HVAC Tips For Homeowners

By: Norman Fleming

Do you realize just how very important it is to keep your home heating and air conditioning unit running smoothly and efficiently. No doubt you realize that by doing this you will cut your utility bills. True - but did you also realize that by keeping them running efficiently you can extend their operational life greatly -- thus saving you the tremendously high cost of total replacement of these units?

First things first: Before you do anything else, make sure that you have properly prepared your home so that it is more energy efficient. There are some simple things that every homeowner should do, such as adding (or upgrading the quality of) your home insulation, adding caulking and weatherstripping, and even the investment in a programmable digital thermostat can make a big difference in your energy consumption.

If you are up to doing more significant projects, then you should purchase a whole-house humidifier. When you add moisture to your home's air, it will make you feel warmer and more comfortable in the winter months. In addition to a humidifier, you can purchase ceiling fans. These fans can be operated in both the summertime as well as in the winter - and they are quiet and energy efficient.

Of course, if it has been ages since you have had your furnace or air conditioner inspected, then you need to call your local HVAC repair and service center. The technician will be able to adjust your units for maximum operational efficiency, and they might just spot a problem in the making before it gets out of hand - again, saving you a bundle on repair costs. Regular maintenance of your appliances is key to keeping them running efficiently.

The government can help you also -- when you choose to replace your furnace or air conditioner, you always want to purchase units that have a good ENERGY STAR rating. If an appliance has qualified as an ENERGY STAR appliance, it has met certain standards for operating and energy efficiency. In addition, there are many government and non-profit websites that you can consult for valuable information and recommendations.

What are some of these online resources? Well you can go to www.consumerguide.com - the Consumer Guide site. Or you can go to the EPA (The Environmental Protection Agency) at www.epa.gov, or the American Council for Energy Efficient Economy at www.aceee.org. You can find those ENERGY STAR appliances at www.energystar.gov.

A word of caution: if you are thinking of replacing your furnace, heat pump unit, or air conditioner, DON"T DO IT! Why not? Because installing (as well as servicing) these appliances requires the use of special tools, as well as know-how, that the average layperson is not privy to. If you attempt to install the unit yourself, and don't do it the right way, everything will have to be taken out and done all over -- by a professional. You might also void your manufacturer warranty, so don't take the chance.

The same thing goes for HVAC repairs. If you lack the specialized tools and know-how, you could actually end up damaging your unit even further, hurt yourself, and void your manufacturer or dealer warranties. If you choose a good HVAC professional for any necessary repairs or installation of a new unit, you can be assured the job will be done the right way, the FIRST time. Doing it any other way is just a waste of time and money.

Article Source: http://www.retirementlivingarticledirectory.com

About the author: Norman Fleming is a home heating expert. For tips about home heating and air conditioning and air conditioner filters on his site.
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