Arista
At Arista, we understand the impact that the HVACR industry has on the environment. Yet we believe that we can all be comfortable without sacrificing air quality or overtaxing our natural resources.
Here are just a few of the ways we demonstrate our commitment to sustainability practices and education, as well as eco-friendly heating and cooling options.
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Older buildings are protected by law and must be renovated according to strict rules for historic buildings conservation. That impacts an HVAC retrofit or replacement to restore a historic space to a condition that works for a business or even a luxury residence.
New York is a historic city, settled by the Dutch in the 1600’s. There are structures dating back to the mid-17th century. We have many unique and beautiful historic buildings mixed in with the glass and concrete high-rises throughout the city.
Here at Arista, we have been working on historic building renovations for decades. (No, not since the 1600’s but we’ve been at this for a long time!). So we’ve learned a thing or two about the unique requirements of historic spaces for HVAC.
If you’re renovating a historic building in New York City, the HVAC solutions you choose can be a very important decision. Choosing the right HVAC systems and installers means you get the comfort conditions you need for the space while also being mindful of historic building preservation and maintaining the character of the building.
When taking on a renovation of a historic building, it’s essential that you consult with HVAC experts who have experience working with historic buildings. That’s because installers can damage the building when they don’t understand the requirements of older buildings.
When you look for advice about banishing stagnant, stuffy air, you’re usually told to open the windows. Here in NYC where we have so many sealed buildings, that’s not an option! And unfortunately, that does contribute to the problem. Stuffy air is often caused by inadequate ventilation, poor air flow, and sometimes air quality issues, all of which tend to happen in sealed buildings.
So what can you do to get fresher, more pleasant (and also healthier) air in your home or business?
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During the worst of the pandemic in New York City, many businesses installed MERV 13 filters in their air conditioners. City and state regulations recommended them, and in some cases, required them to enhance filtration. Homeowners also followed suit, looking for protection against the airborne Covid virus. The result? Hopefully safer air, and definitely a higher cost for filters.
As New York eases up on Covid restrictions, do you still need to spend more on MERV 13 filters?
In many situations, we still do recommend these filters when the system can accommodate them. But in some situations they may not be the right choice. Here are the top reasons why, and why not.
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What’s the key to troubleshooting problems with complex equipment? In many cases, it’s deciding when to try fixing it yourself and when you need to get help from professionals. That can be a life-or-death decision when facing an AC electrical problem. Unless you happen to be a licensed electrician, messing with circuits yourself can be very dangerous.
Related article: DIY HVAC Repair? Don’t Even Think About It
On that note, it’s a good idea to be cautious and turn off your AC before investigating the problem if you suspect electrical damage. You might also not be sure if an issue is caused by faulty wiring or some other problem. These tips will help you troubleshoot the issue and guide you to the right course of action once you’ve discovered the cause.
Here are some common problems you might encounter, and actions you can take safely.
