Tips
With energy costs significantly on the rise this season energy conservation is a MUST for any homeowner. Saving energy can be as simple as turning lights off when you leave a room or upgrading old appliances that may be pulling energy when you least expect it! Here are a few tips to help you save, conserve and be more friendly to our environment.
Is a pesky draft greeting you at night? It may be time to replace older windows. If replacing your windows is not in your budget try caulking around your windows to help keep drafts out.
Let the Sunshine in… it’s not just the lyrics to a song… Letting the sunshine in helps heat your home during the winter. Open up your curtains and blinds and LET THE SUNSHINE IN! You will be surprised how letting the sunshine into your home not only warms your rooms it also warms YOU and helps beat the winter blues.
Are drafts creeping in through thresholds? Seal gaps and help keep out the drafts!! There are several ways to keep the cold out by simply using draft protectors at your thresholds. You can be creative too and add to your home décor!
Did you know that you can save as much as 10% per year but turning your thermostat back while you are away from home? Just 10 degrees can save you on energy costs during the season!! You may also install a programmable thermostat that can be set while you are away. CALL MAUGER & CO TODAY!!
Have you had your system tune up lately?? Annual maintenance and servicing on your heating and cooling system will not only help the system operate effectively during the season it can also save you on costly repairs and afterhours service calls! We are here when you need us 24 hours a day 7 days a week, however, a simple maintenance during the season can help reduce service calls and helps you weather the storm.
A little insulation goes a long way… We bundle up during the cold months..make sure your home has the proper insulation to keep the cold out in the winter and the heat out in the summer.
Still have that air conditioning in the window?? TAKE IT OUT… Heat may be escaping from your windows if you leave an air conditioner in after the cooling season. If the unit is in a wall, cover it up to help minimize heat loss.
Check your appliances… if your refrigerator or freezer is too cold you may be wasting energy! Also, decide what you want BEFORE opening up the refrigerator… leaving the door open for extended periods allows energy to ESCAPE!
Even in the summer months you can SAVE… Keep blinds closed during the hottest time of the day. You can also move furniture away from air conditioning (and heating) vents…let the air FLOW. Don’t forget to clean and change your air conditioning filters! Keeping them free of dirt and dust will keep your family breathing better during the season.
If you are looking to upgrade your system, what should you ask the potential contractor?
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Are you state registered?
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Do you offer high efficiency equipment (Energy Star rated)?
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Do you offer equipment that is tax credit elibible?
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Will you conduct calculations to properly size the equipment that I need?
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Will you show me how to change the air filters and advise as to how often I need to have my new HVAC unit serviced?
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Will you ensure all operating componets of my new HVAC system are working properly upon installation?
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Will you check my existing ductwork to make sure it is compatible and/or advise me of any existing damage and/or make repairs or offer replacement costs?
Mauger & Co answers YES to each of the above questions!!