Heating and Cooling Tips from AirEase

Legacy Mechanical Services prides itself on providing a higher quality of service and the highest quality products. When installing a new air conditioner, you can rest easy knowing that AirEase has you covered.

Heating and Cooling Tips and FAQ From AirEase

Will a new furnace or air conditioner help lower my utility bills?

The answer is usually yes, depending on the age and efficiency level of your current unit. A licensed technician will be able to estimate the efficiency level of your current unit, and explain the advantages of a new unit.

How do I know what size furnace or air conditioner I need?

A licensed technician will do a load calculation on your home to determine the proper equipment size. Today’s units are often significantly more efficient than older models and don’t need to be as large to deliver the same or better amount of comfort. The load calculation is an important and potentially money-saving step to take, rather than just replacing your current unit with one of the same size.

Heating Tips

Have your thermostat mounted on an internal wall, away from windows and doors.

If you’re expecting a large group of people, lower the thermostat just a couple of degrees. You’ll save on heating bills and have a more comfortable environment.

Set the thermostat as low as comfort permits. Each degree over 68° can add 3% to the amount of energy needed for heating.

Cooling Tips

Make sure your attic is well ventilated. Heat rises, and having larger vents can help relieve heat buildup.

If renovating a roof or building a new home, consider lighter-colored shingles to reflect the sun’s light and heat.

Don’t place heat-producing home devices such as televisions, computers or lamps near or under your thermostat.

Set your temperature as high as comfort will permit.

Consider installing awnings, shades or shutters over windows that are exposed to direct sunlight.

Keep kitchen and bath exhaust fan use to a minimum during summer months.

Draw blinds or drapes during peak daytime temperatures.

In moderate weather, consider opening windows instead of turning on the A/C.

Insulation Tips

Proper home insulation is the most important part in conserving energy and keeping your utility bills lower. For average homes, use the below as a guide. Houses located in cold temperatures may need additional insulation to promote desired energy conservation.

Ceilings: R-30 (10") Thermal resistance

Exterior walls, floors (over unheated areas): R-11 (3-1/2") Thermal resistance

When using your heating or cooling system, keep all windows and doors closed.

Windows allow heat to enter the home in summer and escape the home in winter, but heat transfer can be cut significantly—up to 40% to 50%—by switching to double-glazed windows. These windows have a sealed air space between the two panes of glass.

Get metal-frame or wood-frame storm windows for your home. That extra layer of glass and air cuts heat transfer tremendously, even if your single-glazed windows are high-quality.

All entrance doors and windows should have weather-stripping and caulking. Also, if your home has small areas where outside air can filter in, plug them with plastic, caulking or weather-stripping.

Fireplaces should have tight-fitting dampers that can be shut when not in use.

Looking for heating or cooling services?

Legacy Mechanical is happy to service Winnipeg and the surrounding area 24 hours. day, 7 days a week. Give us a call for your plumbing, heating and cooling needs at (204) 452-9424.