The trades of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Electrical, and Plumbing offer rewarding and stable career paths for those willing to invest their time and energy into mastering these crafts. Whether you’re a high school graduate exploring career options, considering a career change, or just curious about these fields, this article will guide you on how to start a career in HVAC, Electrical, or Plumbing trades.
1. Self-Assessment and Research
The first step in embarking on a successful career in any of these trades is self-assessment. Evaluate your interests, skills, and long-term goals. Consider what type of work appeals to you the most: HVAC technicians focus on climate control, electricians deal with electrical systems, and plumbers work on water and gas systems.
Research each field to understand the responsibilities, job outlook, and potential earnings. Engage with professionals in the industry, read industry publications, and attend trade shows or local association meetings to gain insights.
2. High School Education and Preparation
While not always mandatory, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually preferred by employers. Focus on subjects like mathematics, physics, and technical courses if available. Join vocational or technical programs that offer introductory knowledge in HVAC, Electrical, or Plumbing, giving you a head start.
HVAC, Electrical and Plumbing Trade Schools
3. Pursue Formal Education and Training
After high school, formal education and training are essential. Consider enrolling in one of the following paths:
a. Trade Schools and Community Colleges: Many institutions offer programs specifically tailored to these trades. These programs provide a strong foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience.
b. Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training. They allow you to earn while you learn and are a common pathway for HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing careers.
c. Vocational Programs: Some high schools or technical centers offer vocational programs in these trades. These can be a cost-effective way to get started.
4. Gain Hands-on Experience
Regardless of your educational path, hands-on experience is crucial. Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities with local companies or contractors. This practical experience will reinforce what you’ve learned and make you more attractive to potential employers.
5. Obtain Required Certifications and Licensing
In many regions, HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing professionals are required to obtain licenses or certifications. These typically involve passing exams and meeting experience requirements. Research the requirements in your area and ensure compliance.
6. Develop Soft Skills
In addition to technical skills, soft skills are invaluable in these trades. Effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and a strong work ethic are highly regarded. Work on developing these skills throughout your career.
7. Network and Join Industry Associations
Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide ongoing support. Join local or national trade associations such as the HVAC, Electrical, or Plumbing Contractors Associations. These organizations offer resources, industry updates, and networking events.
8. Seek Employment or Start Your Own Business
With your education, training, and certifications in hand, you’re ready to enter the workforce. Begin your career by seeking employment with established companies or contractors. Alternatively, if you aspire to be your own boss, consider starting your own business once you have sufficient experience and expertise.
Conclusion
Starting a career in HVAC, Electrical, or Plumbing trades is a promising journey filled with opportunities for growth and financial stability. By assessing your interests, gaining the right education and training, and continually improving your skills, you can build a successful and rewarding career in these essential industries. Remember, dedication and a commitment to lifelong learning will be your keys to success in these trades.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to whole house humidifiers, explain how they work, how much they cost, highlight their numerous benefits, and emphasize the importance of maintaining proper humidity levels in your home to reduce incidences of respiratory infections.
To watch the video of this presentation scroll to the bottom.
What is a Whole House Humidifier?
A whole house humidifier is designed to regulate and maintain the humidity levels in your entire home. Unlike portable humidifiers that only treat a single room, whole house humidifiers are integrated into your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system. They work by adding moisture to the air circulated throughout your house, ensuring consistent and comfortable humidity levels in every room.
Types of Whole House Humidifier and how they work.
The three most common types are the Drum, Flow-through, and Steam-powered unit. Here’s is a brief explanation of how each of them work.
Whole House Humidifier
Drum (Bypass) Humidifier
A whole is cut into the supply air duct where the humidifier will be mounted. A drum humidifier consist of an absorbent pad that rotates on a drum. The drum rotates through a pan of water causing the pad to soak up water. A flexible bypass duct is installed from the return air side of the system into the humidifier. During summer when humidity isn’t required the bypass duct has a shutoff damper that prevents air from passing over the humidifier.
The home’s HVAC system fan forces dry air over the rotating drum. As the dry air passes over the moist pad rotating on the drum, the air picks up moisture through the process of evaporation. The moist humid air is then distributed throughout the home through the HVAC ductwork, increasing the indoor humidity levels.
Electrical power to a transformer provides low voltage operation of the humidistat and solenoid control valve. Some models come with a power cord that you plug into an outlet, saving you the extra step of wiring.
There are options for manual or automated control of the humidity level. With automatic control there may be an outside air sensor. Some humidistats have a simple dial that you turn to indicate whether you want more or less humidity. Mounting is often recommended to be on the return air duct or wall mounted.
These humidifiers require regular maintenance, including cleaning the drum and changing the water pad or foam, to prevent mold and bacterial growth and to ensure optimal performance.
Flow-Through Whole House Humidifier
A flow-through type whole house humidifier is also known as a bypass humidifier. Unlike the drum humidifier there is no rotating drum or reservoir of standing water. A flow-through humidifier operates by allowing water to flow continuously over a humidification medium, typically a water panel or evaporator pad.
Flow Through Whole House Humidifier
Here’s how it works:
A flow-through humidifier is mounted on the supply air plenum after the coiling coil or furnace.
A small water tube will need to be tapped into a water pipe and then connected to the unit through a solenoid valve. A small drain line attached to the bottom of the humidifier allows for any condensate to be removed safely to a drain. If you have a cooling coil installed then there should already be a drain line that you can tap into.
Electrical power to a transformer provides low voltage operation of the humidistat and solenoid valve. Some models come with a power cord that you plug into an outlet, saving you the extra step of wiring.
When the home’s heating or cooling system is running, a portion of the dry air from the HVAC system is diverted through the flow-through humidifier. The diverted air passes over the water-saturated pad. As it does so, it picks up moisture through the process of evaporation.
The air, now with added moisture, is then distributed back into the home’s ventilation system and circulated throughout the entire house, effectively increasing the indoor humidity levels. The humidistat will control the operation of the humidifier, and is completely programable to the users liking.
There is also a fan powered flow through whole house humidifier version that works without a bypass duct, but will consume additional energy.
One of the advantages of flow-through humidifiers is that they use fresh water from the home’s supply, which can help reduce the risk of mold or bacterial growth associated with standing water. However, these systems do require regular maintenance, including replacing the water pad at regular intervals and cleaning the unit to ensure efficient operation and prevent potential issues with mold or mineral buildup.
Steam-Powered Whole House Humidifier
A steam-powered whole house humidifier is a type of whole house humidification system that uses electrically generated steam to increase the moisture content in the air throughout an entire home. This type of humidifier is known for its efficiency in quickly and effectively adding humidity to the indoor environment.
Steam Whole House Humidifier
Here’s how it typically works:
The steam humidifier contains a heating element or electrode assembly immersed in a canister of water. When activated, the electrodes pass an electrical current between them causing the water to boil which produces the steam. A water supply line ensures that the humidifier has a constant supply of water. The generated steam is then introduced into the home’s HVAC ductwork through dispersion tubes extending into the supply air stream of the ductwork. As the steam mixes with the dry air from the HVAC system, it quickly condenses, releasing moisture into the air. This process raises the humidity levels in the home.
Steam humidifiers often come with built-in controls and sensors to monitor and adjust humidity levels automatically. This ensures that the indoor environment remains within the desired humidity range.
Steam-powered whole house humidifiers are known for their precision and ability to deliver humidity quickly, making them suitable for homes that require precise humidity control or those in extremely dry climates. They can be particularly effective for desert and arid climates and for larger homes where a significant amount of moisture is needed to achieve the desired humidity levels.
However, it’s important to note that steam humidifiers tend to consume more energy than other types of humidifiers and can be more expensive to purchase and install. Additionally, proper maintenance is essential to prevent issues like mineral buildup and to ensure long-term performance.
Benefits of Whole House Humidification
Whole house humidifiers offer a multitude of benefits that can enhance your overall well-being and home comfort:
Improved Health
Proper humidity levels help reduce the risk of respiratory issues, allergies, and skin dryness. They can also alleviate symptoms like dry throat, coughing, and congestion. See the importance of maintaining the proper relative humidity for health and for the mitigation of virus sustainability in our video on Commercial Humidifiers and How They Work.
Protects Your Home
Maintaining the right humidity levels is essential to safeguard your home’s structure and furnishings. Dry air can cause wood to crack, paint to peel, and electronic equipment to malfunction.
Enhanced Comfort
Balanced humidity levels make your living environment more comfortable year-round. You’ll feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.
Energy Efficiency
Proper humidity levels allow you to feel comfortable at slightly lower temperatures during the colder months, which can lead to energy savings and reduced utility bills.
Importance of Proper Humidity Levels in Homes
Maintaining the right indoor humidity levels is crucial for several reasons:
Health and Comfort
Inadequate humidity can lead to discomfort and health issues. Dry air can cause dry skin, irritated eyes, and worsen respiratory conditions like asthma.
Preservation of Your Home
Protect your home’s structure and contents. Proper humidity prevents wooden furniture, flooring, and musical instruments from drying out and becoming damaged.
Energy Efficiency
Balancing humidity levels can help you maintain comfort without overworking your heating or cooling systems, saving energy and money.
Seasonal Adjustments
Humidity requirements change with the seasons. Whole house humidifiers allow for easy adjustments to ensure comfort throughout the year.
The Cost of Whole House Humidifiers
The cost of a whole house humidification systems depends on the make and style of humidifier chosen. According to Angi, in 2023 the average whole house humidifier cost ranges from $397 to $753, with an average of $575. The high end could reach $1,200. The cost ranges between the different type of humidifiers.Â
The actual equipment cost varies, with the Drum humidifier ranging from $150 to $250. Flow through humidifiers ranging from $175 to $450, and steam humidifiers costing between $300 and $1,100.
Some of the humidifiers come with an installation kit, that contains a transformer, outdoor temperature sensor, water valve, hose clamps, thermostat wire, drain and water supply tubing.
Budget Amount
Humidifier Type
<$250
Drum
$175 to $450
Flow-through
$400 to $1,000
Steam-powered
$1,000 +
High-end steam
Whole House Humidifier Cost Table
Again, according to angi, it can take up to 5 hours to install a whole house humidifier, which could cost you $400.
For homes that have more than one air conditioner, each would require their own humidifier.
Humidifier Coverage Area
The age of the home could also affect the size of the humidifier required. Older homes that are poorly sealed would require a larger humidifier to make up for losses through the loose construction. For example, the AprilAire Model 700 will cover an area of up to 5,300 Ft2 for a home with tight construction, while that same humidifier is only good for up to 2,700 ft2 for average construction and up to 1,800 ft2 for loose construction.
In conclusion, whole house humidifiers offer a comprehensive solution to combat dry indoor air, providing numerous health benefits and preserving the integrity of your home. Proper humidity levels are key to creating a comfortable and healthy living environment for you and your family. Proper maintenance is required to keep them running properly and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Can a Bypass Flow Through Humidifier be installed on the Return Duct?
A. Yes, some manufacturers allow for installation on the return side of the system. The preferred location is on the supply duct, but if space doesn’t allow, the return duct is often acceptable.
Q. Is it healthy to run the Humidifier every night?
A. Yes, maintaining your humidity level between 40 and 60% relative humidity has shown to improve your health and reduce incidences of respiratory infection.
The obvious one, and the primary reason to clean your dryer vent is to reduce the risk of a house fire. Lint, dust, and debris that accumulate in the dryer vent can become highly flammable. When the dryer generates heat to dry your clothes, this buildup can catch fire, leading to a potentially dangerous situation.
A clogged dryer vent restricts the flow of air, making it less efficient. This means it takes longer to dry your clothes, which not only wastes energy but also increases your utility bills.
Appliance Longevity
A clean dryer vent can prolong the life of your dryer. When the vent is clogged, the dryer has to work harder to push hot, moist air out of the system. This extra strain can cause components to wear out faster, leading to costly repairs or the need to replace the dryer sooner than expected.
Clothing Care
A clogged dryer vent can cause excessive heat and humidity to build up inside the dryer. This can lead to damage to your clothing, such as shrinking, fading, or warping. Proper venting helps protect your clothes and keeps them looking their best.
Indoor Air Quality
When the dryer vent is clogged, it can force lint and dust particles to circulate back into your home’s indoor air. This can contribute to poor indoor air quality, which may exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues, especially in individuals with sensitivities to airborne particles.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
An efficient dryer that doesn’t have to work as hard will consume less energy, which is good for the environment. Cleaning your dryer vent can help reduce your carbon footprint by lowering your energy consumption.
Peace of Mind
Regularly cleaning your dryer vent gives you peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken steps to reduce the risk of a fire hazard in your home. It’s a simple maintenance task that can have significant safety benefits.
Toxins on the Lint Screen
Note that the EPA has stated that clothes lint that collects on the dryer screen may contain toxins. Be sure to handle carefully and discard regularly before each cycle. Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants are now considered ubiquitous and persistent pollutants which can be found in dryer lint.
How to Clean your Dryer Vent
There are simple tools available that allow you to maintain your dryer vent in a clean and safe condition. Make sure to wear a mask to prevent yourself from breathing any of the lint dust that maybe stirred up during the process.
Cleaning a dryer vent involves several steps to ensure it is done thoroughly and safely. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean a dryer vent:
Materials You’ll Need:
Screwdriver or nut driver
Vent brush or cleaning kit with flexible rods
Vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment
Work gloves
Safety goggles or glasses
Dust mask
Duct tape
Towel or rag
Steps for Cleaning your Dryer Vent:
Step #1. Safety First Always unplug your dryer from the electrical outlet to ensure your safety. Put on safety goggles, a dust mask, and work gloves to protect yourself from dust and debris.
Step #2. Gently pull the dryer away from the wall, giving you access to the vent hose and the back of the dryer.
Step #3. Use a screwdriver or nut driver to loosen the clamp securing the vent hose to the back of the dryer. Once loosened, carefully pull the vent hose off the dryer’s exhaust.
Step #4. Examine the vent hose for any damage, such as holes or tears. If you find any issues, replace the vent hose to maintain proper airflow.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Step #5. Attach the flexible brush or cleaning kit to a cordless drill, and insert it into the vent hose. Use the drill to spin the brush or rods through the hose, dislodging lint and debris. Slowly pull the brush or rods out while spinning to clean the entire length of the hose.
Dryer Vent Cleaning kit
Step #6. Clean the Dryer Port: Reach inside the dryer port to remove any lint and debris that may have accumulated there.
Step #7. Go outside to where the dryer vent exits the house. Remove the vent cover if possible. Use the brush or rods to clean the vent pipe from the outside. This helps remove lint and debris that may be blocking the vent.
Vacuum
Step #8. Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to clean up any loose lint and debris that may have fallen during the cleaning process. Vacuum both inside the dryer and around the vent hose area.
Step #9. Reattach the vent hose to the back of the dryer, ensuring it is securely fastened with the clamp.
Step #10. Position the Dryer: Carefully slide the dryer back into its original position against the wall.
Step #11. Plug the dryer back into the electrical outlet.
Step #12. Run your dryer for a few minutes to ensure it is working properly and that there are no issues with the vent.
Step #13. If you removed the vent cover outside, securely reattach it.
To maintain a safe and efficient dryer, it’s recommended to clean the vent regularly, at least once a year or more often if you notice signs of blockage or reduced dryer performance. If you’re unsure how to clean the vent yourself, consider hiring a professional dryer vent cleaning service to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.
Editorial Process: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to the MEPAcademy at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. Our reviews and articles are made by an industry professional experienced in the engineering and construction of commercial buildings.
In this article we’ll answer a question that we get all the time. What filter, if any, can filter out the SARS-CoV-2 virus which leads to COVID-19, the disease? We’ll show you how efficient the different air filters are at filtering out various items for asthma and allergy sufferers, and the virus that leads to COVID-19.
If you prefer to watch the Video of this presentation, then scroll to the bottom or click on the following link. Air Filters vs COVID-19
The ability of an air filter to remove microorganism, dust, pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, bacteria and viruses is indicated by a numerical value. This number, which is indicated as a MERV rating, states the filter’s efficiency at removing various sizes of these items. We’ll show you which filters, if any, work the best to protect you from these potentially harmful organisms.
MERV Rating
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, or MERVs, indicate the filter’s ability to capture larger particles, those 0.3 microns and larger. The higher the numerical rating, the greater the air filter is at removing particles from the air stream. A MERV-13 is better than a MERV-11 filter at removing particles, but how good are they against bacteria and a very small virus that leads to COVID-19.
Virus and Bacteria Removal
According to ASHRAE, research has shown that the particle size of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that leads to COVID-19 is around 0.1 microns. This is much smaller than what may be picked up by these air filters. As this chart shows, the virus lives in the invisible region, while others like dust, cat dander and human hair are visible to the human eye.
Sizes of various items shown in Microns. Invisible items in black area on chart, including the SARS-CoV-2 Virus.
Luckily, the SARS-CoV-2 virus doesn’t travel through the air own its own. It rides on respiratory droplets and droplet nuclei (dried respiratory droplets) that are predominately 1 micron in size and larger. These filters have various efficiencies at capturing the viruses that are in the 1-to-3-micron range according to ASHRAE.
The SARS-CoV-2 virus riding a respiratory droplet in the 1 to 3 micron range
ASHRAE
As the chart shows, ASHRAE recommends using a minimum of a MERV 13 filter, which is at least 85% efficient at capturing particles in the 1 to 3-micron size range. A MERV 14 filter is at least 90% efficient at capturing those same particles. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are even more efficient at filtering human-generated infectious aerosols.
MERV Rating and Air Filter Efficiency for Particle sizes 1 to 3 microns in size
By definition, a HEPA air filter must be at least 99.97% efficient at capturing particles 0.3 micron in size. This 0.3-micron particle approximates the most penetrating particle size (MPPS) through the filter. HEPA filters are even more efficient at capturing particles larger AND smaller than the MPPS. Thus, HEPA air filters are more than 99.97% efficient at capturing airborne viral particles associated with SARS-CoV-2 which leads to COVID-19.
HEPA filters can capture and trap microorganisms, including viruses and bacteria, helping to reduce the risk of respiratory infections. So, if possible, use the highest MERV rated air filter with your system, or get a portable HEPA air filter for your room or office. HEPA filters are the most efficient at capturing small microorganisms like the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Where are HEPA Filters used?
HEPA air filters are used in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities. In homes there are portable types that can be moved from room to room, and others that can be installed in a central air conditioning system serving the whole house.
HEPA air filters are also used along with ULPA filters in cleanrooms, labs, and other spaces requiring a very clean environment.
Asthma and Allergy Management
For individuals with asthma, HEPA filters help reduce asthma triggers like airborne irritants and respiratory allergens. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), nearly 26 million people have asthma in the United States. There are 4.8 million children under the age of 18, and nearly 21 million adults suffering from asthma. On average, 10 people in the unites States die every day from asthma. A total of 3,517 deaths in 2021.
According to the AAFA over 100 million people each year in the United States experience various types of allergies. Allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S. HEPA filters are highly effective at removing allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, providing relief to allergy sufferers.
Editorial Process:
Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to the MEPAcademy at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. Our reviews and articles are made by an industry professional experienced in the engineering and construction of commercial buildings.
