Save Energy with a New HVAC System!

According to the US Department of Energy, 25% to 40% of the energy used for heating and cooling a home is wasted.  There are a number of simple and convenient steps you can take around the house to minimize energy consumption.  Call the BPI certified team from Hearthstone and we would be happy to identify problem areas and make recommendations for the most cost-effective and dependable solutions.

A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are out of the house at set periods of time throughout the week.  Through pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can cut about $180 off yearly energy costs.  As a result of automatically reducing heating and cooling when you need it least, your equipment isn’t working as hard when you’re asleep or away from home.

While fans don’t actually heat or cool interior air, they do circulate it.  When air in your home is circulated, it’s easier to maintain a consistent temperature, putting less work on your heating and cooling systems.  Keep in mind that heat rises.  During summer, use fans to push hot air upwards, helping it escape through the higher parts of your home.  During winter, when you don’t want the heat to escape, use fans to push it back down.

If you have central air conditioning or heating, inspect the vents in your home.  They should be kept open.  Closing vents to reduce energy consumption by preventing heating or cooling of a particular room is a mistake, and actually results in higher energy costs.  Your vents rely on filters to keep dirt, dust and other contaminants from blowing throughout your home.  Make sure to replace filters as per manufacturer’s recommendations in order to ensure proper airflow.

The best heating and cooling equipment will have difficulty maintaining comfortable temperatures and will cost more to operate if you don’t have enough insulation.  Visually inspect insulation levels throughout your home, making sure there are no hidden defects such as hollow wall cavities that permit air and heat to bypass your insulation.  Caulk and weather-strips around windows and doors eliminates leaks.

Your air ducts are one of the most important systems in your home.  Cleanliness and condition of ductwork has a significant impact on energy bills, comfort levels and air quality.  Sealing and insulating ducts can boost the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by 20% or more.  If your air ducts appear dirty, they probably are, and may require professional cleaning.

Upgrading outdated heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR rated products can trim your annual energy bill by nearly $200.  If your heating and cooling equipment is more than ten years old or not keeping up with comfort needs, have it evaluated by the professionals from Hearthstone.  As a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer, Hearthstone offers a wide range of high-efficiency solutions to heating and cooling, and flexible financing options with approved credit to facilitate the quick completion of your project.