Breathe Easy and Get Helpful Tips Today
A properly running heating and AC system can greatly benefit your home and lifestyle. Would you rather invest in a new heating and air conditioning unit that will last for years to come or suffer through another blistering summer or frigid winter? At Aire Serv, we live by the motor that you should feel comfortable in your own skin—and your own home! That’s why we are here to offer the reliable HVAC replacement tips you are looking for.
For more insight on heating & AC system replacement, call Aire Serv!
To Repair or to Replace—That Is the Question.
Let’s consider age first. If your heating and air conditioning system is over 10 years old, it’s probably time for a replacement. Newer models have grown increasingly more efficient and can save you money in the long run. Other considerations are your overall investment costs, that is, the purchase price of the system plus lifetime operating costs and utility rates. Often, utility companies offer rebates to those looking to replace their existing system. Provincial rebates may also be available. Your local utility company can tell you more about your rebate options.
Comfortably Conserve Energy
Being green these day is made up of more than just recycling. Fortunately, in many cases, being green could save you a lot of green in the long run! Modern homeowners are seeing a rise in utility and energy costs. Installing a smart thermostat could make a difference. A smart thermostat can be programmed to adjust your home temperature as needed throughout the day, when you’re home or elsewhere. Another way to conserve energy and go green is by buying green!
Trees and shrubs around the home can lessen energy consumption. Planting foliage around the AC unit can help, but be sure to keep the plants at least a metre away so they don’t interrupt air flow. Lastly, make sure your attic, crawl space, and/or basement are properly insulated. Let’s face it—your utility bills should be comfortable too and if there not, it may be time for a change.
Digital Thermostats Save You Money
The majority of your home’s energy is used by your heating and AC system. A digital thermostat can change your home’s temperature as needed throughout the day for optimum efficiency. For example, if you set the thermostat 2-3 degrees back while you are asleep or away for approximately 8 hours, your savings could hit 15%.
Here are three types of programmable digital thermostats:
- 5+2 Model: This model allows you to schedule specific settings for weekdays and weekends.
- 5-1-1 Model: This model has a setting for Monday-Friday, one for Saturday, and one for Sunday.
- 7-Day Model: This allows up to four different temperatures and time period settings daily.
Certain units can tell homeowners helpful information such as when to change the air filters. Others can start the cooling or heating process so that it reaches the desired temperature at the scheduled time. Your local Aire Serv professional can help you determine what system will best meet your needs.!
Tips to Increased Home Energy Savings
If you’re looking to get the most out of your home energy system, check out these tips from your trusted Aire Serv professionals to get started:
- Change your system’s filter each month.
- Use a programmable thermostat for energy savings and efficient usage.
- Install an attic fan to take some of the pressure off your AC system.
- Move your AC unit to the shade. It will use 10% electricity than in the sun.
- Run a ceiling fan while you’re in the room, it will help you feel cooler.
- Keep “hot” appliances (lamps, televisions, etc…) away from the thermostat.
- Close your southwestern-facing blinds to keep the sun from heating your house.
- Don’t close off vents in unused rooms; it could cause your indoor coils to freeze.
As summer approaches, it is important to make sure your air conditioning system is in top shape.
Cool Down While You Keep Your Costs Down
Rising temperatures may also mean rising energy bills. Our Aire Serv professionals have a few tips to lower both. Before summer begins, have a licensed technician make sure your AC system is running efficiently. Then make sure your house is properly insulated by checking for holes and cracks around windows and doors. Watch out for unsealed ducts in your attic or basement too! Lastly, check your AC system’s return inlet to make sure nothing is blocking it. As a bonus energy saver, try to use natural light as much as possible in your home, and buy high-efficiency light bulbs to replace your old ones.