In the fall and winter months, claims involving furnace damage are common. Whether the furnace itself has caused property damage from a puffback, or a frozen pipe has burst and leaked water onto the furnace, it’s critical to understand how this equipment works and what needs to be done to return the insured to pre-loss condition.
This free video overview will help you deal with these claims accurately and efficiently by showing:
How furnaces work
What components are likely to fail
Common hazards that affect furnaces
Real-life claim scenarios
Be more confident when handling furnace claims! Fill out the provided form to receive your furnace overview video.
Claims involving boiler damage can be particularly tricky. Each system has a different configuration, and both repairs and replacements can be costly. Additionally, boilers often heat both the home and the water at the property, meaning these claims need to be resolved quickly.
But where do you start? This video overview gives you the knowledge you need before the next boiler claim comes across your desk. It covers:
How boilers work
What components are likely to fail
Common perils boilers are susceptible to
Real-life claim scenarios
Be ready to handle boiler claims with confidence. Request your free boiler overview video by filling out the provided form.
When a damaged chiller claim lands on your desk, you need to be ready for the complexities that come with it. These systems are often intricate and specialized based on the space or equipment they’re cooling, meaning they present their own challenges to insurance adjusters like you. If you’re not familiar with this complicated cooling equipment and you’re working on a claim that includes one, you’ll want to know the basics.
Water pipes for a chiller system
How Do Chillers Work?
Chillers transfer heat away from a space that requires climate control much like a traditional split system or package unit does, but they use water (or a water solution) to do so instead of air. There are two types of chillers: water-cooled and air-cooled. They work similarly throughout most of the process until the refrigerant reaches the condenser, and both are outlined in the following sections.
Water-Cooled Chillers
Diagram A
The cooling process begins when water enters the evaporator from the primary return where heat is transferred from the water to the refrigerant.
The now-chilled water is then sent to the water tank via the primary supply (shown in blue), where it is distributed to the various climate-controlled spaces by the water pump. Because heat always moves from hot to cold as stated by the second law of thermodynamics, the chilled water absorbs the conditioned space’s ambient heat in the air handler. A fan then forces the cooled air into the space via the ductwork. The warmer water is then returned to the chiller to be cooled once again.
In the meantime, the heat absorbed by the refrigerant (path shown in green) in the evaporator needs to be transferred to allow the refrigerant to absorb more heat. The low-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant moves from the evaporator to the motor-run compressor, which increases the pressure and temperature.
After that, the refrigerant enters the condenser. Water-cooled chillers use water to surround the refrigerant pipes and draw in the heat (path shown in red). The water is then pumped into a cooling tower to release the heat. After condensing, the refrigerant goes through an expansion valve to reduce pressure (and temperature) before returning to the evaporator, where the process begins again.
Air-Cooled Chillers
Diagram B
Like with water-cooled chillers, the process begins with the primary return bringing warm water to the chiller. Heat is transferred in the evaporator to the refrigerant, and the water runs through the primary supply to the cooled space. The refrigerant moves through the compressor to raise the pressure and temperature, and then it reaches the condenser. Here, fans circulate outside air through the condenser, which absorbs heat from the refrigerant (again, the second law of thermodynamics dictates that hot moves to cold) before expelling this heat to the ambient air. The refrigerant then goes through the expansion valve (as before) and returns to the evaporator.
Where Are Chillers Used?
Chillers have several uses and are sometimes preferred over traditional split systems or package units because the water conducts heat better than air. This is also why water-cooled chillers are known for being more consistent and efficient in their performance and for having a longer lifespan than their air-cooled counterparts. Water-cooled chillers are common in medium and larger facilities (so long as they have an adequate water supply), such as airports, hospitals, hotels, shopping malls, commercial buildings, and more. (Pictured: A portable chiller)
Air-cooled chillers are more prevalent in small to medium sized facilities where space and water may be limited. The costs to install and maintain these chillers are lower than that of their water-cooled counterparts, but they typically have a shorter lifespan. These chillers are commonly used for restaurants, corporate and sporting events, and temporary structures.
Chillers are also often used for industrial or medical applications. Assembly equipment, construction sites, lasers, MRI machines, and various other high-powered equipment and facilities may require chillers to maintain a workable temperature.
Common Problems That Affect Chillers
Corrosion
Chillers use metal tubes (usually made of copper or carbon steel) to transfer water between the chiller and the climate-controlled space. The simple presence of oxygen in water can cause corrosion, but if the water and pipes are treated properly, this can significantly reduce the risk. However, if the water treatment is inadequate, sediment, minerals, and bacteria can enter the system. If there is a buildup of sediment or bacteria that causes oxygenation levels to differentiate, the metals can begin to corrode. In addition, any point where two different metals are used can be at risk for corrosion due to their different electrochemical properties. No matter how the corrosion occurs, it can cause leaks that will damage the chiller, reduce its efficiency, and possibly damage the area surrounding the chiller.
Compressor for a chiller
Poor Maintenance
These complex machines require a lot of maintenance to keep them in good working order. If proper steps aren’t taken, the chiller can corrode, clog, lose efficiency, or experience a number of other issues. For example, if proper water treatment isn’t maintained or if open cooling towers aren’t cleaned, sediment or particulates can be introduced to the system, causing clogged pipes and poor heat transfer. An air-cooled chiller’s condenser can be blocked by debris or become caked in dirt, which also lowers efficiency.
Electrical Issues
The electrical systems within a chiller are carefully designed and as complex as the rest of the machine. They can easily be thrown off balance by a high voltage surge or wear and tear. If there is a grounding issue or a power supply failure, the chiller may detect this and shut itself off. Overloading the chiller can cause it to overheat, which will likely result in failure. Wires and cables can become loose or damaged after maintenance or due to negligence, which can result in chiller malfunctions.
We Can Help Settle Your Chiller Claims
Chiller claims are no walk in the park – several components can malfunction and cause the entire system to fail, and the source may not always be clear. To handle them properly, you may need an expert opinion. If you’re handling a chiller claim, let us help! Our trained technicians will document the damages and our experts will put together a comprehensive report outlining damages, cause of loss, and costs involved with repair or replacement.
Claims involving commercial HVAC equipment can be complex, particularly when it comes to chillers. Determining the cause of loss, scope of repairs, and an accurate settlement amount can be daunting for even the most experienced adjuster.
Our basic guide will boost your knowledge before the next chiller claim comes across your desk. This tool is free for adjusters and includes details on:
The differences between water-cooled and air-cooled chillers.
Basic required chiller maintenance.
Hazards that can damage chillers.
Data analysis of chiller claims.
Request your free copy now by filling out the included form.
Solar power systems are incredibly complex, and if you’re processing a solar power system or panel repair claim, you want to be sure that you’re handling it appropriately. Even if you’re not a solar power system expert, you’ll want to have at least the basics so that you can evaluate estimates and know what to look for so that you can make the right call.
That’s why we have created a short video discussing solar power systems that insurance adjusters like you can access for free. With our video, you’ll learn:
Important points to consider with solar power system claims;
The basics of how solar panels work; and
How solar panels can get damaged.
Watch the video by filling out the short form today and see how we start looking at solar power system repair claims.
This education is brought to you by our sister company StrikeCheck.
The federal regulations pertaining to refrigerant are constantly evolving, and there’s a big deadline looming on the horizon. As of January 1, 2020, it’ll be illegal to manufacture any R-22 refrigerant per the EPA’s ruling. As an insurance adjuster, navigating such regulations in terms of HVAC claims can get pretty confusing. So, what does this phase-out mean for your claims?
There are a lot of terms and discussions surrounding the R-22 phase-out, including a lot of myths and misdirections. At HVACi, we want to clear some of these up for insurance adjusters like you. So, here are some statements, myths, and misconceptions about the R-22 phase-out and the truths behind them.
#1. R-22 is illegal: MYTH
You might hear this often, particularly when contractors provide estimates claiming that you must replace the entire HVAC system. The reality is that the production and importation of R-22 are illegal, but the substance itself is legal. It is also important to note that intentionally releasing R-22 into the atmosphere is illegal, so it must be properly reclaimed or recycled. The use of R-22 in HVAC systems already in existence is completely legal. (Pictured: A digital meter reading that R-22 is low)
#2. Recycled and reclaimed R-22 are the same: MYTH
Many confuse recycled refrigerant and reclaimed refrigerant and use the terms interchangeably. In truth, recycled R-22 removes some of the contaminants through separation and filtration, and recycled R-22 can only be used in the same system it was taken from. Reclaiming R-22 is a much more involved process that removes all impurities from the refrigerant, and the EPA requires reclaimed refrigerants to meet the same purity standards as virgin (newly produced) counterparts.
#3. Virgin and reclaimed R-22 are about the same: FACT
Virgin and reclaimed R-22 are indistinguishable from each other. They have the same specifications and efficiency and must meet the same purity standards. In other words, reclaimed R-22 is the perfect replacement for virgin R-22 without having to make any changes or replacing the existing system. Companies will continue making parts and components for R-22-based HVAC systems, so these systems can often be repaired. And again, yes, this is perfectly legal.
#4. R-410a is the primary option for R-22 replacement: FACT
R-410a is the main refrigerant the industry is switching to at the moment. It’s important to note, however, that you can’t drop R-410a into an existing R-22-based system. These refrigerants operate at different pressures and typically use different oils as lubricants, meaning that serious problems will arise if you try this. (Pictured: An analog meter with both R-22 and R-410A gauges)
#5. R-410a has no ozone-depleting properties: FACT, BUT…
R-410a has an ozone-depletion potential (ODP) rating of 0, whereas R-22 has an ODP of 0.055 (as stated by the International Organization of Scientific Research). This is great news, as the main reason R-22 is being phased out is its ozone-depleting properties. Unfortunately, that’s not where the story ends. R-22 has a global warming potential (GWP) of 1810, while R-410a’s GWP is higher, reaching 2088 (according to the EPA). That means that while there’s no harm done to the ozone layer, the use of R-410a could potentially contribute more to climate change. For this reason, many companies and countries are looking into other options.
#6. R-410a is the only option for R-22 replacement right now: MYTH, BUT…
There may be other options, but R-410a (Pictured: Canisters for refrigerant) is the only one that is industry standard and accepted nationwide. Any R-22 alternatives are required to have an ODP of 0, but some have higher GWPs than R-410a. There is a list of R-22 substitutes deemed acceptable and unacceptable by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP). It is also important to keep in mind that many of these alternatives have use conditions. R-410a is the primary focus right now due to its status as the industry standard, but there is research into new alternatives due to R-410a’s GWP.
Pressure requirements for R-22 and R-410A
What Can You Do When You’re Dealing with R-22?
When an R-22 HVAC system claim comes to your desk, you want to make sure your adjustment of that claim is thorough and accurate, which is why it’s important to know all of your options when handling these claims. If you’re not sure a contractor’s solution is necessary or adheres to the federal guidelines regarding refrigerant, talk to the experts at HVACi. We’ll answer your questions, run a desktop review, or even provide an onsite inspection to offer completely objective advice on the cause of loss, repair costs, replacement costs, and more. Don’t hesitate! Submit a claim today to get started and be more confident in your adjustments.
Claims that involve damage to electrical systems can be particularly tricky even for seasoned adjusters. Understanding the basics of how these systems function, how they can become damaged, and what can be done to repair them is vital to accurately settling electrical system claims.
Adjusters will learn the basics of how electricity enters the home, what equipment is owned by the insured vs. the utility company, how the various components function, and how to troubleshoot these components. We will also review real life claim scenarios to walk adjusters through what to look for and how to review contractor’s estimates.
Important: Pre-recorded webinars do not qualify for CE credit.
This education is brought to you by our sister company StrikeCheck.
Damage to water heaters are pretty common, and when they break, they may not be the only items claimed when they fall on your desk. Water heaters, particularly storage water heaters, can cause thousands of dollars in additional damage when they fail. You want to equip yourself with the fundamental knowledge of water heaters needed to better handle these claims, but where do you start?
Thankfully, you don’t need to study a textbook’s worth of information to manage these claims effectively. At StrikeCheck, our experts have already done the heavy lifting and have constructed a webinar specifically for insurance adjusters who deal with water heater claims. By watching the recording of our 90-minute webinar, you’ll learn:
How common water heater damage is;
The common perils that damage water heaters and how they can manifest;
The types of water heaters you’re likely to encounter;
Key components found in water heaters;
How water heaters work;
Water heater regulations and codes; and
What to inconsistencies to look for when handling water heater claims.
This is all explained in a straightforward, concise manner specifically designed to provide insurance adjusters with the information needed to quickly and accurately handle water heater claims.
You can watch our Water Heater Fundamentals Webinar Recording by filling out the form provided today.
IMPORTANT: Previously recorded webinars do not qualify for continuing education credit.
This education is brought to you by our sister company StrikeCheck.
When the temperature starts inching down, a whole new wave of claims can start flooding your desk. Your customers are starting to kick on their furnaces and boilers to get their homes and businesses nice and cozy for the colder months, and when they fail, you need to handle those claims quickly and effectively to keep your customers happy.
If you’re not an expert in heating systems, you don’t have to dive into multiple textbooks’ worth of information. We’ve already taken care of that and trimmed it all down into a series of guides, videos, and webinars designed specifically for insurance adjusters: our Fall and Winter Claims Kit. By getting this kit, you’ll learn:
How various heating systems work;
The parts that make up various heating systems;
Common problems with heating systems;
And much more!
Get ready for the influx of HVAC claims this fall and winter! Fill out the form to get our Fall and Winter Claims Kit for insurance adjusters.
When the temperature starts inching down, a whole new wave of claims can start flooding your desk. Your customers are starting to kick on their furnaces and boilers to get their homes and businesses nice and cozy for the colder months, and when they fail, you need to handle those claims quickly and effectively to keep your customers happy.
If you’re not an expert in heating systems, you don’t have to dive into multiple textbooks’ worth of information. We’ve already taken care of that and trimmed it all down into a series of guides, videos, and webinars designed specifically for insurance adjusters: our Fall and Winter Claims Kit. By getting this kit, you’ll learn:
How various heating systems work;
The parts that make up various heating systems;
Common problems with heating systems;
And much more!
Get ready for the influx of HVAC claims this fall and winter! Fill out the form to get our Fall and Winter Claims Kit for insurance adjusters.
