Aaron's Mechanical Service: 29.95 Tune-up Special

Now is the time to have your air conditioner serviced. Don't wait until it get hot!

Tune-up Special -- $29.95
 1. Clean and calibrate the thermostat
 2. Test and examine all controls on unit
 3. Lubricate all moving parts on the unit
 4. Tighten or adjust all belts and pulleys
 5. Cycle the complete system (ac & heating as well as fan operation)
 6. Examine and tighten all electrical connections
 7. Test and record indoor air temperatures
 8. Test and record indoor temperature split in cooling mode
 9. Test and record refrigerant pressures (high and low side)
10. Tighten all refrigerant caps
11. Test and record superheat and sub cooling for peak performance
12. Remove any trash or debris from unit
13. Test all safety controls
14. Examine and tighten all electrical connections at disconnect

To learn more about our specials, please call (602) 446-5630 -or- (623) 388-4436

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com

http://AaronsMechanicalService.com

Insulation Tips to Save You Time, Energy and Money

If you have not re-insulated your home, it's probably long past time to insulate. The question is how do you do it. This guide should help you out.

The best part of insulating is that you save money on energy costs and reduce emissions from power plants every year you live in that home!

From the United States Department of Energy (USDOE), here are some insulation tips:

- Use higher density insulation. One example is adding rigid foam board to cathedral ceilings and on exterior walls.

- Recessed light fixtures can be a major source of heat loss. Unless the fixture is marked IC (designed for insulation contact), don't put insulation next to the fixture.

- Check your local building codes for recommendations.

- Consumers can choose from among many types of insulation that save money and improve comfort.

- Follow the product instructions for installing the insulation and make sure you wear the proper protective gear when installing any insulation.

- Big Time $$$$ Long-Term Savings Tip: One of the most cost-effective ways to make your home more comfortable year-round is to add insulation to your attic.  Learn about the different insulation materials, which run the gamut from bulky fiber materials such as fiberglass, rock and slag wool, cellulose, and natural fibers to rigid foam boards to sleek foils.

- Radiant barriers are effective for reducing summer heat gain in cooling climates.

- Don't forget about air sealing the attic door once you insulate!

Need help with your AC system?  Call Aaron’s Mechanical Service at 623-388-4436 to see how we can help.

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Services
623-388-4436
info@coolingaz.com
http://coolingaz.com 

Arizona Places: Colorado River Indian Tribes

The Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) are composed of Mohave, Chemehuevi, Navajo and Hopi. The reservation lies along the Colorado River shoreline in western Arizona and is a short, picturesque 2 1/2 hour drive northwest of Phoenix.

Amazing Native American ruins, paintings and museums are just a few of the cultural destinations on CRIT’s reservation. CRIT offers gorgeous natural wonders including the world-famous Colorado River where you can easily ride personal watercrafts, water ski and even dock your boat for a stay at the award-winning BlueWater Resort & Casino’s marina.

The BlueWater Resort & Casino is a great launching point for recreation on the Colorado River. The resort has a 160-dock marina, and is just one of dozens of locations where those interested in water recreation can enjoy what the Colorado River has to offer.

Ahakhav Tribal Preserve
The Ahakhav Tribal Preserve was established in 1995 and currently consists of 1,253 acres of wilderness area and a 3 1/2 acre park. The preserve is centered around a reconstructed Colorado River backwater, which offers a variety of activities, including fishing, canoeing, birding and swimming. The preserve also maintains a 4.6-mile fitness trail as well as playground and picnic facilities located in the park.

Poston Monument
This memorial monument marks the site of the Poston War Relocation Center where 17,867 persons of Japanese ancestry – the majority of whom were United States citizens – were interned during World War II from May 1942 to November 1945. All persons of Japanese descent living or working in West Coast farms, businesses, towns, cities and states were forcibly evacuated by the United States military on the grounds that they posed a threat to national security.

This memorial is dedicated to all those men, women and children who suffered countless hardships and indignities at the hands of a nation misguided by wartime hysteria, racial prejudice and fear. May it serve as a constant reminder of our past so that Americans in the future will never again be denied their Constitutional rights, and may the remembrance of that experience serve to advance the evolution of the human spirit.

CRIT Museum
The CRIT Museum provides a comprehensive history of the Colorado River Indian Tribes and their heritages and traditions. Located at 1007 Arizona Avenue in Parker, the museum houses cultural artifacts and exhibits as well as photos showing tribal history. It also provides an overview of CRIT and its people. The exhibits and information date back to before the CRIT Reservation was established in 1865 and run through present day.

Website: http://www.crit-nsn.gov/

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Air Conditioning repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

HVAC Vocabulary Part One

Understanding what the terms are can help you save time and money when you need HVAC service.

AFUE - Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. A measurement used to rate furnace efficiencies by dividing the ratio of heat output by heat input.

Air Balance Test - A test used to measure airflow across a tower or air handler system.

Air Conditioner - A device that changes humidity levels, temperature or quality of air.

Air Handler - Parts of a system including the fan-blower, filter and housing. The portion of the central air conditioning or heat pump system that moves heated or cooled air throughout a home’s ductwork. 

Burner Orifice - The opening in the burner through which the gas or fuel passes prior to combustion.

Capacity - HVAC capacity is the output produced by the heating or cooling unit and is measured in BTUs per hour. For cooling it is sometimes expressed in "tons."

CFM - Cubic Feet per Minute. A measurement of airflow volume.

Charging a System - Adding coolant, or refrigerant, to an HVAC system.

Coil Cleaning - The act of removing or cleaning dirt, dust, grime, hair and oils from either an indoor or outdoor evaporator or condenser coil.

Compressor - A pump that increases the pressure of gas. The motor in the compressor is the main consumer of energy. If the compressor operates out of its original design, it will effect energy consumption.

Condenser Fan - A fan that passes air over the condenser coil to facilitate the removal of heat from the refrigerant.

Contactor - A switch that can repeatedly cycle, making and breaking an electrical circuit. When sufficient current flows through the A-coil built into the contactor, the resulting magnetic field causes the contacts to be pulled in or closed.

Damper - Found at the exit point of ductwork, this plate usually contains grates that can be opened or closed to control the flow of air into a zone.

Dehumidifier - A device that removes humidity, or moisture, from the air.

Diffuser - A grille over an air supply duct with vanes that distribute the discharging air in a specific pattern or direction.

Speaking of understanding if you have an AC question you should be calling Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call at 623-388-4436.

Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Comparing Ground And Roof AC Units

Ground and rooftop air conditioner units are basically the same as far as function and looks are concerned. However, there are some obvious differences that may be of benefit, depending on your home and its surroundings. Pros and cons come with having each unit; you only need to decide which units characteristics fit your need.

Protection From Theft and Damage
Ground unit air conditioners are prone to damage from items such as weed eaters and lawn mowers. In larger cities, thieves who want to part out the air conditioner and sell each of the separate parts steal ground units.

With an air conditioner on your roof, you can prevent your air conditioner from mowing and weed eating damage. Rooftop units are also more difficult for thieves to access and steal without you noticing.

Noise
Rooftop air conditioners create the same amount of noise as a ground unit; however, whenever you place the unit on your rooftop, you won’t hear as much of the noise if any.

The noise is not as noticeable if you live outside of the city, but ground units are much noisier when the houses are close together as the noise bounces off the houses and creates excessive noise.

Access
Ground units are much more easily accessible than rooftop units. Easy access is important considering you need to maintain your unit at least yearly. Also when the air conditioner is located on the rooftop, your options for connection to a water supply are limited. You can easily and quickly access a faulty ground unit and maintain it much quicker. It is also much easier to forget that your unit requires yearly maintenance when it is out of sight.

Location
As the names suggest, a rooftop air conditioner is located on the roof of your home while a ground unit is located on the ground outside of your home. If you have a small yard, installing the unit on your rooftop can save you yard space. The average unit – either rooftop or ground – is 6 square feet. When you have a small yard, 6 square feet is a lot of space.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your HVAC Heating Needs or furnace replacement requirements?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Aaron's Mechanical Service: 29.95 Tune-up Special

Now is the time to have your air conditioner serviced. Don't wait until it get hot!

Tune-up Special -- $29.95
 1. Clean and calibrate the thermostat
 2. Test and examine all controls on unit
 3. Lubricate all moving parts on the unit
 4. Tighten or adjust all belts and pulleys
 5. Cycle the complete system (ac & heating as well as fan operation)
 6. Examine and tighten all electrical connections
 7. Test and record indoor air temperatures
 8. Test and record indoor temperature split in cooling mode
 9. Test and record refrigerant pressures (high and low side)
10. Tighten all refrigerant caps
11. Test and record superheat and sub cooling for peak performance
12. Remove any trash or debris from unit
13. Test all safety controls
14. Examine and tighten all electrical connections at disconnect

To learn more about our specials, please call (602) 446-5630 -or- (623) 388-4436

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com

http://AaronsMechanicalService.com

Choose An AC Contractor Who Asks A Lot Of Questions

Many people mistakenly assume that pre-existing comfort, noise, dust or unhealthy air problems will be automatically solved by installing a new system.   While these problems can be solved, just replacing the equipment won’t do it. 

As a good contractor we are committed to 100% customer satisfaction.  But to achieve this, we need information.  We know that you and your family are the best source of information about these problems.  We will always start by meeting with you and asking many questions: about areas that have been hard to heat or cool, air that is either too dry or too humid, about how the old system worked  (or didn’t work!), and about what you are looking for in a new system.

We also ask if you are interested in reducing dust in the home, and if any family members suffer from respiratory allergies or asthma.  A new system can often greatly improve the overall air quality in your home.  This is especially so if duct and thermal envelope improvements are performed at the same time, and if the latest in air filtration and purification technology are built into your new system.

A typical contractor is only interested in swapping the metal boxes, and won’t try to help you take full advantage of this unique opportunity.

Since everyone’s perception of comfort and indoor air quality is different, it’s very important that all the adults who live in your home participate in the initial interview and inspection.  For one thing, the Whole House Comfort Checkup consultation, testing and inspection process is very visual.  Everyone really needs to see it and have their questions answered. 

Just as important, there’s now a very wide range of new equipment options to choose from.  There are different quality grades and brands, different efficiency levels, colors, air filtration and humidity control options, ventilation improvements, duct repairs, insulation upgrades and even payment options.  The decisions require significant education and are best shared by all the adults of the household.  It’s not fair to one spouse to ask him or her to learn it all and then have to teach it to the other. A new system is a much bigger decision than most people realize.

A good contractor understands his professional responsibility to advise you of your options, and won’t presume to make these important decisions for you. After going over what you want, and what has been learned about your home and duct system, a good contractor will use his professional judgment and experience to make a personalized proposal.  He’ll be able to explain his reasons for the recommendations.  Together you’ll come up with the right solution.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your heating system’s repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Services a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Arizona Places: Besh Ba Gowah Archaeological Park

During your visit to Besh Ba Gowah you will see Salado Ruins and both Ethno-botanical garden and a Botanical garden and what is said to be the largest collection of Salado pottery artifacts in the world.

Visitors can start tours with a short video in the Auditorium depicting the Salado history and way of life, the coming of Apaches, miners and settlers.  The video also includes information regarding the re-excavating of the ruins. 

The Ethno-Botanical Garden illustrates plants, which were used by the Salado in their daily lives for food, fiber, construction materials and dyes. As you walk through you can try using tools and grind corn as was done eight centuries ago. 

The message is the “Spirit” still dwells in the pueblos.  During this experience you can learn more about how the ancient Salado civilization survived here nearly 800 years ago, there are informative interpretive signs throughout the maze-like village. Climb the ladders to allow a full view of the park from the second story pueblo.  

The Botanical Garden located below the Besh Ba Gowah grounds, is home to plants from the desert environment and provides a picnic area to visitors and citizens in the area.  Some of these plants were generously donated out of local citizens yards & gardens.  They will accept unwanted plants from homeowners for this garden.

The Don Haines Memorial Library houses a number of publications Southwest archaeology and anthropology, a pictorial of the Apache Sunrise Ceremony. Mr. Haines’ personal collection of hand-carved Apache Crown Dancers, and a Crown Dancer Hood donated by Dale Peterson.  Both were friends of Besh Ba Gowah.

Before you leave the museum, the Gift Shop has many unique gifts & souvenirs for purchase.  Including items made by local artists for purchase and on display.

There are two annual events that that take place at Besh Ba Gowah.  They host Arizona Celebrates Archaeological Awareness Month the last weekend in March. The Sunday Prior to Christmas is Besh Ba Gowah Festival of Lightand where the ruin walls are decorated with over 1600 luminaries creating spirit for the Holidays.  Both events are complete with entertainment & refreshments.

The City provides educational tours at no charge to schools, as a way to invest on the future of their youth.  To book a tour bus or school tour, or for general information please contact the Museum.

Location: 1324 South Jesse Hayes Road Globe, Arizona  85501   928-425-0320

Website: http://www.globeaz.gov/visitors/besh-ba-gowah

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Air Conditioning repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Your Fire Alarm and CO2 Monitor

Just checking to see if you used the change to Day Light Savings time change to replace the battery in your fire alarm, smoke detector or carbon dioxide monitor.  Well did you?

I know you meant to but, most importantly did you replace those batteries?  Your life, the lives of your family can depend on those simple electronic devices.  They sure won’t work if their batteries are dead.

Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association.

Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.

An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires, and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, both types of alarms or a combination alarm (photoelectric and ionization) should be installed in homes.

Test alarms at least monthly by pushing the test button.

Smoke rises; install smoke alarms following manufacturer's instructions high on a wall or on a ceiling. Save manufacturer's instructions for testing and maintenance.

Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps”, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.

If cooking fumes or steam sets off nuisance alarms, replace the alarm with an alarm that has a "hush" button. A "hush" button will reduce the alarm’s sensitivity for a short period of time.

An ionization alarm with a hush button or a photoelectric alarm should be used if the alarm is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance.

Smoke alarms are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. These devices use strobe lights. Vibration devices can be added to these alarms.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Heating and Air Conditioning repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Spring Weather in Phoenix Arizona

Here it is March 18th and the weather in Phoenix could not be better.  Just over 12 hours of sunshine and a high temperature at about 80 degrees Fahrenheit.  Cooking outdoors? There will be perfect weather this evening.

Let’s be fair, no one is thinking about their heating or cooling systems today. Spring cleaning or spring planting would be much more likely to be on your mind.

Just how close are we to that very first 100 degree day?

In the past the average date when we reach 100 degrees is around May 1st.  But, in 2012 we reached 100 degrees Fahrenheit at 1:13pm on April 12th.  What I read is that this year we may see the hottest weather ever for the Phoenix Metro area.  So when we reach 100 degrees will be around sooner than you may think.

Don’t let your system let you down.  You are going to try to cool off with you’re A/C unit very soon.  I’ll bet you won’t be alone when you find your unit isn’t blowing cool air.

Doing a tune-up now will be better for you and your wallet.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Air Conditioning tune-up, repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Aaron's Mechanical Service: Tune-up Special

Now is the time to have your air conditioner serviced. Don't wait until it get hot!

Tune-up Special -- $59.95
 1. Clean and calibrate the thermostat
 2. Test and examine all controls on unit
 3. Lubricate all moving parts on the unit
 4. Tighten or adjust all belts and pulleys
 5. Cycle the complete system (ac & heating as well as fan operation)
 6. Examine and tighten all electrical connections
 7. Test and record indoor air temperatures
 8. Test and record indoor temperature split in cooling mode
 9. Test and record refrigerant pressures (high and low side)
10. Tighten all refrigerant caps
11. Test and record superheat and sub cooling for peak performance
12. Remove any trash or debris from unit
13. Test all safety controls
14. Examine and tighten all electrical connections at disconnect

To learn more about our specials, please call (602) 446-5630 -or- (623) 388-4436

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com

http://AaronsMechanicalService.com

The Basics of Heating and Cooling

Most of us take heating and cooling for granted. We expect our heating systems to keep us warm during the winter, and we depend on air-conditioning to keep us cool during the summer.

When the house is cold in winter or hot in summer, the natural reaction is to call for professional service. But first, it's important to know how the basics of how heating and cooling systems function.

How Heating and Cooling Systems Work

All climate-control devices or systems have three basic components: a source of warmed or cooled air, a means of distributing the air to the rooms being heated or cooled, and a control used to regulate the system (e.g., thermostat). The sources of warm air, such as a furnace, and cool air, such as an air conditioner, in a house often use the same distribution and control systems. If your house has central air conditioning, cool air probably flows through the same ducts that heat does and is regulated by the same thermostat. When a heating or cooling system malfunctions, any of these three basic components may be causing the problem.

Both heating and air conditioning work on the principle that heat always moves from a warm object to a cooler one, just as water flows from a higher to a lower level. Furnaces and heaters put heat into the air to make your home warmer; air conditioners remove heat to make your home cooler.

All heating and cooling units burn fuel. Air conditioners use electricity. Here in the Phoenix Metro area most home heating systems use gas; other systems use electricity. The heat pump -- an electrically powered climate control unit -- both heats and cools air. In summer it extracts heat from the air inside your home. In winter it pulls heat from the air outside and uses this heat to warm the air inside.

When the furnace is turned on, it consumes the fuel that powers it, whether it be gas, oil, or electricity. As fuel is burned, heat is produced and channeled to the living areas of your home through ducts, pipes, or wires and then is blown out of registers, radiators, or heating panels. Older systems use the heat they produce to heat water, which in turn heats the air in your home. These systems use a boiler to store and heat the water supply, which is then circulated as hot water through pipes embedded in the wall, floor, or ceiling.

When an air conditioner is turned on, electrical power is used to cool a gas in a coil to its liquid state. Warm air in your home is cooled by contact with the cooling coil, and this cooled air is channeled to the rooms of your home through ducts and out registers or -- in the case of room air conditioners -- directly from the unit itself.

At Aaron’s Mechanical Service we want you to stay cool even in the hottest parts of an Arizona summer.  If your AC unit needs service or replacement please think of us and call at 623 -388-4436 and we can come to you and solve your air conditioning service needs.

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Cool Arizona Places: Hassayampa Inn

If you are looking to get out of town this weekend and cool off just a bit the Hassayampa Inn in Prescott is a great place to visit and stay.

It was the pride of Yavapai County when it opened in 1927, financed by hundreds of residents who helped realize the dream of a first-class hotel near the Courthouse Square. A downtown Prescott landmark for more than eight decades, the hotel is widely known as a retreat for visitors to escape their busy lives and soak up the friendly ambiance of “Everybody’s Hometown.”

From the cheerful greeting at reception, to your ride up the vintage elevator, to touchdown on the plush, comfortable bed, we know you’ll feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

Surrounded by mountains and lakes, and comfortably mild year-round thanks to its mile-high elevation, the town of Prescott, Arizona, naturally draws outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. The oasis-like town itself is threaded with trails that connect to the surrounding national forest, and three lakes for fishing and boating are within the city limits.

The Hassayampa Inn has a history as colorful as its name, rooted in the 19th-century panorama of the Wild West. Apache for “the river that loses itself,” the Hassayampa River north of Prescott mysteriously sinks beneath the surface along its 100-mile journey. Likewise, the hotel built in 1927 was conceived as a retreat, where travelers would emerge refreshed and renewed.

Faith Summers likes to stay at the Hassayampa Inn. That's a problem, because Faith is not of the earthly realm. Legend has it that Faith hung herself after her brand-new husband went out for cigarettes one night during their honeymoon in 1927 and never returned. That happened in room 426, and ever since, people have reported feeling Faith's presence in the hotel. One Internet rumor says the ghost of the betrayed bride likes to give women foot massages. Apparently she prefers to give men nightmares. If you're into doppelganger dreams, book a night in room 426, but if you're afraid of things that go bump in the night, you might want to leave the light on.

Location: 122 East Gurley Street, Prescott, Arizona 86301 928.778.9434

Website: http://www.hassayampainn.com

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Heating Air Conditioning repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Services a call and let us help you get comfortable! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Spring Cleaning For Your A/C

With the official start of spring just day away, it’s the perfect time to think about scheduling a tune-up for your AC Unit.

A pre-cooling season check of your air conditioning system prior to our hot summer months should be a true money saver.  When your air conditioner is running right it uses far less energy to cool your home and lower your energy use.  That means more savings for you on your monthly utility bill.  Air conditioners running at peak efficiency will use around 30 percent less electricity and should last years longer. 

Proper A/C maintenance can also reveal most small problems that can lead to major, more expensive problems if left unattended. And, if your air conditioner checkup is scheduled for spring, you’ll beat the long waits and higher prices that come with peak season repair visits.  

You’ll also be able to schedule a heating & cooling professional to come out when it’s most convenient to you for that service call.  If you wait until later in the summer you will find all of the pros are already booked and you may find prices that are higher than spring.

We’ve all heard the importance of changing the oil in your car every 3000 miles or three months.  

Think of how many hours your A/C unit runs during the summer.  When is the last time you had it serviced?  1 – 3 years?  3 -5 years?  Never?  

Having your A/C unit serviced once each year saves you an average of $30 per month on your electric bill.  Yearly service also catches many major problems before the occur.  Have you ever had to replace a compressor or an evaporator coil?  The costs are in the thousands.  

A regular tune up will usually cost far, far less.  Give us a call and find out how much you can save with a spring time A/C tune-up.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Air Conditioning service and tune-up needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Can Increased Humidity Stimulate Cleaner Indoor Air?

In a paper recently published online in BMC Infectious Diseases, Koep and his fellow Mayo Clinic researchers explore humidity in schools and the potential effects it could have on the survival and transmissibility of the influenza virus.

The Experiment
For his research, Koep, a native of Brainerd, Minn., partnered with two schools in Rochester, Minn., Lincoln K-8 Choice School and Kellogg Middle School. Over two winter seasons, he measured humidity in the classrooms of both schools using 70 HOBO data loggers. HOBO loggers, a product of Onset Computer Corp., provide data on a wide variety of energy and environmental measurements including temperature, relative humidity, ac/dc current and voltage, differential pressure, time-of-use (lights and motors), light intensity, water level, soil moisture, rainfall, wind speed and direction, pulse signals, and more. Koep’s loggers retained and reported information every five minutes.

Within Lincoln K-8 Choice School, which has an area of 50,000 square feet, Koep placed 30 sensors. At the 160,000-square-foot Kellogg Middle School, he installed 40 sensors. Koep also used seven carbon dioxide sensors to track levels in the schools, which indicated the presence of students in the classrooms.

“If it’s 60 percent humidity, we’d expect viruses not to survive nearly as well as they would at 20 percent,” Koep said. “Right in that 40-60 percent range is what we target in the schools for safety concerns and to achieve maximum inactivity of viruses.”


The Results
“The first thing we did was look at the differences in humidity between rooms, and there was basically no difference within the classrooms,” Koep said. “There was a little variability between the classrooms, but they were mostly the same.”

Dale Krageschmidt, an industrial hygienist at Mayo Clinic, contributed to the project. He said part of the problem was a lack of fresh air in schools. “When buildings are being made — especially schools — the problem is making sure that enough fresh air is getting into the systems,” Krageschmidt said. “That’s expensive, but with heat exchangers, some of those energy costs work out. One of the things the study shows is the importance of make-up air as part of an HVAC system in schools.”

Looking for one of the best air conditioners or humidity control?  Please give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call 623-388-4436.

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Aaron's Mechanical Service: Tune-up Special

Now is the time to have your air conditioner serviced. Don't wait until it get hot!

Tune-up Special -- $59.95
 1. Clean and calibrate the thermostat
 2. Test and examine all controls on unit
 3. Lubricate all moving parts on the unit
 4. Tighten or adjust all belts and pulleys
 5. Cycle the complete system (ac & heating as well as fan operation)
 6. Examine and tighten all electrical connections
 7. Test and record indoor air temperatures
 8. Test and record indoor temperature split in cooling mode
 9. Test and record refrigerant pressures (high and low side)
10. Tighten all refrigerant caps
11. Test and record superheat and sub cooling for peak performance
12. Remove any trash or debris from unit
13. Test all safety controls
14. Examine and tighten all electrical connections at disconnect

To learn more about our specials, please call (602) 446-5630 -or- (623) 388-4436

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com

http://AaronsMechanicalService.com

Passive Evaporative Cooling

Some folks are always looking for the latest idea in lowering their cooling costs.  Cooling towers are one of the latest ideas in passive (think free to operate) cooling ideas.

Cool towers use gravity to move cool air without any fans, although fans may be used to reduce the size of the towers. The most common cool towers do this by having a wet pad medium in the top of the tower. Since cool air is heavier than warm air, it will fall, creating its own airflow. Wind is not required, but will improve the airflow in a cool tower.

Generally cool towers without fans are from 20 to 30 feet tall and between 6 and 10 feet square (6'x 6', to 10' x 10'). Typically cool towers of this size will require from 10 to 150 watts, and will cool 1,000 to 2,500 square feet. Airflow for these cool towers will range from 2,500 to 8,000 CFM (cubic ft. per minute).

Passive ventilation systems rely on the movement of air through buildings to equalize pressure. The pressure difference can be caused by Wind or the Buoyancy effect created by stratified warm air. In either case, the amount of ventilation will depend critically on the size and placement of openings in the building.

Your tower should be a minimum of 6 ft. x 6ft. square and 25 ft. in height, most are about 30 ft. tall.  Your tower should be insulated with at least an R-10 Factor, but R-19 or higher would be better.

Where prevailing breezes are not dependable enough to rely on wind-induced ventilation and where keeping indoor temperature sufficiently lower than outdoor temperature to induce buoyant flow is a problem, then a solar chimney may be an effective solution. The chimney is isolated from the occupied space and can be heated as much as possible by the sun or other means. Hot air is simply exhausted out the top of the chimney creating a suction at the bottom which is used to extract indoor air.

A large solar chimney can be used to exhaust the air from your home, but a downwind swiveling exhaust scoop is a better alternative. The more exhaust scoops you have the better. These enhancements will increase the air flow; using upwind and downwind scoops that swivel to orient the wind is the best choice. 

If using wind, your cooler pads will be at the top or inside of the tower, depending on the design. Just below the cooler pads you should have a tank containing 15-30 gallons of water with a float valve assembly to keep the tank full. Locate outside the tank a small 12 Volt pump. It is best to use a non submergible pump.

Evaporating water is what creates the cooling and makes evaporative coolers and cool towers work. Rain water is the perfect source for the water used in cool towers because it does not have dissolved salts or minerals. Well water can contain dissolved minerals. As the water evaporates from the cooler pads, whatever minerals it contains are left behind. This buildup can eventually clog the pads and block air flow.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your Heating and Cooling repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Services a call and let us help you get cooled off!  Call us at: 623-388-4436

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Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Arizona Places: Guide to Birding Hot Spots

The Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory (SABO) is a non-profit scientific and educational organization based in Bisbee, Arizona. Their mission is to promote conservation of the birds of southeastern Arizona, their habitats, and the diversity of species that share those habitats through research, monitoring and public education.

Conservation begins with understanding and appreciation of nature. SABO’s programs include walks, workshops, and tours at a variety of outstanding natural areas throughout Cochise County, the heart of southeastern Arizona’s birding paradise. Entertaining and informative presentations for civic and conservation groups, schools, and community events throughout Arizona and nationwide help to build a broad constituency for conservation of Arizona’s wildlife and habitats. SABO also actively promotes ecotourism as a component of sustainable rural economies, acting as consultant to both the public and private sector and cultivating "birder-friendly" businesses.

The Southeastern Arizona Bird Observatory (SABO) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of the birds of southeastern Arizona, their habitats and the diversity of species that share those habitats through research, monitoring and public education.

SABO was founded in 1996 to address the growing needs for educational activities, ecotourism development and conservation-oriented research on both public and private lands in southeastern Arizona.

Working cooperatively with government agencies, other non-profit organizations, businesses, and private landowners, SABO takes an active but non-confrontational role in local and regional conservation.

Though a few programs have been funded through fees, contracts, or grants, much of SABO's work is made possible by the generosity of its members and donors. If you find this web site useful, whether in planning a birding trip or just answering a question about birds, we hope you will consider becoming a member or making a donation to help us continue and expand our work on behalf of birds and the people who love them.

Website: http://www.sabo.org

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your HVAC repair or replacement needs?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Services a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

The Parts of AC Tune-up Homeowners May Do

Regular Tune-ups save money by keeping you’re A/C unit running efficiently. Although regular tune ups will not guarantee that something in your AC unit will not fail, it will help to extend the life of your system components and keep them running efficiently, helping to predict failures due to electrical problems or refrigerant leakage. If you’re A/C is suddenly not cooling, you do not need a tune-up; rather, something is wrong and you need to have the system diagnosed.

Here are some items a homeowner may want to do to get their spring tune-up underway.

Your thermostat may need to have loose wires tighten. The loose wires can cause short cycling and check the temperature display accuracy.

Inspect the your evaporator coil and check for bacteria, dirt and corrosion build--up. Dirty coils reduce efficiency and decrease air quality.

Your air filters need replacement with the proper size and flow rated air filters and inspect air return for air restrictions

One area often missed is the condensate drain – check drain for debris blockage and look for key signs of drain overflow (rust or stains). Blow and clear drain.

Make sure your air distribution is working to your best advantage.  Check the airflow and inspect areas where, if any you are experiencing a lack of comfort.  Open or close vents to balance which rooms are getting the level of cooling you want.

If you don't want another to-do on your list or you won’t be safe on your roof then you need help from Aaron’s Mechanical Service.

Looking for a fast and fair company to work with for your HVAC Heating Needs or furnace replacement requirements?  Would you rather have a professional do all of your spring AC Tune-up? Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get cooled off! Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;

Aaron’s Mechanical Service

623-388-4436

info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com

http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Heating And Cooling Tips

Heating and cooling your home uses more energy and costs more money than any other system in your home -- typically making up about 54% of your utility bill.

No matter what kind of heating and cooling system you have in your house, you can save money and increase your comfort by properly maintaining and upgrading your equipment. But remember, an energy-efficient furnace alone will not have as great an impact on your energy bills as using the whole-house approach. By combining proper equipment maintenance and upgrades with recommended insulation, air sealing, and thermostat settings, you can cut your energy use for heating and cooling -- and reduce environmental emissions -- from 20%-50%.

Some Steps You Can Take

Set your programmable thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and as high as is comfortable in the summer, and -- depending on the season -- raise or lower the setpoint when you're sleeping or away from home.

Clean or replace filters on furnaces and air conditioners once a month or as recommended.

Clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators as needed; make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes.

Eliminate trapped air from hot-water radiators once or twice a season; if unsure about how to perform this task, contact a professional.

Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and the radiators.

Turn off kitchen, bath, and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you are done cooking or bathing; when replacing exhaust fans, consider installing high-efficiency, low-noise models.

During winter, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

During summer, keep the window coverings closed during the day to block the sun's heat.

Need HVAC repair or replacement?  Give Aaron’s Mechanical Service a call and let us help you get your AC running again! 

Call 623-388-4436

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservice.com

Aaron's Mechanical Service: Tune-up Special

Now is the time to have your air conditioner serviced. Don't wait until it get hot!

Tune-up Special -- $59.95
 1. Clean and calibrate the thermostat
 2. Test and examine all controls on unit
 3. Lubricate all moving parts on the unit
 4. Tighten or adjust all belts and pulleys
 5. Cycle the complete system (ac & heating as well as fan operation)
 6. Examine and tighten all electrical connections
 7. Test and record indoor air temperatures
 8. Test and record indoor temperature split in cooling mode
 9. Test and record refrigerant pressures (high and low side)
10. Tighten all refrigerant caps
11. Test and record superheat and sub cooling for peak performance
12. Remove any trash or debris from unit
13. Test all safety controls
14. Examine and tighten all electrical connections at disconnect

To learn more about our specials, please call (602) 446-5630 -or- (623) 388-4436

Brought to you by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Service
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservice.com

http://AaronsMechanicalService.com