This is why it’s so important to schedule regular tune ups of your HVAC system. To keep your system running at peak efficiency, schedule a tune up of your cooling system in the spring and your heating system in the fall. Consider these appointments an investment in your HVAC equipment that will pay off with improved efficiency and a longer life for your heating and cooling system.

What to expect during the tune up

Remember, proper maintenance by a qualified technician is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent problems with your HVAC equipment. Here’s an overview of what your technician will do during your appointment:

• Check your thermostat settings to ensure that your heating and cooling system turns on and off at the programmed temperatures.

• Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause your system to operate unsafely and reduce the life of major components.

• Lubricate moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increase the amount of electricity you use. Lack of lubrication can also cause equipment to wear out more quickly, requiring more frequent repairs or replacements.

• Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner or heat pump (when in cooling mode). If plugged, the drain can cause water damage in the house, affect indoor humidity levels and breed bacteria and mold.

• Check system controls to ensure proper and safe operation. Your technician will check the starting cycle of the equipment to ensure the system starts, operates and shuts off properly.

• Inspect, clean or change the air filter in your central air conditioner or heat pump. Your technician can show you how to do this yourself. Depending on your system, your filter may be located in the duct system rather than the heating and cooling equipment itself.

In addition, your technician will perform system-specific maintenance (heating or cooling) depending on the time of year and which system is being serviced.  

Minimal effort, maximum results

In addition to scheduling HVAC maintenance tune ups, don’t forget to change your air filter regularly — at least once every three months. It's a simple, easy way for you to prolong the life of your HVAC equipment. A clean filter will prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system, which can lead to expensive maintenance and even early system failure. Don’t let that happen to you. Check your filter every month, especially during the summer and winter months, when use tends to be heavier. A few minutes of your time every month will pay off in a well-maintained system that should function efficiently for years.

Ready to schedule your HVAC tune up? You may qualify for up to a $60 rebate on the tune up of an existing central air conditioner, heat pump or geothermal system. Visit http://energysavepa-home.com/hvac/residential-hvac  or call 1-866-498-1409 to learn more!

Understanding the ins and outs of HVAC equipment can be complicated. Following is a basic overview of what you will want to keep in mind while choosing and installing new HVAC equipment, with a focus on the spring and summer months.

Replacing your central air conditioner

Most residential central air conditioners are called “split systems” because they have an outdoor component with a condenser and compressor and an indoor component with an evaporator coil. Make sure you replace both of these units at the same time — installing a new outdoor unit without replacing the indoor unit is likely to result in low efficiency and may lead to premature failure of the system.

Also, look for an ENERGY STAR^® certified central air conditioner when it’s time to upgrade. These systems have higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings than today’s standard models. SEER is the most commonly used measurement of efficiency for air conditioners, measuring how efficiently a cooling system will operate over an entire season.

The size of your equipment: bigger is not always better

Installing properly sized equipment for your home is essential to getting the best performance and maintaining a comfortable environment. Some homeowners assume that “bigger is better” when purchasing new heating and cooling equipment. In reality, a system that’s too large won’t keep your home comfortable because of frequent “on/off” cycling. Incorrect sizing can also put stress on system components and shorten the life of the equipment.

Proper installation is key

Replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with new, energy-efficient models is a great start. But to ensure that you get the best performance, the new equipment must be properly installed. In fact, improper installation can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 30 percent — costing you more on your utility bills and possibly shortening the equipment’s life.

Make sure to ask your contractor if his work meets ENERGY STAR Quality Installation Guidelines. A contractor who follows these guidelines will ensure that you purchase the proper size of equipment and that your installation results in the best performance possible.

Want to learn more? Check out A Guide to Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling from ENERGY STAR. This comprehensive guide covers everything from how to use a programmable thermostat properly to finding and working with a heating and cooling contractor.   

Ready to upgrade? You may qualify for rebates on the purchase and/or installation of a new HVAC system. Visit http://energysavepa-home.com/hvac/residential-hvac  or call 1-866-498-1409 to learn more about the available rebate programs.

Like standard air-source heat pumps, mini-splits have two main components — an outdoor compressor/condenser and an indoor air-handling unit. Many models can have up to four indoor air-handling units (for four zones or rooms) connected to one outdoor unit. Since each zone has its own thermostat, you can save energy and money by only conditioning occupied spaces.

Easy installation

Many homeowners balk at the thought of installing a traditional ducted HVAC system, a process that can disrupt home life for weeks. Ductless systems, on the other hand, are far less invasive to install and can be up and running in as little as one day.

Cost effective

Ductless systems operate on less power than traditional forced-air systems, resulting in reduced utility costs. And since mini splits allow the creation of “zones” in living spaces, homeowners no longer have to pay to heat or cool rooms that aren’t occupied.

Energy efficient

Since mini splits have no ducts, they avoid the energy losses associated with the ductwork of central forced air systems. Duct losses can account for more than 30 percent of energy consumption* for space conditioning, especially if the ducts are in an unconditioned space such as an attic.

Flexible and Discreet

Compared to other add-on HVAC systems, mini splits are versatile and relatively inconspicuous. Indoor air handlers can be suspended from a ceiling, hung on the wall or placed on the floor.

Ways you can save

We want to reward you for making smart, energy-efficient home improvements. That’s why Pennsylvania residential customers of Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power can save energy and money with rebates on heating solutions for their homes, including up to $200 on ductless mini-split heat pumps! Learn more and take the first step to a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.

* http://energy.gov/energysaver/ductless-mini-split-heat-pumps

How do they work?

A typical geothermal heat pump consists of a ground loop system filled with a water solution, a heat exchanger and ductwork into the home. The system is designed for year-round use, providing heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.

Winter

• Heat from the ground is absorbed by the water solution as it circulates through pipes in the ground.

• The warmed water is carried into the home where a water-to-air heat exchanger concentrates the thermal energy and transfers it to the air in a conventional ductwork system, which is circulated to heat the home.

Summer

• The winter process is reversed—excess heat is transferred into the ground to cool the home.

Environmental Benefits and Sustainability

In addition to the unmatched energy efficiency of geothermal heat pumps, these systems are also notable for being environmentally friendly. Since geothermal heat pump systems do not burn fossil fuels for heat production, they generate far fewer greenhouse gas emissions than a conventional furnace. They also promote better air quality because they produce no carbon monoxide emissions.

Incentives to help you save

The installation of a geothermal heat pump is an environmentally and economically smart investment that can save energy and money and increase the value of your home. To help you save, FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities offer a $600 rebate on the installation of an ENERGY STAR®-certified geothermal heat pump. Learn more and take the next step in creating a more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly home!

This climate-controlled convenience is made possible by packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs). While PTACs are most commonly found in hotels, they are also an excellent choice for heating and cooling your home.

PTAC Overview

PTACs are single, commercial grade, self-contained units installed through a wall. With an average width of 42 inches, PTACs are larger than a typical through-the-wall air conditioner. Some PTACs include an optional heat pump component, as well.

How are PTACs better than a window AC?

Although PTACs are generally more expensive than window air conditioners, you can save on energy costs if you plan to both cool and heat a room using your PTAC unit.

Is a PTAC right for me?

PTACs can be an affordable, reliable and energy-efficient HVAC solution for “non-ducted” homes in moderate climates. Unlike central air conditioning systems that heat or cool an entire house, PTAC units are room-specific, meaning you don’t need to waste energy and money cooling unoccupied rooms.

Ways to save

Packaged terminal air conditioners are a convenient, energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home. Ready to upgrade? We offer Pennsylvania residential customers of Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power a $75 rebate on the installation of a packaged terminal air conditioner and a $150 rebate on the installation of a packaged terminal heat pump. Learn more and take the next step to a more comfortable, energy-efficient home!

Figuring out which energy-efficient improvements to make in your home can seem overwhelming. Luckily, the Residential Energy Audit Program has been custom-designed to help you identify and implement improvements that can help reduce energy costs while increasing the comfort and efficiency of your home.

When you participate in this program, you will learn how your home measures up in terms of air leakage, proper insulation and heating and cooling system operations. During your audit, a BPI-certified auditor will evaluate your heating and cooling system, insulation and windows, and conduct a blower door test to detect air leaks that could be costing you money. Your auditor may also install up to $200 worth of energy-saving products, including:

• CFL and LED bulbs
• LED nightlights
• Smart power strips
• Furnace whistle
• Kitchen and bathroom faucet aerators*
• Energy-efficient showerheads*
• Pipe insulation*

*Electric water heating customers only

Upon completion of the audit, you may be eligible to receive a rebate up to $250, and earn additional rebates based on the energy-savings achieved as a result of audit-recommended upgrades.

Keep it simple: low-cost, DIY tips for staying cool this summer

Even if a Residential Energy Audit isn’t in your budget this season, there are plenty of actions you can take to save energy and money during the hot summer months. Try these simple tips to start saving today:

• Seal your air ducts. As much as 20 percent of the air moving through your home’s duct system is lost due to leaks and poor connections. Insulate all the ducts you can access (such as those in attics, crawl spaces, unfinished basements and garages) using mastic sealant or metal tape.
• Make sure that connections at vents and registers are well-sealed where they meet floors, walls and ceilings. These are common locations to find leaks and disconnected ductwork.
• Consider hiring a contractor to seal and insulate the ducts you can’t reach yourself. Visit www.energystar.gov/homeimprovement to learn about how to choose the right contractor.
• Add insulation to your attic to keep cool air in. If every U.S. household did this, Americans would collectively save more than $1.8 billion* in yearly energy costs.

*Source: energystar.gov

Remember, making improvements such as the ones listed above will pay off in the months to come by helping prepare your home to be more energy efficient during the cooler months as well. Learn more about ways to stay cool and save money this summer, and enjoy the long-term savings on your energy bills. And if you’re ready to schedule your Residential Energy Audit, visit http://energysavepa-home.com/residential-energy-audit to take the next step!

• Contractors who perform work under this program are not affiliated with FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities or Honeywell International Inc., and neither FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities nor Honeywell International Inc. make any promise, warranty or representation regarding work performed by such contractors.
• The costs of energy efficiency programs are recovered through customer rates in accordance with Pennsylvania Act 129 of 2008. For a complete list of commercial, industrial, residential and low-income energy efficiency programs, please visit energysavePA.com.

What happens during a home energy audit?

Your energy auditor will work with you one-on-one to identify energy-saving upgrades. The auditor will:

• Evaluate your home’s heating and cooling system, insulation, windows, appliances and lighting
• Conduct a blower door test to detect air leaks that could be costing you money
• Install a variety of energy-saving products (up to a $200 value), such as CFL and LED bulbs, an LED nightlight, a furnace whistle and a smart power strip. You may also receive kitchen and bathroom faucet aerators, an energy-efficient showerhead and water heater pipe insulation*

What’s next?

After the audit, your energy auditor will provide you with a comprehensive report, review the findings and give you a list of recommended improvements you can make in your home to increase its energy efficiency. A variety of rebates are available for energy-efficient upgrades, such as:

• Wall insulation
• Attic insulation
• HVAC equipment replacement
• Air sealing
• Duct sealing
• ENERGY STAR® qualified window replacements

Ready to get started? Find a BPI-certified auditor in your area and schedule an appointment for an audit. Upon completion of your energy audit, you may receive up to a $250 rebate (audits cost a maximum of $350). Don’t spend another winter shivering in a drafty house — schedule your audit today.

*These three products are installed only in homes with electric water heater.

• Drafts can waste up to 30 percent of your home energy use. Seal drafts and reduce air flow by installing storm doors and windows — you’ll reduce energy costs and improve the comfort of your home. Inexpensive window insulation kits and door draft stoppers provide another buffer against cold drafts.
• Manage your heating costs by installing a programmable thermostat. Follow ENERGY STAR^®’s recommended settings for day and night and you can save about $180 a year.
• Turn down your water heater — lowering the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (or lower) can reduce your water heating costs up to 10 percent. Rebates are also available from FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania utilities.
• Switch to LED holiday lights. These energy-efficient lights use up to 65 percent less energy than traditional holiday lights, are cool to the touch and are incredibly durable. Instant discounts on LED and CFL bulbs are available from FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania utilities.
• Consider upgrading your appliances before the first cold snap. Look for the ENERGY STAR^® label — these appliances use about 10 to 20 percent less energy than standard models, adding up to hundreds of dollars in energy-savings over the life of the product. Rebates are also available from FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania utilities.

FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities are here to help you take some of these simple steps to prepare your home for winter. In addition to your own winterizing, a home energy audit is a great way to learn where your home is losing energy and what you can do to remedy the situation. Click here to get started today!

Source: energystar.gov

The results of the program have been impressive so far. Over the past two decades, families and businesses have saved more than $239 billion on utility bills and prevented more than 1.9 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Looking at the individual impact of the program, you could save anywhere from 10 to 50 percent of your home energy usage and costs when you use ENERGY STAR appliances, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

That said, you might not have the resources to replace all your appliances at once. Let’s take a look at a few different appliance categories and the benefits you could realize by upgrading to ENERGY STAR.

Clothes Washers

Is your washing machine over 15 years old? Washing machines that were manufactured before 1998 are significantly less efficient than newer models, costing consumers $2.8 billion every year in energy and water. With the average American family washing about 300 loads of laundry each year, a new ENERGY STAR washer could help you reduce your energy and water costs significantly. In fact, washing machines that are ENERGY STAR-certified use about 25 percent less energy and 40 percent less water than non-certified models.

Clothes Dryers

More than 80 percent of American homes have a clothes dryer, so the savings opportunity is huge. ENERGY STAR-certified dryers use 20 percent less energy than conventional models without sacrificing features or performance. Plus many new dryers have innovative energy-saving technologies, such as moisture sensors that detect when clothes are dry and automatically shut the dryer off. For even more savings, consider ENERGY STAR-certified heat pump dryers - they can save 20 - 60 percent more than conventional clothes dryers. Consumers with high clothes dryer usage and high electricity rates have the potential for large energy and cost savings.

Refrigerators

Thanks to recent improvements in insulation and compressors, today’s refrigerators are much more efficient than older models. ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerators are required to use about 20 percent less energy than non-certified models. By recycling your old refrigerator and replacing it with a new ENERGY STAR refrigerator, you can save between $150 and $1,100 on energy costs over the lifetime of the appliance.

Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers are often out of sight, and therefore out of mind. But when you replace your conventional unit with an ENERGY STAR-certified one, you’ll use 15 percent less energy while removing the same amount of moisture. In fact, the annual energy saved by an ENERGY STAR-certified dehumidifier could power your ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator for three months!

Clearly, ENERGY STAR appliances are a great way to save on your utility bills while conserving energy. Plus, you might qualify for special rebates when you purchase ENERGY STAR-certified appliances. Click here to learn more about potential rebates.

Source: energystar.gov