When it comes to installing an HVAC system, a larger unit is not necessarily better. In fact, units that are too large for a home often come with increased installation and maintenance costs. While there is technology that currently exists to aid in accurately sizing a new HVAC system, some contractors still use casual methods of sizing. In some cases, contractors will purposely oversize a system in order to reduce the amount of call backs, allow for future home expansion, or simply because the customer demanded it. Here's a detailed explanation on why oversizing is a problem and how right sizing a system can actually save you money and reduce energy consumption.
Homeowners who are in the market for a new air conditioning unit must take into account Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings, which measure a unit's efficiency. While this number may not be the only or most important deciding factor when purchasing a new unit, it should be a consumer's starting point.
Homeowners are preparing for the approaching summer heat. The very heat that homeowners try to stave off is the same heat that provides power to an energy-efficient home. For homeowners who currently burn fuel to power their heating and cooling system, a renewable energy source like solar power can be a viable alternative.
A few lifestyle changes can mean saving hundreds on a household's heating and cooling bill. Homeowners can make small energy-efficient upgrades which add up over time. Even the smallest of changes can contribute to a more efficient home.
Did you know there's a better way to fine-tune your home's temperature levels while saving you money and increasing your comfort level? Whether you're at home or away on vacation, smart comfort control devices enable you to enjoy optimal temperature levels according to your lifestyle. Not only that, modern thermostats give you the flexibility to customize temperatures for every room in your home and automate temperatures when you're asleep or away.
Are you looking for ways to save money on energy bills? If you're tempted to shop around for Energy Star rated equipment to help curb your energy usage, make sure your home is ready. Before taking the plunge into an energy-efficient life, first find a home energy technician, often referred to as an energy "auditor" to inspect your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you could be saving anywhere from 5 to 30% by making the upgrades suggested by your home energy auditor. Where can you find an energy auditor? Contact your local utility company or a private auditing company for a review of your energy usage. Read on for more information on why and how you should audit your energy usage.
Did you make any energy saving improvements to your home in 2015? If so, we hope you saved your receipt. Tax season is looming, and if you want to take advantage of any energy-efficient tax credits, you must have proof of purchase. Also, your product must be "placed into service" by December 31, 2016. Sound interesting? Here's a list of qualified products and how much your credit is worth.
