**Denver Lasers: Altitude Air Lies About Savings?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe promise of lower energy bills is a siren song, especially in a place like Denver where winter bites hard and summer scorches. But are those “miracle” energy-saving devices all they’re cracked up to be? Let’s dissect the claims of Altitude Air Lasers, a Denver-based company promising revolutionary energy savings with their laser-powered heating and cooling systems, and see if their promises hold water in the thin, crisp air of the Mile High City.
Altitude Air Lasers claims their systems can drastically reduce energy consumption compared to traditional HVAC units. They tout significant savings, often presented as a percentage reduction in monthly energy bills. But Denver isn’t just any city. Its altitude, unique climate patterns, and even the angle of the sun all play a role in how heating and cooling systems perform.
The first red flag is the lack of readily available, independent verification of Altitude Air Lasers’ claims. Their website showcases testimonials and internal testing data, but independent third-party testing is crucial for unbiased evaluation. We need to see how these lasers perform under real-world Denver conditions, not just in a controlled laboratory.
Let’s talk altitude. Denver’s mile-high elevation means thinner air. This impacts heat transfer. Air at higher altitudes is less dense, meaning it holds less heat. This can affect the efficiency of both heating and cooling systems. Altitude Air Lasers needs to demonstrate how their technology compensates for this reduced heat transfer efficiency. Do their lasers work harder at altitude, negating some of the energy savings?
Denver’s climate is another critical factor. We’re talking about a semi-arid climate with significant temperature swings. A sunny day in January can quickly turn into a blizzard. These rapid changes put a strain on HVAC systems. Altitude Air Lasers needs to prove their systems can handle these fluctuations efficiently and reliably.
Consider the specific case of a home in, say, the Washington Park neighborhood of Denver. These older homes often have poor insulation. If Altitude Air Lasers’ claims are based on a perfectly insulated home, the savings for a Washington Park resident will be significantly lower. The company needs to be transparent about the conditions under which their savings are calculated.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to evaluating Altitude Air Lasers’ claims:
- Request detailed performance data: Ask for independent testing results specific to Denver’s climate and altitude. Don’t settle for generic data.
- Compare to existing energy bills: Get a detailed breakdown of your current energy consumption. This will serve as a baseline for comparison.
- Factor in installation costs: Laser-based systems are likely more expensive to install than traditional HVAC units. Calculate the payback period based on projected savings.
- Check local energy costs: Denver’s energy rates fluctuate. Use the current rates from Xcel Energy to accurately estimate potential savings.
- Seek independent reviews: Look for reviews from Denver residents who have actually used Altitude Air Lasers’ systems. Be wary of testimonials on the company’s website.
- Consult with a qualified HVAC professional: Get a professional opinion on the suitability of laser-based heating and cooling for your specific home and needs.
One common pitfall is relying solely on the company’s sales pitch. Sales representatives are trained to highlight the benefits and downplay the risks. Do your own research and due diligence.
Another mistake is failing to consider the long-term maintenance costs. Laser-based systems may require specialized maintenance and repairs. Factor these costs into your overall savings calculation.
Let’s imagine a scenario: A homeowner in Highlands Ranch, a Denver suburb, is considering installing Altitude Air Lasers. They receive a quote promising a 40% reduction in their energy bills. However, after independent research, they discover that the company’s claims are based on ideal conditions that don’t reflect their home’s insulation and energy usage. They also find negative reviews from other Highlands Ranch residents who experienced significantly lower savings than promised. Armed with this information, the homeowner decides to stick with a more traditional, proven HVAC system.
The key takeaway is this: Don’t be swayed by flashy technology and bold claims. Demand transparency, independent verification, and real-world data. Altitude Air Lasers may offer a promising technology, but it’s crucial to approach their claims with a healthy dose of skepticism and a commitment to thorough research.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in Altitude Air Lasers should be based on a careful evaluation of the costs, benefits, and risks, taking into account the unique challenges and opportunities presented by Denver’s climate and altitude. Don’t let the allure of energy savings blind you to the reality of your specific situation.