Do HVAC Technicians Need to Be Licensed in Brick Township, NJ?

Imagine you’re hosting a family gathering, and the air conditioning goes on the fritz. You’re not sure what’s wrong, but your brother-in-law claims to have some HVAC experience and offers to take a look. Do you let him, or do you call a professional? 

Unless your brother-in-law has a New Jersey HVAC license, it’s best to call a pro. Many people ask, “Do HVAC technicians need to be licensed?” and the answer is yes. When you call Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning, you can rest assured that our team of HVAC contractors in Brick Township, NJ, has all the appropriate training, licenses, and insurance to ensure safe, top-quality work that doesn’t put your home or family at risk.

New Jersey’s HVAC License Requirements 

The Garden State prohibits anyone from accepting or performing any HVAC work without the appropriate license. The New Jersey State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Contractors issues a master HVAC contractor license to qualified individuals, allowing them to work on heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration systems.

What makes someone qualified to work in the HVAC industry? Potential technicians need a combination of education and hands-on training to qualify for the state licensing exam that evaluates their skills. Getting a license also requires showing proof of general liability insurance and a guarantor surety bond of at least $3,000, which protects customers by guaranteeing that the contractor will perform the work they promise to do. 

How to Become an HVAC Contractor in New Jersey

Becoming an HVAC contractor in New Jersey starts with education. To be eligible to sit for the exam, a contractor needs a bachelor’s degree in HVAC or a related field, like mechanical engineering. It’s also possible to qualify by earning an HVAC certificate or associate’s degree from a technical or vocational school.

In addition to classroom education, which includes coursework in gas and electric heating, electricity for HVAC, energy management, and designing HVAC systems, the licensing board also requires documented hands-on work experience in an apprenticeship. Depending on the contractors’ education, they need a minimum of 1,700 to 2,000 hours of supervised work experience before they can take the exam.

The HVAC contractor exam is a two-part test that gauges an individual’s knowledge of the trade, as well as relevant business and legal topics, like estimating projects and contract law. 

Benefits of Hiring a Licensed HVAC Contractor 

Some homeowners question, “Do HVAC technicians need to be licensed?” because they aren’t sure what to look for in a service provider or how to compare their options. Others might wonder about licensing requirements because they’re thinking about performing work themselves to try to save money. In either case, you have to hire a licensed professional to work on the heating and cooling system in your Brick Township home. 

Working with a licensed HVAC technician is important for several reasons. 

Work Quality 

Licensed, professional technicians have the knowledge and skills to work on your heating and cooling equipment safely and correctly. You don’t have to worry about potentially dangerous mistakes that can damage your equipment or put your family in danger. 

Code Compliance

HVAC professionals must comply with local building codes. If you do the work yourself or allow an unlicensed individual to do it, there’s a risk of expensive and dangerous violations. When you go to sell your home, for instance, you may need to pay to have a system brought up to code before the buyers sign the contract.

Liability Protection

If you don’t work with a licensed technician, you’re on the hook for any costs due to damage, code violations, injuries, or other problems. Your homeowners’ insurance may even decline to pay for damage due to work by unlicensed contractors. Maintaining a valid HVAC license in New Jersey requires carrying liability insurance, so home and business owners have a safety net if something goes wrong. 

Trust the Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning Team for All Your HVAC Needs 

If you have a problem with your heating and cooling system or need to install new equipment, don’t wonder, “Do HVAC technicians need to be licensed?” or hire anyone without the proper credentials. Avoid DIY HVAC repair and call the professional, licensed, bonded, and insured team from Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning for quality work that you can trust. We are available seven days a week to work on your Brick Township, NJ, home, so make an appointment today by calling (732) 800-9416. 

source https://easternshorehvac.com/blog/hvac-technicians-licensed/

What Temperature Do Heat Pumps Stop Working in Ocean County, NJ?

HVAC experts often recommend heat pumps as an alternative to traditional furnaces and AC units as they conveniently heat and cool interior spaces. The main benefits of heat pumps include their energy efficiency and fewer repair bills. However, some people may wonder at “what temperature do heat pumps stop working” as some models struggle at or below freezing. 

Today, these expert HVAC contractors in Ocean County, NJ, will break down how heat pumps work, why some fail in cold temperatures, and how freezing temperatures can affect energy efficiency in your system.

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Heat pumps work by transferring heat to the inside of a building or outside of it. The most common models in Ocean County, NJ, include air-source heat pumps, which pull heat from the outdoor air. Another common type of heat pump is a ground-source system, which draws heat from the ground and transfers it inside.

Both types of systems simply reverse this process to cool down a building, pulling heat from indoors and either transferring it into the ground or air outside. Because air-source pumps are the most common, we will break down their heating and cooling process.

First, air-source pumps pull hot air from outside and pump it into coils filled with refrigerant. A fan then blows the hot air from these coils into your home’s interior, thus heating the house.

To reverse this process and thus cool your building, heat pumps use a reversing valve. This valve simply changes the direction in which the refrigerant in the coils flows, pushing indoor heat outside. 

This process of heating and cooling compares to how refrigerators work. Both heat pumps and refrigerators use the Carnot cycle, which is how a net amount of heat flows in and out of the system. This process makes heat pumps highly energy efficient, as few electrical components (such as the fan and reversing valve) require power.

What Temperature Do Heat Pumps Stop Working in Ocean County, NJ?

This low-energy heating and cooling process means that most standard heat pumps stop working at 10 to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you have a heat pump, you may notice that your system begins to struggle when temperatures start to drop. Moderate to extreme cold causes difficulty because most standard systems lose energy efficiency below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Cheap air-source heat pump models start to lose efficiency (or stop working) during the New Jersey winter because they cannot absorb enough heat from the outdoor air to pump into your house. Thus, though heat pumps efficiently use energy (saving you money), cold weather can drastically impact their performance.

Top Three Heat Pump Models and Their Energy Efficiency

Though standard heat pumps may fail in cooler temperatures and weather conditions, property owners who do not wish to invest in backup heating systems do have alternatives. Manufacturers use the Coefficient of Performance or COP to measure the efficiency of a heat pump’s heat production based on how much electricity the system must use to produce said heating. To calculate the COP, one must divide the BTUs by the energy used.

Let’s look at three different types of heating models and energy efficiency statistics based on models from each category.

1. Standard Heat Pumps

Standard heat pumps make the least-efficient option and may stop working at below-freezing temperatures as manufacturers install backup electric heating strips to increase heat production in cold weather. Where standard models average 85-100% effectiveness at a temperature of 47 degrees Fahrenheit, their energy efficiency reduces to 0-33% at temperatures below 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Cold Climate Heat Pumps

These systems, known as ccASHPs or cold climate air-source heat pumps, perform well in cold temperatures. These heat pumps draw heat from the outside air, making their heat production more effective. However, this type of unit usually works in conjunction with another heating system.

3. Mini-Split Heat Pumps

Mini-split systems consistently perform better in cold temperatures. These units do not require electric backup strips like standard pumps to work in cold temperatures. For example, the Daikin MXL Aurora has a COP of 1-2.3 at 0 degrees Fahrenheit, producing 1-2.3 times more heat than the energy it took to gather that from the outdoors.

Reliable Heat Pump Installation and Repair in Ocean County, NJ

If you need heat pump services from qualified technicians in Ocean County, NJ, contact Eastern Shore HVAC. We specialize in servicing all HVAC systems, from gas furnaces to electric air conditioners. For more information on “what temperature do heat pumps stop working” or our HVAC services, call us at 732-800-9416 or fill out our convenient online form today! 

source https://easternshorehvac.com/blog/what-temperature-heat-pumps-stop-working/

2023 SEER Requirements in Brick Township, NJ

The energy efficiency of your heating and cooling equipment is a critical concern if you’re a Brick Township, NJ, resident. Not only does an efficient air conditioner or heat pump save money, but it can also help reduce environmental impact. 

The U.S. Department of Energy establishes minimum efficiency requirements for air conditioners and heat pumps, also known as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) requirements. The 2023 SEER requirements are significantly different than previous years’ rules. Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning, the most experienced HVAC contractors in Brick Township, NJ, explains these changes and what they mean for local home and business owners looking to upgrade their equipment. 

What’s New in 2023 SEER Regulations 

The 2023 SEER requirements include two major changes to help reduce carbon emissions from air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits. First, the new rules increase the minimum efficiency ratings for every region. Second, they introduce SEER2, a new method of ensuring energy efficiency.

The new requirements from the Department of Energy also increase the minimum threshold for heat, or the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF.) Because the current SEER and HSPF guidelines date back to 2010, most units currently in use in Brick Township are not likely to meet the updated requirements, even if they comply with the 2010 guidelines. Although the new standards do not mandate replacing existing equipment, they apply if you plan to invest in a new air conditioner or heat pump this year.

The New Energy-Efficiency Standards for Air Conditioners

The Department of Energy divides the country into three regions (Northern, Southeast, and Southwest) for purposes of SEER ratings. The new requirements increase minimum energy efficiency by 8% to 10%, depending on the region. New Jersey is in the Northern Region.

2023 SEER requirements mandate an increase from a minimum 13 SEER rating to a 14 SEER rating in New Jersey. This requirement applies to all air conditioners, including split systems. The Northern Region is the only region where HVAC companies can install equipment manufactured before January 1, 2023; property owners in all other regions can only install equipment manufactured after that date.

If your existing air conditioning system is a 13 SEER, upgrading to a 14 SEER will likely reduce your cooling costs by about 7%. If you already have a system that meets or exceeds the 2023 SEER requirements, upgrading will not make a measurable difference to efficiency. 

Understanding the SEER2 Measurement

The second part of the new SEER regulations for this year is a change in the method for calculating efficiency. The upgraded SEER2 calculations better reflect actual operating conditions to more accurately gauge the system’s efficiency.

To calculate SEER, divide the energy the air conditioner or HVAC unit uses in an hour by the number of BTUs (British Thermal Units) of heat it removes from the air in that time. Because conditions vary, manufacturers test their products at various temperatures and humidity levels to determine their overall efficiency. 

The SEER2 uses the same calculation but also accounts for static pressure, or the resistance to airflow. The higher the static pressure, the harder the air conditioner works to push air through the ducts and cool rooms. This means the unit has to stay on longer, using more energy.

The SEER2 calculation increases the standard static pressure from 0.1 to 0.5, which better reflects normal operating conditions. The minimum SEER2 rating for an air conditioner in Brick Township is 13.8, which is equivalent to SEER 14. 

Heat Pump Requirements 

As mentioned, the efficiency requirements for heat pumps also changed in 2023. Starting this year, the minimum HSPF rating for a heat pump increases to 8.8 HSPF from 8.2 HSPF.

This is also the first year for HSPF2, which also accounts for static pressure. The minimum HSPF2 rating for a heat pump is 7.5. 

Talk to Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning About Upgrading Your HVAC 

If your air conditioner is reaching the end of its lifespan and you’re thinking about replacing it with a more energy-efficient option, turn to Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning for Brick Township’s most reliable air conditioning services. We can help you compare options that meet 2023 SEER requirements and install the most energy-efficient equipment to ensure indoor comfort and lower utility bills. 

To learn more about minimum efficiency requirements and get a free estimate for a new air conditioner, heat pump, or other HVAC equipment, fill out our convenient online form. You can also speak to a team member by calling (732) 800-9416.

source https://easternshorehvac.com/blog/2023-seer-requirements/

Life Expectancy of a Heat Pump: What You Need To Know

Heat pumps offer a great alternative to many HVAC systems but don’t last forever. What is the life expectancy of a heat pump? This guide uncovers how heat pumps work and when it may be time for a replacement. 

The experts at Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning provide various heat pump services so you can keep yours running efficiently. Call (732) 800-9416 to speak with a technician if your heat pump begins acting up or you suspect you need a replacement. 

What Is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a hybrid mechanism that cools and heats your home, providing comfort throughout the year no matter what climate you live in. 

Heat pumps do not run on coal or natural gas, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint. Global sales of heat pumps are on the rise thanks to their eco-friendly design. Their energy efficiency also results in lower utility bills for homeowners. 

How Do Heat Pumps Work?

Dual-system heat pumps operate much like conventional air conditioners to cool your home. They feature a refrigerant that absorbs heat as soon as it flows into the unit’s evaporator coil. From there, the heat moves to an outdoor condenser unit and dissipates into the air. 

During colder months, heat pumps work much differently than traditional heating systems. Their refrigeration cycle flips, so instead of transferring heat outside, the heat pump absorbs any warm air it can and brings it into your home. An air-source heat pump absorbs heat from the outside air, while ground-source heat pumps collect geothermal heat. 

Benefits of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps provide a cleaner solution to heating and cooling. They don’t rely on fossil fuels, and their hybrid design is ideal for homeowners seeking a single HVAC system. Heat pumps are far more efficient than traditional furnaces and air conditioners.

People living in temperate climates where the temperature doesn’t drop below freezing can rely on a heat pump as their sole heating and cooling system. If you experience several bitter cold stretches, experts advise installing a gas furnace as a backup heating solution. However, heat pumps provide homeowners with financial relief on utility bills, even when running alongside a gas furnace as a supplemental heat source.

Heat pumps also emit less noise than traditional HVAC systems. A heat pump is a perfect solution if you’re looking to keep your home comfortable and quiet. 

Signs You Need Heat Pump Replacement

The life expectancy of heat pumps is around 10 to 15 years. Thankfully, it can be easy to tell when you should replace yours. The following are common indicators that it is time to replace your heat pump:

• The unit emits strange noises
• Your energy bills suddenly increase
• You notice the air quality in your home isn’t what it used to be
• Your indoor temperatures fluctuate more than they should

Pay attention to how many years your heat pump has been in operation. As your system reaches the end of its average lifespan, it will likely experience performance issues. Call an HVAC specialist if your heat pump suddenly makes unusual noises, there’s a drop in your indoor air quality, you see an unexplained spike in your energy bill, or you experience uneven temperatures in your house. 

How To Extend the Life Expectancy of Heat Pumps

Regular maintenance is key to getting the most out of your heat pump system. Proper care of your unit can help you get a full 15 years of dual heating and cooling with no issues.

Experts suggest scheduling professional inspections twice per year, ideally before the start of each heating and cooling season. This allows time to pinpoint any possible issues with your heat pump and address them before the outdoor temperatures drastically swing. 

Compared to heating systems that use combustion, heat pumps require less maintenance. However, ignoring maintenance checks shortens the life expectancy of heat pumps and leads to major repairs down the road. 

Learn More About Heat Pumps 

Are you still curious about how a heat pump works or considering installing one in your home? The Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning experts are here to help.

Are you near the end of the life expectancy of your heat pump? Our qualified team can equip your home with a new unit. Get a free estimate for heat pump repair or replacement by filling out an online request form or by calling (732) 800-9416.

source https://easternshorehvac.com/blog/life-expectancy-heat-pump/

6 Reasons Why DIY HVAC Repair Is Not Advisable

Many homeowners try to complete home improvements on their own, either to save money on labor costs or gain a sense of accomplishment and independence.

Unlike some common projects, the risks of fixing your heating and cooling system on your own almost always outweigh the expense of professional HVAC repair. Unless you are an experienced cooling and heating technician with access to professional-grade materials and equipment, your DIY HVAC repair efforts could be expensive in the long run. 

Do-It-Yourself HVAC Repairs

Trying to fix your AC unit or furnace yourself does not relieve you of most of the costs of professional repair services; you still have to pay for materials and sacrifice your time and energy.

Reason #1: The Risk of Injury

Homeowners risk electrocution, burns, lacerations, and other injuries when they attempt DIY HVAC repair. Accidents can happen because they lack professional safety equipment or because they do not have the experience to recognize potentially dangerous situations. An improperly repaired HVAC system could cause injuries or death months or years after the repair. 

Reason #2: Misdiagnosis of the Problem

An HVAC system is a combination of a heating system, an air conditioner, and extensive ductwork. With any interconnected system, a failure at one point could lead to problems elsewhere. For example, a loss of refrigerant could cause the air conditioning coils to overheat, and a faulty temperature sensor could prevent your air conditioner from turning on when you need it. 

If you reach an incorrect conclusion about the cause of a heating or cooling problem, you could replace the wrong part and lull yourself into a false sense of security. Professional HVAC technicians have advanced diagnostic equipment that allows them to identify the problem.

Reason #3: Liability for Costs

If you attempt to fix your HVAC system yourself, your DIY HVAC repair might void the manufacturer’s warranty, resulting in you being responsible for replacement costs if a part you fixed or replaced stops working. Your homeowner’s insurance might not cover damages from leaks or fires if they are the result of an amateur HVAC repair. If an occupant of your home or business suffers an injury or health problem because of your HVAC repair, they could hold you responsible.

Reason #4: Frustration and Wasted Time

Some homeowners embark upon DIY HVAC repair projects after reading instructional websites and watching tutorials, only to find that their repair did not turn out as they envisioned. When a repair project goes awry, you can spend months and thousands of dollars trying to get things back to the way they were when you started.

Reason #5: Consequences of Code Violations

Homeowners who carry out DIY repairs often are unaware of the building codes and permit requirements for installing new HVAC equipment, including electrical and plumbing requirements. They discover that they have to redo or remove their work when they plan to sell their home years later. 

Reason #6: Worrying Whether Your Repairs Will Last

Have you ever finished a repair project or assembled furniture and had pieces that did not quite fit or leftover pieces at the end? HVAC systems are complex, and without extensive training, it is easy to leave a loose connection or omit a critical step.

Even if you follow the steps perfectly, the parts you used might not be the right ones for your home, or some unusual characteristic of your home might cause your repair to have unintended consequences.

Every time your furnace or air conditioner turns on, or you hear a strange noise, you might wonder, “Did I do the job right?”

What You Get with Professional HVAC Repair

When you hire a reputable HVAC technician to fix or maintain your HVAC system, you can have faith that the repair complies with code and industry best practices. Your HVAC company should provide a warranty for their work and the parts they used for the repairs. A professional company will provide documentation for the repairs in case you need them to support a homeowner’s insurance claim or defend yourself against personal injury litigation.

Schedule Repairs for Your HVAC System with Eastern Shore HVAC Today

Before contemplating DIY HVAC repair, consider the potential downside and speak with an Eastern Shore HVAC technician about professional repair options.

Eastern Shore HVAC has over four decades of experience with a wide range of heating and cooling services. Instead of tackling common furnace repairs yourself in eastern New Jersey, call Eastern Shore HVAC at 732-800-9416. Schedule an on-site inspection and get an estimate for fast, high-quality HVAC repairs. 

source https://easternshorehvac.com/blog/diy-hvac-repair/