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Heating & Cooling Tips

Check out these HVAC tips from a local pro in Ashland on how to maintain and service your HVAC unit in any season so it runs efficiently and keeps your home comfortable. From maintenance to temperature settings, this information can help you save energy and help you lower your bill.

There are many ways to cool and heat your home more efficiently. Because you only pay for the energy you use, learning how to use less will provide long-term cost savings. Put these tips to the test, improve your home’s energy efficiency and start saving today.

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Cooling Tips

  • Cover your windows (especially those facing south) during the day with light-colored shades and you could save 10-25% on cooling costs.
  • Move furnishings away from floor or return air vents.
  • Plant a tree outside to provide shade for your home.
  • Repair and apply weather strips to prevent air leaks in your home. Nearly 10-25% of energy used to cool homes escapes via leaks.
  • Add attic insulation if the joists are showing.
  • Have your HVAC system serviced or tuned-up annually to maximize efficiency and comfort.
  • Seal leaking ductwork throughout your home. Nearly 20% of air moving through duct systems is lost to leaks.
  • Replace your HVAC filter every month.
  • Install a programmable thermostat and set the temperature higher when you are not home.
  • Setting your thermostat five degrees higher can save you 20% on cooling costs.
  • Install ceiling fans to circulate cool air.
  • Install awnings on windows that get excessive sun in the late afternoon.
  • Avoid using heat-producing appliances such as ovens or dryers during the hottest parts of the day.

Heating Tips

  • Caulk, seal, and apply weather strips to openings from your home to the outside. Up to 25% of energy used to heat/cool homes escapes through air leaks.
  • Have your furnace and ductwork inspected annually. Loose or broken ductwork accounts for 15-35% of a home’s energy loss.
  • Change furnace filters every month.
  • Add attic insulation if the joists are showing.
  • Unless your fireplace is equipped specifically for home heating, use it sparingly. Warm air escapes through the chimney.
  • Close the damper when you're not using your fireplace.
  • Install a humidifier and set it at 35% to 40% humidity in the winter. This will help your home feel warmer at a lower temperature setting.
  • Keep your heat pump clear of obstructions, including snow.
  • Vacuum or dust air registers regularly and make sure they’re not blocked by obstacles like furniture.
  • Install a programmable thermostat to avoid putting the heat pump into costly emergency heating mode.
  • Lower the thermostat during the day when no one is home and overnight while you are sleeping.
  • Open draperies and shades on south-facing windows to allow more sunlight and heat during the day.
  • Close draperies or shades at night to conserve heat.
  • Move furnishings away from floor or return air vents.
  • Use bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans sparingly. They can quickly pull warm air from your home.
  • Encourage members of your household to layer clothing rather than turn up the heat.
  • Open bathroom doors after taking a shower to allow warm, moist air to circulate.
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