There are a number of steps a homeowner can take in order to maximize energy savings during these winter months. One basic maintenance procedure that should be done annually is a professional inspection, along with a preventative maintenance "tune-up." (more…)
The primary cause of HVAC system failure is neglecting preventive maintenance. Just as your car requires regular oil changes, so does your HVAC system need attention before cold or hot weather sets in. It’s a complex, interdependent system that ensures your comfort and safety, and if it breaks down in icy or sweltering weather, you’ll want it repaired as soon as possible. (more…)
Air filter replacement is an essential maintenance task for your health and home. Modern efficient home designs, with tighter construction, are resistant to fresh air flow which causes viruses and bacteria to live and prosper in your central air systems. Polluted indoor air quality became a recognized problem in the late 1980's and since then, the Environmental Protection Agency has found that hazardous pollutants are much greater in indoor air than outdoor air. The American College of Allergist and Asthma states that polluted indoor air is responsible for 40 to 50 percent of all illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has guidelines for regular equipment usage in order to disinfect and clean indoor air. (more…)
Most of us know where the heat registers are in every room in our house and take care not to block them when we arrange the furniture. That's because we have figured out that if we cover the register the furnace doesn't work as efficiently and the room is not comfortable. It is just as important to make certain we do not block the air-return vents in our house as the furnace needs adequate air flow to do the job of maintaining a comfortable temperature in the home. Blocking an air vent with a sofa or entertainment center can reduce the air flow by 30 percent or more. This can have a significant impact on the way your system is operating. (more…)
If your ductwork is functioning efficiently, each room in your house should be receiving the same amount of airflow to keep all the rooms at the same temperature. Your duct system should also incorporate some method of return airflow, which helps keep the pressure throughout your home at a neutral level. (more…)
Water heaters can account for as much as 30 percent of your total energy costs. Innovations in thinking about how we produce hot water, such as the installation of tankless systems and solar water heaters, will eventually bring about big improvements in this number. In the meantime, there are steps homeowners can take to improve the efficiency of their existing heaters.
Older tank-style water heaters are can lose a lot of heat unless they are well-insulated. Insulating the water pipe leading to the heater is especially effective, as insulating the first 3 feet of pipe can raise the temperature 2 to 4 degrees. The water tank may also be insulated with a special water heater blanket which can reduce as much as 25 percent of the heat loss. Some models already have a high R-value of insulation. You can tell if your tank will benefit from an insulation blanket by touching it. If the tank is warm to the touch, it probably could use a blanket. This can be a do-it-yourself project, but make certain you do not block any openings because gas heaters need air to work safely. Home Comfort's water heater installation specialists would be happy to guide you through this process.
Lowering the heat setting on your water heater is, of course a good way to save money. A temperature of 123 degrees is needed to prevent bacteria growth in the tank and dishwashers should use 140 degrees, but most now have booster heaters so you don't need to set the water heater that high. Check your owner's manual for recommended settings.
Finally, reducing the amount of water wasted will increase the efficiency of water heaters. Repair leaky faucets and shower heads as soon as you notice them. A leak of just one drip per second can add a dollar a month to your energy bill. Replace old shower heads with low-flow models. The flow rate should be less than 2.5 gallons per minute.
Examining the ways in which you use hot water will help you help you determine the adjustments you need to make to increase the efficiency of your water heater. For other energy efficiency tips, check out our free ebook on home comfort or call us with any questions.
Natural gas is a reliable source of energy for your home. A gas leak can put you in real danger, though, so it's always a good idea to revisit safety tips for natural gas users.
- Gas is naturally odorless, but a sulfur-like smell is added so that you can detect a leak. It is important to leave the house immediately if you detect any gas smell. Call your gas provider from outside the house to get a professional check out the leak. (more…)
It’s important to give heating and cooling systems a complete checkup annually; this a critical piece to preventive maintenance on equipment keeps your home comfortable. Knowing what to look for in a service technician and a preventive maintenance visit is crucial. (more…)