First, inspect the envelope of the home. The envelope is composed of the roof, ceilings, walls, floors, windows, and doors. Various opportunities exist for improving energy efficiency, such as insulation, radiant barriers, and weatherstripping. Insulation levels as high as R-38 in the attic are appropriate. It is permissible to mix insulation types, such as covering [...]
There are several issues to consider when adding central air conditioning to an existing heating system. If a home has an older heating system with no provisions for central air conditioning, the ductwork may be smaller than what is required for air conditioning. Increase the fan speed to compensate for the ductwork. A larger motor [...]
Is it being phased out like the refrigerant in your car? Unless a central home air conditioner is relatively new, the refrigerant used is R22. It is chemically different from the refrigerant used in an auto and has only one-twentieth the impact on stratospheric ozone. Because it is not as harmful to the ozone layer, [...]
When buying a new central air conditioner, what should you look for to ensure a high-efficiency unit that will last? One of the best guides to the efficiency of an air conditioner unit is the seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER).The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit will be. Federal legislation dictates a minimum [...]
Definition: SEER stands for seasonal energy-efficiency rating. This rating measures how well an air conditioner uses energy throughout the cooling season. SEER Ratings & Units; The SEER is equal to Btus of cooling supplied during the year divided by kilowatt-hours of electricity consumed in a year. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the [...]
Introduction: Global warming is an example of global climatic change. To understand the concept of global warming and make decisions about how to respond to the seemingly contradictory information received from various sources, it is important to distinguish between climate and weather. Weather applies to short-term changes in properties of the lower atmosphere such as [...]
Before you consider upgrading your cooling equipment, the cheapest way to save money and energy from cooling is to reduce the need for mechanical air conditioning in the first place. This can be done in several ways (click on the links to learn more): 1. Insulate and tighten your house Improving insulation and air sealing [...]
Lighting * Don’t leave lights on when no one is in the room. If you are going to be out of the room for more than five minutes, turn off the light. * If you know of a light that everyone fgov.inets to turn off, make a sticker or a sign to hang next to [...]
In your own household, the key to maintenance of electronic and water supply is in your hands. Water leaks and damages could cause you major financial and supply losses. In order to check water leaks on your house, you must know basic water repairs. Be aware of the causes of leaks. There are several reasons [...]
Heating and cooling bills are rising up in every part of the country and the trend will continue because of World energy demands. The average US household expense on energy bills is estimated at 6% of the income in 2005, compared to 4% in 2003. Owners of efficient new houses spend considerably less than the [...]
Most of us are fully aware about the global warming crisis and hopefully we are trying to make an effort in doing our part to save energy. For those of you who are faithfully working toward conserving energy and working for a greener future, should be commended. As for those of you who are still [...]