Archives for July 2017

How to Choose the Right WiFi Thermostat: 5 Things to Consider

WiFi thermostats are the future as smart-home technology and automation evolves. The WiFi thermostat models available now are the second or third generation from most manufacturers. Also, the control and convenience they offer along with easy setup and intuitive learning technology in some are very impressive.

If you’re just browsing this post and aren’t familiar with the basics of a WiFi thermostat, this introduction will be of help.

WiFi Thermostat Buying Tips

With dozens of quality models available, which WiFi thermostat is right for you? These five tips focus on functionality with some information about brands. Moreover, they’ll help you select a unit that will control your system to suit your lifestyle.

1. Set a Budget or Pick Your Features

WiFi thermostats start at about $80 for basic models. One model is RTH6580WF Honeywell Wi-Fi thermostat with 7-day programming ($88).
They range to more than $400 for full-color LCD touchscreen thermostats. One of them is the Lennox iComfort with 5-day forecast ($440).

Sticking to your budget will keep you from being lured into a higher price range for features that might be interesting or convenient but not essential. Most full-function WiFi thermostat models without a touchscreen or forecast cost $135 to $250. This includes popular thermostats like Nest (+/-$225) and ecobee ($170-$250).

If your budget has range to it, then decide if you want to pay extra for touchscreen ease and functionality.

2. Ensure Compatibility with Your HVAC System

Most WiFi thermostat models work with the 95 percent of HVAC systems that use low voltage, or 24 volts. If you have one of the few 110V systems still in use, indicated by wiring nut connections or the back of the thermostat stamped “110V,” then the system isn’t compatible with a WiFi thermostat.

If you have concerns about compatibility, there are two ways to check it:

Buy a WiFi thermostat made by your HVAC brand, if one is available. There are many, including the Lennox iComfort, Carrier Côr, Bryant Housewise, Trane ComfortLink II and Heil Observer. Note that these thermostats work with other HVAC brands too. The issue isn’t the brand of the HVAC system or the thermostat. It’s the performance of your system such as single-stage, two-stage or variable, heating only, heating and air conditioning and humidity control.
For thermostats not made by HVAC manufacturers, check compatibility on their site. Ecobee, Emerson Sensi and Nest are just a few of the WiFi thermostat makers that have this option. They allow you to determine if their thermostat is compatible with your HVAC system. You can check this simply by looking at the wiring connections on the back of your current thermostat. Go to the manufacturer’s website, find the compatibility checker. Then, select the letters corresponding to the wiring connections. The page will quickly determine compatibility. If you’re installing a system in new construction or tearing out an old system and thermostat, then your HVAC technician can assist you in determining compatibility.

3. Check for a Common Wire

A WiFi thermostat needs continuous power to remain connected, which is not the case with other thermostats. A wire known as a common wire or C-wire must be installed. Look at the “C” connection in or on the back of your thermostat to determine the presence of a common wire. If you don’t have one, there are four options:

Install a C-wire. This is a single strand of the same type of copper wiring used to make the other thermostat connections.
Replace all the thermostat wiring with new 18/5 5-conductor wire like this from Lowes.
Install a Venstar Add-a-Wire adapter ($25-$35 from many retailers). This one requires installation in the furnace or air handler.
Choose a WiFi thermostat like the ecobee3 that has a compatible power extender kit (PEK). The kit replaces the common wire ($20-$25).

In our opinion, the cleanest, most future-proof method is to run new 5-conductor wiring. An HVAC technician or electrician can install it or just a common wire for $100 to $200. The price depends on how accessible the current wiring is and the distance it will travel. The Venstar product makes sense when running new wire isn’t cost-effective. However, an electrician or tech will need about 30 minutes to install it for a minimum service fee of $75 or more.

Note: The Nest is one WiFi thermostat that doesn’t require a C-wire. However, its WiFi connectivity will be intermittent without one. Consequently, that will cause problems when attempting to control it remotely.

4. Choose a Programmable WiFi Thermostat that Fits your Schedule

Most programmable WiFi thermostats have one of three scheduling functions:

7-day: These thermostats give you the option of quickly programming every day the same. This is a great option for retirees with a regular routine. You can also program each day separately, so they’re a good choice if you work some weekdays but have others off.
5-2: Set one program for weekdays and one for weekends.
5-1-1: Saturday and Sunday are programmed separately.

Others, like the Carrier Côr and Nest use functional descriptions and motion sensors to control temperature. In the case of the Côr, you program Away, Home, Wake, Sleep and Vacation. You set the temperature you want for each function, and the thermostat uses sensors to determine, for example, whether you are home or away and for how long you’re away, at some point switching to Vacation mode if no motion is sensed.

Less important than the schedule is that you use programming. The US Department of Energy suggests that a programmable thermostat will reduce energy use and cost by 10 percent, but only when it is used. In 2009, the government Energy Star program stopped certifying programmable thermostats. They did this not because they don’t save energy but because most were so difficult to program that many people gave up. So they began using them like non-programmable models and losing the potential benefit.

The WiFi thermostat models with top ratings for easy setup and programming include:

Honeywell Lyric;
Emerson Sensi;
Carrier Côr;
Bryant Housewise;
Nest;
Ecobee Smart SI;
LUX Geo.

If you have another WiFi thermostat in mind and want reviews that include ease of setup, see what buyers are saying about it at online retail sites.

5. Check Compatibility with Your Home Automation System or Amazon Alexa

The number of WiFi thermostat models that work directly with Alexa continues to grow. Here are the most popular Alexa-compatible WiFi thermostats at this writing:

Nest;
Ecobee3;
Honeywell Lyric T5;
Emerson Sensi;
Carrier Côr;
iDevices.

Many other WiFi thermostat models work with Alexa, Apple HomeKit and/or with a home automation system through hubs. Some of them are Samsung SmartThings, Insteon, Wink Hub 2, Iris Smart Hub, Logitech Harmony Elite and Smart Home. Check the website of the automation equipment manufacturer or the thermostat manufacturer to ensure compatibility and find instructions on setting up the WiFi thermostat on the system.

Buy, Read and Learn

While the ease of use for WiFi thermostats has improved, there is still a learning curve. After you purchase your WiFi thermostat, download the app and read the enclosed literature. Watch demo videos on the manufacturer’s site. Most WiFi thermostats aren’t difficult to use; they’re just unfamiliar and new. You’ll soon master the thermostat, the app and any home automation applications it integrates with.

Other readers would enjoy hearing your experience with a WiFi thermostat, if you’d come back to share what you bought and your opinion of it. And please pass along this information to your followers and friends. They might be looking for tips on how to buy the right WiFi thermostat too.

Images: depositphotos.com.

HVAC Training 101: Your Potential Career Path

The statistics paint a compelling picture: This is a good time to consider an HVAC training and explore the many careers in HVAC and refrigeration.

The outstanding job prospects, good pay and interesting work are among the top reasons HVAC-R is a career path many are already looking into.

Employment of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers is projected to grow 14 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The above data is according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The BLS predicts that nearly 40,000 jobs will be added in the industry during that decade, with opportunities across the United States.

What Does an HVAC Career Offer You?

Let’s look at the pros and cons of getting HVAC training and pursuing an HVAC career. Below you can see the advantages.

1. Outstanding Job Outlook

The 14 percent job growth expected through 2024 is a top reason for considering HVAC training. See Best Options below for a breakdown of top jobs within this sector.

2. Good Pay

The median income is $45,910 per year based on an hourly wage of $22.07 (BLS statistics).

3. Mobility

This sector is experiencing job growth across the country, though the most jobs opening for those with HVAC training are east of the Mississippi and in the South. So, you’ll have options for finding a job where you want to live. Interestingly, places like North Dakota and Montana have fewer job openings than densely populated areas. But wages are higher because of the scarcity of trained HVAC professionals.

There are tens of thousands of job openings outside the US too, if you’re the adventurous type that would like to see the world while building a career and earning good pay.

4. Job Diversity

While most jobs are in installation, repair and maintenance, there are many related fields that require HVAC training. Even as an HVAC tech, each repair or installation job is a new setting. So, you’re never stuck in one location day after day.

If the hands-on work isn’t for you, the HVAC industry needs:

Managers;
Sales pros;
System designers;
Customer service representatives.

5. Accessibility to the Career

HVAC training is not long or expensive compared with many other professions. Basic HVAC training and certification programs take as little as six months. Most HVAC training programs are 10-12 months. Those offering associate’s degrees are 18-24 months.

HVAC tuition costs for a basic certificate program average $6,000 to $9,000 and $17,000 to $30,000 for an Associate’s degree in HVAC. Many local trade schools and community colleges have HVAC programs, so moving away from home to get the education probably isn’t necessary.

6. Innovation

The rising global demand for ecofriendly, efficient heating, air conditioning and refrigeration makes this an exciting time to be part of the industry. Innovation is occurring rapidly in technologies such as:

Variable-speed compressors;
Smart homes/automated homes;
Geothermal heating and cooling;
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems being adapted for residential use in addition to their commercial applications.

If you want to be involved in an industry that is having a positive impact on the planet and on individual homes, the HVAC-R meets that criteria.

The Cons Are:

Some HVAC program graduates find it hard to get that first job without experience. So, it makes sense to get training from a school that offers internships or apprenticeships;
The job can be physically demanding, for example when you’re hauling an old furnace out of a basement or are on your knees for hours installing an air handler in crawlspace;
Long work hours during peak times in summer and winter. But the upside is overtime pay for those hours;
Many local heating and air conditioning companies offer 24-hour emergency service. So, there might be times you’re called out in the middle of the night or on a weekend to make a repair. However, technicians often receive premium pay when on-call and making emergency repairs;
Technicians working for small, local heating and cooling companies don’t have as many career-advancement opportunities as those working for large service companies. That’s why having a robust education and NATE certification (see below) are recommended.

What Skills Do You Need to Be an HVAC Technician?

Generally, you should be comfortable using hand tools and enjoy working with mechanical systems. This translates into taking machinery apart, repairing it and putting it back together. The specific HVAC technician skills you must have are also those that HVAC training programs provide. These include expertise and experience in:

EPA 608 certification and R-410a refrigerant certification;
Climate control systems;
Thermostatic controls;
Electrical wiring;
Air conditioning and heat pump systems;
Boilers;
HVAC troubleshooting, installation, maintenance and repair;
Refrigerant system recharging;
Warm-air heat systems;
Energy-efficient/green HVAC technology;
Refrigeration systems and control (If you want to work in refrigeration).

Six-month programs don’t cover all these bases. The more education and training you have, the better your entry-level job prospects will be, the higher your wages will be and the faster you will be able to advance in your career. Our post on HVAC Certification includes a list of schools offering HVAC training and information about each program.

Also plan to become NATE-certified. NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence. It is a professional organization that offers testing in basic HVAC knowledge and skills and in specialty fields within the industry. Certifications include:

Work-Ready certificate;
HVAC Support Technician certificate;
Professional certificate.

It also has specialties in:

Gas and oil hydronic systems;
HVAC efficiency analyst
Ground source heat pump loop installation;
Air distribution.

NATE certification tells employers that you have mastered the knowledge and skills necessary to get the job done correctly the first time. Some employers require the appropriate NATE certifications before hiring or advancing an employee.

Best Options in the Field of HVAC

The BLS reports that more than 294,000 people work in the HVAC industry. Also, the field offers a variety of career options. Yet, installing and repairing residential and commercial HVAC-R equipment is the largest segment.

HVAC-R mechanics and installers: 212,810;
HVAC direct sales: 9,410;
HVAC wholesale sales: 8,070;
Commercial & industrial HVAC service: 6,170;
Educational facilities: 5,620.

These HVAC occupations account for 78% of all jobs in the industry. The statistics don’t include self-employed HVAC contractors such as the owners of local HVAC companies that employ most of the 294,000 workers in the industry. Most of those owners began their careers as HVAC technicians and later started their businesses. That’s an attractive career path for those with practical experience as an HVAC technician who have also obtained a business education.

A small percentage of the HVAC careers are in aerospace manufacturing, telecommunications, natural gas distribution and a wide range of related jobs.

To the Point

If this information has raised your interest in HVAC training, search online for training schools or call your local community college to find out what training programs are available near you.

Your friends and followers on social media might appreciate the information too as they consider their career. So, please pass it along if it has been helpful to you!

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Lennox Heat Pump Reviews: Pros, Cons, Performance, What to Consider

Our Lennox heat pump buyer’s guide is your source for comprehensive and accurate information about Lennox heat pump models. We’ve produced guides for other brands for you to compare pros & cons, top heat pumps from each and their technical specifications. See guides for these brands and more:

Lennox is on a mission to produce the most energy-efficient HVAC equipment. Its top heat pump, the Lennox XP25, its top air conditioner (XC25) and gas furnace (SLP98V) lead the industry. This brand is unique in that Lennox makes its own replacement parts, and we’ll have more to say about that later.

Lennox Heat Pump Brand Overview

There are seven Lennox heat pump models divided into three series:

Best: Dave Lennox Signature Collection: 3 models;
Better: Lennox Elite Series: 3 models;
Basic: Lennox Merit Series: 1 model.

The differences give you options ranging from affordable, basic units to costlier high-performance Lennox heat pumps.

Lennox Heat Pumps Technical Specifications

Let’s dig deeper into the seven Lennox heat pump models:

Lennox makes single-stage models, two-stage and variable-capacity heat pumps;
Single-stage Lennox Merit Series 14HPX delivers 16 SEER air conditioning and 8.2 HSPF heating. Also, it is the most efficient base model in the industry;
Three Lennox Elite heat pumps are the single-stage 16 SEER/9.5 HSPF Lennox XP14, the two-stage 17 SEER/9.5 HSPF XP16 and the top pick, the modulating XP 20. It has a 20 SEER/10 HSPF efficiency, all Energy Star rated;
Three Signature Series heat pumps are Energy Star rated, the single-stage SL18XP1 (18.5 SEER/10.2 HSPF), the two-stage XP21 (19.2 SEER/9.7 HSPF) and the variable-capacity XP25 (23.5 SEER/10.2 HSPF);
The two variable-capacity models, XP20 and XP25, have compressors that fluctuate from 40% to 100% of capacity like cruise control. This is to keep temperature precisely balanced. It aims to also remove more humidity during air conditioning than single- or two-stage units;
Several Lennox heat pump models (14HPX, XP14, XP16, XP21 and XP25) are dual-fuel compatible which means they can be installed in a split system with gas furnace. Consequently, the heat pump will provide the heating in temperatures above freezing and the furnace will automatically take over in colder temperatures.

Pros and Cons of Lennox Heat Pumps

There are plenty of reasons to consider Lennox and few potential disadvantages too.

Lennox Heat Pump Pros

This is the most efficient lineup of heat pumps on the market. So, your energy use and cost can reduce by 30 to 60 percent when replacing an old heat pump;
Single-stage, two-stage and variable-capacity models give you options to match your indoor comfort preferences and budget;
The diverse range of efficiency levels allows homeowners to match their heat pump choice to their climate. They can also support their commitment to heat and air condition their homes with eco-friendly technology;
Lennox makes compatible components for its heat pumps. This includes air handlers, gas furnaces, HRV and ERV ventilation units, indoor air quality systems, humidity control systems and thermostat controls for complete, coordinated split systems;
Lennox Elite Series and Signature Collection heat pumps are well built. They should last 17-22 years when properly maintained;
The SL18XP1 is the industry’s most efficient single-stage model. So, it provides premium efficiency at a lower cost than most two-stage heat pumps;
Six of the seven Lennox heat pump models are certified by Energy Star. They also might be eligible for utility rebates from your energy provider;
Dual fuel Lennox heat pumps installed in a split system with a Lennox gas furnace are an ideal choice for climates where freezing winter temperatures are common;
Lennox SunSource solar modules can produce enough energy to run a complete HVAC system.

Lennox Heat Pump Cons

The brand makes its own replacement parts, and they are mostly of superior quality. But periodic supply-chain problems cause delays in repair times;
There seems to be an issue with the quality of some Lennox coil models, with a large number of reported failures. Also, it is unclear whether the quality-control issue has been resolved;
A Lennox heat pump will cost more than most comparable models. Part of the higher cost is superior quality, but it is partly due to brand recognition and an expensive marketing program;
While SunSource modules reduce energy cost, they are expensive. Also, the payback time could be 12 years or more in some climates;
Lennox heat pump warranties are not as long or comprehensive as those from Amana, Goodman, Heil, Arcoaire, Comfortmaker, Maytag, Tappan and several other brands.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Lennox Heat Pump

Your first consideration is climate. The more extreme your climate is, the more efficient the Lennox heat pump you choose should be. Where winters are harsh, a heat pump alone is a poor option. This is because you’ll use space heaters to stay warm, and they produce costly heat. If your winter weather is often freezing, then a gas furnace alone or a dual fuel heat pump and gas furnace combination is a better choice. A dual fuel system costs more upfront but produces the lowest heating costs.

With single-stage, two-stage and modulating heat pumps available, whether you’re willing to pay more to get improved climate control is a consideration. Your costs rise 10-15 percent with each step up in performance.

Be sure your heat pump is properly sized for your home. Some HVAC technicians oversize the units. But that leads to imbalanced temperatures and higher incidences of mechanical failure. Ask that a load calculation be done. Also, if your home’s insulation has been increased, most commonly in the attic, or if energy-efficient windows have been installed since the last heat pump was purchased, it’s possible the replacement Lennox heat pump should be smaller than the original.

Before you settle on a Lennox heat pump, browse our other heat pump guides to compare pros, cons and technical specifications for today’s top brands.

Invest in Quality Installation

Take time to find a qualified installer for your heat pump. Moreover, installation quality is essential to the durability, efficiency and performance of your HVAC system. We suggest getting written estimates from several licensed and insured installers to find one with skill and experience.

Thank you for researching your next heat pump here. If our Lennox heat pump guide has been useful or interesting, consider sharing it with family, friends and followers! And please join the conversation below if you have questions, comments or experience with a Lennox heat pump.

Image from depositphotos.com.

Lennox Air Conditioner Reviews: Pros, Cons, Performance, Top Picks

This Lennox AC Guide is a comprehensive review of Lennox air conditioner main models that will assist you in selecting the right unit for your climate and your efficiency and performance preferences.

The pros and cons are a good source of information when comparing Lennox to Amana air conditioners and other top brands we’ve reviewed including:

In 1895, Dave Lennox began manufacturing the first riveted steel furnace in the US. From that innovative start, Lennox has been a leader in residential performance and efficiency. A private company until 1999, Lennox is now a public brand and the parent company of several other HVAC brands. Some of them are Armstrong Air, Air-Ease and Ducane. However, their product lineups are different than Lennox’s.

Lennox Air Conditioner Brand Overview

Like many leading brands, this onemakes basic (Merit Series), better (Elite Series) and best series (Signature Collection) Lennox air conditioners. The differences involve efficiency and performance, the two major factors in how much an air conditioner costs.

The Lennox Signature Collection XC25 is the top pick for this entire brand. Also, it has the distinction of being the most efficient split system AC available with efficiency up to 26 SEER. There are 10 other models starting at 13 SEERS.

Lennox Air Conditioners Technical Specifications

The wide range of models is designed to meet consumers’ needs. This is whether they want a cheap, low-efficiency model or are willing to pay top dollar for a premium AC with great efficiency and climate control features.

Lennox single-stage air conditioners are made in each series. They range in efficiency from 13 to 18.5 SEER with the top-pick Lennox SL18XC1. They make the industry’s most efficient single-stage model.
Single-stage ACs are affordable, but run at full capacity all the time. Therefore, the cycles are loud and might cool past the thermostat set point.
Lennox two-stage models are available at 17.2 SEER. The top-pick Lennox XC21 is a 21 SEER AC that is the most efficient in its class.
Two-stage ACs run at low capacity for quieter, more balanced cycles. They remove more humidity from summer air than single-stage models can.
Lennox makes two variable-capacity ACs, the XC25 and the Elite XC20 with a 20 SEER rating.
Variable-capacity ACs modulate up and down like cruise control. They deliver precise balance, the quietest performance and the best dehumidification.
All Lennox air conditioners are compatible with the brand’s SunSource solar panels that can provide enough energy for the entire HVAC system in sunny climates.

Pros and Cons of Lennox Air Conditioners

For all the advantages Lennox ACs offer, there are a few concerns to consider.

Lennox AC Pros

Lennox’s high-efficiency ACs can reduce air conditioning costs and energy use by as much as 60 percent when replacing an old AC;
Two variable-capacity models give you efficiency and cost options for premium indoor climate control;
Seven Lennox air conditioner models meet Energy Star criteria. Also, they are eligible for rebates from many energy companies;
Lennox covers the other bases too – affordable models for those that don’t require an efficient AC;
The brand makes a full range of heating, air conditioning, home ventilation equipment and thermostats. Moreover, by coordinating a system with compatible components is the best way to optimize efficiency and comfort;
The Wi-Fi thermostat controls allow you to monitor and control your HVAC from anywhere using a smart device;
Lennox’s service record is in the top 5-7 of all brands in most years.

Lennox AC Cons

Most Lennox air conditioner models cost more than comparable ACs;
Lennox warranties are average for the industry – 10 years for Signature Collection and Elite Series units and 5 years for Merit Series. Goodman, Amana, Maytag, Westinghouse and Heil are among the brands offering longer warranties;
Lennox makes its own repair parts, unlike most other brands. While that might improve quality, supply-chain issues sometimes delay parts and repairs;
The brand is currently having issues with Lennox air conditioner coils in some models;
As is true with most top brands, you can only buy a Lennox air conditioner through an authorized dealer. So, comparing pricing is impossible without getting a sales presentation from a representative.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Lennox Air Conditioner

If you speak with a Lennox sales agent, we suggest you ask about the coil issues. If he or she claims not to be aware of the issue, try a different brand. Only choose Lennox if you get assurances from your local dealer that the coil will receive a proper warranty. While the part is covered for 10 years, the labor is generally covered for just one year. Consider purchasing an extended warranty on the labor.

When purchasing an air conditioner, the hotter your climate is, the more efficient your AC should be. The extra cost might be paid back through lower energy costs in as little as three years. Also, you’ll be saving money every cooling month beyond that.

Many of our readers are committed to ecofriendly heating and cooling. To create the least environmental impact, choose the most efficient AC you can afford and/or consider the installation of a whole-house attic fan. This option can quickly replace warm air in the home with cool evening air. If you’re in a sunny climate, ask your Lennox dealer about SunSource. The equipment is expensive, but it could reduce your cooling costs (heating too) to zero!

Ask your HVAC contractor to do a proper load test to ensure that the Lennox air conditioner you select has large enough capacity – but not too large. If your home has been made more energy efficient since the last AC was installed, perhaps by adding insulation or upgrading the windows, then your next air conditioner should be smaller.

Consider, Compare and Share

We hope this Lennox air conditioner guide has been helpful as you consider and compare one of the industry’s leading brands.

It’s easy to share this post on social media to benefit friends and followers looking at their central AC options.