To ensure your product performs safely and reliably over its lifetime, we recommend that you contact Weiss-Johnson for any service needs you may have. This will save you time and frustration.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE REGULAR MAINTENANCE ON MY HOME COMFORT SYSTEM?
You wouldn’t buy a brand-new car and expect to never have to put air in the tires, change the oil and check out any unusual noises! Would you? In the same way that an automobile requires periodic maintenance for optimal performance, a home comfort system should be regularly inspected by a qualified technician.
SHOULD I COVER MY OUTDOOR UNIT IN THE FALL AND WINTER?
Covering the unit is not necessary, especially if you have a heat pump that runs all year long. In fact, covering an entire unit may actually trap moisture. If you’re concerned about leaves and debris getting inside the housing, short covers are available as an optional accessory and may be purchased through Weiss-Johnson.
HOW CAN I CONTROL ENERGY COSTS?
Heating and cooling your home can represent as much as 44% of your utility bill.* With high efficiency ratings and innovative, industry-leading technology, new home comfort systems can go a long way toward reducing these costs. When selecting a new system, pay close attention to the SEER rating of the air conditioner and AFUE of the furnace. The higher the SEER or AFUE, the higher the savings. Beyond efficiency ratings, other factors to consider are:
MAINTENANCE
You can ensure your system operates at peak performance by scheduling annual maintenance checks.
ZONING
A zoning system can drastically lower your heating and cooling costs. With zoning, you no longer have to pay to heat or cool areas of your home that are rarely used.
PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS
According to the Department of Energy, a programmable thermostat can reduce your heating costs by up to 35% and cooling costs by up to 25%.* For more energy-saving solutions, contact Weiss-Johnson.
* According to the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network.
Two-stage heating means the furnace has two levels of heat output: high for cold winter days and low for milder days. Since the low setting is adequate to meet household-heating demands 80% of the time, a two-stage unit runs for longer periods and provides more even heat distribution. Longer, low-capacity operation has many advantages:
- CONSISTENT COMFORT - Two-stage heating eliminates the temperature swings associated with standard furnaces, regulating temperature to within as little as one degree of the thermostat setting.
- QUIET OPERATION - Two-stage furnaces start in the first stage, when the amount of heat required is lower, instead of reaching full capacity all at once. That means there’s no sudden “kick” or blast of air.
- AIR FILTRATION - Low-speed operation allows your filters to capture more contaminants (because air is constantly passing through them), so you can breathe easier.
- EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE - Because the furnace operates mostly in its lower-capacity first stage, it burns less fuel than a standard furnace that always runs at full capacity and shuts off when the heating demand has been met.
CAN I USE MY CHIMNEY WITH MY NEW FURNACE?
Furnace technology has advanced significantly in recent years, raising concerns over chimney use. As a result of changing technology, many existing masonry chimneys aren’t able to meet the specific demands of new furnaces.
There are several reasons for this furnace-chimney incompatibility. First, the size of the chimney may be an issue. Modern, higher-efficiency furnaces transfer more heat into your home and less heat up the chimney than older, less-efficient units. While this means more efficiency for your energy dollar, it also means that the existing chimney might be too large for the new furnace. The result could be improper ventilation of flue products, which can cause condensation problems inside the chimney.
Other considerations include chimney height and location, proper lining and condition of the chimney. Building codes must also be kept in mind to ensure proper draft in the chimney for adequate ventilation. For the best advice on how to configure your new furnace, contact Weiss-Johnson’s professional staff.
WHAT ARE FURNACE RATINGS?
Furnaces are rated by the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratio, which is the percent of heat produced for every dollar of fuel consumed.
Like the miles-per-gallon rating on your automobile, the higher the AFUE rating, the lower your fuel costs. All furnaces manufactured today must meet at least 90% AFUE. If your furnace is 10 – 15 years old, it very well may fall below the current furnace minimum and waste energy.
This doesn’t mean that you should only select a furnace based on its AFUE rating. The efficiency rating is just one factor to consider when looking for a new furnace.
Furnaces use electricity to run fans and motors. The amount of electricity used varies greatly depending on the type of furnace. Be sure to check electricity usage prior to making a purchase decision.
WHAT IS A VARIABLE SPEED FURNACE?
The term “variable speed” refers to the furnace’s indoor blower motor, which moves at different speeds to precisely control the flow of heated and cooled air throughout your home. Better airflow control has several benefits:
- ELECTRICAL EFFICIENCY
Variable speed motors can actually save you money on your energy bills, as they consume less electricity than standard motors.
- HEATING EFFICIENCY
Variable speed technology also means you will gain heating efficiency or AFUE.
- ZONING
Variable speed motors are excellent for zoning, which allows you to customize your comfort in different areas of your home and control your energy bills.
- AIR QUALITY
A variable speed motor can also help clean the air in your home. When the fan is in constant operation (indicated by the “Fan” setting on your thermostat), the motor will continue to slowly circulate air, allowing filters to capture more contaminants.
WHY SHOULD I ZONE MY HOUSE?
A zoning system is designed for the many ways you use your home. Maybe you’re caught up in family “thermostat wars.” Or perhaps you have unoccupied areas that do not need conditioning. A zoning system allows you to divide your home into separate areas, giving you the comfort and control you’ve always wanted.
The main benefits of residential zoning are:
- COMFORT - Zoning meets the specific temperature and airflow requirements of one area, without affecting other areas.
- EFFICIENCY - A properly designed zoning system can save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs each year.
- CONTROL - Zoning divides the home into different areas and comfort into different levels, giving you more choices and control than ever before.
- QUIET PERFORMANCE - When integrated with variable speed and/or two-stage HVAC systems, zoning allows your heating and cooling equipment to deliver peak performance and efficiency without continually operating at peak capacity. Lower speeds mean lower sound levels.
WILL MY NEW FURNACE WORK DIFFERENTLY THAN MY OLD ONE?
Furnace technology has advanced significantly in recent years. Modern furnaces are designed to provide more even and efficient heating than past furnaces, which can impact both how your system operates and what you notice about your system.
To better regulate temperatures and airflow, modern furnaces move more air over the heat exchanger than older furnaces. The air that comes out of your furnace registers may not seem as warm as the air from your old furnace, but overall airflow is improved. Better airflow means higher comfort.
Also, new furnaces are designed to integrate with high-efficiency air conditioners, so furnace blowers are more powerful to accommodate add-on cooling. Since cold air is much heavier than warm air, your system needs an extra boost from the blower to deliver cool air throughout your home. If you have an older home, this performance boost could produce unfamiliar sounds because air duct systems were originally designed for heating only. To minimize sound levels, choose a variable speed product which automatically changes speeds to meet the airflow needs of both heating and cooling cycles.
HOW CAN I CONFIRM THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS FOR MY HEATING SYSTEM?
You can find the model and serial numbers (M/N and S/N) for your furnace by removing the top-front service panel and looking to the left side of the interior cabinet or the top of the blower deck, depending on whether your system is an 80% or 90%+ AFUE unit. Also, the orientation (horizontal or vertical) and flow direction (down or up) of your furnace may impact the location of the information.
An air conditioner seems as if it cools your home’s air, but it actually makes your home less warm by removing heat from the indoor air and transferring that heat to the outdoor air. Heat is extracted from the home by passing indoor air across a refrigerant coil in the indoor unit. Refrigerant lines then carry the heat to the outdoor unit, where it is released into the outside air. The cooling cycle continues until the indoor temperature reaches the thermostat setting.
HOW ARE AIR CONDITIONERS RATED?
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a system for rating the efficiency of cooling equipment. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your unit is.
WHY IS MY SYSTEM FREEZING UP?
There are several factors that can cause system freezing. Most need to be corrected by Weiss-Johnson’s professional team. There are a few things that you can check as a home owner. One thing you can do to prevent or correct this problem is to make sure the filter is clean or replaced. You can check to see if airflow is restricted, also check to make sure your registers and grilles are not covered by furniture and are in the open position.
DIRTY FILTER
After replacing or cleaning the filter, you can speed up the thawing process by turning the system off and turning on the fan. After the ice has melted, switch the system settings back to normal. If the system refreezes, contact Weiss-Johnson to correct the problem.
LOW REFRIGERANT
In some cases, freezing is caused by a leak in the refrigerant lines. Weak solder joints, friction from piping rubbing or vibrating against an object, open valves or loose fittings are all factors that can cause leaks. When determining whether to have the system repaired or replaced, the age of the system and the nature and location of the leak are important considerations.
DIRTY EVAPORATOR COIL
Over time, the evaporator coil will become dirty. When this happens, you will begin to slowly lose airflow, until it freezes up or cooling performance is compromised. At this point, you will need to contact Weiss-Johnson to correct the problem.
DEFECTIVE BLOWER MOTOR OR RELAY
A blower motor not running at the proper speed, or not running at all, is another factor that can cause freezing. Motor operation may be intermittent, starting at full speed and slowing down after it heats up. Or, a relay could cause it to start one time and not the next. In either case, you will need to contact Weiss-Johnson to correct the problem.
HOW CAN I CONFIRM THE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBERS FOR MY COOLING SYSTEM?
The model and serial numbers for your cooling system can be found on the nameplate or sticker, located near the service panel. The nomenclature sticker should have a white background with black letters.
WHAT SIZE EQUIPMENT DO I NEED FOR MY HOME?
The only reliable way to determine the size that best matches the needs of your home is to have Weiss-Johnson come to your home, and take into account the square footage of your house, the insulation value of your windows, the amount of insulation in your walls and roof and many other factors.
Your air filter is located in either the blower compartment of your furnace, or in an attached filter case. If you cannot locate the air filter, call Weiss-Johnson for assistance.
WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY AIR FILTER?
Every month you should inspect or clean your air filter and replace it if necessary. Changing your filter when needed will help keep your equipment running at peak efficiency.
WHERE CAN I PURCHASE AIR FILTERS?
You can purchase replacement filters from Weiss-Johnson. Some filters are not recommended by Weiss-Johnson for use with heating and cooling equipment because they may be too restrictive, causing system malfunctions. Weiss-Johnson can help you choose the best filter for your HVAC system and needs.
For safety reasons, we do not recommend making parts directly available to consumers. We have the best resource for identifying and supplying the right parts for your system. When Weiss-Johnson comes to your home you know it’s backed by a 1 year labour and parts warranty, and installed by one of our professional service techs.
WHAT IS INDOOR AIR QUALITY?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), your exposure to air pollutants can be up to 100x higher indoors than outdoors. The American Lung Association estimates that most people spend 90% of their time indoors, so clean indoor air is very important.
WHAT CAUSES INDOOR AIR POLLUTION?
Many everyday household items contribute to poor indoor air quality. Compounds found in carpeting, furniture, upholstery and drapery fabric consistently emit gas or fumes. Other sources of pollutants can include, but are not limited to, cleaning agents, paints and personal care products. Also, newer homes that are tightly sealed for energy efficiency tend to limit air circulation, which can contribute to a buildup of contaminants. Likewise, things like weather stripping and storm doors keep stale air in and fresh air out.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CLEAN AIR?
Allergies and asthma are two health problems that can be helped with clean indoor air. When airborne irritants are removed, allergy and asthma sufferers often find relief from their symptoms. Even healthy people who have never suffered from allergies can benefit from clean air. Dust, smoke and other particles float around in the air, causing your drapes and furniture to gather dust. By removing airborne dust particles, you reduce the amount of exposure your respiratory system has to them.
HOW HEALTHY IS YOUR INDOOR AIR?
According to studies conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the air inside your home may be up to 5x more polluted than the air outside. For some people, this may mean no more than a runny nose or watery eyes. But, for others, particularly children, seniors and those who suffer from respiratory ailments, the effects may be devastating and long lasting.
- CLEANING THE AIR - Reducing the amount of pollutants in the air is the most effective way to improve indoor air quality. Filtration products capture contaminants that can’t be removed through vacuuming and regular cleaning. Among the filtration solutions available are UV light units, air filters, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs), heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and electronic air cleaners. UV light units help decompose contaminants, such as bacteria, chemicals, dust mites, animal dander, cat saliva and mold, through a process called photo-catalytic oxidation. When the UV lights are installed in the ductwork of your central air and heat system, they can eliminate most of the organisms in the treated area. Activated carbon and microbiocide-treated filters can also purify your home’s air. Both the carbon and the microbiocide-treated filters remove odor and kill bacteria. Tthe carbon filters are more effective at removing odor, while the microbiocide-treated filters trap bacteria as the air is pulled through, which inhibits growth of biological contaminants.The efficiency of the air filter is an important consideration. Efficiency is measured in terms of the particle size an air filter can capture. The higher the efficiency, the more effective it will be. Look for the filter’s MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) number, an industry standard that rates filters based on their performance. Residential filters typically have an MERV range of one to sixteen. Electronic air cleaners clean the air by taking re-circulated air and passing it through a pre-filter that traps the large pollutants. Then, ionizing wires give a positive electrical charge to remaining particles. A negatively charged collecting section collects the particles. Pollutants pass through an optional carbon filter that absorbs unwanted odors.
- CLEARING THE AIR - ERVs and HRVs bring fresh air into the home and exhaust stale air out. An HRV conserves energy from indoor conditioned air and transfers it outdoors. An ERV does the same thing, but it also maintains the desired humidity levels to keep the house comfortable. To find out which indoor air quality products are right for you, contact Weiss-Johnson and speak to one of there professional techs.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a filtration system, starting with sensitivity to allergens. The more sensitive a person is to allergens, the greater the need for a high-efficiency filtration system.
- EFFICIENCY - The efficiency of the air filter should be a top consideration. Efficiency is based on the size of the particles captured by an air filter. The higher the efficiency, the more effective it will be. Look for the filter’s MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) number, a new industry standard for rating filters based on their performance. Residential filters typically have an MERV range of one to sixteen. Higher ratings indicate more efficient filters.Higher filter efficiency not helps clear the air, but it also improves airflow. Generally, the more efficient a filter is, the less airflow reduction there will be.
- COST - Cost is another major factor—both in terms of the initial purchase price and expense of maintenance and upgrades. Purchasing a filter of reasonably high quality can save you money over the long term. Inexpensive filters may not provide the level of filtration you need and may also require frequent filter replacement.
- SOLUTIONS - Among the many filtration systems available are pleated filters, which are constructed of fiberglass or synthetic fibers woven into a more dense material. The pleats are arranged in V-shaped forms to increase the area of the filter material without increasing the face area. This increases the particle-holding capability. Germicidal lights use intense ultraviolet light to sterilize surfaces. Each solution removes particles, bio-aerosols and chemicals, depending on the size of the allergen. Electronic air cleaners (EACs) are highly efficient and clean the air by taking re-circulated air and passing it through a pre-filter that traps the large pollutants. Then ionizing wires give a positive electrical charge to the remaining particles. A negatively charged collecting section collects the particles. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are also very effective at small-particle removal. Activated carbon and microbiocide-treated filters can also purify your home’s air. Both the carbon and the microbiocide-treated filters remove odor and kill bacteria. The carbon filters are more effective at removing odor, while the microbiocide-treated filters trap bacteria as the air is pulled through, which inhibits growth of biological contaminants.To find out which indoor air quality products are right for you, contact us at Weiss Johnson.
Carbon monoxide can be an invisible threat to your family’s health and safety. Though more commonly associated with fires and automobile emissions, carbon monoxide poisoning can accumulate in any home unless certain precautions are taken. Home heating systems represent only 5% of potential carbon monoxide sources. Though the amount of carbon monoxide produced is not substantial, it is important to schedule annual maintenance visits by a qualified technician to make sure all combustion appliances are operating properly and all chimneys and vents are free from obstruction.
WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels such as wood, natural gas, gasoline, diesel, kerosene, coal and charcoal. It is caused by lack of oxygen or a disruption in the burning process. Household appliances such as your furnace, water heater, stove, space heaters, charcoal grill and gas dryer can be sources of carbon monoxide, especially if they are not in good working condition or have been installed improperly. Vehicle exhaust fumes from attached garages, as well as improperly operating fireplaces, also can become carbon monoxide hazards, particularly if your home is well-sealed for energy efficiency.
At one time, it was possible to achieve natural ventilation in our homes by merely opening a window. However, with the concern for energy efficiency in recent years, we have been busy making homes “tighter” from an energy standpoint. Armed with weather stripping and caulk guns, we have eliminated air leaks from our homes. Unfortunately, that means contaminants have no way to escape. Pollutants in your home’s air can cause poor indoor air quality, which in turn may cause dizziness and headaches, plus aggravate allergies and asthma. That’s why Weiss-Johnson offers ventilation systems that help remove contaminants by exchanging stale, re-circulated indoor air with fresh, filtered outside air.
HOW CAN I VENTILATE MY HOME WITHOUT LOSING ENERGY?
It is now possible to exchange stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air without compromising the energy efficiency of your home. Heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) exchange stale, re-circulated indoor air with fresh, filtered outside air, and no energy is wasted.
HRVs and ERVs are electronically powered units that circulate air throughout your home using the existing forced-air system or specially installed ducts. These units pump stale air out of your home and replace it with an equal volume of fresh outside air. An HRV is a compact unit that conditions the temperature of the outside air, while an ERV is a packaged unit that conditions both the temperature and humidity of the outside air. Because these units condition the air before it enters the home, your energy costs remain stable.
HOW CAN I PROVIDE FRESH AIR EXCHANGE?
A heat recovery ventilator (HRV) uses fans that draw in fresh, cool outdoor air, while removing stale, heated indoor air. An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) performs the same function, but utilizes a rotary energy recovery wheel. In both cases, the units transfer the temperature and moisture properties from one air stream to the other, without allowing the two airflow streams to mix. Both units offer easy access for change of filters and necessary maintenance, making them not only energy efficient but also easy to use.
HOW DO I DETERMINE IF A HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION (HRV) OR ENERGY RECOVERY VENTILATOR (ERV) IS RIGHT FOR ME?
If you’re wondering whether you need to clear the air in your home, you might ask yourself these questions: When was your home built? If your home is new, chances are it was built “tighter” to be more energy efficient. This may mean concentrations of air pollutants in your home could be a concern. Have you upgraded your home to be more energy efficient? If so, it may need an additional source of ventilation. How often throughout the course of a year can you comfortably open your windows? Due to cold winters and hot summers, it is not always possible to have your windows open year-round. This means that you may not always have a constant controlled source of ventilation. Do odors tend to linger in your home? If this is the case, it is a sign of poor ventilation. There isn’t enough air being circulated throughout the home to dilute unwanted odors. Your home comfort should include products and accessories that improve indoor air quality. Your family’s health and comfort should be priorities, and working together, we can help you provide your family with a breath of fresh air.
WHAT IS AN HRV?
An HRV is a Heat Recovery Ventilator. Also commonly referred to as an Air to Air Exchanger.
WHAT DOES AN HRV DO?
An HRV’s purpose is to provide a continuous supply of fresh air into your house while exhausting stale, contaminated air out of your house.
WHY DOES IT RUN ALL THE TIME?
The unit must be engaged all the time to ensure the continuous supply of air entering and exhausting the house. Unlike you furnace, the HRV must run all the time for maximum efficiency.
DO I NEED TO HAVE THE HRV RUNNING ALL THE TIME WHEN MY WINDOWS ARE OPEN IN THE SUMMER?
There are various speed controls available with the Fantech HRV. We recommend you continue to run the HRV even in the summer (on low speed) to facilitate effective air exchange.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST ME IN ELECTRICITY PER MONTH?
The cost will be related to the size of the unit and the speed at which the unit is running. Fantech uses an Energy Star, continuous duty rated motor which consumes very little electricity. Please see the spec on your actual model for exact power consumption.
WHAT TYPE OF MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED?
The HRV is a very low maintenance piece of equipment. We recommend you put the electrostatic filters through your dishwasher at least twice per year. You can also use your garden hose to rinse off the aluminum core once per year or more frequently if desired.
WILL THE HRV FILTER THE AIR?
The HRV is not an air filter. The purpose of the HRV is to simply exchange the air in your home while offering some heat recapture to the incoming air. Exhausting stale, polluted air, introduces fresh air.
HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?
Fantech’s HRV has a life time warranty on the aluminum core, 7 year warranty on our continuous duty motors and 5 year warranty on all other components. There are very few moving parts in an HRV and very little can break down within the unit.
HOW OFTEN DO I HAVE TO DO THE MAINTENANCE?
This depends on your specific ventilation circumstances. A recommendation is to clean the electrostatic filters in your dishwasher every 6 months and your core once per year. There are no other maintenance requirements for the unit.
WHY IS THERE A DRAIN TUBE COMING OUT OF THE MACHINE?
In climates that have high humidity or climates that have below freezing temperatures, moisture and/or ice will form in the HRV’s core. This is normal and our unit has an automatic defrost cycle to get rid of the ice. Once the ice melts, the moisture will flow in the drain pan and out of the unit via the tube.
Recommended Relative Humidity Guide *
Outside Air Temperature |
Indoor relative Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
+0 |
45 |
-5 |
40 |
-10 |
35 |
-15 |
30 |
-20 |
25 |
* This is a guide only and will vary according to construction of home (quality of windows, vapor barrier, etc.) Basically, for every 5 degrees below zero Celsius, drop your humidstat by 5%.
