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What Should I Turn the Thermostat to During the Day?
What’s the ideal temperature to set your thermostat to during the day? Like many homeowners, you might often wonder about just how high or low you need to set your furnace or AC to run when you’re away from home. You probably already know that it wastes money to heat or cool your homes when…
HVAC
Filters 101: HVAC Filtration Options
Many homeowners visit their local home improvement center to purchase a new HVAC filter and find a massive wall of filters in various sizes, types and efficiency ratings. Purchasing the right sized filter that meets your filtration requirements can be a daunting task — this post will explain the different HVAC filter options available as…
HVAC
Heat Pump vs. AC: Which Is Best for You?
When it’s time to install or replace a new HVAC system, you may face the difficult decision of choosing between a heat pump vs. a central air conditioning (AC) unit. While these systems generally work the same when cooling your home, there are some major differences on the heating side. This post will cover the…
Plumbing
Tips to Save Energy at Home: Water Heating
1. Install Low-Flow Faucets and Showerheads Low-flow faucets and showerheads reduce water use while maintaining strong water pressure, so comfort stays the same. Look for fixtures with the WaterSense label, which certifies efficiency without performance loss. Also check the gallons per minute (gpm) rating — lower numbers mean less hot water used and less energy…
HVAC
How Much Does a Geothermal Heat Pump System Cost?
While outdoor temperatures fluctuate according to the season, the temperature just below the earth’s surface remains stable year-round. A geothermal heat pump capitalizes on this stability by transferring heat between the earth and your house to provide indoor climate control during both cold and warm months. Unlike traditional gas furnaces and forced air systems, a…
Other Home Projects
Tips for Saving Energy in Your Home: Heating
Heating expenses can get out of hand in the winter months, especially if your home has hidden leaks or large spaces to keep warm. While you can’t avoid the dreaded utility bills, you can lessen the load on your HVAC system and your wallet by making small or moderate improvements—whatever you can manage helps. Here…
HVAC
How Much Does a Gas Furnace Cost?
If your current gas furnace needs a sizable repair or is more than 15 to 20 years old, you may find that investing in a new one is a viable option. Today’s models are more energy efficient and more adept at keeping your home comfortable. But even though your family’s comfort is at stake, buying…
HVAC
Six Warning Signs That Your Furnace May Be Failing
Have you ever woken up freezing on a cold winter’s night? If you haven’t accidentally left the window open, chances are your furnace has broken down — and it can be a couple of miserably chilly days to wait while your furnace is repaired or replaced. However, if you can diagnose a failing furnace before…