FAQs
What does PES do?
We are a one stop shop for all of your insulation, HVAC, and Energy needs!
We provide the best insulation solution using low-global warming potential and industry leading 2 component polyurethane foam. We also provide fantastic insulation solutions using mineral wool, blown-in, or rigid board. No house is the same so all insulation needs are different.
We offer best-of-breeds HVAC solutions using modern systems such as Air-source and Ground-source Heat pumps (also known as Geothermal) and hydronic radiant heating systems.
Don’t know what you want? We provide expert and objective analysis on the most economical approach to take with your energy solution.
What do you look for in a preliminary audit?
A preliminary audit would be a review of plans, blueprints, site details, and the home itself to better understand the scope of work. Perhaps this is new construction or a renovation—these details change the scope or work and the way to approach a solution very differently.
What is the difference between a preliminary audit and a comprehensive site audit?
We use state of the art thermal imaging drones, cameras, and vapor tests, along with putting a home under a negative pressure differential in order to properly understand a homes thermal envelope. We also run a Jcalc to understand proper heating/cooling loads for the home. These steps allow us to begin the discussion of what is needed to properly approach a solution.
What other services do you provide besides HVAC and spray foam?
We provide design and consultancy work for architects and contractors looking for assistance on their assemblies and meeting code.
Who checks to make sure the job is done properly?
We work with local building inspectors and architects to ensure site conditions exceed code and meet industry best-of-breed standards
What is HVAC and why should I install this system in my home?
We all want comfort. This means having the right temperatures, humidity, ventilation, and cooling under control at all times. In the past 5 years many advances have paved the way for more economical solutions that no longer require the use of fossil fuels.
How are the sizing capacities of HVAC systems measured?
Industry standard systems are rated in BTU’s in which 12k BTU’s=1 Ton and increments accordingly. This begins the baseline for a conversation on sizing HVAC systems based on Jcalcs and loads.
What size HVAC system do I need for my home?
We believe that most homes can benefit from the advances of modern HVAC solutions which are able to accommodate a large range of capacities without a worry of under sizing or oversizing issues. That said, a correct installation is paramount and many key items and specifications are often overlooked.
How does an HVAC system increase the efficiency and life of my home?
A properly operating HVAC system means low heating and cooling costs which increases overall efficiency of the home.
Is an HVAC system with more capacity better?
Sometimes, it all depends on the homes insulation performance and heating demands. It’s a balance that must be measured given each unique situation.
How long should my HVAC system run for?
In theory, never. A well insulated and ventilated home should never have to run an HVAC which is what PassivHaus strives to do. In reality this is most often never the case especially for Climate 5 & 6 areas like the north east. We strive to have HVAC system run as little as possible using modern building science solutions.
Does my HVAC system have a temperature limit?
This is an important distinction. Some cheaper systems operate at far smaller ranges such as heating and cooling within 30->100 degrees. The more advance systems can operate down to -20->120.
Price and requirements play a big part on the solution.
Does my HVAC system need to be maintained? If so, how often?
modern HVAC solutions, if properly installed, barely need much maintenance beyond indoor units getting filters cleaned. Based on conditions units may need to have coils washed.
How can I program my HVAC system to turn on at certain times with specific temperatures?
Each manufacturer has developed different set of integrations to provide scheduling features and ability to connect with common scheduling services through Alexa, Google, Apple.
Is it safe for my heat pump to stay on 24/7?
Absolutely, this is what they are designed for. Let err, rip!
Why should I spray foam my home?
Spray foam is unparalleled in it’s ability to deliver insulation performance. Our closed cell delivers R-7.5/inch while our open cell provides R4.4/Inch. With the ability to air seal, vapor retard, and insulate. Nothing comes close.
What are the differences between open-cell vs. closed-cell SPF insulation?
Spray Foam insulation is referred to open cell or closed cell because of the difference between the small bubbles that make up the foam.
Open cell foam is full of cells that aren't completely encapsulated. while Closed cell foam is made up of cells that are, as the name suggests, completely closed.
Is SPF water soluble or does it repel water?
Closed Cell is water impermeable making it a great material for water contact such as basements and exteriors applications.
Is SPF eco-friendly? Is it pet-friendly?
We use a new HFO-type blowing agent that is OVER 1,000 times LESS HARMFUL TO THE CLIMATE. We believe in this product because:
HFOs are non-toxic
They do not degrade the ozone layer
They are non-flammable
They are not considered a volatile organic compound (VOC) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
How soon can my home be re-occupied after job completion?
Usually we like to clean up and prepare the site for the occupants but the spray foam is completely safe and inert only a few hours after application.
Is SPF safe for my home?
Absolutely. With over 40 years of Spray foam applications. This is a tried and tested product..
Does SPF add reinforcement to my home?
It all begins with an idea.
Is SPF permitted by code?
Absolutely, spray foam has become ubiquitous in the insulation industry and embedded in the national building codes across North America.
Is there a risk of spray foam failures?
Absolutely! It’s important to hire the right applicators for the right installation to go well and having the full support and backing of the installation.
Is SPF susceptible to mold or mildew?
Our Spray Foam is inert and uses no carbon based materials making it a completely unattractive to mold and mildew. Foam insulation will never become a food source or a hospitable environment for organisms of any kind.