What Is the Most Efficient Type of Residential Heating System?

November 14, 2023

According to the latest data from the US Energy Information Administration, heating accounted for 42% of all residential energy consumption last year. However, that shouldn’t be news to any homeowner here in Savannah, GA. It’s a reality, however, that makes choosing the most efficient heating system possible important. Here are the most efficient types of residential heating systems that can help you lower your winter energy bills. Gas Furnaces There’s a reason that gas furnaces are, and long have been, a popular heating option for homes. It’s because the average gas furnace operates at 80% efficiency, and some can reach efficiencies as high as 98.5%. When you add that to the relatively low cost of natural gas, you can save significantly on heating costs. On average, running a gas furnace will cost between $400 and $700 each winter. Electric Furnaces An electric furnace, by comparison, operates at a perfect 100% efficiency rate. However, the higher cost of electricity compared to gas means you could spend up to $1,600 or more each year to operate an electric furnace. That makes an electric furnace one of the most expensive heating options out there. Heat Pumps Heat pumps offer the most efficient heating...

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4 Common Furnace Problems

October 19, 2023

When the cold season arrives, most property owners call HVAC professionals because of a problem with their heater. Whether it’s a residential or commercial setting, the same common issues plague furnaces. It’s imperative to know the common furnace issues that arise during winter so that you can take proactive measures to avoid them. Below are four common furnace issues you can face during winter. 1. Broken Thermostat The thermostat tells your furnace when and how to run. If the thermostat fails or is not calibrated, it can cause your furnace to turn on and off every few minutes, not turn on at all, or run all day long. 2. Clogged Air Filters If you use a standard air filter, ensure you swap it out every month. If you don’t, a dirty filter will affect indoor air quality and cause air flow restrictions in the heater. As a result, your furnace will work harder to heat your home, potentially accelerating wear and tear and increasing your heating bills. 3. Damaged Blower Motor Air conditioners and heating systems usually share a blower fan, which means it works harder and more regularly than any other component of your HVAC system. It’s not surprising,...

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What Are the Maintenance Requirements for a Furnace?

September 20, 2023

Annual maintenance is essential for all furnaces. Neglecting this important task can lead to your heating costs rising and also shortening the life of your furnace. Knowing the most important furnace maintenance tasks can provide you with a better understanding of why having your furnace serviced is so important. Replacing the Air Filter Replacing the air filter in your furnace should be done every 30 to 90 days. This is because dust and debris will slowly clog the filter and restrict how much air the blower can draw through it. Restricted airflow will make the furnace less effective and can cause overheating. Cleaning the Furnace Blower Cleaning the blower is important for preventing overheating and ensuring proper air flow through your HVAC system. If the blower is coated in a lot of dust, it won’t be able to move air through the system efficiently, leading to many of the same issues as a dirty filter. Cleaning the Furnace Burners To ensure the gas flowing to the furnace fully combusts and that all of the burners light immediately, the furnace burners should be routinely inspected and cleaned. Dirty burners may not light immediately, which allows gas to start filling the combustion...

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The Cost-Saving Potential of Whole-House Dehumidifiers

August 17, 2023

Whole-house dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, which can be particularly beneficial in humid climates or during periods of high humidity. One of the primary questions that arise when considering the installation of a whole-house dehumidifier is whether it will save money in the long run. Let’s explore the factors that contribute to the cost-effectiveness of whole-house dehumidifiers. Energy Efficiency Whole-house dehumidifiers are generally more energy-efficient than portable dehumidifiers. Portable units are typically smaller and less powerful, which means they may need to work harder and consume more electricity to achieve the same dehumidification results as a whole-house unit. Additionally, whole-house dehumidifiers are integrated into the HVAC system and can take advantage of the existing ductwork, resulting in more efficient air distribution. Their energy efficiency can lead to lower electricity consumption and reduced energy bills. Optimal Humidity Control Maintaining optimal humidity levels within a home can have various cost-saving benefits. By preventing excessive moisture, whole-house dehumidifiers can help protect the structural integrity of the building and reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and rot. These issues can lead to costly repairs and health concerns if left unaddressed. Moreover, controlling humidity levels can enhance the efficiency of air conditioning systems,...

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The Dangers of DIY AC Installation

July 21, 2023

There are many online video-sharing platforms these days. With so many DIY videos, most people are attempting DIY projects that they’re not qualified to complete. Some people do them as a hobby, while others do them to save some money. Not all DIY projects are worth attempting, such as AC installation. This process is better left to the professionals for the following reasons. 1. You Might Void Your Warranty Air conditioners can be an expensive investment. A warranty from the manufacturer of your unit can cover the cost of certain future AC repairs or replacement parts. However, this warranty coverage is often provided under certain conditions. One such condition is that a licensed technician must install the system. Installing an AC yourself will void the warranty, and you must pay for the parts. 2. It Is Dangerous An air conditioner requires working with high voltage electricity. You risk electrocution if you do not have special tools and the necessary knowledge to handle these electrical components. Also, wrong wiring can result in a fire hazard, destroying your system or property. Air conditioning units also use refrigerant, which is a crucial chemical component used during the cooling process. It can subject you...

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How to Troubleshoot AC Problems

June 8, 2023

ACs are complex machines and need proper maintenance to prevent problems from occurring. Troubleshooting AC problems can be tricky, but professionals can help in this task to ensure that the issue is fixed quickly. Here are some steps to troubleshoot an AC problem: Check the Filter One of the first things the professional will do is to check the air filter. If the filter is dirty, it can cause a number of problems with an AC, such as not cooling enough or running too often. A good filter should be replaced every three months for optimal performance. The professional will move on to other steps if the filter is not the problem. Check Refrigerant Levels Another step in troubleshooting an AC problem is to check the refrigerant levels. If the refrigerant levels are low, this could be a sign of a leak and must be addressed immediately. A professional can determine the exact issue and make the necessary repairs. They will also be able to provide advice on how to prevent leaks from occurring in the future. Inspect Electrical Components The electrical components of an AC unit can also cause problems. The professional will inspect these components and check for...

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The 4 Reasons You Need a Dehumidifier

May 12, 2023

Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from your home. During steamy summers, they can help manage humidity in damp rooms such as garages, crawl spaces, and basements. Some homes may experience high moisture levels during specific times of the year while others experience them all year. Dealing with humidity issues in your home can prevent mold, improve your health, and make your home environment comfortable. Here are signs you may need a dehumidifier. 1. Musty Smells Laundry rooms, garages, and basements often have musty smells. Groundwater seepage or construction sealing issues may cause this. You can use a dehumidifier to eliminate foul odors from your home. 2. Mold Spots on the Corners of Walls or Ceilings If your bathrooms do not have exhaust fans, you may have mold issues. This is because rising steam causes moisture on the walls and ceilings. Excessive moisture can cause black mold to grow, which can cause serious health issues. This may happen if you lack a dehumidifier. 3. Condensation Running Down Doors and Windows Condensation on your doors and windows shows that humidity levels are high. Condensation collects during winter when the inside temperature is hotter than the outside temperature. It may also affect your walls,...

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What Is Included in Air Conditioner Inspections?

April 24, 2023

Ensuring your air conditioning system keeps you cool during the hot Savannah summers requires regular maintenance. Having a professional technician conduct an air conditioner check can help identify any problems with your system so you can avoid expensive disasters. Here are the various components of an air conditioner check and how it can help your system. Inspection of Electrical Connections A professional electrician will begin their air conditioner inspection by verifying that all electrical connections are secure. Failing to have the connections properly secured can lead to a variety of issues, including system malfunctions, overheating, and even the possibility of an electrical fire. Cleaning and Inspection of Evaporator and Condenser Coils The evaporator and condenser coils of your air conditioning system help to regulate the temperature of the air in your home. However, these coils can get clogged with dirt and dust over time, making them less effective. During a regular air conditioner check, a technician will clean and inspect the coils to make sure they are working. Having your coils cleaned can boost the efficiency of your AC system and lower your energy bills. Checking and Replacing Air Filters Keeping your air conditioning system in good working order requires...

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The Cons of a Mini-Split System

March 16, 2023

If you’re a homeowner trying to decide on the best heating and cooling system for your home, there are many factors to consider. Mini-split systems have become increasingly popular for both residential and commercial purposes. They are efficient, cost-effective, and nearly silent. However, these systems are not without their drawbacks. Here are the potential disadvantages of mini-split systems to help you decide if they’re right for your space. 1. Costly Installation Installing a mini-split system can be more expensive than other HVAC systems. For starters, these systems typically require a larger initial investment due to how they are designed, as they feature components inside and outside the home. Additionally, because mini splits use multiple indoor air handlers, installation costs may increase as additional equipment is required for setup. Also, labor costs are likely higher, considering the expertise needed for proper installation and operation. Homeowners who wish to enjoy the benefits of this type of system should consider all of these factors before investing in one. 2. They Require More Space to Install Although an individual unit is relatively small, additional room is needed when considering the lines running between the outdoor condenser and an indoor evaporator. This can be a...

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Is Air Filtration Worth The Effort?

February 16, 2023

The air we breathe is essential for our survival, and the quality of that air is an important part of staying healthy. With many of us spending the majority of our time indoors in the winter months, whether at home or in the office, it’s essential to ensure that the air we are breathing is clean and free from pollutants. Poor indoor air quality leads to a wide range of health issues; everything from allergies and asthma to chronic respiratory diseases can arise from daily exposure to indoor air pollutants, leaving us wondering if filtration is worth the time and investment it takes to install something in the home. How is the quality of your indoor air? Read on to see if air filtration is efficient and effective, something that should be invested in for better health and improved energy efficiency. Are Air Filtration Systems Actually Effective? Air filtration systems can be incredibly effective at improving indoor air quality by removing pollutants from the air you breathe. The effectiveness of a filtration system depends on several factors such as: Type of system used Size and type of pollutants present Airflow rate of your system High-efficiency particulate air filters, also known...

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