More Efficient Heating & Cooling

Did you know that nearly half of the energy used in a typical home goes to heating and cooling your home. This is why it is so important to make good decisions about your heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These simple, yet important decisions can have a tremendous impact on the monthly utility bills, not to mention comfort for you and your family . Take these steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.

Air filter changes

You should be in the habit of checking the air filters on a monthly basis, especially during high usage months, like summer and winter time. This is simple to do,  if the filter looks dirty change it, or at least clean it with a vacuum to remove any items that may block good air flow. You should really change the filters at least every 3 to 6 months. A dirty air filter will prevent air flow, which in turn makes your HVAC system work much harder just to keep you warm or cool. A clean filter prevents dirt and dust particles from clogging the system, which prevents costly repairs or entire system replacements.

Yearly equipment check ups

Yearly check ups of your heating and cooling systems will keep them running efficiently and will prevent unnecessary repairs or malfunctions. Think of it like your cars tune up, it improves gas mileage, and overall performance. This is no different.

Programmable thermostats

One of the easiest ways to provide a more efficient system is to install a programmable thermostat in your home. These are especially good for people who are often not home during regular times throughout the week, or go on frequent vacations. When programmed properly these thermostats can save you nearly $200 per year in energy costs alone.

Seal all duct work

The ducts in your home that move air from a furnace, air conditioner, or even heat pump can be an area of tremendous energy loss. Simply by sealing and properly insulating these ducts will improve the efficiency of your system by 20 percent or more.

You should first check the ducts that run through your attic, unheated basements, or even the garage. Make sure you use duct sealant or metal tape to seal all seams and the connections between the ducts. Once properly taped and sealed, wrap them in special insulation to keep them cool in the summer warm in the winter.

ENERGY STAR rated system

Any equipment more than 10 years old should be checked by a professional HVAC contractor, especially if not performing properly. If your system is older, or not performing properly you should consider installing a new system that has the ENERGY STAR rating. ENERGY STAR rated equipment can reduce your energy bill by nearly $200 per year. Before replacing any equipment make sure you check the ducts and insulation for air leaks in your house. Sometimes, these can be simple fixes to common problems, and can avoid the extra expense of a new system

Professional Installations

If you have determined your old equipment needs an upgrade to a more energy efficient system, make sure it is professionally installed for the best performance. Poor installations can reduce your overall energy efficiency by as much as 35%, which costs you more on your utility bills

What are the benefits and downsides to Carpeting in your home.

Carpet is certainly not for everyone. Some people do not like the care and maintenance involved like vacuuming when it comes to carpet. Some people get tired of the color, especially if it is a color that is very personal color choice, this can even bring down the value of your home when selling. Carpeting does have a few benefits and should also be considered when planning on home improvements for your home.

In the United States, carpeting is the flooring selected about 50% of the time. That is above vinyl,  tile, and most other types of flooring.

Here are some of the advantages of carpet.

Carpet improves insulation

Carpet and the padding will act as insulation to help improve temperature control in the home.  Heating and your home will be more efficient if you have padded carpet installed in a room, or even through out the entire home.

Carpet is Safer

Slipping is far less likely on carpet, making it much safer than tile or vinyl flooring. Tile can certainly be dangerous when it comes to slipping, especially if there is water or other liquid spills. Sometimes this is just an accident waiting to happen. Wall to wall carpet is definitely safer and more comfortable for the children as well.

Carpet makes for great insulation of course, and also helps blocking sound in and around the home. Tile or vinyl, and even wood in a home creates lots of echo when you are watching television, playing movies and this can be a problem for many families with children.

Disadvantages Carpet in Your Home

Cleaning is one of the key reasons some people do not choose carpet. Vacuuming carpet does take some work and of course on occaison a good steam clean may be necessary, not to mention somewhat costly.  Cleaning carpet too often is not really necessary if proper care is taken, such as removing shoes inside of the home at all times. Shoes will tend to cause wear and tear on a carpet, as well as track dirt inside the home.

Pets like dogs and cats may tear parts of the carpet to shreds with their claws. Although carpet can be patched if you have carpet patching tape, it is a bit more difficult to do, and a professional is highly recommended.

All in all I usually recommend carpet over tile, and vinyl flooring. If you have any other advantages or disadvantages about carpet, please feel free to share them with us.