SEER / HSPF
When looking at a new system, remember that the efficiency of a heat pump is indicated by two ratings, one for heating and one for cooling. The heating rating is called the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), the cooling rating is called the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). In both cases, the higher the number, the greater the efficiency and the lower the operating costs.

Carbon monoxide and the dangers
If you have gas appliances in your home you should be aware of Carbon Monoxide (CO). CO as it is known, is an odorless colorless gas that is produced when a fuel is burned. CO is poisonous and can cause severe illness and even death. The only way to know when CO is present in your home is to install a CO Detector. We recommend that any home having propane, natural gas or oil appliances have AT LEAST one Carbon Monoxide detector. Having your heating system checked yearly is a very good start, but that alone does not guarantee that you and your family are safe. Changing conditions in the equipment or weather can cause an unsafe condition to occur at any time. Only a quality CO Detector can continually monitor the air inside your home and alert you when an unsafe level is present. For more information call us at 703-541-1006 or e-mail us at northstar@northstarac.com.

Air balance / airflow analysis
Air Balancing is the process of testing and adjusting your air conditioning system to deliver the right amount of air to each room in your home. The actual Air Balancing process includes a number of related tests that determine the performance of your air conditioning and heating system. Air balancing hoods are used to measure the amount of air at each grille. Manometers measure system pressures. Hygrometers measure system temperature and humidity. The results of all these tests are compiled into a report to determine how well your system is functioning.

Combustion Efficiency
Combustion efficiency is a calculation of how well your equipment is burning a specific fuel, shown in percent. Complete combustion efficiency would extract all the energy available in the fuel. However 100% combustion efficiency is not realistically achievable. Common combustion processes produce efficiencies from 10% to 95%. Follow this link for a more detailed explanation of combustion efficiency.