Save Energy and Money by Updating Your Ductwork

Save Energy and Money by Updating Your Ductwork

You’ve heard that leaky ductwork is inefficient, but do you realize that replacing faulty ducts can save you a good deal of money on an ongoing basis? If you live in an older home that has never benefited from a ductwork upgrade, or a newer home that seems to have poorly designed ductwork, then there could be significant savings in your future! Cost Savings Your heating and cooling bills can be some of the most expensive parts of owning your home, especially in periods of peak usage like late winter and mid-summer. If your energy bills over the past few years have skyrocketed with no real change in your habits, your ducts may be to blame. While it would be nice to think that everyone can get a huge benefit from upgrading their ducts, you need to have a qualified HVAC contractor review your particular situation and make a recommendation before you decide to make major changes. Stay Healthy Inside Poor ductwork may be more than just a money drain — they may also be costing you and your family your health. Dirty air can infiltrate ducts and contaminate your indoor air. If you have dust or pollen allergies, this type of backdraft can make those problems even worse. Mold is another concern with aging ductwork and one that also can cause an allergic reaction. Some types of mold are quite toxic and can cause an excessive reaction, a problem that repairing or replacing those old ducts can really help alleviate. Dash Those Hot Spots If there are certain places in your home that you just cannot seem to get cooled...
Heat Pump or Furnace: Which One is Best for You?

Heat Pump or Furnace: Which One is Best for You?

Keeping your home toasty warm in the winter is serious business, and you want to be sure you’re getting the very best heating option for your particular circumstances. The two key types of heating sources prevalent in America today are a heat pump and a furnace. While both options are excellent for different reasons, depending on your needs, one is bound to jump out as the perfect solution for you. Type of Fuel and Efficiency Heat pumps are powered only by electricity while furnaces have a range of different options. If you live somewhere without easy access to natural gas, propane or fuel oil, and aren’t interested in chopping wood for a wood furnace, your only option is an electric heat pump. If you live in the city, you will definitely have more options. Heat pumps are much more energy efficient when compared to a gas fireplace. Where You Live Depending on the part of the country that you live in, one particular type of heating mechanism may be better than the other. Heat pumps are best for locations that have relatively mild winters as they can lose efficiency when the temps get too cold. Electric heat is not able to keep up with extremely cold weather, so a furnace is your best option if you’re high in the mountains or in the northern states. Safety While both heating options are quite safe, the heat pump has the added benefit of not producing carbon monoxide gases. Heat pumps don’t have any combustible parts either, unlike a furnace. Furthermore, the air quality may be better with a clean-running heat pump....