Blog | HVAC Information | Brennan Heating and Air Conditioning

The 3 Types of Home Heat Pumps and How They Work

November 2, 2023

Heat pumps are energy-efficient alternatives to traditional heating and cooling systems. As appliances, heat pumps work in a manner similar to refrigerators or air conditioners. During a single cycle, a heat pump uses energy to transfer heat from a cool space to a warm space. Specifically, this appliance uses electricity along with a refrigerant to “pump” or move heat from one area to another. Just like an air conditioner uses refrigerant and coils to move air, a heat pump uses energy and refrigerant to move heat. Unlike furnaces or boilers, heat pumps do not generate heat. Instead,

Understanding Hydronic Heating Systems and How They Work

October 18, 2023

The majority of homes in the US have forced-air heating systems with a furnace or a heat pump. Forced-air heating is extremely effective, but it also has some drawbacks. Compared to forced-air heating, hydronic heating systems have many advantages as they are quieter, more energy efficient and improve indoor air quality. Learn more about hydronic heating, and decide if it’s the right choice for your home. What Is a Hydronic Heating System? Hydronic heating systems use hot water instead of just pumping heat out into the air like forced-air heating systems do. This type of system

8 Ways to Limit Energy Loss in HVAC Air Ducts

August 30, 2023

According to the University of Florida, between 25% and 40% of heating and cooling energy is lost by ducted HVAC systems. The United States Department of Energy (DOE) asserts that a large portion of these losses exists even when ductwork is well-insulated, well-maintained, and fully sealed. If you’ve been paying a veritable fortune to regulate the temperature in your Seattle, WA home, deficiencies in your air ducts are a likely reason why. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies for limiting this energy loss. The following are eight of them. 1. Add or Improve Air Duct Insulation

AC System Comparison: Central AC vs Ductless Mini-Split

August 3, 2023

For decades, homeowners in the greater Seattle, WA, area had only one viable choice for efficient residential air conditioning. It was to install a ducted central AC system. However, that could be an expensive proposition for homes that lacked preexisting ductwork. As a result, even by 2021, only 53% of area homes had air conditioning at all — and only 21% of that total had central air. But central AC isn’t the only option these days. Homeowners can also opt for a ductless mini-split AC system. But how should you choose between the two? Here’s everything you need to know

9 Ways to Save Money on Air Conditioning Bills This Summer

July 13, 2023

During the sweltering summer months, most of us try to find ways to keep our homes cool and comfortable. And while cranking up the air conditioning might bring a welcome relief from the heat, it can also bring an unwelcome spike in energy costs. But fear not! There are plenty of ways to keep your cooling bills down without suffering through sweltering days or sticky nights. The following are simple and affordable tips for keeping your bills low as temperatures rise. So, whether you’re looking for an energy-friendly way to stay cool during the hottest part of summer or just

12 Tips for Better Indoor Air Quality During the Summer

June 6, 2023

Indoor air quality is important during the summer months, especially if you are looking for some relief from the heat. While you may be tempted to use harsh cleaners or air fresheners to improve how your house smells, doing so may have a negative impact on your indoor air quality. If you worry about the indoor air quality in your home, there are several things you can do to make sure it stays healthy all summer long. 1. Keep Your Home Clean Cleaning your house is an important step toward having better indoor air quality during

How Efficient Are Ductless Mini-Split Systems?

April 26, 2023

Energy efficiency is currently a top concern when choosing new heating and cooling equipment. If you’re planning to upgrade your heater or air conditioner, you may be curious about ductless mini-splits. Although these systems were first introduced in 1959, they’re fast increasing in popularity as residents of Seattle, WA search for ways to lower their carbon footprints. Read on to discover just how efficient ductless mini-splits are and why. The Benefits of Installing Ductless Mini-Splits in Western Washington Consistently ranked as having one of the longest and heaviest rain seasons in the continental United States, Seattle

How Can HVAC Spring Cleaning Improve Indoor Air Quality?

April 4, 2023

In Seattle, like many large cities, it is common to see dirt and dust in the air outdoors. Occasionally, there might even be air quality warnings or updates. While there is little that you can do to change the quality of the air outdoors, there are several steps you can take to improve the quality of the air inside your home. You might be surprised to learn that the air quality inside of your home can be worse than the air quality outdoors. Since most people spend upwards of 80% of their life indoors, poor air quality

Spring HVAC Maintenance: Common Problems to Look For

March 17, 2023

It’s not uncommon to experience problems with your home’s cooling system, particularly after a lengthy winter break. Springtime HVAC issues are generally avoidable if you maintain your system properly. The problems with your HVAC system often appear when you switch on the air conditioning unit for the very first time during the beginning of spring. Mostly, it’s just a gentle warning that your HVAC system needs to be serviced before the busy summer season arrives. Here are the nine most prevalent spring HVAC problems you may face during spring. 1. Blocked Filters Among the

Benefits of Ductless Heating and Cooling Systems

February 10, 2023

If you’re in the market for a new heating and cooling system, a ductless one may be worth a look. Ductless systems have become increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency, flexibility, and convenience. They are usually quieter than traditional central HVAC units, can reduce indoor humidity levels, provide precise temperature control, and offer up to 30% higher energy efficiency ratings than conventional systems. Here are ten top reasons why some people opt for ductless heating and cooling systems. 1. Energy Efficiency Energy efficiency is an essential factor to consider when choosing a heating or cooling