What do you know about home heating?
Do you want to know more about your home heating system? The more you know, the better you are going to be at improving energy efficiency and comfort, and reducing the amount you spend heating your home each winter.
Here are some things you should know about home heating that can improve efficiency, system lifespan and keep you safe.
- Turning up the thermostat just raises your utility bills and won’t make your equipment heat any faster.
- It’s important to make sure that your carbon monoxide detector is working.
- Natural gas is actually odorless. What you smell is actually added so that people can detect leaks.
- If you have pets, you should change your furnace filter more often. Even as often as once a month.
- Opening the blinds or curtains or south-facing windows during sunny days can make your home feel warmer.
- Rearranging your furniture can be a simple way to improve comfort.
- Turning down the thermostat, even a degree or two, can help you save money.
- When you are changing your furnace filter, you have to make sure to turn off the equipment.
- Holiday parties can make you feel warmer because of the oven and the amount of people in your home.
- Fall preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid an emergency “no heat” call during the winter.
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Are you ready for a new heating system in the New Year?
The holidays are here and 2017 is right around the corner! If you’ve noticed that your gas furnace’s performance has been decreasing, it may be time to explore your heating system options for 2017!
There are many different types of heating systems you can choose from when you are going to replace your old unit. It may seem overwhelming. After all, how are you going to know if you are making the right decision!? We are here to reassure you that there are NO bad decisions when it comes to your new heating system! Whether you go with a heat pump, gas furnace, packaged unit, or one of the many other many options, it is going to be more efficient, and more technologically advanced, than your old equipment. Plus, you will have the guidance of your helpful HVAC contractor. They will be able to give you advice, reassurance, and even offer maintenance agreements that can put your mind at ease.
So, what are your heating system options?
Heat pumps. Heat pumps are electric-powered heating AND cooling units that operate in pretty much the same way as an air conditioner – through heat transfer as opposed to producing original heat. Producing original heat consumes more energy and will cost you more each month.
Gas furnaces. Gas furnaces are the natural gas powered heating methods commonly associated with powerful heating needs. These systems do have the need to produce original heat. HOWEVER, if natural gas is less expensive than electricity in your area it can be preferable heating method cost and efficiency wise.
Oil furnaces. Oil furnaces are just what their name implies – oil-powered heating methods. These units also produce original heat. But, they can be dirtier and take up more space than a natural gas furnace.
Electric heating methods. Any electric heating method, whether it be space heaters, heat strips, electric furnaces, etc., are going to use electricity to create original heat. If you are looking for a heating method, you may want to steer clear from these methods because they can cost more than natural gas options and your heat transfer electricity options. Oftentimes, electric heating methods like heat strips may be included in your heat pump or air conditioner to provide emergency heating power.
So, what are you going to choose? Make sure you seek the advice of your local heating and cooling contractor before you do.
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Do you know what you need to do for your HVAC system during the winter?
How cold is it near you? Winter is finally here, and it’s definitely been a cold one already, Do you know what to do during the winter to keep your gas furnace in peak condition? There’s nothing worse than a “no heat” emergency during the holidays!
Here are some things you should add to your winter HVAC to-do list.
Make sure all of your vents and registers are opened. Poor airflow can be a real performance and efficiency killer for air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, you name it!
Change your furnace filter regularly. If you have pets, you may want to consider changing your furnace filter every month. If you don’t, you still want to consider changing your furnace filter at the beginning of each season. This is to ensure proper airflow and the highest quality indoor air.
Dust or vacuum debris from your vents. No, its not a substitute for a proper duct cleaning, but you want to make sure that things aren’t falling into your vents or registers – obstructing airflow and lowering indoor air quality.
Change the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector. During combustion, one of the gases produced is carbon monoxide. Since it is a colorless, odorless gas you want to make sure you have something that can detect it and keep your family safe.
Rearrange your furniture so that the main living/seating areas aren’t by drafty windows. This can help you feel warmer and help you resist the temptation to raise the thermostat a few degrees on really cold days.
Did you remember to get your gas furnace checked before the start of the heating season? If not, you can always have a contractor come out and inspect it during the winter. Just be aware, this is a busy season for contractors. It may take them awhile to get to your job.
What do you have on your winter home to-do list?
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Winter is just around the corner! Are you ready?
The first polar vortex is moving through this week! Although these temperatures are “old hat” to people further north, it can catch people a little further south off guard. Make sure you stay on your toes this winter to protect your home, and your HVAC equipment, from damage caused by snow and ice!
Of course you’re never going to be able to protect your outdoor equipment from ALL kinds of winter damage, but you can avoid a few of them by following some simple steps.
If you run a heat pump during the winter…make sure the unit has proper airflow. Remember, both air conditioners and heat pumps rely on an uninhibited airflow in order to work properly and efficiently. Your heat pump won’t be able to do that if it is encased in ice or covered in snow!
When warmer temperatures come back…have your contractor come out and inspect the outdoor components of your HVAC system. The snow and ice may have knocked something lose, damaged a component or deposited debris into your condenser! It’s also just a good idea to get your cooling system inspected before you switch to cooling mode.
Are you prepared for winter? If you think that something may have happened to your equipment during a snow or ice storm, make sure you contact a local heating and air conditioning contractor – never DIY!
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Have you made changes to your programmable thermostat settings yet?
It’s important to take the time to change your programmable thermostat settings as the seasons change. Not only does the weather change, but your schedule may change as well! For example, if you have kids, they may be spending more time at home over the next few weeks for the holidays.
But,. what are those ideal settings? Well, we can’t tell you specifics for your particular family; remember, it’s completely customizable. But, we can tell you the temperatures the Department of Energy recommends for the right balance of comfort and efficiency.
Winter Recommendations
Set the thermostat to 68°F while you are awake and at your home. While you sleep and/or while you work, you should program the thermostat to 7°F – 10°F lower than your ideal setting.
Summer Recommendations
The same rules apply for summer, you should program the thermostat to be 7°F – 10°F lower than your ideal setting while you are asleep or if you work. But, while you are at home, the ideal temperature for comfort and efficiency is 78°F.
Not willing to drop your thermostat that lower or bump it up that high? Remember, even small adjustments can make a difference on your utility bill. Consider a degree or two at the very least.
What do you set your programmable thermostat to during the winter? Do you keep it in the 70s, or do you drop into the 60s?
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Are you ready to put on your holiday baking cap?
Thanksgiving is over. Black Friday deals have been snatched up. We are right in the middle of the holiday season! And, what does the holiday season signify for those of us in the comfort business? Colder temperatures! Colder temperatures mean higher utility bills, which is no fun for those that want to invest in fun holiday activities! Luckily, there is something you can do that is both festive AND fun that can also help your home feel warmer – limiting your need for your gas furnace on these cold December days. What is it you ask? Well, baking of course! So, why don’t we get those ovens going!? Drop your favorite holiday baking recipe below. Or, get some ideas from fellow commenters. Not only is a day of baking going to result in some tasty treats, but you just may be able to save some bucks on heating.Like this post? Share it!
Just how much do you know about thermostats?
Did you know that thermostats are not “one-size-fits-all?” There are many different types of thermostats, some may pair up with your heating and cooling equipment while others may not. It is important that matches your system and addresses your home comfort specifications. For example, programmable thermostats can give you customizable comfort based on your schedule!
Your thermostat is the “brains behind the operation” so to speak. It is in charge of sending signals to your heating and cooling equipment to either supply air or turn the air off. If there is a glitch at your thermostat, you are going to feel it in the air AND in your wallet. If you notice something off with your heating and cooling equipment, it may not be a problem with the unit, but with the thermostat.
If your old thermostat just isn’t cutting it anymore, here are some things that you should know about your options.
Non-Programmable Models. These are your base model thermostats. Generally, your non-programmable thermostats are going to feature certain system compatibilities. For example, if you have a two-stage unit, you are going to need a different non-programmable model than someone who has a single-stage model. Make sure you work with your contractor to find the right one.
Programmable Models. This is your next step up. With a programmable thermostat, you can set the temperature based on your schedule. This gives you completely customizable home comfort. For example, during the winter you can lower the temperature your thermostat is set at during the day to save money. Then, you can make it so that your home starts warming up about a half an hour before you are scheduled to get home. This way you are greeted by a comfortable home, but you aren’t spending money heating an empty home.
Wi-Fi-Enabled Thermostats. This is going to be your “best” model. With a Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat, you are going to be able to control the comfort of your home away from the box on the wall! Some of these thermostats even work with other smart home systems to give you complete control of your home, even when you are not there.
Make sure you take the time to discuss your thermostat options with your local contractor. It may not seem like a big deal, but you are going to thank yourself when that first bill comes in the mail.
Do you have a programmable thermostat in your home, or a non-programmable thermostat?
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How do you control humidity in your home?
In our previous blog post, we explained how indoor humidity is a crucial part of home comfort. Humidity levels can affect indoor air quality and how comfortable you are in your home during both the winter and the summer. We know it’s important to control humidity, but what can you use to do so?
There are things that you do in your house that contribute to indoor humidity: boiling pasta, taking a shower, heck…even just sitting around doing nothing. Human beings produce moisture.
Controlling humidity starts right when your HVAC equipment is being installed. Proper HVAC equipment sizing is extremely crucial for system performance, system life AND humidity level regulation. For example, an air conditioner that is too big is not going to run long enough to remove enough humidity from the air. This results in high indoor humidity levels, a hotter home and lower indoor air quality.
Is it as simple as using your thermostat? Well, not necessarily. Your average, “run-of-the-mill” thermostat is not necessarily going to have a way to measure humidity. However, here are a few things that you can add to your home to help keep humidity levels under control.
- Use a humidistat to automatically regulate the humidity in your home.
- Invest in a thermostat with humidity control.
- You can also purchase a whole-home humidifier. Just keep in mind, you don’t want humidity levels to be TOO high. This can lead to mold growth and discomfort.
- Remember when we said taking showers adds humidity to the home? A bathroom vent fan can be a good way to curtail moisture from the shower and prevent mold growth.
- Purchase a dehumidifier if your home gets too humid, especially during the summer. Just make sure the air doesn’t become too dry.
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How is humidity affecting the comfort of your home?
Did you know that humidity plays a big role in maintaining the comfort of your home? In fact, monitoring and controlling the humidity in your home can help you save money on utilities during the hot AND cold seasons. And, where is the best place to control the humidity in your home? Why, your HVAC equipment of course!
If you raise the humidity level in your home during the winter, it will feel warmer in your house. If it feels warmer in your home, you could lower the temperature setting at your thermostat a degree or two, helping you chip away at those monthly heating costs. However, the same principle holds true for summer. The higher the humidity in your home during the winter during the summer, the hotter your home is going to feel. During the summer, high humidity levels can also encourage mold growth and a host of other IAQ problems.
If you lower the humidity level in your home during the summer, it will feel cooler in your home. If it feels cooler in your home, you can raise the temperature setting at your thermostat a few degrees. This may result in smaller cooling bills, leaving your budget open to fun summer activities. However, during the winter, it is not ideal to have low humidity levels. Not only will your home feel colder, but you could suffer from dry air. Dry air in your home during the winter can negatively impact your health.
So, what should you do for humidity control? Well, if you are having a problem with humidity regulation, start by talking to your local HVAC contractor. If you aren’t having problems, but would like to make slight adjustments to improve comfort while saving money, it’s as simple as adjusting your settings at the thermostat.
What do you set you humidity levels in your home?
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What do you have on your home wish list?
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! How are you enjoying your holiday? At Maytag HVAC, we always strive to create the best home comfort products possible to keep you toasty during the holiday season. If you already have a Maytag HVAC system, you know this already.
However, there are always things you can add to make it even MORE comfortable and climate controlled. Plus, investing in energy-efficient products can help you save during the holiday season so that you can allocate more of your hard-earned money towards fun holiday activities!
What is on your holiday home wish list? Is it…
- A Wi_Fi enabled programmable thermostat
- A high-efficiency gas furnace
- Energy-efficient windows
- A new roof
- An indoor air cleaner
- A UV light system
- A zoning system
- Additional insulation around windows and in the attic
