FAQs / Consumer Tips:

Heating

1. Have your heating system checked and tuned up prior to each heating season to insure safe and efficient operation.
2. Replace standard 1” furnace filters monthly or enhanced filters as recommended by the manufacture of the filter. A clean filter will result in less energy consumed and longer equipment life.
3. If your furnace is an older low efficiency model (50-60% efficient furnaces are identified by a metal flue pipe) consider replacing it with a more efficient model with an efficiency rating up to 95%. You can cut your heating cost up to 50%.
4. When replacing your furnace insist on a primary and secondary heat exchanger constructed of stainless steel. This will insure longer, safer operation of your heating system.
5. When replacing an old furnace consider a model with two stage heating and an “ECM” motor. You don't expect to drive your car at full throttle, why would you heat your home with one stage of heat? The ECM motor requires only 10% of the electrical energy that a standard motor requires.
6. Consider replacing a low efficient model furnace with a dual fuel heating system that utilizes a heat pump during mild weather and a high efficient gas furnace during more severe temperatures. A heat pump can operate with an efficiency of 300% at temperatures of 47 degrees and higher, making the heat pump less costly to operate than a gas furnace above 47 degrees. Discuss this option for your home with your heating specialist before replacing your old furnace or air conditioner.
7. If you do not currently have a set-back thermostat, install and use it. A set-back thermostat allows you to automatically turn down the heat when you are away at work or while you are sleeping, and then boost the temperature to a more comfortable level when you need it. Proper use of a set-back thermostat could cut your fuel cost by 5% to 10%.
8. Make sure all heating vents are open and unblocked by furniture or other items. This will insure air is evenly distributed throughout the home.

Air Conditioning

1. Have your air conditioning system checked and tuned up prior to each cooling season to insure safe and efficient operation.
2. Close blinds and drapery on windows facing the sun to reduce solar load.
3. If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old consider replacing it with a new high efficient model. Air conditioners, just like an automobile engine, lose efficiency with use and wear. Due to Federal regulation mandating higher efficiencies older models can cost more than twice as much to operate than new models.
4. When installing new equipment consider models that use environmentally friendly refrigerant. In the year 2010 this will be the only refrigerant allowed to be sold.
5. When installing new equipment consider two stage models. Just like a two stage furnace these models provide low operating costs and more comfort.
6. Run your ceiling fans during the summer, the air movement can make the room feel up to four degrees cooler.