Portable Air Conditioners: Green Purchasing

The Federal Green Purchasing Program was set up by the Office of the Federal Environmental Executive. It includes the acquisition of recycled content products, environmentally preferable products and service, biobased products, energy-and water-efficient products, alternate fuel vehicles, products using renewable energy and alternative to hazardous or toxic chemicals.

Federal agencies are assisted in promoting the acquisition of recycled content, environmentally preferable and biobased products, non-ozone depleting substances, and products containing alternatives to certain priority chemicals by the White House Task Force on Waste Prevention and Recycling, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Also, the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA help agencies implement the energy-related purchasing requirements, including the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles and alternative fuels. The key to making this program successful are the central sources of supply which are the General Services Administration and the Defense Logistics Agency.

Part of this program is also the purchase of energy efficient products. When you are purchasing a portable air conditioner you should try to choose one that is Energy Star qualified. Energy Star is an international standard for energy efficient consumer products. Device that carry the Energy Star logo, like portable air conditioners, save 20-30 percent on average. Most appliances as well as heating and cooling systems have a yellow Energy Guide label showing the annual cost of operation in comparison to other models. These labels are created through the Department of Energy and often show if an appliance is Energy Star.

Cooling and heating bills can be significantly lowered with air sealing and dust sealing as well. Air sealing reduces the outdoor air that penetrates a building and duct sealing prevents attic or basement air from entering ducts which can lessen the heating/cooling system's efficiency. Keep in mind that energy star qualified portable air conditioners are at least 10 percent more energy efficient than the minimum U.S. federal government standards.

Ready, Set, Winterize!

You should start getting your home and family ready for the winter during the fall. It's much harder to do the simple tasks you need to do when it's freezing outside. Here are some things it's important to do to ensure your comfort and safety during the cold winter months.

Insulate

To keep your home warm and keep your energy bills down, seal and insulate your home as effectively as possible. If there are cracks in the walls of your home, heat will be lost through them which reduces the efficiency of your heating system and raises your energy bills. Seal the interior and exterior of your home to reduce the risk of drafts, leaks, dry rot and mold. The hot water tank in your home should also be insulated with an insulating blanket that can be purchased at a hardware store.

Check Your Furnace

Every fall, an HVAC professional should inspect your furnace and clean the ducts. This is important to keep your furnace, heat pump and other heating equipment in top operating condition. It is also important to purchase furnace filters and change them monthly. Dirty filters reduce the efficiency of your furnace or heat pump and poorly tuned units are inefficient and use more fuel.

Reverse You Ceiling Fan During the Winter

Most ceiling fans come with a switch that reverses the rotation of the fan. When the fan is reversed, it creates an updraft instead of cooling you by pushing the air down. The warm air gathered at the top of your living room is displaced and pushed back out into the living space. This cuts heating costs by as much as 10 percent. When fan is reversed, turn fan on at low speed so air moves slowly for the best warming results.

Check Your Heating System

To make sure you have heat where and when you need it, give your system a test run. First, turn your thermostat to heat mode and set it to 80. The furnace should turn on and warm air should blow within a few minutes. If it's running fine, then turn the thermostat back to normal setting. If it isn't running properly, try to diagnose the problem to see if it is something you can fix yourself or if you need to contact a qualified service technician. Also, you should replace the air filter. If you have a propane or oil furnace, have the fuel storage tank topped off. Clear obstacles to heating vents so the air can freely flow.

Check Alarms

The fall is a good time to check the operation and change the batteries of your home smoke detectors. Test the alarm not just by pressing the test button, but actually use a bit of smoke. They should be replaced every ten years. The fire extinguisher should be tested as well. A good investment is a carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless compound produced by incomplete combustion that is lethal at high levels, can be emitted by open flames, space heaters, water heaters, blocked chimneys or running a car inside a garage. A carbon monoxide detector sounds an alarm is a high level of carbon monoxide is detected, which gives people a chance to ventilate the area or safely leave the building.

Take Care of Your Air Conditioner

It may seem weird, but your air conditioner also needs care in preparation for the winter. Make sure the fan blades are clean and the condensing coils are clear of debris with a hose set to jet/highest pressure you have. The condensing unit should be covered during the winter so that wet leaves and debris can’t damage it by contributing to the rusting and freezing of internal components. They should be covered with a breathable waterproof cover so that the lifespan of the machine is extended and the performance remains efficient. Window and portable air conditioners should be removed and stored safely during the winter.

The Importance of Insulation

Insulation is a method for slowing down the movement of heat. Heat seeks a cooler area so it flows out of your home in the winter and into your home in the summer. Insulation materials are similar to goose down in that they trap air in tiny pockets that restrict it from moving. Natural air movement is slowed down because the air can't move as freely. Insulation keeps your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter because it resists the flow of heat. Reducing the flow of heat by properly insulating your home results in using less energy for heating and cooling. It also works well as a sound absorber. In walls and ceilings, insulation can reduce the transmission of sound from one room to another or from the outside. Insulation increases the overall comfort of your home and adds to the resale value.

The amount of insulation you need to use depends on where you live. There are a variety of different kinds of insulation including fiber glass, mineral wool, cellulose, foam and cotton. The two most common for residential applications are fiber glass and cellulose. The way insulation is measured is by R-value. The "R" stands for resistance to heat flow and the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. The R-value is usually printed either on bags or labels by insulation manufacturers. It is also often printed on facings of fiber glass batts and rolls.

Make sure you know what R-value to use. You can get this from the builder or the local building code. This makes sure the product provides long-lasting thermal performance. The overall R-value is what counts, the R-value "per inch" is not important. Fiberglass insulation products come in R-values ranging from R-11 to R-38 for fiberglass batts and rolls. Fiberglass and rock and slag wool insulation can be blown in an attic to nearly any R-value. The more R-value alternatives provided, the greater the flexibility in meeting code energy requirements in your area.

To get the expected energy savings from insulation, you should make sure it will not deteriorate or settle over time. Fiberglass batts and rolls do not settle. Fiber glass and rock and slag wool loose-fill insulations may settle approximately 1-3 percent which means that there is pretty much no impact on the thermal performance of the insulation. Cellulose installation settles 20 percent and at a higher rate which means a significant loss of insulating effectiveness. The Insulation Contractors Association of America recommends that an additional 25 percent of thickness be added for cellulose insulation to compensate for the great loss of R-value.

Another factor to consider along with insulation is air infiltration. The Department of Energy estimates that about forty percent of a home's heat loss results from air infiltration. It most commonly occurs in parts of the home that are not insulated such as around windows, doors, fireplaces, HVAC ductwork and perimeter joints. It should be taken care of with the use of house wrap, proper caulking and sealing of band joists, sill plates, header plates and insulation around doors, windows, electrical outlets and other openings.

The most important thing to know is that proper installation is the key. Not only will proper installation save energy, heating and cooling costs, financial incentives are offered in many states for the purchase and installation of insulation.

The Importance of Venting Your Portable Air Conditioner

Portable air conditioners are air conditioners that can be moved from one room to another. Permanent installation is not required with portable air conditioners. They do require a venting outlet, though. Windows and walls are most commonly used as venting outlets. You may also use a drop ceiling for venting purposes. Venting hoses are usually made of temperature resistant plastic and reinforced with metal. Once you position your portable air conditioner, the exhaust hose needs to be directed out of the room so that the hot air will be expelled from the room.

Some air conditioner manufacturers claim to sell portable air conditioners that do not require venting. These units simply do not exist. All portable air conditioners need to vent the hot air they remove from the room they are cooling. It is important to note that the hot air does not need to be vented to the outside via a window. Another option is to use a room where high temperature is not an issue, like a storage room.

The reason why portable conditioners require venting is so that they can function properly. If the hot air is not vented to another room, the portable air conditioner will not work efficiently. Venting is inexpensive. Most portable air conditioners come with an installation kit for a window or sliding door.

There are a few simple steps to take when venting your portable air conditioner. You should find a location for the vent first, whether it be window, wall or drop ceiling. Next, you should slide the exhaust connector over the discharge opening at the back of the portable air conditioner. Then, connect the exhaust hose to the exhaust connector. Connecting the venting window kit adaptor to the window kit is the next step. Finally, you should set the window venting kit into the window and shut the window.

How the window kit works is that the window kit is cut to fit the sliding door or window. The window is closed against the foam to seal the air from coming in from outside. The exhaust hose is fitted through a small cut in the foam. A single installation only takes about five minutes and you can move the unit from window to window with ease.

The ideal length of an exhaust hose is 5-7 feet. It should be 5 inches in diameter. The length of the hose should not be extended. If you extend the hose and there is a backpressure or constriction to the airflow, the unit will not work and possibly be damaged as well. If it is absolutely necessary to extend the hose, you should make sure the diameter is increased along with the length. Be sure to note that the efficiency of the portable air conditioner will be decreased. You should read the warranty manual before making any alterations to the hose because some manufacturers do not allow it.

One last note is that venting out of a dryer vent is not recommended by manufacturers. It is especially not recommended if the diameter of the dryer vent is smaller than the hose of the portable air conditioner. If the dryer vent has external vents, you should not use that as a venting option. The compressor on your portable air conditioner is not strong enough to push the flaps open.

Portable Air Conditioner Troubleshooting

When your home cannot accommodate a traditional air conditioner, you live in an apartment building or you need cooling for your computer server room a portable air conditioner is the perfect appliance. They are useful in a variety of situations and settings. You don't have to deal with costly central cooling systems or ineffective fans and portable air conditioners are truly portable. They can be moved from one area to the next and require little to no installation and maintenance. Sometimes there may be a problem with your portable air conditioner. Before turning to a professional, why not save money by troubleshooting the problems yourself? Here are some common issues and the solutions:

Your Portable Air Conditioner Won't Start
- Make sure your power cord is plugged in correctly and undamaged.
- Check wall plug and circuit breaker. Reset the circuit breaker at the box. Change the socket or outlet.
- If neither of these solutions work, take it to a qualified electrician and have the fuse replaced.

Your Portable Air Conditioner Stops Operating on its Own
- Make sure the timer is not on.
- Make sure the temperature in the room is not lower than the set temperature.
- Wait until the room temperature rises to operate unit.

Your Portable Air Conditioner Won't Cool
- Remove the grill and clean the filter.
- Check the evaporator and condenser coils for clogs.
- If neither of these are the problems, the fan motor may be blown or the compressor is malfunctioning so professional help is necessary.


Your Portable Air Conditioner Won't Cool in Dehumidification Mode
- Check for excess frost on evaporator or coils. If present, allow defrosting to take place.
- To prevent ice buildup, clean the dirty air filters. Also, in weather conditions colder than 60 degrees, defrost the coil by turning the selector switch to the fan position and let it run until the ice melts.

Your Portable Air Conditioner Is Not Providing Enough Cooling
- Keep in mind that portable air conditioners should be used for supplemental cooling and for small areas like bedrooms or living rooms.
- Make sure you have the right sized portable air conditioner. They are sized by BTU rating. If the BTUs are too high the unit will cycle off too quickly. If the BTUs are too low, the unit will not adequately cool the area.
- Excessive sunlight and extremely low or high ambient temperatures can also affect the cooling capacity.

The Connection Between Obesity and Portable or Central Air Conditioners

Air conditioning is what most people turn to when the weather is hot and steamy to keep them cool and comfortable. But even though it is usually a comfort, could it be a cause of obesity? Some studies say yes.

While some studies agree that portable or central air conditioning can be a cause of obesity, they differ on the exact reason that a person exposed to air conditioning gains weight. One theory is that air conditioning keeps people in the thermoneutral zone. This is a temperature range in which the body does not have to regulate its temperature. If the temperature of the body is above or below this zone, the amount of energy the body expends is increased and energy stores like fat are decreased. Since the widespread use of heaters and portable or central air conditioners, homes and offices remain at relatively the same temperature for the whole year. The body does not have to spend as much energy because there is no warming up or cooling down. This leads to increased fat stores. A slightly different theory is that air conditioning makes you hungry because the body burns calories to warm you up. You'll feel more compelled to eat to make up those burned calories.

When these air conditioning/obesity studies came out there were a lot of dissenting opinions. Some experts did not believe there was enough evidence to tie air conditioning to obesity causally. They pointed out the fact that there are thin people in different climates. They also turned to the usual suspects when it comes to the causes of obesity: an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise.

Surprisingly there are some sneakier factors that might be causing obesity. One is sleep deprivation. Tired people most likely to do have the energy to exercise. This lack of energy also leads them to temptation when it comes to eating or overeating in an attempt to gain energy. Quitting smoking was another sneaky factor. Some people replace the habit of lighting up with snacking. Some ethnic groups have a higher prevalence for obesity as well. There is also a theory that since people marrying might be more likely to pick a partner that is similarly sized; two obese people will give birth to obese offspring. Another theory gaining speed is that the older a woman is when she gives birth, the higher the risk is of her child being obese.

6 Crucial Things to Know About Central and Portable Air Conditioners

Some people would be lost without air conditioning. They'd certainly be a lot hotter after a hard day's work without it. In order to make sure you always have air conditioning when you need it, you'll need to know these six crucial things about your air conditioning, whether it is central or portable.

1. Change the Filter

Filters are so important. They improve the efficiency when they are clean so you should be sure to install a new one or wash a reusable one every month during the cooling season. An important value to look for regarding filters is the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). This number will range from 1-12 and a higher number means better filtration is being provided. Higher numbers also mean that more energy is being used to pull the air through the filter so the energy cost may increase as well.

2. Use a Timer

The energy conscious consumer knows that there is no need to have air conditioning on at full blast when no one is home. A smart move is to install a programmable thermostat that allows you to set higher temperatures when you are gone and lower ones when you are at home. For portable air conditioners, a timer and adjustable thermostat might already be built in. Just set your ideal temperature and the amount of time you want your unit to operate and the comfort begins.

3. Keep Blinds/Shades Down During the Day

Direct sunlight is not your friend when you are trying to cool a room. In fact, direct sunlight can raise the temperature of a room by ten to twenty degrees. So, be sure to cover the windows with curtains or drapes. Exterior shading is also very effective such as trees and bushes from outside.

4. Run Your Air Conditioner And Ceiling Fan Together

Doing this creates more air movement which can result in a four degree drop in the overall temperature of the area you are trying to cool. Also, ceiling fans cost about as much to run as a standard light bulb so your energy bill won't go up.

5. Insulation is Key

Any air leaks in your home waste your money because you will have to shell out more money for cooling because cold air is escaping. Caulking and weather stripping is always a good idea. You should also ensure that your fireplace is closed and insulate your home if financially feasible. For portable air conditioners, it is important to make sure the window kit is set up correctly. No leaks means better cooling efficiency.

6. M for Maintenance

For central air conditioners, either the dealer who installed your unit, or someone you find yourself should be checking up on your unit yearly. This checkup should include cleaning and inspecting coils, cleaning or replacing filters, adjusting and replacing fan belts, lubricating motors and bearings, cleaning and checking blowers and fans, inspecting controls and safeties, checking refrigerant and pressures and verifying operating temps.

For portable air conditioners, maintenance can be summed up best in four easy parts.

-Venting: You must vented the condensed hot air out of the room via a venting kit.

-Draining: Portable air conditioners remove water from the air. Some of the water is used to cool the air conditioner which increases the cooling efficiency. The rest of the water has to be released from the machine somehow. Sometimes it is collected in a bucket that needs to be emptied. Sometimes the air conditioner has self-evaporating technology so that most of the water is released with the condensed hot air by the venting kit. You may still have to empty a small container with these units. Continuous draining is available on some machines and some have condensate pumps that deliver the water outside or ro a drain pump located indoors.

-Cleaning: Every few weeks or so, the exterior of your portable air conditioner should be cleaned. You can use a soft, damp cloth to clean it while the unit is turned off. Be sure not no use abrasive chemicals or detergents.

Storing: At the end of the cooling season, you may need to store your unit. This promotes the efficiency and prolongs the life of your portable air conditioner. Turn your unit off, unplug it and drain all of the water out. Then plug it back in and turn on the fan mode. Let it dry out for a few hours. Make sure the filter is clean, wrap up the cord and pack the unit in the original packaging if at all possible. Store in a dry location.

How to Buy a Room Air Conditioner

Room air conditioners put the cooling you need directly where you need it. They are a great solution for people who cannot install a central air conditioner in their building because it is not feasible or too expensive. The technology of room air conditioners has come a long way. They are up to thirty percent more energy efficient than they were just one short decade ago. They also have longer warranties so worrying about maintenance and repairs is a thing of the past.

It is a great idea to buy room air conditioners early. Buying them before summer starts certainly saves you money. Companies can get top dollar for these units in the summer, but during the off season they often have sales.

An important thing to consider when purchasing a room air conditioner is matching the unit to the room it is going to be cooling. If the cooler is too small, it won't cool the space. If it is too large, it will cool the space too quickly and the built-in thermostat will shut the unit down before the humidity in the room is lowered. This means the room will feel damp and clammy.

Room air conditioners are sized according to BTUs per hour, also known as the cooling capacity. This number can be found on the packaging of the unit or in literature about the product. BTUs of room air conditioners typically range from 5,000 to 25,000. To figure out which room air conditioner is right for them, most people compare the square footage of the room to BTU capacity. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), a Chicago based industry group has a more complex formula. It includes window area, sun exposure, insulation levels, how the room is used and other variables. For a more complete way to find the right amount of BTUs for you, their formula may be helpful.

Be sure to note that for 115V circuits typical of bedrooms and living rooms, you'll have to stay below 15,000 BTUs. Anything above that will require a 230V circuit. Also, if you are trying to cool an oddly shaped space with corners, it is better to have two smaller room air conditioners instead of one large one. Having two units will prevent cold spots in front of the air conditioner and warm spots around the corners. Mainly, you should try to keep cold air from pooling on the floor.

A very important consideration is Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). This value is the cooling capacity divided by the electrical power required to run the unit. The higher this number is the better. The federal government requires manufacturers to list the energy rating on the unit. An EER of nine or ten is typical on an 115V room air conditioner. If a unit has an EER of ten it is considered extremely energy efficient. You will pay more up front for energy efficiency as well as for a high cooling capacity but you make up the increase in cost with the energy savings.

One last important consideration is the amount of control features. To fine tune the output of your room air conditioner for maximum comfort, look for units with multispeed fans and adjustable thermostats. If you are operating a room air conditioner in a bedroom, you can cool the space and then switch to a lower setting for quieter operation. Digital controls are even a higher step up, offering precise temperature control and sometimes even a timer for turning power on or off on a preset schedule. Also consider where the controls are located and whether it will be comfortable for you to reach them.

Portable Cooling Guide: Maintaining your Portable Air Conditioner

When you need supplemental cooling or you cannot install traditional air conditioners because of impracticality or cost, a portable air conditioner is a great solution. Portable air conditioners can be moved from room to room. They do not require permanent installation. All you need to do to make sure the portable air conditioner works properly is vent it through a window or wall.

The maintenance on portable air conditioners is almost as easy as the set up and operation. Of course, to operate a portable air conditioner the initial venting must be done. This means venting the exhaust hose with a venting kit. This usually comes included with the portable air conditioner when it is purchased and can be slid into a window. If venting through a window is not possible, then venting through a wall or drop ceiling is also acceptable. This helps the portable air conditioner with the cooling process.

Water drainage is also an important component of portable air conditioner maintenance. Portable air conditioners cool and remove water from the air. They use some of the water to cool the unit. This makes the entire process of cooling more efficient. Portable air conditioners deal with excess water in various ways. Some of them collect the water into buckets that need to be emptied regularly. The amount of water in the bucket depends on the climate conditioner and the amount of time the portable air conditioner is in operation. Some units use a self-evaporating technology so that most of the excess water is expended with the hot air discharge. Most air conditioners can support a drain hose so that water can be drained continuously. There are also condensate pumps that move the drained water through a hose that is directed outside or to a drain pump located inside.

Another important factor to consider when performing maintenance on your air conditioner is cleaning and/or replacing air filters. There are washable filters that remove particulates from the air. Some portable air conditioners even have built-in air purifiers that include ionizers for particles and carbon filters for odors and gas control. To maintain an allergy-free, healthy, breathable environment and a properly functioning unit, filters need to be cleaned and changed regularly. Depending on use, you will need to change or clean the filters on a monthly or bi-weekly basis. For washable filters simply slide the filter out, immerse it in warm water with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly before putting it back into the unit. Carbon filters will need to be replaced according to the manufacturer's directions (usually every few months or so).

The housing of your portable air conditioner needs to be cleaned as well. If the air conditioner is clean, the air volume increases. To clean the housing of your unit, wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth after you have turned the unit off. You should never use abrasive chemicals or detergents because this can result in scratches and damage to the portable air conditioner housing. It is also important to keep the unit out of direct sunlight because this can change the surface color of the unit's body.

As for off season storage, you need to properly store your portable air conditioner when it is not needed to make sure it works with maximum cooling efficiency when it is needed again. To store properly, you'll need to turn off and unplug the portable air conditioner. Next, you should drain all of the condensate water from the water container. Then, to dry the interior of the unit, turn it on fan mode for several minutes. You should then clean the filters, wrap the cord around the cord hooks and pack the unit in its original carton if possible. Make sure you store it in a dry location. Some portable air conditioners have built-in heaters and can be used year-round. You should still maintain these like any other units. Maintaining your portable air conditioners keeps your house allergy free and your unit working properly. Start caring about your portable air conditioner today! For more tips, click here!

Portable Cooling Guide: How to Choose Between a Portable Air Conditioner and a Swamp Cooler

When it is impractical, too expensive or too hard to install a standard, permanent air conditioning system, it may be necessary to consider a portable cooling solution. The two portable cooling solutions that people are choosing from are portable air conditioners and swamp coolers. Both of these products are designed to cool homes but they use different technologies to perform this function.

These cooling solutions are often interchanged even though they are very different. For one thing, a portable air conditioner removes humidity from the air. A swamp cooler actually adds humidity to the air. When using a portable air conditioner, it is best to be in a closed environment. These units recirculate the same air over and over again and have superior cooling capacities. Swamp coolers need a constant supply of air, and can only provide an incremental cooling effect. Whether you choose a swamp cooler or portable air conditioner will depend on a few key factors: the area in which you live, your cooling needs, and energy costs.

It is ideal to use a portable air conditioner when you can't use a window or wall air conditioner or when you need to supplement existing central air conditioners. Some apartment complexes do not allow window units or a home may have a window that isn't appropriate for permanently installed window air conditioning units. Portable air conditioners are great in those situations as well. These units do not need to be permanently installed. Most portable air conditioners have casters so that they can be moved to whatever room in your home is in the most need of cooling. An exhaust hose does run from the unit to the outside, so you will need a window nearby.

Swamp coolers (or evaporative coolers) are simple devices that use the evaporation of water in the air. This method of cooling has been used throughout history to beat the heat. A box-like frame containing a fan that is walled in by moistened pads is what comprises a swamp cooler. The hot air from your room is taken in, sent through the moist pads, and cooled up to twenty degrees. This is a lot like when you splash your face with water on a hot day. Once the heat from the air evaporates the water on your skin, a sensation of coolness is created.

Portable air conditioners are great because they can be moved from room to room. They are also excellent supplements to central air conditioning and help dehumidify the air. They do need to be vented to work properly. Swamp coolers are compact and portable and use a lot less energy than an air conditioner. They are cost effective in terms of purchasing, installing, and maintaining. They also add moisture to the air and prevent furniture and fabrics from becoming too dry. They are only to be used in dry, hot climates. If there is high humidity, the unit will not perform properly and perhaps make you more uncomfortable because of the added humidity. You must also keep adding water to these units for it to create a cooling effect.

Portable air conditioners and swamp coolers are effective alternatives to central air conditioning, but you must be sure to choose the correct solution for your application.

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Portable Cooling Guide: Portable Cooling Applications for a Cool Summer

When the weather starts heat up, people start scrambling to cool down. A portable cooling appliance may be the solution for you. There are two ways these portable cooling solutions provide you comfort. One way is that they drop the temperature. The other way is the use of water. A portable air conditioner uses refrigerant to carry and discharge heat. An evaporative (or swamp) cooler uses water to relocate heat.

People choose to use portable cooling appliances because they can be used in a variety of situations. They are ideal for cost effective spot cooling. You can also use them to supplement your central air conditioning. A lot of people either do not have the expertise, or cannot afford to hire a technician to install a permanent cooling solution. Portable air conditioners and evaporative coolers do not need to be permanently installed and usually come with easy installation instructions. Bulky window air conditioners are also popular, but they may not mesh well with the decor in your home. A portable air conditioner is a good alternative. You may also need to turn to a portable solution because of inadequate main systems or for after hours additional cooling.

Two of the main applications for portable cooling solutions are:

Homes

A home is where families go to relax. The headache of installing a central air conditioner or some other permanent cooling solution is not very relaxing. Portable air conditioners and evaporative coolers can be moved to whichever room you need them in. They do not require permanent installation and come with easy directions for installing that leave you headache-free. People considering window air conditioners may run into problems because their windows are oddly shaped. Portable air conditioners do not require placement inside your window frame and should be able to work with most window shapes.

You should keep in mind that because portable air conditioners cool air by removing moisture, they are better suited for humid environments. Some units will offer more advanced features such as built-in thermostats and auto-evaporative technology. This cuts down on maintenance substantially. For arid climates and evaporative cooler is ideal. They are cost effective and add moisture to the environment. They are rated by the cubic feet per minute of chilled air they deliver. These do require a bit more maintenance than portable air conditioners, like regular cleanings and steady water supply.

Computer Server Rooms

Lots of companies have computer server rooms. They are the rooms that house computer servers with mass amounts of company data so they are vital to the daily operations of these companies. It is important to control the temperature in these rooms because additional heat is generated by this computer equipment. When this equipment is operated at a high temperature for extended amounts of time, hardware malfunction and even system failure can result. Installing an air conditioner in the server room can lessen systems shutdowns and component failures.

Picking the correct air conditioner for a computer server room is crucial. Some air conditioners have automatic shut off features that can leave the server rooms sweltering during the nights and weekends. Additionally, some server rooms do not have easy window access and may be located in an interior room which means keeping the equipment cool is a difficult task. A portable air conditioner may be the correct solution. Just be sure that the unit you choose has an automatic restart function. This function keeps the unit running even if there is a power failure. You should not use an evaporative cooler to do this job. The moisture added to the air will damage the machinery.

Some additional applications are industrial areas, healthcare facilities, offices and schools, and outdoor areas and events. In these warm months, portable air conditioners and swamp coolers can be a comfort in a variety of situations. These portable cooling solutions may pave the path toward a cool, cool summer.

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Portable Cooling Guide: Top Five Portable Cooling Mistakes

The summer is turning out to be a hot one. People often turn to portable air conditioners and swamp coolers to help them cool their environments. These appliances are good solutions because they are compact and mobile. They are a great alternative to wall or window air conditioners because they do not have to be permanently installed. They also work great as supplemental cooling to central air conditioners.

If you choose the wrong air conditioner or swamp cooler you could end up melting in the heat anyway. To help you choose wisely, here are the top five mistakes consumers make when choosing a portable cooling unit:

1. Not Considering Environment

-Some people may think that portable air conditioners and swamp coolers are interchangeable. They are not. Although they both lower the temperature of the air, they use totally different cooling methods and are suited for different environments.
- Portable air conditioners extract hot air that must be vented. They function as dehumidifiers and are great for areas with moderate humidity levels.
-Swamp coolers blow water-cooled air throughout an area or room. They work best in dry climates like Southwestern states.

2. Miscalculating BTUs and Room Size

- Choosing the correct amount of BTUs is very important. BTUs describe the power and cooling capacity of a cooler.
-How many BTUs you need depends on the area being cooled. The greater the BTU value, the stronger the air conditioner. If there is a higher BTU value than the required room size, the unit will cycle off too quickly and will not properly remove humidity. If there is a lower BTU value than the required room size, the unit will not properly remove humidity.
-You should keep the dimensions of the room in mind and where it is going to be located. Sunny areas will need an additional 10 percent in BTUs. Shaded areas need 10 percent less BTUs. Kitchens need an additional 4,000 BTUs.

3. Energy Efficiency Ratio

-The EER measures how efficiently a cooling system operates when the temperature is at a certain level (usually 95 degree Fahrenheit).
-EER is the ratio of BTUs to the amount of power consumed in watts.
-People buy oversized units and ignore EERS which is a big mistake. Choosing a high EER can help you save a considerable amount of money on your electric bill.

4. Not Venting A Portable Air Conditioner

-Portable air conditioners need to be vented through a window, wall or drop ceiling.
-Venting is necessary to exhaust hot air from indoors to outdoors.
-Venting kits usually come with portable air conditioners. They are complete with a hose so that venting is simple and effective.

5. Insufficient Electrical Power

-You will need enough electrical power available to prevent breaking a fuse.
-You should pay attention to the type of plug an air conditioner or swamp cooler uses. It may also require a dedicated unit.
-Larger air conditioners and swamp coolers may require a 230/280 volt circuit which is not common in standard households. You may require assistance from an electrician.

For more tips on choosing portable cooling units click here!

The Thermally Comforting Technology of the New Air AC-12000E Portable Air Conditioner

Have you ever heard of thermal comfort? It may be a foreign term to your ears but your body knows it well. It is defined as the state of mind that feels satisfaction with the surrounding environment. Keeping that sense of thermal comfort for the occupants of buildings and other enclosures is one of the most important goals of HVAC design engineers. When the heat generated by human metabolism is allowed to dissipate to maintain thermal equilibrium with the surroundings, thermal comfort is maintained. If you gain or lose heat beyond that equilibrium, a sensation of discomfort is generated.

One portable air conditioner that may help you maintain thermal comfort this summer is the AC-12000E New Air Portable Air Conditioner. This slim and trim unit can cool spaces up to 400 square feet. It is easy to set up and maintain and no permanent installation is required. All you need to do is vent the unit. It is important to vent your portable air conditioner because they extract hot air. To cool a room effectively, the hot air that is extracted needs to go outside. An adjustable window exhaust kit is included with the AC-12000E. There will also be instructions on venting your unit. I may be easier than you think!

The AC-12000E New Air Portable Air Conditioner uses Nanomax technology. This technology evaporates the condensation away so you do not have to empty a bucket. During the cooling process, some of the water accumulated is used to cool the unit internally which makes it run more efficiently. In case there is excessive humidity, there is a built-in emergency condensation container. The unit will stop running when the container is full so that no damage is caused. It removes up to 60 pints a day of moisture.

You may be concerned about how much energy the AC-12000E uses. Calculating the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is one way to determine how energy efficient a portable air conditioner is. This is the rating that lists how many BTUs per hour are used for each watt of power it draws. To calculate the rating, you divide the BTUs of the unit by the wattage. The higher the EER is, the more efficient the unit is. The AC-12000E has an EER rating of 14.46. That is very high which means very efficient.

So as the summer months descend upon us, bringing warm and possibly uncomfortable days, consider a New Air AC-12000E portable air conditioner to boost your thermal comfort!

Prevent a House Fire By Maintaining Your Portable Air Conditioner

No one wants a house fire. It devastates not only your home, but your family as well. A lot of house fires can be prevented. Here are some steps to take to prevent a fire in your home:

-Kitchen: Help prevent cooking fires by being vigilant in the kitchen. Gas stoves start fires because actual flames are being used. Food can boil over. A towel or oven mitt might be placed too close to the flame. Also be aware of faulty appliances. You should not try to fix them yourself. Have them professionally repaired or purchase a new one.

-Home Heating: Of course the sources of heat in your home should be watched closely as well. You should check and clean your fireplace regularly to prevent chimney fires. You should also examine your gas furnace every year. Keep all of your vents clear and uncovered. There is a higher fire risk with electric baseboard heating and space heaters. Make sure blankets, curtains and clothing are kept away from these kinds of heaters.

-Wiring: Electrical fires are very common in homes so it is important that wiring is properly installed. Make sure electricians are experienced and well-trained professionals. Examine your wiring whenever possible and try to update your home's wiring as well. This may be expensive but it could potentially save your life.

-Air Conditioners: It seems weird that something that is used to cool you down could be a fire hazard, but it's very possible. You should clean or have the interior coils cleaned by a professional. This prevents the motor from being overworked and you save money on energy bill. You also need to listen to your system for squealing sounds, rumbling noises, or banging and tapping sounds. These sounds may indicate loose parts or bearings which are seizing up.

-Smokers: Smokers have a higher chance of starting fires in their homes. If you are a smoker, do not leave a cigarette to burn. Also, do not smoke if you are feeling sleepy or tired because you might fall asleep with the cigarette in your hand.

-Decorations: Scented candles can make your home more cozy. They also can start a fire within minutes if not properly supervised. You should never leave one unattended and keep them away from children, pets and flammable objects. Also, natural Christmas trees are highly combustible when they are dry, old, damaged or decorated with low quality tree lights.

These are just a few things you can do to prevent your home from going up in flames. Mostly, just be watchful of anything you think might start a fire. If you have children, teach them that matches and lighters are not toys. Your home and your family depend on it.

Shining Star: Energy Star Air Conditioners

Energy efficiency is important to a lot of people not just because it is good for the environment but because it is good for their wallets. The program called Energy Star was introduced in 1992 as a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promote energy efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This program is a joint program of the US Department of Energy. It is meant to help you save money and protect environment through energy efficient products and practices. The Energy Star label is now on over 50 product categories including major appliances, office equipment, lighting, and home electronics. The Energy Star label can also be applied to new homes and commercial and industrial buildings.

There are benefits to buying products with the Energy Star label. For central air conditioners a few are:

-Central air conditioners with the energy star label meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy.

-Energy Star air conditioners have a higher seasonal efficiency rating (SEER) than standard models and are about 14% more efficient.

-May cost more to purchase up front but cost difference will be paid back over time through lower energy bills.

To make sure you get the most out of your energy efficient central air conditioner, get somebody qualified to install it. Seal your home and make sure your ducts do not have leaks.

A few benefits of purchasing an Energy Star room air conditioner are:

-If every room air conditioner sold in the US was an Energy Star qualified room air conditioner, it would prevent 1.2 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions (the equivalent emissions from 100,000 cars.

-10% less energy is used with an Energy Star room air conditioner.

-They often include timers for better temperature control allowing you to use the minimum amount of energy you need to cool your room.

-Make sure your unit is properly sized.

Even buying an energy efficient ceiling fan is beneficial to you. They are 50% more efficient than conventional units. They save you $10.00 per year on utility bills. They also have improved motors and blade designs.

To help you find qualifying Energy Star equipment the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) and the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI) have developed an online database. Also, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America includes a special designation to identify contractors who sell and are knowledgeable about Energy Star qualified HVAC equipment.

By purchasing Energy Star products you will be helping prevent global warming and promoting cleaner air without sacrificing the product quality and performance you expect.

Portable Air Conditioners: The Moldy Truth

Mold is not a welcome guest in your home. It appears on spoiled fruit or on forgotten items in your refrigerator and you cannot wait to get rid of it. You are right to want to get rid of mold. When exposed to mold, people can start displaying a multitude of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, sinus congestion, itchy eyes and skin, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, and fatigue. If a person is continuous exposed to mold these symptoms can worsen and even lead to more sever sinus ailments, headaches, intestinal conditions and liver damage.

Mold tends to grow in places with lots of moisture, on paper products and on various other materials like dust and insulation. It can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, heating, and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can even attach to clothing, shoes, bags and your pets and be carried indoors. It can also enter your home because of improper construction like poorly sealed windows or poor drainage in the landscaping or below-ground rooms.

To control mold growth in your home you should try to keep humidity between forty and sixty percent. You should fix leaky roofs, windows and pipes as soon as possible. Cleaning and drying everything thoroughly after a flood is crucial. There should be ample ventilation in the shower, laundry and cooking areas to keep mold from building up. What if you do not want to just control mold though? What if you want to prevent it? Here are some steps you can take to make sure mold does not make any unwelcome appearances in your home:

Dehumidify: As mentioned before, mold thrives in places with a lot of moisture. If the humidity is high in your home you should dehumidify. Dehumidifying your home not only prevents mold, it also keeps the humidity at an optimal level for your health. Excess mold spores are prevented from being releases into the air. The moistest room in your home is the bathroom so make sure you have a dehumidifier there if not anywhere else. You should empty the water tray daily and clean the unit weekly so that it does not collect and feed mold organisms instead of preventing them.

Bake your House: You are probably wondering what that means. Well, mold cannot survive in temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. During and after a rainy season, if you happen to be away for a weekend you should close all the door and windows in your home and turn the heat above 100 degrees. This will get rid of all of the mold that is currently residing in your home. Do not forget to remove your plants and pets before baking though!

Repair Water Leaks: This has been mentioned before but it cannot be said enough. Any leaks or flooding should be dealt with as soon as possible. Fix the source of the leak or flood and then thoroughly dry out the area. If a wall made with drywall is infected, you will need to remove the drywall, disinfect the area, dry it and replace it with new drywall. You should also look for poor drainage and water pooling outside of your home because a high concentration of mold spores around a building can find its way inside.

Sunshine: Let the sunshine in! Mold prefers damp and dark environments. Letting sunshine into your home by opening blinds and windows counters the build-up of mold. The UV rays from the sun will kill most mold species as well.

To prevent any symptoms from mold exposure you should maintain your good health. Make sure your immune system is functioning well. Keep up a healthy diet, regular exercise, get adequate rest and sleep and avoid emotional and physical extremes. After all, the most important part of this whole mold dilemma is you!

Stave Off Heat Illnesses With Portable Air Conditioners

The body's nervous system helps maintain a healthy body temperature. Sweating and blood flow to skin helps the body keep cool. When people are exposed to hot weather, places not equipped with air conditioners, or poorly ventilated rooms, hyperthermia (high body temperature) can set in. With hyperthermia can come a variety of heat related illness because the body cannot transfer heat effectively or because external heat gain is excessive. Some of these illnesses are:

-Heat rash: Occurs when the sweat ducts are blocked, swell and cause discomfort and itching.

-Heat cramps: Occurs in muscles after exercise because sweating causes the body to lose water and salt and minerals (electrolytes).

-Heat edema: Swelling in legs and hands that occurs when a person sits or stands for a long time in a hot environment.

-Heat tetany: Hyperventilation and heat stress caused by short periods of stress in a hot environment.

-Heat syncope: Fainting that occurs from low blood pressure when heat causes blood vessels to expand (dilate) and body fluids move into the legs because of gravity.

-Heat exhaustion: Develops when a person is working or exercising in hot weather and does not drink enough liquids to replace those lost fluids.

-Heat stroke: The body fails to regulate its own temperature and the temperature continues to rise, often to 105 degrees or higher.

These heat illnesses are caused or made worse by dehydration, fatigue, exercising during hot weather, working outdoors, overdressing for the environment, and consuming caffeine and alcohol. So when the weather starts scorching try to stay away from these things. Drink lots of water, be in an air conditioned environment when possible, and most of all chill out!

Hot Flashes of Brillance: Manage with Fans and Coolers

HOT FLASH!

If you are a woman, you probably know what they are and when you can expect to get them. Or you are already experiencing them and the heat from your computer screen is almost too much. Do not step away from the computer, though. This article just might enlighten you to some new facts about hot flashes.

A hot flash is a sudden sensation of intense body heat, accompanied by heavy sweating and the reddening of the head, neck, chest or entire body. Your skin temperature will rise but your body temperature might actually drop because of the heat lost through perspiration. You might even feel a chill afterward. If you experience a hot flash at night it is called a "night sweat."

There are three types of people who are commonly affected by hot flashes. They are:

1. An older woman who is about to experience menopause or who has already experienced menopause. It occurs when estrogen levels are declining. In these women it is not a sign of a medical problem. It is a normal response to natural hormone changes in the body. The hot flashes usually subside after the first or second year following menopause because the estrogen levels stabilize at a low level.

2. A younger woman who is menstruating or expecting to menstruate soon. These don't usually last very long, sometimes they are even as short as a minute. If these occur at another time in a younger woman's menstrual cycle, then it might be a symptom of a problem with the pituitary gland.

3. Men who experience a substantial drop in testosterone levels can experience hot flashes. They would experience this drop in hormone levels:

- after the surgical removal of testes.

- when taking medications to decrease testosterone levels for treatment of prostate cancer.

- if they have a tumor on hypothalamus or pituitary gland.

- if they have an infection like tuberculosis or HIV.

- if they are having a reaction to MSG.

- if they are having a reaction to medications like nifedipine, niacin or calcitonin.

Hot flashes in men should be evaluated by a doctor. The doctor will try to determine the cause and how to treat the cause or the flashes themselves.

One main way hot flashes are treated in women is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT may relieve symptoms, but can also cause an increase in the risk of breast cancer, stroke and dementia. The US FDA and women's health advocates recommend trying alternatives to hormonal therapies as a first line of treatment.

There are three main ways to manage hot flashes without resorting to HRT.

1. Avoid smoking and eat and drink well. This includes:

-limiting alcohol.

-drinking cold beverages rather than hot ones.

-eating smaller meals because larger meals generate more heat when they are digested.

-eating low fat, high fiber foods.

-not smoking.

2. Stay cool. This includes:

-keeping your environment cool by using a fan, an evaporative cooler or an air conditioner.

-dressing in layers so that you can remove clothing to keep cool.

-sleeping with fewer blankets.

3. Reduce stress. This includes:

-Regularly exercising.

-Use of relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga and biofeedback.