Save Money with an HVAC Efficiency Analysis

November 4th, 2019 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Is your HVAC system working efficiently or could it perform better? Even if you are not unhappy with your HVAC system, it may not be performing as well as it could. An efficiency analysis can check several factors to determine how well your HVAC system is functioning overall and give options on ways it can be improved. Here are some of the factors that can be checked during an efficiency analysis on your HVAC system.

Air Quality

One area of concern with your HVAC system is how well it is managing your air quality. Are the filters you are using removing enough contaminants from the air? What is the humidity level in your home? Testing your air quality can help determine whether a different type of filter or moisture control unit could be beneficial.

Energy Audit

During an HVAC efficiency analysis, an energy audit is performed to determine whether your HVAC system is maximizing its energy use. This includes evaluating the equipment function and your actual energy use, looking for options to improve the amount of energy used to provide adequate climate control.

Comfortable Climate Control

An efficiency analysis can help identify issues that may affect comfort and energy use. Air duct leaks, outdated therostats or other issues can impact the comfort levels in different areas in your home as well as how much energy you use for heating and cooling.

Having an HVAC efficiency analysis performed every few years can help you keep your energy costs low and improve the comfort and air quality in your home. Contact your local HVAC company that offers an efficiency analysis service to find out if you could save money with some changes to your heating or cooling system.

Posted on behalf of:
Western Aire Heating & Cooling
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 505-7426

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5 Ways to Lower your AC Costs This Summer

July 16th, 2018 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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You want to stay cool and comfortable during the summer – but you also don’t want to pay high energy bills. While air conditioning does increase your energy costs, there are many ways to reduce the financial pain of staying cool during the summer. Here are five tips you can do now to lower your AC costs this summer.

  1. Seal doors and windows. Make sure the weather stripping around doors and windows is not cracked or worn. Sealing around these entrances can help keep cool air in and hot air out.
  2. Invest in drapes/shades for windows and glass doors. Give your AC unit a helping hand by reducing the sunlight that comes in the home on hot days. Invest in drapes, shades or blinds for windows and glass doors to keep sunlight out.
  3. Run large appliances during cooler hours. Wash dishes and clothes during the morning or evening hours when it is cooler outside. This reduces heat from these large appliances during the peak temperature times during the day.
  4. Use a programmable thermostat. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, get one and use it. This allows you to set the temperature on your AC to reduce use during times when you are not home or asleep.
  5. Get a spring tune-up. Did you know dirty coils and filters can cost you up to an extra $1,000 per season in AC costs? Get a spring tune-up for your unit to ensure it is ready for summer.
  6. System Efficiency Analysis – Have a system efficiency analysis performed by a qualified HVAC contractor.

Now is the time to start preparing your home to keep AC costs low this summer. With a little prep and maintenance, you can save hundreds of dollars and still stay cool during the dog days of summer.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
5950 Shiloh Road East
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 475-9555

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Could Insulating Your Home Save You Money?

August 1st, 2017 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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Does it seem like your energy bill is too high? It may be due to poor insulation inside your home. Many homes are built without adequate insulation that can lead to open airways that impact the temperature of the home. It is never too late to add insulation to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Retain better heat in the winter and keep cool in the summer by investing in insulation in your home.

Insulation uses a poor conductor of heat to create a barrier between the interior of your home and the weather outside. Most insulation is created from fiberglass that is made from spun glass fibers. Glass is one of the best options for insulation since it is naturally a poor conductor of heat and is safe for home construction. It is used in blown and rolled insulation, creating a barrier that keeps homes cool or warm as needed.

When adding insulation to an existing home, blown insulation is often the most efficient option. It can be added into walls, attics and crawls spaces to block airways that let in the heat or cold from the outside. Once in place, insulation will perform for decades, making it a worthwhile investment. The savings on your heating and cooling bill can easily pay for this improvement to your home in a matter of just a few years or less. It also puts less stress on your HVAC system, saving you money on maintenance, repairs and replacement.

Stopping wasting energy and money in your home. Call your local HVAC expert that offers insulation installation to improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
5950 Shiloh Road East
Alpharetta, GA 30005
(770) 475-9555

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Insulate to Conserve Energy

February 17th, 2017 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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Even the most efficient HVAC system can ultimately cost you higher energy bills if the air it conditions doesn’t stay in the building. Leaks, drafts and poorly insulated walls will allow your money to literally go right out the window. Instead of investing in a larger HVAC unit, consider insulating your building to increase your energy efficiency.

Blown-in insulation can prevent air loss and excessive energy consumption with minimal disruption to your commercial or residential space. Keep the external temperatures outside and your conditioned air inside with a professional blow-in insulation.

With blow-in insulation, there’s no need to tear out drywall or wood finish. Insulation is blown directly into wall voids through attic or drop ceiling spaces. Problem areas around door jambs and window frames are sealed up to prevent energy loss. Blown insulation makes older existing buildings more efficient without having to remove walls, wall coverings and fixtures to access voids.

When your building is improperly insulated, the HVAC system must work harder to maintain the comfort level you want for your interior spaces. That ultimately reduces the effective life expectancy of system components, as well as increasing maintenance costs.

Blown insulation will help you get more out of your HVAC system, at a lower strain on the system and with a lower electric bill. If your air conditioning seems to be running non-stop to maintain an adequate interior temperature for your home or business, contact your local HVAC service provider and ask for an inspection. A professional HVAC service technician can identify potential energy problem areas, and recommend a solution that will optimize your system’s efficiency and reduce energy costs.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
Alpharetta, GA
(770) 475-9555

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Professional Maintenance Is the Key to Efficient HVAC Operation

December 4th, 2015 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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Heating and air conditioning issues can be a major headache for homeowners. You rely on your system to provide comfort in your home year-round, so you need a professional HVAC repair service you can trust.

When the frigid days of winter come knocking at your door, make sure your heating system is in good repair and working efficiently. Professional HVAC repair technicians are trained and qualified to inspect and repair your heating system for you.

Got a cooling emergency in the sweltering heat of summer?  Licensed HVAC professional repair techs will inspect and repair your air conditioning system quickly for you.

Tired of skyrocketing utility bills? Heating and air conditioning repair specialists can conduct an efficiency analysis of your system to determine energy consumption and how you can save energy. Keep your heating and cooling air inside where it belongs; make your home more energy efficient with our blown-in insulation service.

Want to avoid spending a fortune on heating and cooling your home? Find local HVAC technicians who will install a new energy-efficient system in your home. Enjoy the comforts of home at a fraction of the cost.

Your comfort and safety are too important to leave to chance. Professional HVAC repair technicians provide installation of dehumidifiers and carbon monoxide detectors to protect your family’s health. If you’ve got an attached garage especially, a carbon monoxide detector can be a life saver in your home.

For whatever heating and cooling needs you may have for your home, you can rely on the HVAC professionals in your area to do what it takes to get the job done. Don’t sweat through another summer, and keep old man winter at bay.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
Marietta, GA
(770) 475-9564

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Looking For Efficient Ways To Control Individual Room Temperature?

November 20th, 2014 Posted in HVAC Equipment
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While central HVAC systems offer wonderful climate control for the whole home, they can be expensive to operate. For some homeowners, it may seem wasteful to cool or heat the entire home when only a few rooms are frequently used. An option for those looking for energy efficient climate or temperature control is the ductless mini split. These individual units can offer excellent temperature control for small spaces, using less energy and reducing your utility bills. 

Home Ductless Mini Split Ideas

Many homeowners have utilized ductless mini split units to increase the comfort in their homes while reducing their energy costs. One of the great benefits of these units is that they are self-contained; they do not require any ductwork to be added and can be installed in almost any room of your home. Some of the most popular areas to use these small unit include: 

–        Bedrooms. If you spend most of your time outside of the home, then come home to get a good nights rest, why cool your entire home? A ductless mini split can efficiently cool your bedroom, with most units being soothingly quiet.

–        Garages or shops. For rooms or buildings which are not connected to your central air system, a mini split is an excellent option to control the temperature. Garages, shops and other out-buildings are perfect places to install a ductless mini split.

–        Main living areas. Have one or two rooms where you spend most of your time? Cut energy costs by using a mini split in these main rooms. 

Your local HVAC contractor can give you more information, plus provide price estimates on installing ductless mini split units in your home. Over the months and years, it can be a wise investment to reduce your energy bills.

Posted on behalf of:
ClimateSmith, LLC
Alpharetta, GA
(770) 475-9555

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Are Your Ducts Drafty?

October 12th, 2014 Posted in Air Duct Cleaning
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One of the biggest drains on heating bills is drafty ductwork. Poorly sealed ducts can lead to high energy bills, both during the summer and the winter. If your heated or cooled air is being lost as it travels throughout your home, you are paying way too much in energy bills. Before the colder winter weather hits, now is the time to have your ducts inspected to ensure you’re getting the most out of your heating system. 

Benefits Of Duct Inspections

It’s not uncommon for leaks and other efficiency issues through the ductwork of a home to go unnoticed. Since you can’t see inside them, it’s easy to assume they’re doing their job. However, if you have noticed an increase in your utility bills or members of your family are suffering from increased allergy symptoms, your ducts may be to blame. Having an annual duct inspection can provide many benefits, including: 

  • Detecting leaks. If there are small holes or cracks in your ducts, they may be leaking air. This can cause your utility bills to go up 20% or more, depending on the extent of the leaks. Sealing these problems can have a drastic impact on your monthly utility bills.
     
  • Dirty ducts. Dust, pests and mold can accumulate within your ducts, spreading allergens throughout your home. An inspection may uncover the hidden cause of increased allergy problems.
     
  • Back drafting. One of the most dangerous aspects of poorly sealed ducts is back drafting. Ducts often transport dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, out of your home. Leaky ducts can cause these harmful gases to be pulled back into your home, endangering your family. 

If it’s been more than a year since your ducts have been checked, call your local HVAC contractor to schedule an inspection. It’s worth the investment to ensure your HVAC system has ducts which are working efficiently and safely for your family’s comfort and health.

Posted on behalf of Find Local HVAC

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Is Your HVAC System Efficient?

September 28th, 2014 Posted in Reducing HVAC Energy Costs
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Efficient HVAC systems save commercial and residential property owners money thru reduced operational costs.  Saving money is extremely important to both business owners and homeowners alike in today’s economic environment.  The best way to determine the efficiency of any system is to perform a thorough energy efficiency analysis, which will examine energy consumption, energy costs and identify any potential cost savings opportunities.  The goal of the analysis is to make specific recommendations to improve system performance, while minimizing costs and maximizing comfort. 

Typically an energy efficiency analysis will consist of a physical examination of the existing HVAC system, as well as a quantitative analysis of the system.  During the physical examination, the technician will examine the individual components of the system, while performing an inventory of the system.  The condition of the individual components will be noted, as well as any existing safety hazards.  The system’s air distribution and temperature systems will be checks as well.  In some cases, an indoor air quality test may also be performed.  

As one would expect, the quantitative analysis on the system is all about the numbers and data.  Past historical data showing the ownership and operating costs of the HVAC system are examined to determine the total cost of ownership.  An analysis of energy consumption will also be performed to determine how much energy is being consumed.   Based upon the physical inspection of the system, as well as the quantitative analysis of the data, a written report is provided to the property owner with specific recommendations, estimated costs for improvements, as well as an implementation plan for the proposed improvements.

Posted on behalf of Find Local HVAC

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HVAC Energy Saving Tips

August 31st, 2014 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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One of the largest expenses in most households is the cost of energy, especially cooling and heating your home. Except for a few months in the spring and fall when temperatures are generally milder, the rest of the year an HVAC system must work hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. While increased energy bills during the hottest and coldest months are to be expected, there are ways to reduce these costs with a few home improvement tips: 

  • Insulation. Insulation is one of the best ways to keep your home at the temperature you desire, with less strain on your HVAC system. Adding extra insulation in the attic, crawlspace or walls of your home can make a large difference in your energy bills.
     
  • Drafts. Any crack which allows outdoor air inside your home can also be leaking your warm or cold air. Seal cracks in ductwork, around windows or below doors to reduce the amount of temperature-controlled air which is lost.
     
  • Windows. Old windows can also be poorly insulated, allowing air to escape or outdoor air to move into your home, affecting the interior temperature. Replacing your old windows can make a significant difference in your energy bills. Another option is to use heavy drapes or blinds to help insulate the windows, plus keep out the hot sun during the summer months.
     
  • HVAC maintenance. Your HVAC system needs regular HVAC maintenance to stay efficient. Reduce energy costs by scheduling annual maintenance with your HVAC service company and ensuring that filters are replaced as needed throughout the year. 

By adding a few home improvements, you can reduce how hard your HVAC system needs to work in order to keep your home comfortable. Even one or two of these improvements can have a big impact on your monthly and yearly energy expenses.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Programming Your Thermostat For Vacations

August 31st, 2014 Posted in Thermostats
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If you have one last vacation planned for the summer or are getting away for a long Labor Day weekend, save some money on your energy bills by programming your thermostat accordingly. While you are away, there is no reason to pay for your home to be cooled to the same comfort level you would expect while your home is occupied. While you may not want to turn the HVAC system all the way off, you should at least raise the temperature a few degrees. 

Where Should You Set Your Thermostat?

While you are away, you want to save on your energy bills. However, you should still keep your home cooled to a reasonable level. Allowing it to get too hot can destroy items in the house, plus make it expensive to cool down when you get back. A good rule of thumb is to set it between 3-6 degrees above your normal setting. This will save on energy while still keeping your home reasonably cool. 

The same is true for winter vacations, in the opposite direction. During the winter, set your thermostat about four degrees below your normal setting while away for heat pumps. For gas furnaces, you can go a little lower, up to eight degrees since they can heat a home back up to temperature quickly and efficiently. 

By raising or lowering your thermostat during your vacation, you can save a bundle off your energy bills while keeping your home at a safe, moderate temperature. This will ensure that when you return your home will be able to return to your normal settings quickly and efficiently. For those with programmable thermostats featuring smartphone applications, consider changing your temperature setting back to normal a few hours before you get home.

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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