New Years Resolutions for Your Home

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New Years Resolutions for Your Home

People commonly make New Year’s resolutions for things that concern their personal lives. This year, however, you might want to consider making resolutions that involve keeping your home a safe and enjoyable place from the outside world.

Here are some HVAC resolutions you can make to ensure your system will not let you down this year:

Clean out dryer lint.

If you notice that it takes a longer time than normal for loads to dry in your clothes dryer, then it might be high time to clean out the vent. First, you should detach the duct from behind the unit and then push a plumbing snake through your dryer vent from outside. Then, tie a rag securely to the snake end. Afterwards, pull the cloth and snake through a couple of times and clean your vent. This will not only save energy but it will also prevent a fire as well.

Improve the efficiency of your hot water system.

Keep in mind that old tap water can be dangerous. Did you know that water heaters set too high can send thousands to hospitals each year with burns? Most of them are children. Safety experts recommend a setting of 120 degrees F but finding that setting is not that easy since most dials are not labeled with numbers. What you can do is run hot water at the tap closest to the water heater for at least three minutes. Fill a glass then check the temperature. If the water is above 120 degrees, adjust the dial, wait for three hours then check again. Repeat this procedure until you reach the right temperature.

Upgrade or replace windows.

If you have old windows that are old and leaky, then it may be high time to replace them with newer energy-efficient models. You can also boost their efficiency with weather stripping and storm windows. Replacing windows can result in cost savings, but the larger savings can be associated with replacing single-glazed windows.

Replace an older furnace with a high-efficiency system.

If your furnace was built before 1992, it probably wastes about 35% of the fuel it uses – and it is probably near the end of its service life. Early replacement with a condensing furnace with annual efficiency of at least 90% is your best option. You may save as much as 27% on your heating bill. If your furnace was installed after 1991, then it probably has an annual fuel utilization efficiency rating of 80%, so the savings from replacement is smaller – but at least 11% if the unit is working perfectly.

If you need help with your furnaces and hot water systems, we are here to help you. Let us improve your home for 2022 together! Give us a call today.