Multiple AC Repairs in Greensboro, NC? It May Be Time for a Replacement

AC Repairs in GreensboroIf you have seen your AC repairman more often than your neighbors recently, it may be time for a replacement. While repairs on your cooling system can help prolong its service life, repeat repairs for the same issues may be an indication that it is time for a replacement. Berico will assist you with selecting the best Greensboro air conditioning replacement by taking into consideration your house size, floor plan, existing ductwork, and other factors to ensure you get the most efficient system for your home.

New Air Conditioners Are Quieter and More Efficient

When you need to find a new air conditioner, there are many brands and models available today that have high energy efficiency and quieter functioning. Technicians at Berico Heating and Air Conditioning will help narrow your choices based on your specific needs. According to Consumer Research, here are a few tips to consider when selecting a new AC system:

  • High efficiency. An Energy Star qualified air conditioner will have a SEER of at least 14.5 and an EER of at least 12, while the most efficient central air conditioner will perform even better.
  • Good value. A high-efficiency central air conditioner can seem expensive to operate in the beginning, but can be less costly in the long run, especially compared to older, less-efficient models. Government and utility company rebates are often available for models that meet high Energy Star standards or even higher CEE ones. Check these out before you buy as the savings can be substantial.
  • A solid warranty. For quality systems, 10 years is now the norm, though better systems have stronger warranties still. Some models offer lifetime coverage on the compressor; a significant consideration since that’s the most important — and costliest — part of a central air-conditioner system.
  • Quiet operation. All central air conditioners are relatively quiet inside the home, but that doesn’t meant they aren’t stirring up a racket outside. If you have neighbors nearby, or like to sit outside even when the system is running, a quieter system will be appreciated by all.
  • Quality installers. Experts say that when you get to the bottom line, there isn’t a whole lot separating the highest quality central air conditioner systems from the lowest. However, there is a big gulf between the highest quality installers and those that are less-qualified — and that’s the reason behind wide swings in customer satisfaction between brands; the best brands are very picky about who they let represent them in the field. Because of that, it might be a good idea to find the top installers servicing your area, and look then to the brands they represent when narrowing down your selections.”

Expert AC Installation with Proven Results

Berico is proud to be one of the top AC installers servicing Greensboro and surrounding areas. When you need a system replacement, and you want excellent service and outstanding value, contact Berico today. Our trained and certified technicians will help you find an air conditioning system that meets all of your needs and provides savings on utility bills. Call us at 336-313-0466 for all of your HVAC system service needs.

(Source: How to Buy a Central Air Conditioner, www.consumersearch.com, June 2015)

Propane Delivery in Eden, NC is Convenient and Reliable

Propane Delivery in EdenWhen choosing a propane supplier, you want the right partner. For propane delivery in Eden, NC, consider the advantages of a local all-inclusive home comfort company. Carolina Fuels can deliver your propane, repair your heat and air conditioning, install new HVAC systems, and perform regular maintenance on your system. One reliable company that makes it more convenient for you to deal with and can meet all your heating and cooling needs.

Free to Switch Propane Suppliers

If you already have a propane supplier, switching to Carolina Fuels is free and easy. Carolina Fuels will swap your old tank for a new one at no charge when you sign up for propane delivery. When you sign up for a service plan you also receive a discount on propane. Service plans include maintenance on your heat and air conditioning as well, keeping your system running smoothly all year long.

Long Term Savings on Home Heating Costs

When compared to other propane suppliers, customers of Carolina Fuels save an average of $150 a year. A local propane supplier is more affordable and offers better customer service than a large nationwide supplier. And Carolina Fuels not only delivers propane, but offers service as well, saving you money on repairs and maintenance.

Additional Savings

Carolina Fuels offers referral credits. When you recommend Carolina Fuels to someone else, you receive credit toward your delivery and service when they sign up.

New to Propane Heat for Your Home

If you are not currently using propane, there are definite benefits to switching. If your home is equipped with a heat pump, switching to a propane furnace will give your home a warmer, longer lasting heat in colder weather. Heat pumps do a better job of cooling than heating. People using heat pumps often find that their home doesn’t feel warm enough when the temperature drops. Propane heat makes your home warm and cozy in even the coldest temperatures. Since heat pumps use electricity, switching to propane lowers your electric bill.

Efficiency of Propane as a Heating Fuel

Propane is already an efficient energy source, but there are ways to make it even more efficient. Make sure your home is well insulated and sealed, especially around windows and doors. Consider using propane for your water heater too and use an insulating blanket around it. Propane is a very affordable heat source when used efficiently.

Propane Delivery for Eden, NC

Carolina Fuels has been providing folks with propane delivery in Eden, NC and the surrounding area since 1924. Switching to Carolina Fuels for propane delivery is free and easy. Visit http://www.berico.com/staging/service-plans/ to sign up for a free estimate or a propane delivery plan.

For information on using propane more efficiently, visit http://homeguides.sfgate.com/heat-home-efficiently-propane-39940.html

Furnace Repairs in Greensboro, NC: Getting Set for the Cold Weather

furnacetuneupAll equipment benefits from annual maintenance and inspections to keep it running smoothly and to prevent expensive repairs – your furnace is no different. Annual service, which is recommended in the fall, includes running diagnostic tests to ensure all the components of your furnace are running smoothly, conducting safety inspections including testing for carbon monoxide, and checking the condition of all mechanical and electrical components to ensure they are working properly.

Another important reason to have annual maintenance check is duct work. Replacing duct work is expensive and with the annual maintenance technicians provide inspection of the duct work throughout your home. Duct work can accumulate debris, which can restrict airflow or cause excess allergens to be distributed throughout your home. Additionally, since most ductwork is located under the house, inspection is required to ensure there are no tears or damage that would cause airflow to be reduced.

In addition to the annual maintenance performed by the technicians, there are some things you can do on your own to ensure your furnace is working as efficiently as possible. Your Berico technician can tell you how often you should replace your air filters. A dirty filter can cause your furnace unit to work harder, which means it will take longer to heat your home and places more strain on the unit to heat your home. Of course, if your unit is working harder, then your energy costs increases, as well.

Don’t forget about the thermostat. The thermostat tells your furnace or HVAC unit how much heat it should be providing. A faulty thermostat can result in either too much heat or not enough heat in your home. While some units may need to be replaced, sometimes dust can cause the thermostats to malfunction, as well. Cleaning the thermostat is pretty easy. Simply use a small paintbrush to gently wipe off any dust or debris that has accumulated on the thermostat components.

For your annual maintenance and furnace repairs in Greensboro NC, Berico Fuels in Greensboro, NC offers a Silver Plan for your annual maintenance needs. The Silver Plan include 20% off all repairs and diagnostic fees, priority service for annual contract holders, no after-hours charges and $50 Bonus Bucks – Loyalty Credit.

Customers may order filters at filterfetch.com and use the Berico code of C4Q2 for free shipping and discounted pricing.

Remember, fall is the best time to have your furnace in Greensboro checked to ensure that you stay warm and cozy this winter! Call us today at 336-273-8663.

Photo Credit: farmersalmanac.com

Use Your Burlington Air Conditioner at Night to Help With Fall Allergies

Burlington Air ConditionerFall can be the worst time of year for people with allergies. When the cooler weather arrives, and the leaves start to change, weeds and other plants release pollen in the air and mold can breed under the fallen leaves. This can trigger fall allergies for some 40 million Americans, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. There are some great tips to help allergy sufferers this fall season and one of them is to use your Burlington air conditioner, especially at night. It’s important to keep your bedroom clean and free of allergens to reduce symptoms. To keep your AC running at peak efficiency and providing clean and cool air, Alamance Oil has qualified technicians to examine your unit for repairs, or evaluate its current condition to see if a replacement is needed. The fall is also a great time to replace your air conditioning system with a newer, high-efficiency model as prices are the best for purchasing new HVAC systems in the fall and winter.

Fall Allergy Symptoms Can Be Soothed by Running Your AC System

One way to help keep allergens from circulating in your home is to change your air filter often. A clean air filter will not only help your AC system work better, but it will also do a better job of filtering the pollen, dust, and even mold spores that can enter your home. Your Burlington air conditioner’s air filter plays a crucial role in helping decrease allergy symptoms this fall. Here are a few other tips for surviving the fall allergy season in the South provided by www.everydayhealth.com:

  • Buy a dehumidifier. You may have heard that humidifiers can help with breathing, but dehumidifiers may actually be better if you are sensitive to dust or mold. “Dust mites and molds flourish in a humid environment,” says Frederick M. Schaffer, MD, clinical associate professor of allergy and immunology at the Medical University of South Carolina. Use a dehumidifier to help reduce your indoor allergy symptoms.
  • Stay clean. One of the best ways to minimize your allergen exposure is to wash pollens off your skin and your hair as soon as possible after spending time outside, says Dr. Schaffer. You should also change shoes before entering the house and change clothes inside the front doorway to reduce the amount of pollen and other allergens you may be bringing into the house.
  • Check pollen levels. If your area is designated a high pollen zone, it’s best to avoid going outdoors. Keep your activities inside for a few days instead, if possible, to minimize your exposure to allergens during those days.
  • Avoid hanging clothes outdoors to dry. Laundry is a magnet for pollen that will eventually end up indoors and on you, via clothing and bedding, says Schaffer.
  • Buy hypoallergenic filters. “Change air conditioner filters monthly, using HEPA filters,” Schaffer says. “Place the used filter in a plastic garbage bag, then dispose of the filter [within the plastic bag] outdoors. This will limit accidental ‘pollen spills’ indoors.”
  • Use an air conditioner at night. It’s where you spend eight or more hours each night, so it’s critical to keep your bedroom clean and pollen-free to avoid allergies. Close the windows and keep the air conditioning on, Randhawa says. “Consider installing a HEPA filter system, especially during high season, so that you’re breathing in better purified air while you sleep.”

Stay one step ahead of the allergy season by being prepared with a dependable air conditioning system. By maintaining the right humidity level and providing excellent indoor air quality, your AC system works hard; even in the early fall months, when temperatures are still in the 70s and 80s in the Southeast. For maintenance, repairs, and AC installation in Burlington, contact Alamance Oil at 336-226-9371.

(Source: 8 Tips for Fall Allergy Relief, everydayhealth.com, 2015)

HVAC Maintenance and Propane Delivery in Greensboro, NC in One Convenient Package

Propane Delivery in GreensboroSave time and money with all-in-one HVAC service and propane delivery in Greensboro, NC. Not all propane suppliers can repair, install, and maintain your heating and air conditioning and also deliver your propane. Not all Heating and Air Conditioning companies deliver propane. Berico Heating and Air is a complete home comfort company that offers HVAC services and propane delivery in Greensboro, NC. Berico makes it easy to keep your Furnace and Air Conditioning system in great shape and receive regular propane deliveries as needed.

 

Keep your HVAC system running efficiently with regular maintenance

Regular maintenance for your Furnace and Air Conditioning system is important if you want to avoid expensive repairs and keep your system running efficiently. Most HVAC companies offer service plans that include twice yearly tune-ups for your heating and air conditioning. An all-in-one HVAC service and fuel supplier can offer a complete service plan combining regular maintenance with propane delivery, saving you money. Experienced propane suppliers can calculate how much propane a customer will use each year and schedule deliveries accordingly to ensure you never run out. Those deliveries can be planned to coincide with the best time for HVAC tune-ups. Late summer to early fall is the best time for a furnace tune-up and propane refill so that you’re ready for cool weather. You can make only one call or go online https://www.berico.com/staging/propane-delivery-services/ to schedule one convenient appointment to take care of all your heating needs.

Switching propane suppliers is free and easy

If your current propane supplier does not offer Heating and Air Conditioning maintenance, consider switching to Berico Heating and Air. Switching is completely free. Berico will swap your old propane tank for a new one at no cost to you. Making the change to Berico for your propane delivery in Greensboro could save you as much as $150 a year. And when satisfied customers recommend Berico to someone else who becomes a satisfied customer, they receive referral credits toward their service costs.

Propane is a clean, efficient heating fuel

If you are not currently heating with propane, consider the benefits of converting to a propane furnace. Propane creates a long lasting radiant heat that is more comfortable than an electric furnace or heat pump. Propane furnaces excel in extremely cold temperatures where electric heat tends to fall short of achieving the level of comfort you desire. And because propane is an affordable alternative, you will find that your savings on your electric bill outweigh the cost of propane delivery. Propane is non-toxic and burns clean, making it a safe heating fuel for you and your family. For more information about propane furnaces, visit

Berico Heating and Air is a local company that has been providing HVAC service and propane delivery to Greensboro and the surrounding area since 1924. Berico provides affordable, all-in-one home comfort service. Sign up for a Comfort and Protection Service Agreement and find out how much you can save.

A Competent AC Installation in Burlington Helps to Avoid Future Electric Problems

AC Installation in BurlingtonWhen you need a new AC installation in Burlington, it is important to find out which service companies have a history of excellent customer satisfaction and technical competency. Trusting this large installation to an inexperienced installer could result in the wrong-sized system being installed, or the right-sized system installed incorrectly, which could cause future electric failures with your compressor or fan controls. Alamance Oil has fully certified and trained technicians to correctly size a new air conditioning system for your home, making sure that all of the parts are functioning properly and that you are satisfied with the installation.

Over-Sized Systems and Poor Maintenance Can Cause Fan and Compressor Problems

Taking care of your air conditioning system is similar to taking care of your car. Filters need to be changed, and parts should be inspected and tuned up annually to ensure the safety and efficient operation of your system. The U.S. Department of Energy lists the most common problems that occur with air conditioners, on www.energy.gov:

“INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE

If you allow filters and air conditioning coils to become dirty, the air conditioner will not work properly, and the compressor or fans are likely to fail prematurely.

ELECTRIC CONTROL FAILURE

The compressor and fan controls can wear out, especially when the air conditioner turns on and off frequently, as is common when a system is oversized. Because corrosion of wire and terminals is also a problem in many systems, electrical connections and contacts should be checked during a professional service call.”

The failure of the compressor or fan controls can be costly, so it is important to avoid the possibility of a system malfunction by having regular maintenance on your AC system.  A professional and experienced technician will know how to maintain your system as well as accurately install a right-sized new replacement if needed so your Burlington AC system will run at the optimal efficiency. This also will help you to save money on your monthly energy bills. Alamance Oil performs a complete evaluation of your existing ductwork, vents, and floor plan, to recommend a high quality and dependable HVAC system for your family.

Faulty Installations Produce Low Airflow

Installations that are improperly completed result in numerous problems, including low airflow. This could make your home uncomfortable, and make your system work harder, creating higher utility bills. At the U.S. Dept. of Energy, inadequate maintenance, and faulty installations result in the following:

 “Improper installation of a central air conditioner can result in leaky ducts and low airflow. Many times, the refrigerant charge (the amount of refrigerant in the system) does not match the manufacturer’s specifications. If proper refrigerant charging is not performed during installation, the performance and efficiency of the unit is impaired. Unqualified service technicians often fail to find refrigerant charging problems or even worsen existing problems by adding refrigerant to a system that is already full.”

In today’s HVAC industry, qualified, professional technicians who are trained and certified is essential for keeping your cooling system running safely and efficiently for as long as you own it. For trustworthy service and outstanding products, contact Alamance Oil at 336-226-9371.   (Source: Common Air Conditioner Problems, energy.gov, June 3, 2015)

Burlington Air Conditioners Contribute to Better Concentration at School

Burlington Air ConditionersWant to concentrate better and alleviate watery, itchy eyes? By using your well-maintained Burlington air conditioner, you can reduce allergens and humidity levels, improving the indoor air quality. Studies have shown that students who are in schools with improved ventilation and air conditioners tend to have better test scores and higher concentration levels. If it makes a difference to the kids in school then certainly it’s important to children and adults at home and in the workplace.

Improve Performance Levels of Students with Air Conditioning

With high efficiency air conditioners, school children are healthier and able to concentrate better. The United States Environmental Protection Agency evaluated Indoor Air Quality & Student Performance among schools in the U.S., and found that schools with air conditioning showed fewer absentee rates as well:

“Early studies in schools have found that air conditioning is associated with lower absentee rates or improved performance, and that schools with humidification systems are also associated with lower absentee rates.”

Alamance Oil specializes in Burlington air conditioner maintenance, installation, and repairs for commercial and residential customers. The ventilation layout and efficiency is important not only for schools, where classrooms need adequate ventilation to maintain indoor air quality but also for businesses and homes.

HVAC Maintenance Can Positively Impact the Health of Students in Schools

Just as old carpeting needs to be replaced to help with reducing dust allergens, HVAC systems require annual maintenance to keep the air healthier and cleaner. At Alamance Oil, we provide AC system maintenance and expert repairs to keep the indoor air quality at a healthy level. In schools, this is a necessary part of general operation, to help children breathe clean air and stay healthy at school:

“A review of building investigation reports also suggests significant benefits to health and performance from good HVAC maintenance. Presumably, these benefits result because properly maintained HVAC systems can provide consistently good thermal and ventilation control while also reducing the risk of biological contamination. Overall, the evidence suggests that good housekeeping designed to control surface dust plus care and maintenance of the HVAC system, including provisions for good filtration performance, are important aspects of school operating protocols designed to improve student health and performance.”

Indoor Air Quality Can Affect Mental Function

Increase productivity, health and concentration with a high performance Burlington air conditioner at school, work and home. Studies have shown that efficient air conditioners will circulate cleaner air, reduce dust and improve ventilation at schools, allowing school children to learn in a healthy indoor environment. Poor indoor air quality has the opposite effect on student’s performance, as mentioned in the Indoor Air Quality & Student Performance report by the EPA:

“Evidence continues to emerge showing that poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can cause illness requiring absence from school, and can cause acute health symptoms that decrease performance while at school. In addition, recent data suggest that poor IAQ may directly reduce a person’s ability to perform specific mental tasks requiring concentration, calculation, or memory.”

Keep your indoor air quality healthy with regular maintenance and repairs. Contact Alamance Oil for all of your HVAC needs, including installations, Burlington air conditioner repairs, replacements systems and maintenance: 336-226-9371.

(Source: Indoor Air Quality & Student Performance, neisd.net, August 2003)

Hire a Qualified HVAC Contractor in Eden, NC for the Right Fit

HVAC Contractor in EdenAre you considering replacing your old heating and cooling system? When you are ready to research options for a new system, be sure to hire a qualified HVAC contractor in Eden, NC to complete the installation. If an inexperienced contractor recommends a system that is too large or too small for your home, you will either be paying too much on your energy bills or the system will not provide the comfort you need. To get a new HVAC system that is the correct fit for your space, a trained and certified contractor will be able to recommend the proper size and expertly install your new heating and cooling system. Carolina Fuels’ technicians complete ongoing training and education about HVAC systems and are thoroughly qualified to help you with your comfort needs. How does the right person help you to save money when it comes to installing new heat or air conditioning system?

The right-sized HVAC system will be the most efficient for your home

You probably would not buy the largest, most expensive refrigerator if you only have a few items that need refrigeration on a daily basis. Likewise, you also would not buy a Suburban if you only needed to commute by yourself a few miles each day. The extra expense and energy usage wouldn’t make sense. The same logic applies to your heating and cooling system for your home. It needs to be the right size and fit for your home so you will not be paying for more that you need.  On the flip side, your home may need 42,000 BTU’s (British Thermal Units) per hour to optimally cool every room so that a 3.5-ton unit would be the best match. However, if you put in a 3-ton unit, which has 36,000 BTU’s per hour, you would probably not have the comfort level that you desire in your home. Plus, this would increase your energy bills because your HVAC system would keep running to try to meet the desired temperatures. Carolina Fuels’ heating and cooling specialists know the exact measurements and insulation properties to provide you with an accurate range of systems that will meet your needs and budget.

Detailed SEER information will help you make an informed decision for a new HVAC system

A knowledgeable technician will provide you with the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) information for the heating and cooling systems that are recommended for your home. When comparing systems, keep in mind that a higher SEER rating will offer cost savings on your utility bills as well as provide more efficient and comfortable heating and cooling in your home. There may be multiple air conditioning systems with the same SEER ratings. However, each unit may offer various options such as programmable thermostats, to name one, that would be a better option for you.  Carolina Fuels takes the time to explain all the options and answer all of your questions, so you will be able to make an informed decision regarding a new HVAC system.

If you have any questions about heating and cooling systems, we are available to help you with your needs. For trustworthy and dependable HVAC contractors in Eden, NC, contact Carolina Fuels at (336) 273-8663. We will help you to find an energy efficient solution for your home.

New Greensboro Air Conditioning Systems Save Money

bonus_bucksAre your energy bills getting out of control? If they are continually getting higher, it is time to have a professional technician inspect your AC system in Greensboro to determine if air conditioning repair or upgrade is needed. Heating and cooling systems have a lifespan of approximately ten years and a common factor to high energy bills can be traced to inefficient HVAC systems. Berico Fuels can help you to find out how to correct the high energy bill problem, by finding the cause and determining the most cost effective solution.

Assess the Heating and Cooling Situation for Specific Answers

An accurate understanding of the specific HVAC system problem will help you to decide when it is time to upgrade your system. Hgtv.com provides a detailed “first step” that should take place to help you with this analysis:

“Before you spend thousands of dollars on a new heating or cooling system, it’s a good idea to check your house and your HVAC system for costly air leaks. This could be the root of the problem, and may be a lot less expensive to treat.

It’s a good idea to start by having an energy assessment done on your home by an energy efficiency professional. This can either be a walk-through with a clipboard, or a more comprehensive audit with a blower-door test that pressurizes the house so energy leaks can be detected. In some areas, electric utilities subsidize the costs of energy efficiency assessments, and some states offer rebates or discounts on having insulation installed or other work done to make your home more efficient.

Why is this a great first step? Because properly insulating your home and sealing leaks will help your heating and cooling system run much more efficiently. You may discover that you don’t need to replace that system after all. And if you do replace it, your new heating or cooling system can then be sized properly and run more efficiently, potentially saving you significantly on both your upfront costs and energy bills in the future.”

Learning about the recommended heating and cooling system size for your home will help you budget and prepare for a future installation. Berico Fuels will research all of the variables, including your home’s size and room layout, plus existing ductwork to recommend systems that will provide the greatest energy efficiency.

An Experienced HVAC Professional Needs to Perform the System Installation

Make sure that you do not cut corners by a poor quality service company to do a new system installation. There are certifications and qualifications that need to be in place to ensure that safety procedures are being followed and that your unit is sized correctly. According to www.hgtv.com, there are reasons why it is necessary to ensure that you are using a reputable HVAC installer like Berico Fuels for the job:

“An improperly sized or installed HVAC system can leak deadly carbon monoxide or other toxins into a home, cost you much more money, promote mold growth that can lead to chronic illness, or start fires. So seek a professional with some certifications such as NATE (North American Technician Excellence). A NATE patch signifies that the contractor employs technicians who have passed this national certification.

One of the most important things an HVAC professional should do is conduct a load calculation to properly size your system. A load calculation should not rely on the size of your house alone. Many variables will determine the size of your system, including the local weather, ventilation needs, windows, insulation levels and more.

If an HVAC professional cannot do a proper load calculation or does not adhere to the Quality Installation Specification, seek one who will. Your health, safety and bank account may depend on it.”

If higher energy bills are bringing you down, call a heating and cooling specialist to thoroughly inspect your heating and cooling system to assess where the problem area is located. Sometimes, a simple repair will bring your system back to optimal efficiency and cost savings. Other times, your HVAC in Greensboro will need to be replaced. Making smart decisions about your heating and cooling system can have a big impact on your utility bills and comfort. Berico Fuels has affordable and efficient systems that will provide annual savings on your utility bills. Call us today to start saving: 336-313-0466.

(Source: Is It Time to Upgrade Your HVAC?, www.hgtv.com, 2015)

AC Repair in Burlington, NC and Sun-Blocking Blinds Maximize Comfort

AC Repair in BurlingtonThe 90 degree days are upon us, and a cool house is a nice sanctuary to escape the heat. If your air conditioner is not providing this cool escape, then you may need to schedule an AC repair in Burlington, NC.  A service check up of your unit will ensure that your system is ready to tackle the hot days ahead and operate at top efficiency.  Instead of cranking up your AC unit, consider helping your home stay cooler with sun-blocking blinds.  This will not only save energy and money, but will also increase the comfort level in your home.

For Greater Insulation and Energy Efficiency, Use Honeycomb Shades

Once your HVAC system has been tuned up by Alamance Oil, consider ways to shade your windows to keep the sun and heat out to not only help with your electric bills, but also provide you with a cooler and comfortable environment.  There are various shades and curtains that can block the sun effectively and keep your house cooler, as noted on www.biggreenpurse.com:

“Curtains or shades add an extra layer of insulation and increase the energy efficiency of each window covered. The thicker the curtains, the more energy you’ll save, especially if you mount the curtains as close to the window as possible. Otherwise, hot air will end up escaping around the curtains and into your room – and vice versa with cold air. For energy-efficient shades, skip single louvered panels, whether made of aluminum or vinyl. Instead, aim for shades constructed in a cellular or honeycomb pattern.

Honeycomb shades work by creating an insulating pocket of air in each cell that separates the window air space from the room air space.  When not in use, the blinds fold up into a thin band at the top of my window. When down, they provide an effective barrier to the outside air, but still let enough light in that the room can be bright if I use them during the day.”

Using shades and curtains to block the sun takes the stress off your air conditioner, so it doesn’t have to run full blast on the hottest days to maintain comfortable temperatures in your home. Keeping your unit in top condition is also important, so don’t neglect to have your annual HVAC maintenance visit by Alamance Oil. 

For AC Unit Efficiency, Add Roller Shades to Windows to Seal Out Warm Window Temperatures

Roller shades are specifically designed to trap the hot air from the window, so it does not seep into the house. At  www.biggreenpurse.com, the effectiveness of this type of shade is described:

“Roller shades, made from heavy-duty fabric, can also reduce window energy loss. To get the most out of the shade, mount them on a track that runs inside the window frame. When the shade is down, very little energy will seep into or out that window.”

The Department of Energy states that utilizing window coverings properly can reduce heat gain by up to 77 percent.  If choosing drapes or curtains for your windows, studies show that medium-colored draperies with white backings can reduce heat gain by 33 percent.

If these tips don’t help you beat the heat, reduce air conditioning repair, and your utility bills are still skyrocketing then it may be time to consider a new, more energy-efficient air conditioner.  Your cooling system may be at the end of its service life and working overtime to produce comfortable temperatures.  Call the professionals at Alamance Oil to perform an evaluation of your HVAC system to see if a repair is needed, or a replacement is in order. 

Alamance Oil installs top brand heating and cooling systems that are designed with advanced technology to help you save money on your utility bills.  A high-efficient air conditioner, combined with energy saving techniques like using window coverings, will go a long way to reducing your energy bills and increasing your comfort this summer.

To get ready for the summer heat, contact Alamance Oil for AC repairs in Burlington, NC, maintenance and replacement systems. We want to restore the cool temperatures to your home, and help with cost savings on energy bills. Contact us today at 336-226-9371.

(Source: Now’s the Time to Consider Sun-Blocking Blinds to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer,biggreenpurse.com, 2015)