Home Comfort Expert(ise): What is R-22, Why Should I Care and Why so Expensive?

R-22, what is commonly referred to as Freon, is one of the gases used to “charge” an air conditioner. In 2004 the Environmental Protection Agency announced a phasedown schedule on production and distribution of this ozone-depleting chemical. As R-22 is phased out, it’s price has increased due to lack of availability, increased regulations and increased demand. Because R-22 was found …

Reducing Your Home’s Humidity

Reducing Your Home’s Humidity

Humidity is evaporated water in the air. As anyone who lives in Michiana knows, too much can make outdoor activities unpleasant in the summer. And extreme humidity is also be bad for our homes. Humidity can cause woodwork to swell as it absorbs moisture from the air. When the air becomes dry again in winter, wood shrinks again. In fact, …

Summer is Here: How are Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke Different?

Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan has its fair share of thunderstorms during the summer months. It also feels the cooler, crisper Canadian air that cold fronts occasionally bring in. Nevertheless, we are no stranger to a humid continental climate. In fact, the combination of high temperatures and elevated humidity may result in heat exhaustion and heatstroke among locals. Both are …

Getting the Most Out of Your Air Conditioner

Getting the Most Out of Your Air Conditioner

Choosing the right air conditioner for your home can involve several factors, including budget and energy efficiency. While the initial purchase price obviously plays a role in most people’s decision, the right unit that’s more expensive but also more energy-efficient might save you money in the not-so-long run. Here are a few tips for choosing the best A/C unit for …