Blog

New Windows or Insulation? Reevaluate Your HVAC

How Building Envelope Upgrades Can Change Commercial HVAC Requirements Upgrading windows or insulation is often viewed as an energy-efficiency improvement, but many building owners are surprised to learn that these changes can also affect HVAC system performance....

Adding Space? Check Your HVAC

Adding a new room, expanding your living space, converting a garage, or building an addition can be an exciting investment in your home. However, many homeowners overlook one important question during the planning process: Adding Space to Your Home? Your HVAC System...

Why Rule-of-Thumb HVAC Sizing Can Cost Florida Businesses

When opening a new commercial space, renovating an existing building, or replacing an HVAC system, it's tempting to rely on simple sizing estimates. Many people have heard rules such as "one ton of cooling for every 500 square feet" or similar shortcuts. While those...

HERS/ERI process: reports, timing, and how it supports inspections

TL;DR What it is: HERS and ERI are standardized scores that measure a home's energy efficiency; a lower score indicates a more efficient, cost-effective, and comfortable home. The Process: Evaluation occurs in three phases: a pre-construction design review, a...

HERS vs ERI in Florida: what’s the difference?

TL;DR HERS vs. ERI: While both measure home energy efficiency on a scale where lower is better, HERS is a national branding tool for marketing, whereas ERI is the specific legal path used to meet the Florida Building Code. Builder Flexibility: The ERI path allows...

How leaky ducts affect comfort and humidity in Florida homes

Energy Loss You Can't See: Fixing Leaky Ducts TL;DR Invisible Energy Loss: Leaky air ducts cause up to 30% of conditioned air to escape, leading to significantly higher energy bills and uneven temperatures throughout your home. Humidity and Air Quality: Holes in...

Is duct leakage testing required in Florida?

TL;DR Mandatory for Most Projects: Duct leakage testing is generally required by the Florida Building Code for new home construction, large additions, and full ductwork replacements to ensure energy efficiency. Key Exceptions: Testing can often be skipped if all...

“Pre-drywall vs final: the easiest time to fix air leaks

Fixing Air Leaks: Pre-Drywall vs Final Timelines Building a home in Florida comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to keeping the heat and humidity outside. One of the most important parts of this process is making sure your home is airtight. When air...

Blower door test in Florida: what it is, what it finds

TL;DR What it is: A blower door test uses a powerful fan to depressurize your home, identifying hidden air leaks to measure overall airtightness and energy efficiency. Why it matters in Florida: It is a legal requirement for all new residential construction to ensure...