Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Periodic HVAC Maintenance

It is imortant to have the heating and cooling system serviced prior to the winter and summer seasons. Keeping this equipment in good condition will increase it's reliability to maintain a comfortable living space. Plan to have the cooling system inspected in the spring before the heat waves begin and the heating system inspected in the fall prior to the first cold snap. It is less expensive to schedule planned maintenance than to scheduling a last minute service call when the technicians are scrambling between service calls. HVAC systems will run more efficiently when the filters are clean and the burner assemblies (where applicable) are propoerly adjusted.
As always an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure.

Thursday, February 8, 2007

Attic Insulation

If you can access the attic above your living space, inspect the insulation coverage currently installed. Additional insulation rolled or spred above the existing insulation can dramaticaly increase the R value and the ability to insulate your home to reduce energy costs. Please view the link below to find additional information on insulating your home.

http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/insulation_airsealing/index.cfm/mytopic=11530

Replacement Windows for Energy Costs

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If your home is drafty around the windows in the winter or the windows are built with a single pane glass, it may be time to replace those windows! Replacement windows and window molding is also a tremendous way to beautify your home while elevating your home value.

Thursday, February 1, 2007

Sealing potential air leaks

One way to identify common air leaks you may have in your home is to inspect the condition of the seal around each window and door frame. If you have older windows, it would be beneficial to consider replacing with multi pane, insulated windows. There are many products available to seal these potential air leaks off to reduce the exchange of air you have heated or cooled from the uncontrolled outside temperatures and humidity.

Inspect areas such as seems around utilities such as electrical, phone, cable etc. to ensure you have a good seal intact.