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Showing posts from March, 2024

Should I Set Back the Temperature When I Leave My House?

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If your energy bill leaves you with sticker shock every month, finding ways to save energy at home is crucial. One common question we often hear from customers is, “ Should I set back the temperature when I leave my house? ” Let’s explore the answers and strategies to optimize energy efficiency: The Impact of Air Conditioning on Energy Consumption Air conditioning stands out as one of the most energy-consuming appliances, constituting 17% of energy usage in homes, especially in mixed-dry climates like Los Angeles (U.S. Energy Information Administration). Understanding Setback Setback: The act of adjusting your thermostat from the normal temperature to another level to save on HVAC operation costs. While the setback temperature may not feel comfortable when you’re present, the idea is to apply it when you’re away. Is it Worth Changing Your Thermostat When Leaving? Before deciding on thermostat adjustments, consider the following factors: - Duration of Absence: Ass

How Long Does the Average Furnace Last?

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The lifespan of a well-maintained furnace can reach 15 to 20 years. With proper care and timely repairs, some owners manage to extend their furnace’s lifespan even further. Various factors can influence the longevity of a furnace, and here are some key considerations: Furnace Size - You need a system that’s the right size for your home. - Furnaces that cycle too quickly are more prone to parts wearing out prematurely. - If the furnace is too large, it may turn on and off too frequently, impacting its components. - An undersized furnace may run excessively, reducing its efficiency and causing wear on its parts. Installation - The ductwork that is too small, too large, or inadequately sealed can limit airflow. - Poor drainage systems can be problematic, especially for extremely energy-efficient furnaces. - An incorrectly installed fuel line can affect the furnace’s performance and longevity. Usage/Maintenance - Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the

Understanding SEER and EER Ratings: A Guide to Energy-Efficient HVAC

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If you’ve ventured into the realm of shopping for new heating and air conditioning units, you might have encountered the often overlooked yet crucial SEER and EER ratings associated with these products. Understanding these figures can significantly aid in enhancing energy efficiency and cutting down on energy consumption. SEER Rating SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio . It gauges the efficiency of heating and air conditioning units over a specific period, typically a heating or cooling season. This rating provides an overview of a unit’s efficiency, aiding in projecting energy usage over prolonged durations. EER Rating Heating and air conditioning systems also feature an EER rating, representing the Energy Efficiency Ratio . This figure offers insight into a unit’s efficiency during operation. A helpful analogy is likening it to car speeds: SEER is the average speed from point A to point B, and EER is the current speed at any given moment. A Comparison When