Author: Ryan Brower

Ryan Bower is the owner of Top Flight HVAC in Milton, Deleware. He is an expert HVAC techician and writes about his life on the job and HVAC projects that he has encountered throughout his career.

How To Prevent Mold Growth In Your HVAC System

Written by Ryan Brower on March 3, 2025. Posted in HVAC. No Comments on How To Prevent Mold Growth In Your HVAC System

If you’ve noticed musty odors, poor airflow, or increased allergy symptoms, your HVAC system might have mold growth.

Mold thrives in warm, humid environments, making air conditioning systems and ductwork the perfect breeding ground – especially in coastal areas.

At Top Flight Heating & Air, we know how dangerous mold buildup can be for your home, health, and HVAc system efficiency. Here’s how to prevent mold growth in your HVAC system and keep your indoor air fresh.

Why Does Mold Grow in HVAC Systems?

Moisture needs three things to grow:

Moisture – Humid air, condensation, or faulty drainage can leave water sitting inside your system.
Warmth – HVAC systems maintain ideal temperatures for mold growth.
Organic Matter – Dust, dirt, and clogged air filters provide the nutrients mold needs to thrive.

Common causes of mold in HVAC systems:

Poor Ventilation – Traps humidity inside your system.
Dirty Filters – Allow dust and moisture to accumulate.
Faulty Drainage – Standing water encourages mold.
Coastal Humidity – High moisture levels make mold prevention even harder.

Signs of Mold in Your HVAC System

If you notice any of these warning signs, contact an HVAC technician immediately:

Musty or earthy odors when your system runs.
Visible mold on vents, filters, or coils.
Increased allergy symptoms or respiratory issues.
Poor airflow or reduced system efficiency.
Excessive condensation around your unit or ducts.

Ignoring mold allows it to spread through your entire system, impacting air quality, HVAC performance, and your health.

How to Prevent Mold in Your HVAC System

1. Change Filters Regularly

Replace your air filters every 1-3 months to prevent buildup. A dirty filter traps moisture and dust, creating the perfect conditions for mold.

2. Improve Ventilation

Use exhaust fans, open cents, and avoid blocking airflow with furniture. Proper air circulation reduces humidity inside your system.

3. Maintain Drainage Lines

Your HVAC’s drainage system removes condensation. Ensure drain lines are clear and working properly to prevent standing water.

4. Control Humidity Levels

Keep humidity levels between 30-50% using a whole-home humidifier. This helps eliminate excess moisture that feeds mold growth.

5. Clean Coils & Ductwork

Schedule regular HVAC maintenance to prevent mold and improve system efficiency. Dust and moisture build up on evaporator coils and inside ducts.

6. Upgrade Insulation

Poor insulation allows moisture to condense in your ducts, providing a breeding ground for mold. Sealing and insulating your ductwork reduces this risk.

Why Coastal Climates Make Mold Prevention Harder

If you live in a coastal area or experience high humidity, mold growth is an even bigger concern. Damp air combined with poor ventilation can create the perfect conditioning for mold to spread throughout your home.

Pro Tip: Investing in a ductless mini-split maintenance and dehumidifier installation can help you control moisture levels and prevent mold problems before they start.

Schedule Mold Prevention Services with Top Flight Heating & Air

If you suspect mold in your HVAC system or want to improve indoor air quality we’re here to help. At Top Flight, we offer professional HVAC cleaning, dehumidifier installation, and maintenance to keep your system mold-free.

Call (302) 329-8003 to schedule an HVAC inspection and start breathing better, today!

Why Wall Heaters Are a Great Heating Option for Small Spaces

Written by Ryan Brower on January 28, 2025. Posted in Heating. No Comments on Why Wall Heaters Are a Great Heating Option for Small Spaces

If you’re struggling to heat a compact space, wall heaters could be the perfect solution. Whether you’re looking to warm a bathroom, home office, or guest room, wall heaters provide efficient, safe, and space-saving heating for small areas.

At Top Flight Heating & Air, we specialize in providing tailored heating solutions for homes in Milton, DE, Sussex County, and surrounding areas. Here’s why wall heaters are an excellent choice for your small space needs!

Understanding the Efficiency of Wall Heaters

Wall heaters use advanced heating technology to warm small spaces quickly and effectively. Unlike central heating systems, these units don’t rely on ductwork, which eliminates energy loss during heat distribution. In fact, modern wall-mounted heaters can achieve up to 100% efficiency by directly converting electrical energy into heat.

Smart Temperature Control

Many wall heaters come with features like:

Programmable Thermostats: Set and maintain your desired temperature.
Zone Heating: Heat only the spaces you use.
Energy-Saving Modes: Optimize settings to lower heating costs.

These features make wall heaters a highly efficient option for Sussex County homeowners looking to reduce energy bills while staying warm.

Key Benefits of Wall Heaters for Small Spaces

1. Compact and Space-Saving Design

Wall heaters mount directly to the wall, freeing up valuable floor space in tight areas. Their sleek design makes them ideal for:

Bathrooms
Home offices
Small bedrooms
Apartments or in-law suites

2. Energy Efficiency

By targeting specific areas instead of heating the entire home, wall heaters allow for zone heating, which can significantly reduce energy consumption. This targeted approach is especially valuable during Delaware’s colder months when energy costs can climb!

3. Advanced Safety Features

Modern wall heaters include built-in safety measures that give homeowners peace of mind:

Automatic Shutoff: Protects against overheating.
Cool-Touch Exteriors: Prevents burns during operation.
Thermal Protection: Ensures safe operation in confined spaces.
Child-Safety Locks: Keep controls secure from curious hands.

These features make wall heaters a reliable and safe choice for families anywhere.

Wall Heater Installation and Maintenance Tips

Professional Installation Matters

Proper installation is essential for your wall heater to operate safely and at its best. At Top Flight, our certified technicians ensure your wall heater is:

Sized correctly for your space.
Positioned for optimal heat distribution.
Installed according to local safety codes.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance

Keep your wall heater running with these simple steps:

Clean the vents regularly to prevent dust buildup for better airflow.
Check and tighten electrical connections annually.
Test the safety features on a regular basis.
Schedule professional check-ups to keep your system in peak condition.

Our team can help you develop a maintenance plan tailored to your needs, ensuring your wall heater remains efficient and reliable throughout the year.

Experience Superior Heating Solutions With Top Flight Heating & Air

Wall heaters are an efficient, safe, and convenient option for heating small spaces. At Top Flight, we help homeowners find the best heating solutions for their needs.

Our expert technicians offer professional installation, maintenance, and repairs to keep your heating system running smoothly. Plus, with our maintenance program, you’ll enjoy priority scheduling, discounts on repairs, and the confidence that your HVAC systems are in professional hands.

Ready to upgrade your heating system? Contact us at (302) 329-8003 for professional wall heater services in Milton, Sussex County, and beyond!

Stay Comfortable This Winter With the Right Humidifier

Written by Ryan Brower on December 31, 2024. Posted in Indoor Air Quality. No Comments on Stay Comfortable This Winter With the Right Humidifier

Do you ever wonder why the air inside your home feels extra dry during the winter? Maybe you experience dry, irritated skin or cracked lips from the dryness. If so, the problem is likely a lack of moisture inside your home, which happens whenever you run a furnace after outside temperatures drop.

Installing a humidifier is the best way to deal with this issue. Here’s what our HVAC experts at Top Flight Heating & Air have to say about using humidifiers in the winter.

Top 3 Humidifiers for Your Home

Humidifiers come in different types, so you can choose the best one for your specific needs:

Ultrasonic Humidifiers:
These use ultrasonic waves to break down water into tiny particles and disperse them into the air. They’re energy-efficient and operate quietly.
Evaporative Humidifiers:
The go-to choice for many homes, these systems heat water to produce steam, which a fan then circulates. They’re simple, reliable, and effective.
Warm Mist Humidifiers:
Compact and efficient, these units add both warmth and moisture to the air. They’re great for creating a cozy indoor environment while reducing your heater’s workload.

Why Having a Humidifier Is Important for Wintertime Comfort

Winter air tends to be drier, especially when you run your heater or furnace. Heating your home can reduce indoor air moisture to levels that cause discomfort and even health issues.

Adding a humidifier to your HVAC system will replace the much-needed moisture that your residence loses in the winter. Your space will be more comfortable, and you can enjoy several health benefits – like fewer nose bleeds and dry coughing fits.

How to Choose the Right Humidifier for Your Home

Selecting the right humidifier depends on your home’s specific needs. Consider the following:

System Size and Capacity: Larger homes may require whole-house systems, while portable units work well in individual rooms.
Control Features: Built-in hygrometers and variable fan speeds provide added convenience.
Type of Humidifier: A whole-house humidifier integrates with your HVAC system, while portable units target specific areas.

Whole-house systems are ideal for widespread humidity problems, while portable units can address dryness in bedrooms or offices.

Why Should You Use a Humidifier in the Winter?

Dry air can create discomfort and even damage your home. A humidifier can help prevent:

Static electricity buildup
Irritated skin and nasal passages
Nosebleeds and sore throats
Increased risk of respiratory issues

Call Top Flight for Indoor Air Quality Improvements

Why let dry air make your home less comfortable? A high-quality humidifier installed by the professionals at Top Flight Heating & Air can make all the difference.

With over a decade of experience, our team provides expert HVAC and indoor air quality services to Milton, Delaware, and the surrounding areas. We’ll help you find the perfect humidifier for your needs and ensure proper installation for maximum comfort and efficiency.

Call us at (302) 329-8003 today to schedule your appointment and enjoy a healthier, cozier home this winter!

3 Advantages To Installing a New Furnace This Winter

Written by Ryan Brower on November 27, 2024. Posted in Heating. No Comments on 3 Advantages To Installing a New Furnace This Winter

When cold weather sets in Delaware, many homeowners consider whether it’s time to upgrade their heating system.

It’s always a great time to plan ahead and consider the costs and benefits of an indoor comfort upgrade, especially if your existing system has seen its better days. Top Flight Heating & Air provides the top 3 advantages to installing a new furnace this winter.

What Are the Signs It’s Time for a New Furnace?

Generally, you’ll want to invest in a replacement when:

Your furnace has reached the end of its 15- to 30-year lifespan
You notice your heating bills are going up
Your home isn’t getting as warm as it should

What Are 3 Advantages to Installing a New Furnace This Winter?

1. Immediate Energy Efficiency Gains and Cost Reduction

Modern design and technological advances have become the most significant immediate new furnace benefits for property owners.

Furnace efficiency gains are often profound when owners replace outdated systems with upgrades that maximize fuel efficiency and minimize waste — leading to superior performance and lower monthly utility bills.

Today’s high-efficiency furnaces often boast AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings of up to 98%, far surpassing older models that may only reach 70% or less. The fuel that you pay for is almost entirely converted into heat, providing substantial energy cost savings and a more sustainable environmental impact.

Modern furnace features like two-stage heating and variable-speed blowers further optimize energy use by adjusting the heating output according to your home’s needs.

2. Improved Indoor Air Quality for a Healthier Winter

During the winter, Delaware homes are typically sealed to keep warmth in. This also leads to higher concentrations of indoor pollutants.

Modern furnaces include advanced design features that enhance indoor air quality. These include advanced filtration systems that capture dust, allergens, and other airborne particles more effectively than older models.

Some new models include built-in humidifiers and monitors that maintain balanced humidity levels. Automated humidity maintenance prevents typically dry winter indoor air from irritating residents’ respiratory systems and making winter colds or allergies more difficult.

3. Long-Term Reliability and Value

New furnace installation provides enhanced home heating reliability. With older systems, unexpected breakdowns and frequent repairs can disrupt your comfort. Unfortunately, breakdowns occur more often during our most demanding weeks of cold weather.

A winter heating upgrade also adds to the value of your property. A home equipped with a new, energy-efficient furnace attracts potential buyers, who value the knowledge that they won’t face immediate heating system expenses after purchasing a home.

Choose Top Flight Heating & Air for Expert Furnace Installation in Sussex County, Delaware

If you are considering the winter comfort boost that a modern, energy-efficient heating system provides, also consider these 3 advantages to installing a new furnace this winter we’ve discussed above. Top Flight will assist with every phase of the process, from helping you find the perfect furnace for your home and budget to completing a precision installation.

Call us at (302) 329-8003 to check out your best options for a winter heating upgrade today!

Best Fall Activities in Lewes, DE

Written by Ryan Brower on October 31, 2024. Posted in Uncategorized. No Comments on Best Fall Activities in Lewes, DE

for the season! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the autumn air and the beauty of this charming coastal town.

At Top Flight Heating & Air, we’re proud to be part of the community and want to share it with you. Here are some of the best things to do in Lewes this fall!

Things To Do This Fall in Lewes

Historic Lewes Farmers Market

One of the highlights of fall in Lewes, the Historic Lewes Farmers Market runs every Saturday through November 23 from 9 AM to 12 PM in the Lewes Elementary School parking lot. Here, you’ll find fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and something warm to sip on while you peruse. It’s the perfect place to stock up on fall favorites like apples and pumpkins while supporting our local vendors!

The Lewes Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House

Step into the rich maritime history of Lewes at the Maritime Museum at the Cannonball House. This museum offers a deep dive into the town’s past, including exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the town’s role in early American history. It’s a great indoor activity to enjoy on a fall day, where you’ll learn fascinating stories of Delaware’s maritime heritage.

Fall Hikes at Cape Henlopen State Park

Explore the fall colors and cool coastal air with a hike at Cape Henlopen State Park. With trails that take you through sand dunes, forests and marshlands, it’s a perfect way to experience the beauty of the season. Whether you’re hiking to the observation tower or walking along the beach, the park offers something for everyone looking to enjoy the outdoors this fall.

Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival

Film lovers won’t want to miss the Rehoboth Independent Film Festival, taking place November 4-10! Now in its 26th year, this festival features over 70 films, including feature films, documentaries and shorts from around the world. The screenings are held at the Cinema Art Theatre in Lewes, providing a cultural experience right in the heart of Sussex County!

Scenic Drives

For a more peaceful way to enjoy the season, take a scenic drive along the Historic Lewes Byway, or head to Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching. These scenic spot provide a perfect setting to relax and appreciate the beauty of Lewes.

Don’t Forget Your HVAC Maintenance This Fall!

As you take in all the local fall festivities, make sure your home is ready for the colder weather ahead. Top Flight Heating & Air is a trusted, five-star company offering comprehensive HVAC services throughout the Lewes community.

From routine maintenance to repairs, we’ve got you covered. Call us today at (302) 329-8003 schedule service and stay cozy this season!

Is It Time To Replace Your Water Heater? Signs To Look For

Written by Ryan Brower on September 27, 2024. Posted in Uncategorized. No Comments on Is It Time To Replace Your Water Heater? Signs To Look For

Is your older water heater on its last legs? It’s not always obvious when this critical appliance is about to give out.

As the go-to crew in Sussex County, we at Top Flight Heating & Air have helped many people replace water heater units without any fuss. Keep reading as we break down the nitty-gritty details!

How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Most modern water heaters last up to a decade before their performance starts to decline. You might even push it to 15 years with regular tune-ups.

Don’t treat this general lifespan as set in stone, though. Various factors can influence how long your system truly lasts, including:

The quality of water in your area
Consistency of maintenance checks
The manufacturer and model of the water heater
Your household’s hot water usage

Watch Out for the Red Flags

Why wait for your appliance to break down and leave you in a lurch?

We usually replace water heater units when they exhibit one or more of these symptoms:

Poor performance: Did your showers turn cold faster than you’d like? A low or inconsistent temperature is the most obvious indicator of a struggling system.
Pooling water: A leaking water heater can cause serious water damage and even mold growth when left untreated. Check around the base of your water heater for moisture.
Noisy operation: Banging, rumbling, and other strange noises could mean sediment buildup or other internal complications that need addressing.
Rusty water: When you turn on your taps, does the water look cloudy or have a brownish tint? You might have a corroded tank.
Rising costs: Always compare trends in your utility bills. If your power or energy usage has risen despite no change in your routine, don’t ignore it.
Visible wear: Do you see rust spots, cracks, or other forms of deterioration? Schedule a professional inspection.

When To Seek a Water Heater Replacement

We understand the hesitancy of replacing a major appliance. It’s expensive and can disrupt your day-to-day activities, but it’s sometimes the best option. Repairs, while helpful, can only do so much; they become just a band-aid on a bigger problem at a certain point.

When you face many hot water issues and the unit needed servicing multiple times in the past year, it’s probably time to retire it. You should also account for its age. Obsolete designs often become costlier to run and pose potential hazards that newer models would mitigate effectively.

Choosing Your New Water Heater

Instead of playing guessing games, why not seek expert assistance? Top Flight Heating & Air always has you covered. We will assess your system and recommend the most cost-efficient long-term solution.

Our crew can also help you replace water heater units with the latest technology. We help narrow down your options by accounting for:

Your budget
Your household’s hot water needs
Energy efficiency ratings
Available space for installation
Preferred fuel type (electric, gas, propane, etc.)

Avoid a lack of hot water or increased bills. Dial 302-329-8003 today — consistent hot water awaits!

Five Benefits of Ductless Mini-Splits for Cooling Your Home

Written by Ryan Brower on August 30, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioning, Ductless HVAC. No Comments on Five Benefits of Ductless Mini-Splits for Cooling Your Home

Learn more about the benefits of high-efficiency ductless mini-split systems by calling the experts at Top Flight Heating & Air at (302) 329-8003!

Ductless mini-splits are gaining popularity for their efficiency, versatility, and ease of installation. Below, we discuss five benefits of ductless mini-splits.

But first — what exactly IS a ductless mini-split?

Simply put, it’s a type of air conditioning system that doesn’t require ductwork. It has an outdoor compressor/condenser and one or more indoor air handling units. The system connects the units by a conduit housing the power cable, refrigerant tubing, suction tubing, and condensate drain.

1. Energy Efficiency

Traditional central air systems lose much of the cool air they produce — up to 30% — through ductwork, especially if the ducts are in unconditioned spaces like attics and crawl spaces.

Ductless systems eliminate this problem by delivering cool air directly to the rooms and areas where needed. The systems also use inverter technology to adjust compressor speed without energy spikes that waste electricity.

2. Zone Cooling

Zone cooling means you can independently cool different areas inside your home, differing fundamentally from central air conditioning. Each mini-split indoor unit has its own thermostat, so you can provide cooling power only to the places where needed at any time.

By only cooling the rooms that need it, you can directly control energy consumption and better manage your utility bills while maintaining cooling efficiency.

3. Flexible Installation

Unlike traditional central air conditioners, mini-splits do not require ductwork or major structural modifications. They only need a small hole through a wall for each indoor unit, which provides the conduit for refrigerant lines between indoor units and the outdoor units.

Professional technicians can install mini-split indoor units on walls, ceilings, or floors, which enhances their space-saving versatility and makes them much less intrusive than traditional cooling systems.

4. Quiet Operation

Modern mini-split indoor units operate quietly. Most produce sound levels as low as 189 decibels — as quiet as a whisper. The outdoor unit houses the compressor and the noise it generates.

The loud sound and vibration associated with traditional HVAC systems will not intrude into bedrooms, home offices, or other quiet spaces in a home served by a ductless mini-split system.

5. Improved Air Quality

Traditional HVAC systems with ductwork accumulate substantial amounts of dust, allergens, and pollutants over time. They usually require professional cleaning to reach the expansive surface area that homeowners cannot access.

Ductless mini-splits are much easier to clean and maintain. Most also come with advanced filtration systems that provide cleaner and healthier air.

Call Top Flight Heating & Air for More Information About Ductless Mini-Split Cooling Systems

A ductless mini-split might be the perfect solution if you’re considering upgrading your home’s cooling system. Top Flight Heating & Air specializes in helping Delaware homeowners find the right heating and cooling solutions for their needs.

Call us today at (302) 329-8003 or contact us online to learn more about finding the perfect solution for your home and budget.

Benefits of Upgrading to a Trane Air Conditioner

Written by Ryan Brower on July 30, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Benefits of Upgrading to a Trane Air Conditioner

If you’re in the market for a new AC, then you know there are many to choose from; however, not many have the pedigree of Trane air conditioner.

The company has been around since 1913, and over 10 million households currently own one of their products.

Are you considering joining the ranks of happy Trane-owning households? We’ll look at the benefits of upgrading to a Trane air conditioner below.

Improved Comfort

If you’re thinking about upgrading your air conditioner, then it’s almost certainly not keeping you comfortable anymore. With a new Trane air conditioner, you’ll be switching from a unit that has struggling components to one that guarantees unparalleled comfort thanks to Trane’s TruComfort and Comfort-R technology.

The latest air conditioners have variable fan speeds for better humidity control, and they run quietly because the compressor is insulated.

Cleaner Indoor Air Quality

Choosing a Trane air conditioning unit is one of the surest ways to improve your indoor air quality. The latest air conditioners from the brand have the CleanEffects filtration system, which guarantees better humidity control, superior air purification, and improved ventilation.

Your air conditioner won’t just keep you cool during the hottest days of the year, it will also trap pollen, dust, mold, and other indoor pollutants.

Lower Energy Consumption

One of the benefits of upgrading to a Trane air conditioner is that they are high-efficiency units.

Trane air conditioners undergo 2,600 hours of testing to ensure they meet the rigorous standards required for Energy Star certification. The air conditioners also come in various SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings.

Whether you want an air conditioner that meets the minimum recommended energy efficiency rating of 14 or one with a rating as high as 25, there’s a Trane product for you.

Powerful Engineering

When you invest in a new Trane air conditioner, you can relax knowing that you’re getting the best in HVAC technology. Since the company opened its doors more than a century ago, it has continued to break new ground in HVAC engineering. You’re getting an air conditioning unit that guarantees comfort and safe operation.

Some of the powerful technology you can expect with your new Trane air conditioner include the Spine Fin coil (guarantees better heat absorption and lower risk of refrigerant leaks) and variable speed compressors (which ensure better cooling efficiency).

Find the Ideal Trane Air Conditioner for Your Home

Do you want to talk more about the benefits of upgrading to a Trane air conditioner? Do you need professional guidance with choosing the right Energy Star-certified Trane air conditioner for your home?

Call Top Flight Heating & Air today at (302) 329-8003 to schedule a consultation.

FAQs

How Long Will My Trane Air Conditioner Last?

Modern Trane air conditioners are highly durable and can last 15 years or more with regular maintenance.

Do Trane Air Conditioners Offer a Warranty?

Yes! Trane offers warranties on their air conditioners. They also have limited warranties on some costlier parts like the compressor. The exact warranty details will depend on the model you choose.

Electrical Requirements for HVAC: The Basics for a New Home

Written by Ryan Brower on July 14, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on Electrical Requirements for HVAC: The Basics for a New Home

Last Modified On: 7/15/2024

Are you getting ready to move into a new home? Call 302-329-8003 and let our Top Flight team install your new heating and AC systems to meet all electrical requirements for HVAC systems.

East Coast summers can be brutal, with high temperatures and humidity making your days (and nights) a constant battle to stay comfortable. With central air conditioning, you and your family can enjoy cooler temperatures inside, even when it’s hot outside.

When shopping for an air conditioner for your new home, consider the capabilities of your current electrical system. Many older homes may lack an electrical system that can accommodate the requirements of a powerful central air conditioner. Whether your home is brand new or simply new to you, the experts at Top Flight Heating & Air, Sussex County’s choice for AC installation services, are here to guide you through the process of evaluating electrical requirements for HVAC systems.

Start with an Electrical Evaluation

Before you select an air conditioner that will work for your space, you should contact a licensed electrician to evaluate the electrical system in your home. They can let you know what your current system can handle and if an electrical upgrade is necessary. Just a bit of planning can save headaches in the long run, so you can get your new air conditioner installed and working safely and efficiently.

The evaluation will include an assessment of the current service to your home and is the perfect time for a thorough inspection of the electrical wiring throughout your home. While it is important to ensure that the power to the air conditioner is sufficient, it is also essential to ensure that your entire system is working optimally.

Understanding Electrical Systems: Basic Terminology

Before purchasing an air conditioner, it’s essential to know some basics about how the electricity for an AC system operates, so you can make sure that your selected unit is both cost-effective and energy efficient. Most units are labeled with three different measurements of electricity: wattage, voltage, and amperes.

Wattage refers to the amount of electrical power it takes to make something run. A 60-watt bulb uses more energy than a 40-watt bulb, so a higher-wattage air conditioner requires more power than one of lesser wattage.
Voltage is a measurement of force used to send energy flowing through an electrical system. In the United States, electrical grids power homes at two voltages: 120 and 240. Smaller household appliances that don’t require much power use 120 volts. Large energy consumers, like an air conditioning unit, use 240 volts.
Amperes (or amperage) measure the amount of electricity flowing through a circuit. Similar to wattage and voltage, the larger the energy requirement, the larger the amperage needed. If the electrical outlet connected to your air conditioner doesn’t have sufficient amperage, the circuit breaker “trips,” cutting off power to protect the wiring from overheating and potentially causing a fire.

Knowing the difference between these common terms will help you find the right air conditioner for your home’s existing system or understand where you need an electrical upgrade.

Choosing an HVAC System for Your Home

While it is vital to choose the size of the air conditioning unit in relation to the size of the space it will cool, there are smaller, equally important details to consider. Be sure to get tips from our blog for homeowners!

What are the needs of the AC versus your electrical system?

Remember the differences between wattage, voltage, and amperage, and note the differences between the units you are considering. Recognize that the range of electrical requirements for HVAC differs between central air and other types of AC units.

Electrical requirements for AC systems:

Central air conditioning: 208/240 volts
Window AC units: 110/120 volts
Mini Split air conditioners: 208/240 volts

These differences in voltage affect the kind of outlet you will need. If you aren’t sure what you need, consult the professionals at Top Flight Heating & Air, who can offer options and advice on the perfect unit for you.

A bit of knowledge about the basics of air conditioning units and the details of your electrical system is more helpful than you might think. It makes shopping for a new unit less stressful as you search for the perfect cooling option for your space.

What type of plug do you need?

When choosing your air conditioner, note the type of plug required. It may seem like a simple detail, but it is vital to know whether the outlet dedicated to your air conditioning unit is amply powered. If the available power is insufficient, a new outlet may need installation by an electrician.

Electrical System Upgrades For New AC Systems

Suppose your electrician discovers deficiencies in your electrical system. In that case, it is time to implement the upgrades necessary to accommodate your new air conditioner. For example, in older homes, there is typically a maximum of 100-amp service, which may work if you’re cooling a small space. Obviously, this isn’t enough to accommodate a 200-amp mini split AC unit, so this means you will need to upgrade the service panel and electrical meter to provide adequate 200-amp service.

Typically, if your home has less than 100 amps, your electrical system will require an upgrade to support a modern AC unit. Most homes need at least 200-amp service to provide sufficient power for the air conditioning condenser unit and the rest of your major home appliances. Your electrician can examine your current electrical wire size, run a larger electrical wire if necessary, and replace your current circuit panel with an appropriate size breaker.

Call Top Flight Heating & Air, Delaware’s Source for HVAC Service

Whether you’re planning to upgrade your existing air conditioning unit or install a new one, Top Flight Heating & Air can help you understand the electrical requirements for HVAC systems. Our highly trained and experienced technicians will guide you through selecting the right air conditioning system for your home. Do you have an air conditioning system and are looking for professionals to perform AC maintenance? We do that too!

Call us today at 302-329-8003 and get a head start on beating the summer heat! Submit an inquiry today, we are happy to hear your story and hope to provide meaningful solutions!

3 Ways to Protect Your AC Unit From Salt Air

Written by Ryan Brower on June 27, 2024. Posted in Air Conditioning. No Comments on 3 Ways to Protect Your AC Unit From Salt Air

If you’re from Milton, you know the city is all about that saltwater scenery.

This Sussex County sits on the Delmarva Peninsula, right along the Broadkill River that travels into Delaware Bay. However, the waters that contributed to the building and launching of hundreds of ships that sailed worldwide are also responsible for a muggy climate…

So, you should know how to protect your AC unit from salt water.

As a locally owned and operated company with over 10 years of experience, Top Flight Heating & Air has seen dozens of HVAC units suffer from that sticky salt air. We’ll explain what salt air does to your unit and what you can do to prevent this.

Why Is Salt Air and Your Unit Not a Good Combination?

Your cooling unit comprises many metal parts, from the evaporator and condenser coils to the fan blades. When salt passes by metal, it acts like an electrolyte and forces the metal to lose electrons and oxidize.

Because salt attracts surrounding moisture, the water furthers the rusting process, causing corrosion to happen ten times faster in coastal areas like these.

The Top Three Ways to Protect Your Unit

Now that you know this, you’re not moving just to protect your air conditioning unit.

Below are three things you can do instead to protect the unit for your space and prolong its lifespan – even in salty areas.

An AC Without a View

While you may like the ocean view, your AC unit doesn’t.

Winds blow over the ocean, sending a salty breeze to the side of the house facing the water. So, a professional tries to place it facing in other directions to reduce exposure.

(TIP: You may get away with having it face the ocean if natural barriers like hills and dunes bar wind flow.)

A Little Extra TLC

All HVAC units require semi-annual maintenance, from central air systems to portable air conditioners, but ones exposed to salt air need extra care.

Wipe down the salt film that regularly builds on metal components like the fan coils the way you would remove dust everywhere else. Also, rinse the filters that trap salt particles since they can enter your system as the air handlers suck in air from the vents.

A Coat for Your Cooling Unit

What if your small room air conditioners can only go in ONE spot in a given room, and that’s on an exterior wall facing the coast?

For instance, you may only have a window or the wall space on that wall for a window or mounted unit.

An industrial anti-rust coating over your unit’s condenser creates a barrier against the salt air and humidity, which are issues during Milton summers.

Let Your Cooling Desires Take Flight!

When you need cool air during 87-degree Milton, DE, summer highs, you need a team with over 200 five-star Google reviews and an A+ BBB rating for unbeatable services.

Top Flight Heating & Air can help you protect your AC unit from salt, humidity, and more. Call us today at (302) 329-8003 for 24/7 emergency assistance!