Heating and Cooling

By admin at 3 January, 2009, 4:41 am

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Typically, 44% of your energy bill is for heating and cooling. Heating and cooling systems in the U.S. collectively emit over a half billion tons of carbon dioxide into the air each year, adding to global warming. They also generate approximately 24% of the nation’s sulfur dioxide and 12% of its nitrogen oxides, the chemicals that make acid rain. By taking a few simple steps you can save money and decrease pollution:

• Set your thermostat low in the winter (around 68°F) and higher in the summer (around 78°F).
• Clean or replace filters on air/heat systems at least once a month.
• Place heat-resistant radiator reflectors between exterior walls and radiators.
• Turn off kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans as soon as they have done their job.
• Look for a minimum 78% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) and level 10 or higher Seasonal Energy
• Efficiency Ratio (SEER) when you buy new heating and cooling equipment.
• Check ducts for leaks and repair as needed.
• Use passive solar heating and cooling by bringing southern sunlight into the home in winter and reflecting this light source in the summer.
• Use attic and ceiling fans in summer.
• Cover cold floors with rugs or carpets.

Water Heating
Most people use the majority of their hot water bathing, washing clothes and washing dishes, in that order. Here are some ways to reduce consumption:

• Repair leaky faucets promptly.
• Insulate your hot water heater.
• Install low-flow faucets and showerheads.
• Buy an energy-efficient hot water heater.
• Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120°F.
• Take more showers than baths.
• Take shorter showers.
• Invest in a solar hot water heater.
• For more information on solar hot water heating call Solar San Antonio at 504-354-0236 and look under.

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