June 2016

Summer is here and so is higher energy usage.  Did you know that a programmable thermostat can save money on your heating and cooling bill?  By adjusting your thermostat when you are asleep or away from home you will save money automatically without sacrificing comfort. When using  a programmable thermostat, you can adjust the times you turn on the heating or air-conditioning according to a pre-set schedule.  Programmable thermostats, even smart thermostats that you can adjust from your phone, can lower your energy bills by up to $180 annually. You can also receive a rebate from Columbia Gas when you install a new programmable thermostat. During the summer, you can keep your house warmer than normal when you are away, and setting the thermostat to 78°F (26°C) only when you are at home and need cooling. Set your thermostat at as high a temperature as comfortably possible and ensure humidity control if needed. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. Although thermostats can be adjusted manually, programmable thermostats will avoid any discomfort by returning temperatures to normal before you wake or return home. There are a number of programmable thermostats available from our manufacturers.  You can find options and learn more here . When programming your thermostat, consider when you normally go to sleep and wake up. If you prefer to sleep at a cooler temperature during the summer, you might want to start the temperature setback a bit ahead of…

Do you love saving money while being cool and comfortable in the summer heat? If so, high efficiency HVAC equipment is the answer. A new high efficiency furnace or air conditioner will pay for itself over time due to the energy saving benefits. Other awesome benefits of higher efficiency HVAC equipment include: Comfort control. Thanks to variable-speed technology, modulating gas valves and other 21st century advances, modern high efficiency systems produce more even heating; maintain temperature at a more constant level; provide more consistent air flow; and offer superior humidity control compared to older systems. Programmable thermostats. Programmable thermostat systems come standard with a high efficiency system and provide unprecedented control over temperatures in specific zones of your home. Inevitably some rooms need to be heated or cooled more than others, and zoning can provide energy savings alongside the comfort of consistently optimal temperatures. The ability to pre-program temperatures is also ideal for people who are away from home for set periods of time. Homeowners can save annually in energy costs just through proper use of a programmable thermostat. Superior air flow. High efficiency systems feature variable speed motors that ensure consistent air flow throughout your home. Not only does better air flow translate into better regulated temperature, it also helps to remove air impurities, prevent mold and simply create a more pleasant and healthy breathing environment, with the help of an upgraded filtration system. Peace and quiet. The high-tech sound absorbing materials in modern high efficiency systems make operating...

Summer is in full force in Columbus, Ohio and some homeowners are asking us how to increase the energy efficiency in their homes.  Your heating and cooling system uses more energy than other appliance in your home.  Here are a few simple tips. Have your furnace and ductwork inspected annually. Loose, broken AC ductwork accounts for 15-35% of a home’s energy loss. Change furnace filters every month. Caulk, seal, and weatherstrip openings from your home to the outside. Increase your attic insulation if the joists are showing. Recommended level:R-38 or 10-16 inches blown Repair and weatherstrip air leaks in the home. About 10-25% of energy used to cool homes escapes through air leaks. Unless it is equipped specifically for home heating, use your fireplace sparingly. Warm air escapes through the chimney. Close the damper when you’re not using your fireplace. Source: AEP Ohio. You can find tips for your whole home here .   You can also calculate your home energy usage here . If your AC is not keeping comfortable or if you think it is using too much energy call us today and we can help.