Some Heating And Air Conditioning Tips For You

You probably recognize - as most homeowners do - that keeping your heating and air conditioning units running well. Most people think that the primary benefit from doing this is that they will save money on their heating and cooling bills. And While this is correct, there is another benefit: keeping your HVAC equipment in good shape will help them to last longer - and you won't have to shell out big bucks for a total replacement.

But before you do anything else, please make sure that you have made your home as energy efficient as possible. There are some simple things that should be on your to-do list: adding or upgrading your home insulation, adding weatherstripping, caulking around your windows. Even buying and installing a digital, programmable thermostat will make a significant contribution to your home's energy efficiency.

If you are up to doing more significant projects, then you should purchase a whole-house humidifier. When you add moisture to your home's air, it will make you feel warmer and more comfortable in the winter months. In addition to a humidifier, you can purchase ceiling fans. These fans can be operated in both the summertime as well as in the winter - and they are quiet and energy efficient.

If it has been some time since your heating or air conditioning unit has been inspected, then you should have them inspected by a qualified HVAC professional. Coils and baffles on your air conditioner may need cleaned, or refrigerant replaced. Your furnace may need cleaned, and critical parts may need repaired before they break down. Regular maintenance is key to keeping them operating at peak efficiency.

One of your greatest allies is the government. They, as well as several non-profit organizations, maintain resource websites with all sorts of information. And if you are in need of a brand-new unit, make sure that you look for one that has met the qualifications to be listed as an ENERGY STAR appliance. These are appliances that are very efficient - the ones that you want to consider purchasing.

What are some of these online resources? Well you can go to www.consumerguide.com - the Consumer Guide site. Or you can go to the EPA (The Environmental Protection Agency) at www.epa.gov, or the American Council for Energy Efficient Economy at www.aceee.org. You can find those ENERGY STAR appliances at www.energystar.gov.

A word of caution: if you are thinking of replacing your furnace, heat pump unit, or air conditioner, DON"T DO IT! Why not? Because installing (as well as servicing) these appliances requires the use of special tools, as well as know-how, that the average layperson is not privy to. If you attempt to install the unit yourself, and don't do it the right way, everything will have to be taken out and done all over -- by a professional. You might also void your manufacturer warranty, so don't take the chance.

The same thing goes for HVAC repairs. If you lack the specialized tools and know-how, you could actually end up damaging your unit even further, hurt yourself, and void your manufacturer or dealer warranties. If you choose a good HVAC professional for any necessary repairs or installation of a new unit, you can be assured the job will be done the right way, the FIRST time. Doing it any other way is just a waste of time and money.

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About the author: Norman Fleming is a heating, ventilation and air conditioning specialist. He has information about home heating and air conditioning and carrier air conditioning on his site.