Frequenty Asked Questions
Q: How can we improve the efficiency of our existing heating and cooling system without replacing the furnace or the air conditioner?
A: First and foremost is MAINTENANCE. Your equipment should be cleaned and serviced regularly by a licensed professional. Studies have shown that lack of proper maintenance can reduce equipment efficiency by 5-10%.
Don't skimp on your air filter. Most standard filters today need to be replaced at least every 90 days. Consider installing a high efficiency air cleaner to keep your air and equipment clean.
When servicing your air conditioner, our technician will adjust the refrigerant level to the manufacturer's specifications. Keep in mind that an over-charged unit is just as bad as an under-charged unit when it comes to energy consumption.
When servicing your furnace, the burners should be cleaned for maximum performance, as well as adjusting the gas pressure, and cleaning the blower wheel to keep the unit operating efficiently.
Run your indoor blower continuously. This will ensure that the air in your home is being constantly circulated to reduce hot and cold spots, while wringing out every dollar of heating or cooling your system can produce.
Consider a programmable thermostat to set back the temperature while you are away or sleeping. Keep in mind though; short (less than 8 hours) or severe (more than 5°-10°) set back periods won't save much energy.
Q: We are planning to replace our air conditioning unit this season; what advice can you give me?
A: Replacing your heating or cooling system is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. The life expectancy of an air conditioning system in our area is normally 15 years or more. That means your utility company will be sending you a bill for its energy consumption for the next 15 years. Remember to consider a higher efficiency unit to reduce energy costs. Also, don't base your decision solely on price - choose quality equipment and an installing contractor that will provide good customer service. Keep in mind that with the new higher efficiency units it is important that the system is sized properly so you don't end up with a house that might be cool, but has high humidity. Contact Hovland's - a reputable contractor you can trust to ensure a successful installation that will provide years of comfort and the best overall value.
Q: Should I cover my outdoor unit in the fall and winter?
A: Covering the unit is not necessary, especially if you have a heat pump that runs all year long. In fact, covering an entire unit may actually trap moisture inside the unit, causing damage to components.
Q: Should I set my thermostat at a constant temperature during the summer months or should I turn it off while we are away and then turn it on when we return home?
A: During the summer months we normally recommend you set your thermostat back during the day when you are not home. However, if you adjust your desired temperature by more than five to ten degrees your equipment will have to work extra hard to recover once you return home. As a result, energy savings may be minimal and this is much harder on your equipment. Another recommendation would be to install a programmable thermostat that will automatically adjust the setting for you once it is programmed.
