If you are shopping for a new heating and cooling system, you probably already know about the differences in energy efficiency among the options on the market. Ratings such as SEER (for air conditioners) and AFUE (for furnaces) are similar to the mpg ratings on cars; choose a higher rating, and the HVAC system will consume less energy.
When it comes to reducing our energy consumption, we don’t always know where to look. We may be sending part of our bank accounts out the door, windows, flue or attic. There are various was to determine how to best increase our energy efficiency. One way is by having an energy audit.
A load calculation will tell you exactly what heating and cooling output you need from your heating and cooling system to keep your home comfortable. It’s important to get the right size heating and cooling equipment not just because you could end up with equipment that’s too small for your home, but also to prevent oversizing. Oversizing HVAC equipment makes you pay more to install and maintain your system.
While many people think that energy bills are just something to put up with, there are a number of things your can do to create energy savings. Energy Star recently offered a few tips we thought were worth passing along: (more…)
When dealing with heating, cooling and ventilation systems, designed to keep you comfortable and breathing healthy air at home here in Northern Indiana, you’ll come across the following rating systems for HVAC products. It pays to be an informed consumer, so here’s an outline of what the ratings and certifications mean to you: (more…)
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…)
You want your home heating and cooling system to provide a comfortable environment for you and your loved ones. Homeowners also want to ensure that their HVAC systems operate as efficiently as possible. Avoiding high energy use, costly repairs and maintenance are critical considerations. (more…)
Whether you are planning on upgrading your HVAC system, or installing a new, one you will need to make HVAC load calculations. Heat load is also known as heat gain and is simply the amount of heat generated. This number is calculated in British Thermal Units (BTUs) or Kilowatts (Kw). If you want to convert from BTUs to Kw, 1 kilowatt is equal to 3,412 BTUs. (more…)
Have you noticed that these days you can get some amazing deals on new heating and cooling systems? Hardware stores and suppliers have responded to the economic downturn by providing some of the best prices in years. (more…)
While most people know that ENERGY STAR appliances can keep your energy costs running 30% below average, a few practical steps can minimize the trauma of summer-time electric bill shock even more. (more…)
