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Blog :: Energy Savings
Upgrade HVAC Equipment and Qualify for Energy Tax Credits
by Greg Leisgang on April 11, 2013
If your house is like many homes in the greater Cincinnati area, there are several projects you could do to reduce your utility bills. Fortunately, 2013 is a good year to get started. The federal legislation to avoid the "fiscal cliff" extended the energy tax credits that originally expired in 2011 to the end of 2013.… read more »
Compare Home Insulation Options: Cellulose or Fiberglass
by Greg Leisgang on April 4, 2013
Insulation in the attic is a crucial feature of an energy-efficient home. The two most common types of insulation used in the attic are cellulose and fiberglass. Here are some important facts about these two types of insulation that will help you compare home insulation options.… read more »
Learn the Value of HVAC Tax Credits
by Greg Leisgang on February 26, 2013
In January 2013, Congress approved a bill to reinstate tax credits for certain small businesses. These tax breaks originally expired in 2011; however, they're now valid until December 31, 2013. The bill is of particular interest to homeowners, as HVAC tax credits are now available for the installation of qualified energy-efficient appliances.… read more »
Is High-Efficiency Air Conditioning Worth The Investment? Only If You Want To Hold Onto More Dollars
by Greg Leisgang on June 7, 2012
As you review the glossy brochures and compare prices, it’s perfectly understandable that you might wonder: Is high-efficiency air conditioning worth the investment? The short answer? Yes -- if, that is, you want to hold onto more dollars.… read more »
Need To Upgrade Heating Equipment? A Central A/C System Will Influence Your Choice
by Greg Leisgang on May 17, 2012
A heating system is a long-term investment. You need to do all your homework to ensure that you have the right unit for your home. It will serve you for many years. Of course you'll look for an energy-efficient system, one with a high AFUE rating and the Energy Star label… read more »
Upgrade Air Filters Using MERV Ratings For Optimal Results
by Greg Leisgang on April 30, 2012
The efficiency of your air filter for capturing airborne particles is important to your health, comfort, and for the efficient operation of your heating and cooling system. Use MERV ratings when you're upgrading your filter to ensure your home circulates clean air both this season and all year long.… read more »
A Homeowner's Complete Guide To HVAC Efficiency Ratings
by Greg Leisgang on April 12, 2012
When selecting HVAC equipment, especially whole-house equipment such as air conditioners, heat pumps and furnaces, you'll often find a huge variation in price among models and brands. So how can you tell what you are getting for your money or if the extra cost will reap some benefit? Understanding HVAC efficiency ratings can help.… read more »
7 Tips To Improving Home Energy Efficiency -- Year-Round
by Greg Leisgang on March 27, 2012
Taken individually or together, these tips will help increase home energy efficiency:… read more »
Dual-Fuel Systems: The Breakthrough Technology That Smashes Preconceived Notions About Single-Source Heating Systems
by Greg Leisgang on February 23, 2012
Dual-fuel systems most often combine an electric heat pump with a furnace fueled by oil or gas as backup. Heat pumps are incredibly energy efficient because they absorb heat from where it's not needed and transfer it to where it is needed. This is much more efficient than generating heat from fuel, like a traditional furnace, and requiring separate air-conditioning equipment to provide cooling to your home, as in a standard home-comfort system.… read more »
Understand These Three Home Heating Systems To Increase Energy Savings
by Greg Leisgang on December 20, 2011
Your home heating systems contain three components: The furnace, ductwork and thermostat. These three components work together to keep your home warm during the winter. The key to energy efficiency and cost savings at home is understanding how the systems work, and implementing small changes that will greatly affect your energy consumption.… read more »
With This Buyer's Guide, You Can Select A Furnace That Is Consistent With The Special Heating Demands Of Your Home
by Greg Leisgang on October 20, 2011
Just like you, your home is unique. It may look like a dozen other homes in the greater Cincinnati area, but it is one-of-a-kind. Therefore, your home should be heated based on its unique needs. Blindly making a new furnace purchase can be a disservice to your wallet and your family.… read more »
Evaluate Your Home's Energy Efficiency To Make Changes That Impact Your Checking Account
by Greg Leisgang on September 29, 2011
When you invest in home improvements, you want to be sure you are getting the most value for your money and implementing changes that will make a measurable difference, especially when it comes to energy efficiency. Before you make decisions about which home improvements to do, consider getting an energy evaluation so you will be fully informed.… read more »
Show Energy Loss That You're The Boss: Steps To Seal Ductwork
by Greg Leisgang on September 20, 2011
Your home's ductwork plays a huge role in determining the level of comfort you feel in your home on a regular basis. Your HVAC system can only work as well as your ductwork, no matter how efficient it is intended to be.… read more »
Air Leaks Mean Big Energy Losses
by Greg Leisgang on September 8, 2011
Air leaks are one of the great thieves of indoor conditioned air. And they should be addressed because air leaks add to energy costs. We all know that well-caulked windows and weatherstripping around doors reduce leaks. But there are some other areas that homeowners can neglect when it comes to outside air invading our homes.… read more »
Are Heating And Cooling Needs Established By Degree Days? Find Out How To Assess Efficiency
by Greg Leisgang on August 29, 2011
During a hot Cincinnati summer, your air-conditioning system has to work harder on days when the average temperature is higher. The same is true in winter; the colder it is outside, the longer your heating system has to run to achieve the desired temperature inside your home. The difference between the average outdoor temperature and the desired indoor temperature is used to calculate degree days.… read more »
Going Out Of Town? Tips To Follow When You're Away
by Greg Leisgang on August 25, 2011
Are you planning to escape Cincinnati for one last summer getaway? There are a lot of preparation activities you need to do before you go, but have you thought about your heating and cooling system?… read more »
Landscaping Significantly Affects Energy Savings: Don't Let The Planting Season Pass You By
by Greg Leisgang on August 17, 2011
If you have noticed higher cooling bills this summer, start thinking about how you can improve energy savings for next year. One way to cut down on cooling costs is to invest in smart landscaping practices. Some strategic planting this fall could help help you generate energy savings for next summer and many years to come.… read more »
Summer Is In High Gear: Use These Operational Tips To Boost Your Air-Conditioning System
by Greg Leisgang on August 12, 2011
It's summertime in Cincinnati! As much as you may be enjoying the warmer temperatures, you are probably not enjoying the higher utility bill that comes with running your air conditioning system more frequently. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help keep costs low, without sacrificing home comfort.… read more »
Three Reasons That Show Why You Should Choose Energy Star Products
by Greg Leisgang on August 10, 2011
You have a lot of choices when it comes to buying new heating and cooling equipment. You want to purchase a system that will operate efficiently, last a long time, and provide perfect home comfort. This is why the Energy Star label is so important.… read more »
