as leaves), then it may not be able to work properly anymore because its airflow has been compromised. If this happens, you will not be able to cool down your home without breaking down completely! If you suspect this might be happening, we recommend having your heat pump serviced once by experts.

Why Is My Home Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your furnace? Does it bring warmth and comfort to your home? Or does it make you feel frustrated and confused?

Furnaces are a vital part of any home, regardless of the season. They are responsible for keeping us warm during the colder months and providing us with hot water on demand. However, despite their importance, many homeowners find themselves wondering, “Why is my electric furnace blowing cold air?”. While there may be several reasons why this might occur, here are some top reasons why your furnace not blowing hot air:

Thermostat Settings

If you are wondering, “Why is my gas furnace blowing cold air” then the reason might be the thermostat settings problem. It could be that the temperature setting on your thermostat is set too low, causing the furnace to turn on and off frequently. If this is the case, adjusting your thermostat to a higher temperature setting is best. Also, verify that the thermostat is functioning correctly and sending the proper signals to the furnace.

Pilot Light or Ignition Issues

If you recently replaced the pilot light on your gas furnace and heat pumps, it may not be lit properly or have gone out altogether. Check to see if there is any gas leaking from the exhaust pipe and fix it immediately before it becomes a bigger problem. You can also check to see if the pilot light has gone out by testing it with a lighter or match.

Gas Supply Issues

If you have gas heat in your home, then the problem could be related to a gas supply issue. Check the pressure regulator and make sure it’s set correctly. If there’s no pressure reading on the gauge, try turning up the pilot light and letting it burn for a few minutes before continuing to troubleshoot this issue further. If there is still no pressure reading on the gauge after turning up the pilot light, then call a professional before proceeding further down this list of possible causes for your problem at hand – because there could be something wrong with either your furnace itself (or its electric parts) or with your house’s gas line itself!

Dirty or Clogged Air Filter

A dirty or clogged air filter can be the reason your furnace blows cold air. If you can’t see through the filter, it’s time to replace it with a new one. Don’t forget to clean the filter you remove. If you don’t, dirt and dust will build up on it again soon.

Flame Sensor Problems

The flame sensor is a safety mechanism in your furnace that prevents it from overheating and causing a fire. When this sensor stops working properly, your furnace will blow cold air because it thinks the room is too hot. If you notice that my furnace is blowing cold air when the heat is on, there may be an issue with the flame sensor.

Blower Motor Issues

If you notice that your gas or electric furnace is blowing cold air but isn’t heating up at all, there may be an issue with the blower motor inside of it. The blower motor connects directly to the flame sensor, so if this part is broken or damaged, it could cause issues with how well your furnace functions overall.

Thermocouple Malfunction

A thermocouple is a device that detects the temperature of the gas coming through it and sends that information to your thermostat or control board. If the thermocouple fails, it can cause your furnace to run in “overheat” mode, where it runs constantly and only blows hot air. This can happen if there’s debris in the ducts or if one of the blower wheels has failed (and thus created an obstruction). This also means your house won’t get warm unless you manually turn off your system or adjust its settings through an app or remote control (which may not be possible if you’re away from home).

Check for Electrical Problems

If the thermocouple isn’t causing the issue, then check all of the electrical connections in your electric furnace and any circuit breakers or fuses that might be tripped or blown out. If any of these are damaged or broken, they need to be replaced immediately to avoid further damage to your furnace system and other parts of your home’s electrical system.

Ductwork Problems 

If your furnace is blowing cold air, it could be a problem with your ductwork. Ductwork problems can include collapsed ducts, which can allow outside air to enter your home and cause the furnace to overheat and start blowing cold air.

Blocked Vents

If there’s something blocking vents coming from outside (like snow), then this could also cause your furnace to blow cold air instead of heat because there’s not enough oxygen getting into the system. When this happens, make sure there aren’t any objects blocking vents coming from outside so that they’re clear before calling a heat pump and furnace repair professional!

How Will Heat Pump Maintenance Help You Avoid Problems?

Heat pumps are a great way to heat and cool your home, but they must be properly maintained and serviced to ensure they’re operating at their peak performance. If you don’t take care of your heat pump, it can end up costing you more money and even shorten the life of your unit. 

Here are several ways that regular maintenance will help you avoid problems down the line:

Enhanced Performance and Energy Efficiency

Regular heat pump maintenance ensures your system operates at its peak performance, delivering efficient cooling and heating while minimizing energy consumption. Clean coils, properly lubricated parts, and calibrated settings allow the heat pump to transfer heat effectively, resulting in substantial energy savings on your utility bills.

Prolonged Lifespan and Reduced Repairs

By entrusting your heat pump to professional heat pump maintenance experts in Phoenix, you’ll protect your investment and extend its lifespan. Routine inspections and timely repairs of minor issues prevent them from escalating into major breakdowns, reducing the need for costly emergency repairs and ensuring long-term durability.

Optimal Air Conditioning for Sweltering Summers

In the scorching heat of Phoenix summers, a well-maintained heat pump provides consistent and efficient cooling, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. A heat pump and furnace maintenance check-up before the peak summer season can identify and address potential cooling issues, ensuring uninterrupted comfort during the hottest days.

Energy Savings

Heat pumps use a lot of energy, which means you can save big bucks by keeping them running at peak efficiency. In fact, a well-maintained heat pump can save you a maximum of 35% on your heating and cooling costs!

Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

If your heat pump isn’t working properly, it can significantly impact the indoor air quality of your home. Proper maintenance will help ensure that your HVAC system works efficiently and provides clean and comfortable indoor air quality.

Efficient Insulation During Chilly Winters

As temperatures drop during Phoenix winters, your heat pump becomes a reliable heating source. With regular heat pump maintenance, your system will deliver consistent warmth, keeping you cozy indoors and eliminating the risk of cold air blowing from the vents.

Warranty Compliance

Regular heat pump maintenance ensures that your manufacturer warranty is in full force, which means they’ll cover any repairs or replacements during the warranty period. If your highest rated heat pumps for furnace and air conditioner break down without having been maintained, your warranty may be voided, and you’ll be responsible for all repairs or replacement costs.

Trusted Furnace Service Experts

In addition to heat pump maintenance, reputable HVAC companies in Phoenix, like Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation, offer expert furnace services to keep your heating system in top shape. From highest rated heat pumps, furnace, and air conditioner repairs to seasonal check-ups, these professionals ensure your furnace operates safely and efficiently, providing you peace of mind throughout the winter season.

Call the Heating Experts in Phoenix, AZ!

It’s been a rough week for you. You’ve been trying to keep your home comfortable despite the heat, but it just isn’t working out. You’re tired of waking up in the middle of the night to check on your air conditioning and even more tired of feeling like you’re constantly wearing a sweater when you’re home.

You need the best heating and cooling technicians in Phoenix, AZ, and that’s where Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation come in. We can help you get back to enjoying your life instead of worrying about whether or not your house is going to be comfortable for another hour—or even another day!

Whether you have an older heat pump and furnace or need a new one installed, we have all the expertise and equipment necessary to bring your system up-to-date with modern efficiency standards while maintaining its original charm. And if you want an air conditioner that will keep up with the demands of this brutal summer heat? Well…we have those too!

We’re Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation, and we’ve been helping Phoenix homeowners keep their HVAC systems running smoothly for many years now! We offer comprehensive and cost-effective Heating Solutions in Phoenix, including:

• Heat Pump Installation
• Heat Pump Repair
• Heat Pump Maintenance
• Furnace Repair
• Furnace Maintenance
• Furnace Installation
• Air Conditioning Repair & Maintenance
• Installation of new ductwork for your home or business to increase efficiency and improve indoor air quality (IAQ)
• 24*7 emergency services
• Customized service plans to fit your needs and budget
• And many more…

So, whether you need your furnace fixed or your air conditioner repaired, we’ve got you covered. Our certified and expert HVAC technicians can handle any issue quickly and efficiently, so don’t hesitate to call us at 480-591-4085 today.

With the rising awareness of environmental concerns and the need to reduce energy consumption, home insulation has become an increasingly important aspect of modern living. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for around 50-70% of the energy used in an average American home. However, proper insulation can significantly reduce this energy consumption by minimizing heat transfer and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature, regardless of the outside weather.

Home insulation is much more than just a layer between your walls; it’s a strategic investment that pays dividends in the form of energy savings and enhanced comfort.

But if you’re not sure what kind of insulation you need, how much, or whether it’s worth hiring a professional to install it for you—or if there are other steps involved—you’re probably feeling pretty overwhelmed.

We get it. Home insulation is complicated stuff! That’s why we’ve put together this blog.

In this blog, Home Insulation Contractor in Phoenix will take you on a journey through the ins and outs of insulation, covering various types of insulation, how they work, factors to consider when choosing the right one for your home, and when it’s best to seek the expertise of a Phoenix professional.

Let’s dive in and explore the world of home insulation together!

What is Home Insulation?

Home insulation is a material that provides resistance to heat flow. Insulation helps to keep your home comfortable at all times of the year. It reduces sound and prevents drafts from coming through cracks or holes in your walls, floors, or ceilings.

Insulation materials can be made from various types of materials, including glass fibers, mineral wool, polystyrene foam, cellulose fibers, and others.

Insulation is commonly used in construction and home improvement projects to help reduce energy costs and improve energy efficiency. Insulation materials are often made from plastics such as polyurethane and polystyrene foam that provide excellent thermal resistance but can deteriorate over time if exposed to moisture or water.

How Home Insulation Works?

Home insulation works by creating a thermal barrier that limits the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of a building. It aims to stabilize indoor temperature, reduce the loss of heated or cooled air, and improve energy efficiency. Insulation achieves this by impeding three main modes of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation.

Conduction

Conduction is the transfer of heat through solid materials. When there is a temperature difference between the inside and outside of a building, heat naturally flows from the warmer side to the cooler side. Insulation materials have low thermal conductivity, meaning they are poor conductors of heat. When installed in walls, ceilings, or floors, these materials help to slow down the movement of heat through the building envelope.

Convection

Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids, such as air. In homes, this often occurs when warm air rises and escapes through gaps or cracks while cooler air enters the building to replace it. Proper insulation, combined with air sealing, reduces convective heat loss by minimizing the movement of air between the interior and exterior of the house.

Radiation

Radiation is the transfer of heat in the form of electromagnetic waves. All objects emit and absorb radiant heat, which can contribute to heat gain or loss. Insulation materials, especially those with reflective surfaces, can reduce radiant heat transfer by returning the heat to its source.

Types of Home Insulation

Are you looking for ways to make your home more eco-friendly?

If so, you’re probably wondering how to insulate your home and make it more energy efficient.

The good news is that plenty of options are available when it comes to insulation, and each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the best types of insulation:

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is the most common type of home insulation and for good reason. Fiberglass insulation is one of the most widely used insulation types, accounting for approximately 85% of all insulation materials used in residential buildings in the United States. It’s relatively easy to install and very effective in helping you keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Fiberglass insulation is made with glass fibers woven together into a blanket that can be installed between walls or floors and ceilings.

Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose is another type of home insulation that has been around since the late 1800s. It’s made from recycled newspaper that’s shredded into fibers, then packaged into batts or sheets that can be installed between walls or floors, and ceilings. Cellulose insulation is gaining popularity due to its eco-friendly nature. It is made from up to 85% recycled content and takes less energy to manufacture than other insulation materials. Cellulose insulates well, but it doesn’t provide any fire protection, so it needs to be combined with other types of insulation if you’re concerned about fire safety.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation Phoenix is a foam-like material that can be sprayed into cracks, crevices, and other small spaces to seal them. It’s usually made from polyurethane or isocyanate, which are both synthetic chemicals. The spray foam is applied as a liquid and expands when it’s sprayed. This type of insulation also has good sound-dampening qualities because it fills in holes and cracks that allow noise to travel through the building structure. Spray foam insulation can be used on all kinds of surfaces, including wood, brick, stucco, concrete block, stone, and even metal. If you are looking for spray foam insulation near me, then call Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation experts!

Mineral Wool/Rockwool Insulation

Mineral wool/rock wool insulation consists of a combination of minerals (usually silicates) that are formed into fibers by heat or pressure. These fibers are mixed with a binder material like resin and pressed into sheets for installation in walls or ceilings as an air barrier. The fiberglass sheets have a high R-value per inch (R-19 per inch for 1x2x8), but they don’t perform well as vapor barriers because they’re permeable to water vapor molecules. 

Polyurethane Foam Board Insulation

Polyurethane foam board insulation is an excellent option for areas that need a high R-value. It’s easy to install and can be installed on walls, ceilings, and floors. Polyurethane foam board can be used as a replacement for traditional insulations like fiberglass or cellulose.

Reflective Insulation

Reflective insulation is made from aluminum foil or foil-faced polyisocyanurate (R-38). These products reflect heat from your home back inside rather than allowing it to escape outside through cracks or holes in your walls or roof. Reflecting heat with reflective insulation will help reduce energy bills by up to 15%!

Polystyrene Insulation

Polystyrene insulation is a type of foam insulation that can be blown into a wall or cut and fit around windows and doors. It’s very lightweight, so it doesn’t take up much space in your walls, but it works great at keeping heat out of your home. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) accounts for approximately 46% of the total thermal insulation market, while Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) accounts for around 27%.

Cotton Insulation

Cotton insulation is made from recycled cotton fibers that are compressed into batting or rolls for use as insulation. It’s a good choice if you want to reduce your carbon footprint or are environmentally conscious—it’s also easy to install and works well at keeping heat in your home during winter (but not so much during summer).

Aerogel Insulation

Aerogels are solid materials that are made up of a network of tiny hollow tubes. These tubes hold air and can be used to insulate your home. Aerogels are highly effective at trapping air, which means they’re extremely good at retaining heat. Aerogels are also incredibly absorbent, so they’re great at keeping water away from the walls of your house. This makes them well-suited for use in areas prone to flooding or high humidity.

Where Can You Insulate?

Insulation is a great way to save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable. 

But where exactly should you put it? You can insulate various areas of your home to improve energy efficiency and maintain a comfortable indoor environment. Here are the common areas where you can insulate:

Attic

Your attic insulation Phoenix, AZ, is an important part of your home and can be insulated. The attic insulation Phoenix is the space between the roof and the ceiling, where you store items that don’t fit elsewhere in your home. Attic insulation can help reduce your energy bills and make your home’s temperature more consistent throughout the year.

Insulate Walls

When you insulate walls in your home, it can save you dollars on heating and cooling costs. If you live in a cold climate and have a poorly insulated wall, it could cause damage to your property as well as increase heating costs because it will take longer for heat from inside the house to warm up everything outside of it when temperatures drop below freezing outside during winter months.

Basement and Crawlspace

Basements are notorious for being cold during the winter months. If you’re looking for an affordable way to insulate your basement or crawlspace, look no further than spray foam insulation! Not only will proper insulation help keep moisture out of your basement or crawlspace, but it will also decrease the chance of mold growth in those areas. This type of insulation also works well on crawl spaces because it’s lightweight and easy to install.

Floors

Floors are another area that often gets overlooked when it comes to insulation. Floors can be made of concrete or tile, so they tend to get cold during the winter months and hot during the summer months. Insulating your floor will help reduce these temperature fluctuations by keeping heat in during winter and cooling out in summer.

Windows and Doors

Windows and garage door insulation will help keep the cold and heat out. This is especially important if you live in a cold climate, where temperatures can drop to -20 degrees Celsius or lower. You can search for professional spray foam insulation near me or buy foam insulation kits that attach to the outside of your house and fill in the space between the door frames and exterior walls. The foam can be painted over to match the color of your house so it doesn’t stand out.

Roof and Ceiling

Insulating these two areas will help reduce heat loss from your home, especially if gaps or cracks in these spaces let cold air inside during winter when temperatures go below zero degrees Celsius or lower (depending on where you live). Adding insulation over existing insulation may also help reduce noise from outside sources such as traffic jams or airplanes flying overhead due to increased soundproofing properties that come along with having more insulation around these areas inside your home!

Don’t Let Your Ductwork Go Cold!

Ductwork is a major area of heat loss in many homes. If you haven’t insulated your ducts, it’s time to get to it. The best way to insulate ductwork is by using fiberglass insulation. This can be added directly to the metal ducts themselves or blown into the space between the metal and the insulation that’s already there. Either way will work, but fiberglass is better for sealing out air gaps and cracks than other types of insulation.

Don’t Forget About Those Air Gaps And Cracks! 

The places where ductwork meets other things like walls and floors (or even up against each other) are often areas that let cold air into your home. You can fill these gaps with foam sealant, but it’s easier if you use foam tape instead—it adheres better than sealant does and won’t peel off over time.

What is the code for attic insulation in Phoenix, AZ?

The code for attic insulation in Phoenix, AZ, is R-38. The code specifies the minimum amount of insulation required by law in your attic. This is determined by the climate and its severity. In Phoenix, AZ, the climate is mild and dry, so the minimum requirement for attic insulation is R-38.

What kind of insulation is better? Sheets or blown in in Phoenix

You’re probably wondering if you should go with sheets or blown-in insulation for your Phoenix home. Well, we’re here to help!

We’ve compiled a side-by-side comparison of each insulation, so you can decide which best fits your home.

Aspect	Sheet Insulation (Batt or Board)	Blown-In Insulation
Installation	Generally DIY-friendly; Can be cut and fitted easily	Requires professional installation for proper distribution
Coverage	May leave gaps or voids if not installed correctly	Fills gaps and hard-to-reach areas effectively
Air Sealing	Might require additional air-sealing measures	Can provide some degree of air sealing
R-Value	Can achieve high R-values when installed correctly	R-value can vary based on the material and application
Moisture Resistance	Some types can be susceptible to moisture damage	Some materials offer good moisture resistance
Soundproofing	Provides moderate soundproofing properties	Offers some level of soundproofing benefits
Fire Resistance	Generally, non-combustible or fire-resistant options	Some materials offer good fire resistance
Cost	Moderately priced, DIY can save on labor costs	Professional installation may add to the overall cost
Performance Over Time	Can settle or compress over time, reducing the effectiveness	Blown-in insulation tends to maintain performance better
Environmentally-Friendly	Some options are made from recycled materials	Some blown-in materials can be eco-friendly

Improve Your Indoor Home Comfort and Reduce Your Energy Bills With Reliable Home Insulation Services by Professionals in Phoenix, AZ!

When it comes to keeping your home comfortable, energy efficiency is key. After all, you want to be able to relax and enjoy your space without worrying about how much energy you’re using.

That’s why Ideal Air Conditioning & Insulation is here for you! We have been providing top-notch residential and commercial insulation services for many years now.

At Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation, we understand that your home is the most important investment you make. We also understand that choosing the right insulation company can be difficult. That’s why we strive to offer our customers only the best Home Insulation Services in Phoenix possible. Be it insulation installation or removal, our team of experts will work with you one-on-one to determine what type of insulation best suits your needs, from crawl space encapsulation to attic air sealing, so you can be sure that we’ll provide the highest quality results for each project we take on.

When you call Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation, you can expect:

• Reliable home insulation services by professionals in Phoenix AZ
• A free consultation to determine your needs
• Fast response time
• An affordable price quote for the job
• Prompt, professional service
• Professional installation by trained technicians
• A thorough inspection of your home to identify areas where insulation is needed.
• Meticulous workmanship that meets or exceeds industry standards for quality and performance.
• A custom-made solution for your home, specifically tailored to your needs and budget.
• The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re doing the best thing for your family, yourself, and the environment.

Our goal at Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation is to make sure our customers are satisfied with their new insulation systems for years to come—that’s why we back all of our work with a lifetime warranty! 

If you have any questions about our home insulation installation or removal services, don’t hesitate to give us a call today at 480-839-0082!

We’re just about to reach the point of the year in Arizona when it’s time to turn on your home’s heating system, and all the usual questions are on the minds of Phoenix homeowners: Is my furnace or heat pump in good enough shape to make it through the winter months? How do I know if my heating system is about to break down, or if it will be running inefficiently and costing me money in higher energy bills? Is my heating system safe to turn on and operate in my Phoenix home?

At Ideal Energy, we want homeowners in Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, and Scottsdale to sit back and enjoy a worry-free winter—which is why we think fall heating maintenance is so important.

The Benefits of HVAC Maintenance

• Lower heating bills
• Less risk of unexpected breakdowns
• Safety inspections for gas furnaces
• Longer system lifespan
• Increased comfort in your home during winter

Regular preventative maintenance for your air conditioning and heating systems is one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner to avoid unexpected and expensive repair bills. It also goes a long way towards ensuring you have reliable, consistent indoor comfort year-round in your Phoenix home.

Many people think, “Well, if my heating system turns on, and my HVAC doesn’t blow cold air when the heat is on, then why would I pay for a service call?” But what is so useful about heating maintenance is that you can fix small issues before they turn into inconvenient and expensive headaches. Our certified and trained technicians know exactly where to look to see if you’re on the verge of a heating breakdown, or if your furnace, heat pump, or mini split is running inefficiently and costing you money.

Plus, a heating system that’s running smoothly and isn’t at risk of breaking down is a system that will continue to provide years and years of service. Routine HVAC maintenance has been shown to help you squeeze even more years of service out of your unit, so you won’t have to think about new heater installation or upgrading to an energy efficient heat pump anytime soon.

Enrolling in a Maintenance Plan with an HVAC Contractor You Trust

There are plenty of benefits to scheduling fall heating maintenance, but it’s understandable that you have so many things going on that your HVAC system isn’t at the forefront of your mind. With Ideal Air’s maintenance plan, you’ll receive regular maintenance visits for your system and you’ll even get discounts on repairs if you need them, giving you one less thing you have to worry about in your home.

Reach Out to the Leading AC & Heating Contractor Near You Today

Looking for an AC and heating company in the Phoenix AZ metro area you can trust? At Ideal Energy, we take HVAC and building science as seriously as we take our customer service. Our NATE-certified technicians work hard to make sure that your home’s heating and cooling systems are in top working condition to keep you comfortable and keep your heating costs low this winter.

Keep your furnace or heat pump running all winter long. Call 480-839-0082 or contact us today to schedule a heating maintenance visit from Phoenix’s best.

Indoor air quality refers to the condition of the air within buildings, including homes, offices, schools, and other enclosed spaces. The significance of IAQ cannot be overstated, as the average individual spends approximately 90% of their time indoors. 

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we seldom stop to ponder the invisible elements we breathe in our homes and workplaces. However, the quality of the air we inhale indoors can significantly impact our health and well-being.

In this blog series, we’ll dive deep into each aspect of indoor air quality, understand various factors that decrease indoor air quality, and provide actionable tips to empower you to make informed decisions about your living spaces. From DIY home testing kits to professional air quality services, we’ll explore the available options to gain insights into the quality of the air we breathe every day.

Remember, improving the air you breathe is a proactive and transformative step towards a healthier and happier life.

Why Indoor Air Quality is Important?

Indoor air quality is a big deal. It’s important for your health, the health of your family and friends, and the health of your home. And it’s something you can take control of right now.

You might think indoor air quality only affects people working in factories or other industrial environments. But it actually affects everyone—including you! And if you’re not taking care of it, it leads to serious health problems.

Here are several reasons why indoor air quality is important:

Indoor Air Quality Impacts Health

Did you know that the average person spends 90% of their time indoors? That’s a lot of time breathing in indoor air quality, so it’s important to ensure your indoor air is as clean as possible. Poor indoor air quality can lead to extreme health issues like asthma and allergies, contributing to headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. If you want to avoid these symptoms, make sure there are filters in place that will keep allergens from entering your home or workspace.

Indoor Air Quality Affects Productivity and Performance

Indoor air quality impacts more than just our bodies—it also affects our brains! Studies have shown that poor air quality can lead to reduced productivity and performance at work or school by making us feel less alert and more fatigued than usual. So if you’re looking for ways to improve your workplace or school environment by reducing distractions from other people around you, consider investing in better ventilation systems (like whole house fans) or installing an HVAC system that keeps your indoor air clean!

Indoor Air Quality Affects Comfort and Well-Being

Indoor air quality is about more than just “sick building syndrome.” It’s about how you feel in your home—about how comfortable you are there, how healthy it makes you feel, and how safe you feel. Indoor air quality has been shown to affect our moods, cognitive performance, concentration levels, and even productivity. We spend 90% of our time indoors, so it’s important that we maintain safe levels of pollutants in our homes.

Indoor Air Quality Affects Vulnerable Populations

There are several groups in our communities who are particularly vulnerable to poor indoor air quality: children and pregnant women; those with asthma; people with chronic respiratory illnesses; older adults; and people with allergies or chemical sensitivities. These populations should have access to cleaner air so they can live healthier lives. The WHO reports that approximately 570,000 children under the age of five die each year due to respiratory infections, often caused or worsened by indoor air pollution.

Indoor Air Quality has Long-Term Effects

It is a common misconception that outdoor air pollution is more severe than indoor air pollution. However, the EPA reveals that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air on average. In some cases, indoor air pollution can be up to 100 times higher than outdoor levels, especially in poorly ventilated spaces or those with significant pollutant sources.

Indoor Air Quality Affects Energy Efficiency

Proper management of indoor air quality, including efficient ventilation and air circulation, can lead to improved energy efficiency in buildings. When ventilation systems are functioning optimally, they help maintain a balanced and controlled indoor environment, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling, thus saving energy and lowering utility costs.

Indoor Air Quality Impacts Environment

Indoor air pollution can also have indirect effects on the environment. Some pollutants that enter indoor spaces, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can contribute to outdoor air pollution when released from products and materials indoors.

Which Factor Would Increase Poor Indoor Air Quality?

We live in a world where poor indoor air quality is a real problem. In fact, it’s so common that most people don’t even think about it. But the truth is that bad Phoenix indoor air quality can cause a lot of health problems, especially if you have a family or pets.

The 10 main factors that contribute to poor indoor air quality Phoenix, Arizona quality are:

Inadequate Ventilation

Poorly ventilated areas can accumulate pollutants in the air, such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. This can lead to respiratory problems, including asthma attacks and infections like Legionnaires disease.

Indoor Pollutant Sources

The second factor that contributes to poor indoor air quality Phoenix is the presence of indoor pollutant sources. These include things like cigarette smoke, chemicals from cleaning products and carpets (which can release volatile organic compounds when they’re new), cooking odors from your kitchen or bathroom, pollen from plants outside your window, etc.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are found in damp environments, such as bathrooms or basements. They can grow on surfaces like drywall or tile if they’re not properly cleaned and dried. Mold spores spread through the air when they become airborne. This can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to them.

Dust and Allergens

Dust and allergens are common sources of poor indoor air quality. Dust is made up of tiny particles that come from dirty air filters, furniture, carpets, electronics, and clothing. Allergens include things like pollen from trees outside or pets inside your home. When these particles get into the air throughout your home, they can cause symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes for people who have allergies to them—even if you don’t see any visible signs of dust or pollen!

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are emitted as gases from certain household products, such as paints, varnishes, cleaning agents, and air fresheners. Long-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause respiratory irritation and other health problems.

Radon

Radon is a radioactive gas that can be found in homes and buildings. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. When radon gas enters your home, it can get trapped in your home’s air. You can’t see or smell radon, so you may not know it’s there until you test for it. 

Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced by appliances that burn fuel without sufficient ventilation, such as furnaces, fireplaces, stoves, and water heaters. CO can build up indoors and poison people who breathe it. It also can cause flu-like symptoms in healthy people. CO alarms can alert you to potential CO problems before they become serious or deadly.

Poorly Maintained HVAC Systems

Poorly maintained HVAC systems can cause poor indoor air quality. Make sure your system is working properly and have it professionally cleaned at least once per year. If you have pets, consider installing a HEPA filter in your system so that pet dander doesn’t get circulated throughout the house.

Outdoor Air Pollution

Outdoor air pollution can also affect indoor air quality by depositing particulate matter on furniture and floors inside buildings. To minimize this effect, keep windows closed whenever possible when there are high outdoor air pollution levels in your area (or when there’s heavy traffic nearby). Also, try to keep all vents open in rooms where you spend most of your time (such as bedrooms).

Occupant Activities

The number of occupants and their activities can influence IAQ. For instance, overcrowding can lead to increased CO2 levels, which can cause discomfort and reduce cognitive function.

How to Test Indoor Air Quality?

The health of your home is just as important as the health of your body. You wouldn’t think twice about getting a checkup at the doctor’s office, and it’s no different for your home. Testing the air in your home is a great way to make sure it’s healthy and safe for you and your family.

But what does testing your indoor air quality entail? How to improve indoor air quality, And how do you know if you need to get it done? 

There are several methods for testing indoor air quality, ranging from simple DIY tests to professional assessments. Here are some common approaches:

DIY Indoor Air Quality Test Kits

Indoor air quality test kits are an easy way to find out if there are any pollutants in your home. You can buy these indoor air quality testing kits at most hardware stores or online retailers. They’re usually pretty inexpensive and relatively easy to use—just follow the instructions on the package!

Indoor Air Quality Monitors

Indoor air quality monitor devices measure indoor air quality by analyzing the amount of particulate matter in the area. They often come with sensors for VOCs as well as carbon dioxide and temperature measurements. Some also have sensors for humidity and other metrics that can affect indoor air quality.

Professional Indoor Air Quality Testing

If you’re concerned about the quality of your indoor air, consider having it tested by a professional Air quality service company. A professional company will come out and do all the work for you, and they’ll also give you a report that will help you understand what’s going on with your indoor air quality.

Radon Testing

Radon is a radioactive gas that can build up in your house and make you sick. Unfortunately, radon testing isn’t always cheap (especially if you have a large house), but it’s definitely worth checking out if you think there’s a chance that radon could be affecting your health or the health of those who live with you.

Mold Testing

Mold is a fungus that grows on organic matter like wood or paper. It can cause allergies and respiratory problems, especially in people who have asthma or allergies to mold spores.

Mold testing can help you find out if there’s mold in your indoor air. You’ll collect samples from the air in your house and send them to a lab where they’ll perform tests on them to find out if they contain mold spores. The lab will tell you what types of mold are present, so you’ll know which ones might be causing health problems for you and your family members.

Allergen Testing

Allergens are things that cause allergies in people who are sensitive to them (like dust mites or pollen). If you want to know if any allergens are present in your home’s air, then allergy testing might be right for you! It collects samples from the air inside your home and sends them off for analysis at an allergy testing lab (like Allergy Labs).

Combining Methods

The best way to ensure that your indoor air is safe for you and your family is to use more than one method of testing. This will help you get a clearer picture of what’s happening inside your house, which means you can be more confident about what changes you need to make in order to improve things.

How Can You Improve Indoor Air Quality?

We’re living in a world where we can’t escape the harmful effects of poor indoor air quality. From the moment you wake up in the morning and start your day to when you go to sleep at night, we are constantly surrounded by poor air quality. 

It’s not just bad for our health—it’s bad for the planet. The EPA estimates that indoor air pollution is responsible for 80% of all illnesses caused by poor indoor air quality.

But there are several ways you can improve your indoor air quality. Here are some effective strategies to improve indoor air quality:

Regular Cleaning

The easiest and most effective way to enhance your indoor air quality is by regularly cleaning the surfaces in your home. Dust, debris, and other particles can build up on your floors and furniture, making it harder for you to breathe.

Use a Humidifier

If you live in a dry climate or have been exposed to too much heat, humidity can help alleviate some of the symptoms of dryness. Humidifiers are a great way to add moisture back into the air without having to spend time outside in cold weather.

Ventilation

Ventilation is one of the most effective strategies to improve indoor air quality, as it removes unwanted pollutants from your home and helps you breathe easier. 

Indoor Plants

Plants are a great way to improve indoor air quality because they naturally filter out harmful substances like dust and pollen, which can cause allergies and asthma symptoms. For best results, choose plants that are known to be high-quality air filters and keep them in sunny areas of your home, such as near windows or in rooms with plenty of natural light.

Use Low-Emission Products

Low-emission products are those that emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than other products. These products include paints, stains, cleaners and varnishes, adhesives, floor finishes, and sealants. VOCs can cause health problems such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, and even cancer over time.

Control Humidity

Humidity is another factor that can impact indoor air quality negatively because it allows mold growth to occur more quickly than usual. Mold can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems in certain individuals, so controlling humidity levels in your home is important!

Properly Ventilate Cooking Areas

If you have a kitchen or other area that is used for cooking or preparing food, it’s important to ventilate it properly. This will help remove odors and fumes that could cause health problems. You can also use an exhaust fan with a HEPA filter in areas where cooking happens frequently, such as restaurants and commercial kitchens.

Radon Mitigation

Radon is a colorless and odorless gas that can lead to lung cancer when inhaled over time. It’s found naturally in the soil, so if you live in an area where there’s a lot of dirt, your home may be more likely to have higher radon levels than others—and this can cause problems for your family’s indoor air quality overall. Radon mitigation systems can help reduce radon levels inside your house, so you don’t have to worry about breathing dangerous gases into your lungs every day!

Monitor Indoor Air Quality 

Use an air quality monitor to check on the levels of common indoor pollutants such as pollen, dust mites, and mold spores in your home. These pollutants are known triggers for allergies and asthma attacks.

Avoid Smoking Indoors

Smoking indoors is a major source of indoor air pollution. A cigarette contains over 4,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. These include benzene, formaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide, and arsenic. The chemicals can remain in the air for up to three months after smoking has occurred.

Proper HVAC Maintenance

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It’s a system that helps control your home’s temperature and ensures you have fresh air to breathe. If it’s not maintained properly, it can lead to dust buildup in your ductwork and vents, which can lead to respiratory issues for everyone in your family. To avoid this problem, schedule annual maintenance checks with a professional HVAC technician in Phoenix, AZ. They’ll inspect your entire system to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

DIY Vs. Professional Indoor Air Quality Services

Let’s face it: when you need indoor air quality services, you’re probably not looking for an amateur.

When you want the job done right and done well, you need a professional. But what exactly is the difference between DIY and professional indoor air quality services? And how do you know which one will work best for your home?

So we’re going to compare DIY indoor air quality services and professional indoor air quality services to help you figure out the best option for your home.

Criteria	DIY Indoor Air Quality Test Kits	Professional Indoor Air Quality Services
Cost	Relatively affordable.	More expensive but comprehensive.
Testing Scope	Limited focus on specific pollutants.	Comprehensive testing for various pollutants.
Ease of Use	DIY with clear instructions.	Requires trained professionals.
Testing Accuracy	Results may vary.	More accurate with professional-grade equipment.
Sample Analysis	Results take time to receive.	Immediate on-site analysis.
Testing Parameters	Covers a limited number of parameters.	Measures multiple IAQ parameters.
Potential Detection	May miss complex or less-known issues.	Identifies hidden and less common pollutants.
Recommendations	Basic suggestions based on test results.	Tailored action plans for specific IAQ issues.
Additional Expertise	Limited access to expert advice.	Offers expert knowledge and guidance.
Time and Effort	Requires time and effort for testing.	Handles the entire testing process.
Complex Issues Resolution	May not identify complex or multiple issues.	Tackles complex IAQ problems with solutions.

Get Help from Professional Indoor Air Quality Service Provider in Phoenix, AZ!

The air quality in your home can majorly impact your health, especially if there’s a lot of dust and allergens floating around. If you’ve noticed that the air in your home is feeling a little stale or hard to breathe, it might be time to call Ideal Air Conditioning and Insulation!

Our Phoenix IAQ experts are here to help you get the air quality in your home or business back on track. Our team has been helping homeowners and businesses with their indoor air quality needs for many years now, and we’ve seen it all, from duct cleaning to mold removal to complete system replacement. We’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your needs and budget, and then we’ll carry it out—no matter how big or small the project may be. We specialize in:

• Indoor air quality testing
• Energy efficiency solutions for your home or business—from ductless mini splits to whole house systems
• Whole house humidifiers
• Duct cleaning services (which can reduce allergens by up to 90%)

We believe that every home should have healthy air quality as standard equipment. We want everyone who comes through our doors to feel comfortable in their own space, whether in their bedroom or kitchen.

If you need help with Indoor Air Quality Solutions in Phoenix, contact us today at 480-839-0082!

There’s no doubt about it—upgrading the energy efficiency of your home with new air conditioning, furnace, heat pump installation, or by replacing your insulation will improve your home comfort and save money on your energy bills. But it can also be a costly upfront investment!

There are ways to make home improvement projects more affordable, but you have to be willing to dig around, shop the available financing options, and research available rebates and incentives for your Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler, or Scottsdale home. It can be confusing and frustrating if you don’t know where to start!

You could do all that work… or you could turn to Ideal Energy, where we make sifting through all of the options out there easy and can help you find the best deals and offers for your house. Here are three smart ways to pay for upgrades for your home in 2020.

1. Take Advantage of Low Mortgage Rates with a Cash-Out Refinance

Mortgage rates are at record lows this year, and refinances are 50% higher than they were a year ago. Homeowners are taking advantage of refinancing, and using that extra money to pay for needed upgrades to their home, whether it’s new heating or AC installation, removing and replacing their home’s insulation or sealing and upgrading their ductwork in order to get rid of hot rooms during the hot Arizona summer months!

If your furnace is blowing cool air, or your energy bills have been rising for years, now is a great opportunity for a cash-out refinance that will give you the extra money you need to make a smart investment in your home.

2. Qualify for Trane’s Fall 2020 HVAC Promo

This year’s fall promo from Trane is officially underway, and offers a great opportunity to get the HVAC upgrades you need for less. The Trane Fall Promotion 2020 runs from October 1 through November 16, and you can receive up to $600 off a number of new Trane heat pumps and air conditioners. Best of all, you can combine your instant Trane rebate with any of Ideal Air’s financing options to get started on your home upgrade sooner rather than later.

Trane HVAC equipment is well known for its durability and energy efficiency, and upgrading your home can transform your energy costs and improve your year-round indoor comfort.

3. Talk to Ideal About Other Available Financing and Rebates

APS and SRP utility rebates are also available to help make home improvement projects more affordable. These rebates can help reduce the cost of energy audits, insulation installation, and even new AC unit and heat pump upgrades. While the rebate amount varies depending on the utility company and the specifics of your home, SRP customers can get as much as $1,125 back on qualifying air conditioners or heat pumps, so in many cases the savings can really add up!

Finally, we offer financing options as well for homeowners that want to take advantage of rebates or soon-to-expire promotions but don’t have the upfront money to get started. Through Synchrony Financial, homeowners can receive 0% financing for 18 months or 5.99% APR, and we also offer a special Trane HVAC financing deal through Wells Fargo!

Your Local Trusted HVAC and Insulation Contractor

Helping make home improvement projects affordable isn’t the only thing we’re known for here at Ideal Energy. From air conditioning and heating services to home insulation and energy audits, we pride ourselves on our industry leading expertise and quality customer service. We’re interested in getting to the bottom of your comfort issues or rising energy bills, and finding the right, long-lasting solution that will provide years and years of comfort and energy efficiency for your home.

Whether you have questions about the types of insulation that should be installed in your home or you’re wondering if your central AC is sized correctly for your house, give the experts at Ideal Energy a call today.

Make your home improvement projects more affordable this year—Ideal Energy can help! Call 480-839-0082 or contact us to learn more.

Welcome to Arizona! If you’ve recently moved here and bought a home in the Copper State, congrats! And if you’re like most new arrivals to our state, you might be scratching your head that it’s October and yet it’s still scorching hot outside. That’s Arizona for ya!

If you’ve already realized that your home isn’t doing a great job of keeping you cool, and you’re wondering how you can upgrade your home this fall, here are a few tips for maximizing the comfort in your Phoenix, Chandler, or Scottsdale house.

Upgrade your AC Sooner Rather Than Later

If your central air conditioning just isn’t keeping up with the late summer Arizona heat, imagine how it’s going to be in your house come next spring and summer?

Every year people put off making changes to their AC until the last minute, and there’s always a scramble to find a reputable local company to do their HVAC installation. One of the smartest things you can do as a new homeowner is to beat the crowd and start the process of new AC installation this fall and take advantage of the new Trane fall promotion, so that come spring you’ll be ready to kick back and take it easy with your fellow Arizonans.

You could even look into the year-round comfort of alternatives to your traditional central air conditioner and furnace system. Mini-splits and heat pumps are all electric and significantly more energy efficient than most other heating and cooling systems, which will save you money on your energy bills every month of the year. Plus, many have both heating and cooling settings, so you can replace your entire system and start benefiting from clean, affordable comfort this year.

Have Your Home’s Insulation Levels Checked Out by Professionals

If you’re moving to Arizona from a colder climate state, you may think of insulation primarily as protection against freezing winter nights. It very rarely gets below freezing here in the greater Phoenix area, but that doesn’t mean that upgrading your attic insulation can’t help you stay more comfortable. And just as insulation keeps the heat inside your home during the winter, you can also use insulation for cooling system efficiency, as it will help keep the summer heat out in the summer and the cool air from your AC in.

Not sure if your home has proper insulation, or what proper levels of insulation in Phoenix should be? As a trusted local insulation contractor, Ideal Energy offers several different options for home energy audits. Our audits are a great place for a new homeowner to start—we’ll help assess your insulation as well as the condition of your current HVAC systems, from your central AC and furnace to your ductwork, with the goal of helping make your home more comfortable as well as more affordable to heat and cool.

Trust Your New Home to the Local HVAC and Home Performance Experts

With more than a decade of experience serving homes in the Phoenix metro area, the experts at Ideal Energy use real building science when they’re working on your home, whether it’s Manual J load calculations to precisely measure the correct sizing for your heating and air conditioning system to the advanced technology we use during our energy audits, including infrared diagnostics, blower door tests, and more.

Ideal Energy offers new homeowners a perfect opportunity to get their air conditioning and heating systems ready to handle whatever the Arizona weather might throw their way, and can help upgrade your home’s insulation to offer superior protection every month of the year. Plus, with great financing as well as rebates and incentives, we’ll help you save money on the upgrades you need to make your new home perfect.

Looking to get the most out of your new Phoenix home? Call 480-839-0082 or contact us for help making your house more comfortable and energy efficient.