Programmable

Featured, Programmable, Thermostats

Energy Saving Tips for Your Programmable Thermostat

Energy Saving Tips for Your Programmable Thermostat

If your home is outfitted with a programmable thermostat, you've already taken an important step toward saving energy and money. However, if you're not sure how to program or use this modern device, you're missing out on the potential benefits. These include both greater energy efficiency and enhanced convenience.

How Does a Programmable Thermostat Differ from a Standard Thermostat?

It's all about control. With an older, manual thermostat, you have to adjust temperature settings by hand. If you forget to adjust the thermostat for when you're not home or are sleeping, the temperature setting remains at whatever point you last set it. With a programmable thermostat, you can program temperature changes to match your daily and weekly schedules. Typically, people will lower (or raise, in the summer) the temperature while they're at work or school during the day, and then program the temperature to return to their comfort level shortly before they expect to arrive home.

Three Different Types of Programming Options:

  • 7-day. This is the most versatile model, allowing a separate program to be set for each day of the week.

  • 5-2-day. You'll be able to have one program for five days (usually the weekdays) and a separate program that applies to Saturday and Sunday.

  • 5-1-1-day. Resembling the 5-2 model, it allows a separate schedule for one weekend day and another schedule for the other weekend day, with the other five days set to the same schedule.

Save Energy by Following these Guidelines:

  • Try to schedule energy-saving setbacks for a minimum of eight hours for maximum savings. Frequently adjusting temperatures will handicap your efforts to save money.

  • Avoid overriding temperature settings as seldom as possible. This just defeats the purpose of your programmable thermostat.

  • Let the thermostat save energy and money while you're on vacation, by keeping the temperature eight to 15 degrees higher/lower than your comfort level. There's no reason to fully heat or cool a home when nobody's home for the week.

For more advice on optimum usage of your Broken Arrow home's programmable thermostat, please contact us at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “marinini/Shutterstock”

Featured, Programmable, Thermostats

How to Use Your Programmable Thermostat Correctly

How to Use Your Programmable Thermostat Correctly

Using a programmable thermostat is one of the easiest ways to cut down on the costs of staying comfortable. For the greatest savings, though, it helps to follow some simple guidelines.

Choose Your Temperatures Carefully

The number of temperature schedules you can set depends on the type of programmable thermostat you have. For example, 1-week models allow only one schedule, 5-2 models let you choose separate workday and weekend schedules and a 7-day model allows you to select a different schedule for every day of the week. Most let you choose four temperature settings per day.Put your energy-saving set points at least eight hours apart. For example, you might set your air conditioner to 78 degrees or your furnace to 60 degrees while you're in bed. Then program your system to turn off while you're out at work and come on again an hour before you get home. Selecting extreme temperatures doesn't heat or cool your home faster. If it's important for your home to be at a specific temperature at a certain time, choose a thermostat with "adaptive recovery" or "smart" technology.

Use the Settings as Intended

The "override" option allows you to temporarily change the temperature on unusually hot or cold days without wiping out your programming. Avoid the temptation to use it whenever you're slightly uncomfortable or you'll negate your energy savings. If you're frequently too hot or cold, program in more comfortable temperatures.Use the "hold" or "vacation" setting to keep your home at a constant, energy-saving temperature when you're gone for more than a day. Using it to control your temperatures every day makes it hard to save because you're likely to forget to reset the thermostat to your energy-saving temperatures.

Change your thermostat's batteries at least once a year. Weak batteries can cause the thermostat to malfunction and fail to maintain your preferred temperatures.

For more tips on using your programmable thermostat or other ways to lower your energy bills, contact us at Air Assurance. We serve the Broken Arrow area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “tab62/Shutterstock”

Programmable, Thermostats

How Your Programmable Thermostat Can Help You Heat Your Home More Efficiently

How Your Programmable Thermostat Can Help You Heat Your Home More Efficiently

With fall rapidly approaching, the leaves are beginning to fall as well as the temperatures. Keeping your house consistently warm during the brutal Oklahoma cold months is a luxury that can quickly add up on your power bill. Using your thermostat at regularly planned intervals can help curb power costs, but some of us are so busy that we can't tend to the thermostat every few hours. Fortunately, using a programmable thermostat is a great solution to this that can help you heat your home more efficiently. Here's how:How Do Programmable Thermostats Work?Programmable thermostats operate at different intervals that you preset yourself. At each interval, the temperature of your house will adjust according to what you preset in advance. You don't really need to keep your house at 70 degrees all day, as this can be a huge energy dump. Programmable thermostats will let you control the temperatures of your house at various times of the day, even if you're not home at that time.How Can I Get The Most Efficient Use From My Programmable Thermostat?To save you the most money, it is recommended that you opt for a temperature setting on the low side when you're in bed or when you're not home. Reserve the warmer settings for all other times. Choosing this method can reduce your bill by up to 20 percent. Depending on which unit you have, you may be able to have multiple settings per day.The cold months don't have to leave you choosing between a cold home and an empty wallet. A programmable thermostat is a convenient way to save money and stay warm indoors, provided you use it the right way. For more professional advice about programmable thermostats and other questions relating to home comfort, feel free to contact us at Air Assurance. We've been working with the Broken Arrow area since 1985.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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Programmable, Thermostats

Programmable Thermostats Can Save Your More Than Money

The primary reason that most homeowners buy a programmable thermostat is to save money on their energy bills. This is a great reason and is why programmable thermostats often pay for themselves relatively quickly. However, there are also some other ways that this type of thermostat can benefit you that you should consider.

Programmable Thermostats Can Save Your More Than Money

How Programmable Thermostats Save You Money

A programmable thermostat allows you to schedule changes in thermostat settings ahead of time. For example, you can have the temperature setting rise during the day when you are out so that you aren’t wasting energy to cool a house when nobody’s there. Programming your thermostat for the main periods of the day will result in large savings over the course of the summer, and will be equally important during the winter.

How Programmable Thermostats Give You More Than Savings

There are multiple ways that programmable units are better than their traditional counterparts. Consider that once you program your thermostat, you typically don’t have to adjust it often. Instead of having to constantly tweak your thermostat back and forth, it will do it automatically for you, the ultimate convenience.

Secondly, programmable thermostats allow you to achieve those aforementioned savings without interrupting your comfort. With a traditional thermostat, if you want to come home to a cooled and comfortable home, you would need to keep the temperature down all day. With a programmable unit you can have it set to lower the temperature of your home 30 minutes to an hour before you arrive so you walk in to a comfortable home.

If you’re looking for even more benefits from your thermostat, you could consider upgrading another step to a WiFi thermostat. A WiFi thermostat is a programmable thermostat that allows you to connect and change its settings remotely.

If you have any questions on what type of thermostat is best for your Broken Arrow home, please contact the experienced professionals at Air Assurance.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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Programmable, Thermostats

Programmable Thermostat on the Blink? Diagnose It With This Guide

Many people today are discovering the benefits of programmable or "smart" thermostats. A programmable thermostat can be a real help in saving money while keeping your home comfortable — but only if it's working properly.

Programmable Thermostat on the Blink? Diagnose It With This Guide

If you suspect that your programmable thermostat may be malfunctioning, there are some simple steps you can take to find out.

  • Check the displayIf the display is blank, the thermostat isn't working and may have been disconnected from its electricity supply.

  • Check the batteries or electrical connectionSome thermostats are battery-powered, while others draw electricity from your home's domestic electricity supply. The easiest way to find out if the cells in a battery-powered unit are dead is to replace them. For thermostats that draw electricity from an external source, ensure that they are properly connected.

  • Check the fuseThere will typically be a fuse to control the amount of power that a wired thermostat receives. If this fuse has blown, you'll need to replace it. Remove the fuse and take it with you to a hardware store so that you can get the right fuse to replace it.

  • Check the "opposite" systemThe "opposite" system is the system you're not currently running. If you're trying to diagnose why your air conditioning isn't coming on, for example, you would run your heating. Set your thermostat to a sufficiently high temperature and see if it turns your heating on and off as it should.If your thermostat works with your heating but not with your air conditioning, the problem may be with your A/C rather than the thermostat. You'll need to call in a suitably qualified service technician to identify and fix the problem.

If you have tried all the above and the problem still seems to be with your thermostat, it may need to be replaced.

At Air Assurance, our aim is to inform and educate customers throughout Tulsa and Broken Arrow on energy and home comfort topics (relating to HVAC systems). To find out more about the proper maintenance and use of your programmable thermostat, or for help with other HVAC issues, contact us today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Programmable, Thermostats

Programmable Thermostats: Do They Really Save You Energy?

Programmable Thermostats: Do They Really Save You Energy?

Programmable Thermostats: Do They Really Save You Energy?

You may have heard that programmable thermostats cannot save you money. That may be true, if you are not using it correctly. Just like any other tool or technology, proper use and knowledge is required for success. Below are nine best practices for using programmable thermostats to maximize energy savings in your Oklahoma home.

1. Pick set points and leave them alone; don’t mess with them more than you have to. This example program may not work for your home and require adjustments after you have fully evaluated your home and energy consumption, but it's a good start.

o    Winter: In the winter, set your thermostat for 68 degrees when home and awake, lower for when you're away or asleep.

o    Summer: Set your thermostat for 78 degrees while you are home and turn it off when you leave.

 2. Know the difference between your hold features. Generally you will have a temporary hold and a permanent/vacation hold. Be sure to use them accordingly. For example, the permanent/vacation feature should not be used for day-to-day control.

 3. If you are going away, set the permanent/vacation feature at en energy efficient temperature for the entirety of your trip.

 4.  You will not heat up or cool down your house any faster if you turn it all the way up or all the way down; that will just waste energy and money.

 5. If you use zone heating, you will need multiple programmable thermostats for each zone in order to maximize energy savings in your home.

 6. Stay on top of changing your batteries if your thermostats are battery powered.

 7. Try not to change pre-programmable settings. Each time you do this you are using more energy.

 8. Install programmable thermostats away from appliances, lighting, skylights, heating/cooling registers, and any other areas that create significant heat/cooling.

 9. If you are only using a few rooms in your house, turn your thermostat off completely and use space heaters/window air conditioners.

For additional information on programmable thermostats and for other home comfort concerns, contact us. We have been serving the Broken Arrow area since 1985.

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Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Programmable, Thermostats

How To Use Programmable Thermostats For Greater Energy Savings

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Programmable thermostats are one of the primary solutions experts, like those at the Department of Energy, encourage homeowners to use to advance energy savings, while promoting optimal home comfort. However, achieving the goal of savings requires that homeowners follow some key tips when selecting a device, and then setting it. Here’s what you need to know.

Selection

In order to follow through on best practices for setting programmable thermostats listed below, homeowners must first select the right device. Most programmable thermostats allow you to schedule four different temperature settings over the course of the day, which jibe with how most people live their lives. Most homeowners are home for a short time in the morning, gone for the majority of the day, return home around 6 p.m., and then go to sleep. Some thermostats now have wi-fi connectivity, which allows you to access your themostat from anywhere via computer, smart phone, or tablet.  This allows you to always have control just in case you forget, or when plans change that are different from your regular schedule.

Programmable thermostats differ in terms of how often you can change these settings from day to day. This is where the rubber meets the road when it comes to selecting a device. If you purchase a thermostat that only allows for one daily program from Sunday to Saturday, but your schedule changes with every day, you probably won't achieve optimal savings, because you'll likely change the settings frequently to accommodate changes in your schedule. Below, you'll see why changing the settings is not desirable.

Settings

With the right device in hand, you can begin setting it for energy savings. Here’s how:

  • Program at least one setback in winter (or set forward in summer) for an eight-hour period. Many homeowners do this at night, or also during the day. This is the guiding principle for savings.

  • Estimate 1 percent savings for every 1 degree that you dial back/forward the temperature.

  • Frequent use of the hold button, which lets you bypass the next scheduled setting, tends to negate energy savings that consistent setbacks/forwards deliver.

Homeowners who’d like expert help using programmable thermostats for greater energy savings should contact Air Assurance Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We've served homeowners in greater Broken Arrow nearly 30 years. We’re happy to get your household on the road to savings, comfort and a lower carbon footprint.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Programmable

Programmable Thermostats Can Handle Oklahoma's Temperature Shifts

Programmable Thermostats Can Handle Oklahoma's Temperature Shifts

Proper insulation may be the first thing you think of as you get ready for the upcoming Oklahoma winter, and it's certainly important. However, programmable thermostats should also be included in your energy efficiency arsenal. They can help you maintain indoor temps easily and automatically -- just "set and forget." Even better, these thermostats can save you significant money on your energy bills. How?

Set automatic temperature settings for different times of day

Programmable thermostats can help you save energy by letting you set different temperatures for different times of day. You can save as much as 10 percent on your energy bills with careful use. For example, setting your thermostat for 68 degrees during the day and a few degrees lower at night is advised during Oklahoma's winter months, while setting it to 78 degrees around the clock during the summer months will help you reduce your energy bills almost effortlessly. (These thermostats easily store multiple temperature settings to be used at various times of day or night -- no need to keep track yourself.)

Heat or cool individual rooms with zoning systems

Install a zoning system, and you can set programmable thermostats to individual temperatures for each room or zone. If you don't spend a lot of time in certain areas, you can set thermostats in those zones to more energy-efficient temperatures (or even shut them off altogether), but keep often-used rooms like the living room at more comfortable temperatures.

Choose your temperature set points, and then leave them be

Programmable thermostats conserve energy and save you money because they seamlessly keep indoor temperatures steady once you set them. If you are constantly "playing" with your thermostat and changing temperature settings, your system won't be able to do its job properly. In fact, you could lose any cost savings you might otherwise see if you do so. Choose temperature settings for Oklahoma's fall and winter temps, and then leave them be until spring rolls around.

For more information and advice on programmable thermostats or other needs, please contact us at Air Assurance. We've been serving Broken Arrow and the Tulsa area since 1985.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Programmable, Thermostats

Remotely Control Your Home's Temperature With High-Tech Programmable Thermostats

Remotely Control Your Home's Temperature With High-Tech Programmable Thermostats

Home automation increasingly utilizes the internet as a means of accessing devices like lights, security equipment and surveillance cameras. This connectivity has expanded to include remote control of your heating and cooling with internet-accessible, programmable thermostats. Also known as IP thermostats, these units give homeowners full monitoring and control of the home environment even while away from home. Internet thermostats incorporate a dedicated server with its own discrete IP address on the internet. Anywhere in the world there’s an internet connection, you can access your programmable thermostat using a standard internet browser. Like any other internet device, your thermostat is password-protected to prevent unauthorized access.Programmable thermostats automatically activate timed heating or air conditioning events during pre-determined spans in a 24-hour period. However, sometimes a homeowner may wish to override programmed events from a remote location or simply re-program the thermostat. Typical scenarios for internet control might include canceling a programmed activation of the HVAC system because you’re going to be working late or delayed returning from an out-of-town trip.Remotely monitoring the temperature of your residence during cold spells or heat waves also permits online activation of the HVAC system as needed to prevent pipe freezing or unsafe conditions for pets. Checking and adjusting interior temperatures while you’re away may be important if the residence has children or elderly at home who cannot operate the HVAC equipment.The link between homeowner and an IP thermostat is two-way. When you are away from home, many models will automatically send a text message or email to alert you to unusual or hazardous conditions like sudden temperature extremes or a component failure causing a shutdown of the HVAC system.Another advantage of internet access to your thermostat is ease in programming—even while you’re home. Some users find a browser-based programming tool more intuitive and functional than programming on/off events directly using buttons on the thermostat.For over 30 years, Air Assurance has provided Broken Arrow and Tulsa-area homeowners with the latest in HVAC technology. Contact us for more information on internet-controlled programmable thermostats.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     Thermostat image via Shutterstock

Manual, Programmable, Thermostats

How To Choose A New Thermostat For Your Home

Selecting a thermostat for your HVAC system can be a simple and very rewarding experience. If you pick the right type, you will enjoy energy savings for years to come. The cost of the new thermostat will more than be made up in the money that you save on your gas and electric bill.The first thing you must do is match your new thermostat to the type of heating and cooling system that you have. Most homes are equipped with a forced-air system that delivers heated or cooled air throughout the house using a series of ducts. The system might be powered by gas or electricity, and the thermostat tells the air handler when to cycle on and off.The best type of thermostats are the ones which give a digital readout of the temperature. They are simple to set and easy to understand. You can choose from a manual unit, which you set yourself, or a programmable one, which controls the temperature in your home for an extended period of time. The manual unit is good for someone who is home all the time, and the programmable one is best for people who work outside the house.A programmable thermostat gives you the option of automatically raising or lowering the temperature when you are not home. Why waste money heating or cooling an empty house? The Department of Energy estimates that you can save at least 10 percent off your energy bills just by switching to a programmable thermostat. The programmable models come in several varieties to match your schedule. There are ones that can be programmed for each day of the week, and others that have one setting for weekdays and another for Saturday and Sunday.Now, what about "High Tech" thermostats?  Did you know they have remote controls now available?  Now, you don't have to get off the couch or out of bed to change the temperature.  And most of those read the temperature from the controller, so wherever you're sitting is the exact temperature you want it!!Or, maybe you want to control your thermostat from your smart phone, tablet, or laptop?  Choose a thermostat in which you can control when out of town by just installing an App!Air Assurance can answer any questions you have about which model is best for your home, and we can ensure that your thermostat is properly installed and working correctly to maximize your energy savings. Contact us today, we have over 30 years experience taking care of the heating and cooling needs of Broken Arrow-area residents just like you.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!     

Programmable, Thermostats

Setting Your Programmable Thermostat For Ideal Winter Savings

Is this the year you’re intent on cutting back on energy use throughout your home and locking in optimal winter energy savings? Programmable thermostats are a great way to ensure comfort while maximizing savings, but you need to know how to use them.Time matters The length of time that you set the home’s temperature back will basically predict how much energy you save. Ideally, you should try to schedule two setbacks each day for the majority of the week. Most homeowners program the first setback during the day, when the home is unoccupied while family members are either working or at school. The second setback program is scheduled for sleeping hours, when you’re typically snuggled under warm covers and a cooler home won’t inconvenience you or your family.Keep degrees in mindWhat's the general rule of thumb to follow for how much to set back your thermostat’s temperature? Energy Savers estimates that homeowners can save up to one percent on their energy bills if they decrease the home’s temperature by one degree. The idea here, though, is to program a setback for several degrees. If your home’s average temperature is 70 degrees, try setting it back by eight degrees, and keep going until you find a temperature, particularly for the nighttime setback, that you can live with.Avoid getting trigger happyThere will be a few other buttons on your programmable thermostat that you might be tempted to use. However, you should use the “override” and “vacation” setting sparingly. For instance, if you step out of the house for an hour to do some shopping, don’t override the system’s current program to turn the furnace off. This action will actually cause the furnace to consume more energy to overcome the shorter setback than it would if you left it running.To ensure comfort while maximizing energy savings with programmable thermostats, follow these general principles. For help with your thermostat, or to ask our experts a question, contact Air Assurance Heating, Cooling & Air Quality -- serving homeowners in the Greater Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!     

Energy Savings, Heating, Manual, Programmable, Service & Maintenance, Thermostats

Energy Savings: No-Cost And Low-Cost Tips That Will Keep Your Heating Costs In Line

Energy Savings: No-Cost And Low-Cost Tips That Will Keep Your Heating Costs In Line

Want to get a better handle on your heating costs this winter? Oklahoma’s long and often harsh winters can mean much higher energy bills just to maintain home comfort. However, it’s possible to lock in energy savings without investing significant amounts of money by following a few of the tips below. Here’s what you can do:

  • If you have a manual thermostat, choose a lower indoor temperature for the day time. Energy Savers estimates that most homeowners can save 1 percent on their energy bills if they lower the home’s temperature by just one degree. Higher setbacks reap higher savings!

  • Install a programmable thermostat to guarantee savings from setbacks. Most models allow you to choose several temperatures throughout the day, and pre-programming this type of device ensures that your home temperature stays within an energy savings range at all times.

  • If you have exhaust fans, use them sparingly. If left on for just one hour, these fans can draw out a lot of warm air from your home.

  • Use a lower temperature on your water heater. You’ll still get comfortably hot water and ensure energy savings by lowering the dial to 115 degrees.

  • Check vents regularly. Your home’s duct supply and return vents were designed to distribute the conditioned air that your furnace generates. If these vents are blocked, you’ll inhibit a balanced flow of air, and perhaps cause your furnace to work harder.

  • Curtains on windows that face South can be used to your advantage. Open them to let the sun assist daytime heating. During the night, every curtain should be closed to keep as much heated air inside as possible.

Keep your heating bills in check this winter, and ensure energy savings by following these tips. The more tips you implement, the higher your energy savings. If you’d like expert help to assess your home’s overall efficiency, contact Air Assurance Heating, Cooling & Air Qualitytoday! We’ve been serving homeowners in the Greater Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years, and we know how to get the kind of results you want and deserve. Just give us a call!Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today!     Energy Savings image via Shutterstock 

Air Conditioning, Programmable, Room, Thermostats

Proper Use Of A Programmable Thermostat Will Help Reduce Energy Costs

Programmable thermostats are a great upgrade to make to your home that will help reduce your energy costs if used properly. The use of a pre-set schedule can help minimize the use of your heating and cooling equipment, and lower your monthly energy bills.Programmable thermostats come in a number of different styles. The base touch-pad thermostat comes with data already entered, which is designed to save you money right off the bat. You can change the schedule in any way you wish to reflect your own personal lifestyle. If you work during the day, you can keep your temperature set low to minimize usage and when you will be returning home, a more comfortable temperature can kick in.More expensive touch screen models are more attractive by design and also have more functions. You can set a bunch of different schedules on these models and easily switch between them depending on what is going on in your home that day. Different schedules for work, weekends and vacation can all be utilized.  Some utilize a remote control feature so you don't even have to leave your chair during the big game!Contact Air Assurancefor more information on the proper use of a programmable thermostat in your home. If you use the advantages of your programmable thermostat fully, you can reduce your energy costs greatly.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!      

Air Conditioning, Air filters, Duct Sealing, Furnaces, Insulation, Programmable, Tax Credits, Technicians, Thermostats, Water Heaters

Eighteen Ways To Get Your Home Ready For Cool Weather

With fall on the horizon for residents of Tulsa, it's time to start thinking about how to get your home ready for the cold weather.  Here are eighteen different ways to stay warm and energy efficient this winter.

  • Stop Drafts: Drafts can waste up to 30 percent of your energy. There are various products that can be used to block drafts under doors and windows.

  • Change Furnace Filter: Change, or at least check your filter each month. With heavy dirt, comes less airflow, which means higher bills.

  • Run Fans in Reverse: Simply switching your fans to run clockwise will make your air warmer.

  • Drain Hoses and Air Conditioner Pipes: This prevents dangerous freezing.

  • Turn Down Your Water Heater: Lowering the temperature can reduce your water heating costs by 10 percent.

  • Install Storm Windows and Doors: This reduces drafts and can increase energy efficiency by 45 percent. Be careful though, the ROI can take years to pay you back.

  • Get a Tuneup: A preventive maintenance tuneup by a contractor will ensure that your heating system stays working efficiently, and most important, safely!

  • Program Your Thermostat: Set it intelligently, so you aren't paying to warm an empty house.

  • Use Plastic Insulation: Covering your windows adds a buffer against drafts.

  • Use An Energy Monitor: These inform you when you have been using more energy than usual.

  • Use Weatherstripping: This helps prevent air leaks.

  • Add Insulation: This is particularly helpful in the attic and basement.

  • Insulate Your Pipes: This will help decrease the chance of freezing pipes.

  • Seal Ductwork: Up to 30 percent of your conditioned air can leak out of your ducts before it reaches its destination.

  • Use Tax Credits to Your Advantage: These can make energy-efficient upgrades for your home more affordable.

  • Be Wise When Selecting a Contractor: Hire an Energy Star home comfort contractor who is certified to help you make the right choices for your home.

  • Use Alternative Energy Sources: These are often much more energy efficient than traditional methods.

  • Upgrade Your Furnace: Newer models can save you up to 50 percent when compared to older models.

For more information on how to prepare your home for winter, contact Air Assurance. We can help you turn these ideas into concrete action.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems) .Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our current promotions and get started today!      

Air Conditioning, Duct Sealing, Energy Star, Insulation, Programmable, Sealing Air Leaks, Thermostats

Home Advisor's Tips For Oklahoma Homeowners Leads To Energy Savings

How would you like to increase your annual energy savings? By following these tips from Energy Star’s Home Advisor, Oklahoma homeowners in theTulsa area may be able to save an estimated 33 percent in annual energy costs.Suggestions include:

  • Sealing air leaks – One of the most cost-effective ways to increase household energy savings is to seal off major air leaks commonly found in attics, basements or crawl spaces. Focus on leaks around wiring, plumbing, and ductwork. For optimal results, consult a professional.

  • Duct sealing – With duct leaks responsible for an estimated 20 percent of conditioned air loss, duct sealing should be a priority. While you may be able to seal accessible ducts using mastic or metal tape and use at least R-6 insulation to shield exposed ductwork in unconditioned areas of the home, a professional can access those hard-to-reach areas and ensure that your entire system is properly sealed.

  • Insulation – To prevent the unwanted exchange of heat and moisture, adequate insulation should be installed. Generally, residents of theTulsaarea should use R-30 to R-49 insulation for the attic, R-13 to R-19 for the exterior wall frame, and somewhere between R-5 and R-13 for crawlspaces.

  • HVAC upgrades – Older heating and cooling components just aren’t as efficient as today’s high-efficiency options. If your HVAC system is nearing ten years old, it may be time for a replacement. To maximize long-term energy savings, look for a minimum 14.5 SEER on air conditioners and a minimum 80 percent AFUE on gas furnaces.

  • Programmable thermostats – Take full control of your HVAC energy consumption by pre-programming household temperatures according to your family routine. Conserve energy without sacrificing household comfort.

  • Energy Star – Products carrying the Energy Star label are designed to improve household energy savings. Consider over 60 types of Energy Star-qualified products, including water heaters, windows and light bulbs.

Depending on the unique needs of your household, you may be able to significantly increase your annual energy savings by implementing some of the strategies outlined by Energy Star’s Home Advisor. For a more personalized energy assessment, consult one of our trained technicians. Contact Air Assurance today.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here.Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Air Conditioning, Air filters, Attic Sealing, Electric resistance, IAQ – Indoor Air Quality, Insulation, Programmable, Technicians, Thermostats, Ventilation

Broken Arrow Homeowners In Oklahoma Can Avoid Common Air-Conditioner Problems Using These Tips

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to panic when their air conditioner seems to be malfunctioning, especially in the dead heat of a Tulsa, OKlahoma summer. Luckily, many common issues are easily addressed, with most being the direct result of simple, albeit unintentional, neglect.Perhaps the most common issue is a lack of cooling. Often, the cause of this problem is as simple as an improperly programmed thermostat or a thrown circuit breaker.

  • Check the thermostat for desired temperature settings and ensure that the cooling system is actually turned on. If everything is as it should be, the next option is to try resetting the thermostat. If this does not correct the issue, a professional assessment is recommended.

  • If the culprit is a thrown circuit breaker, resetting the breaker should correct the problem. Of course, if this is a common occurrence, there is likely an underlying electrical issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.

If lack of airflow is the issue:

  • Dirty filters can restrict airflow and put a strain on your system in terms of efficiency. If filter replacement doesn’t seem to correct the problem, consult a trained technician.

  • If you suspect a frozen indoor coil, try adjusting the thermostat for a few hours to unfreeze the system. If this doesn’t work, contact your HVAC contractor.

Another common complaint is spiking energy costs. This can be the result of several factors, including:

  • New appliances

  • Extreme summer heat

  • Extreme thermostat settings

  • Local utility rate increases

If your energy increases can’t be explained away logically, you may be the victim of improper system cycling or some other system malfunction. Of course, the best way to ensure that your system is running properly when you need it most is to maintain a routine preventive maintenance schedule. This allows your technician to evaluate and adjust every aspect of your cooling system, including:

  • Proper system cycling

  • Thermostat accuracy

  • Electrical safety

  • Air filter maintenance

  • Cleanliness and efficiency of indoor and outdoor coils

  • Condensate drains

Last but not least, during extreme temperatures, your system may not be able to keep the temperature as low as it does normally.  This can be due  to several factors:1. Your system may not be sized properly for your comfort.  A professional is needed to do a load calculation on the house to determine the correct size. Maybe your system cooled better in previous years?  Did something change like the loss of a large shade tree or did you replace wood shingles with asphault shingles?  Has your ductwork or insulation been disturbed by remodeling or other services?  Is the system clean?2. Your attic may have inadequate attic ventilation.  With extreme temps comes extreme attic temperatures.  And if your attic can't properly remove the extreme heat, this puts excess heat gain on your home's interior.3. With extreme temperatures come extreme heat on your duct system.  If your ducts are not properly insulated, this can cause your air to "lose it's cool", therefore making your unit run longer and less efficient.4.  What is the level of attic insulation in your home?  If this is not at least 12" you are putting extreme pressure on your system to cool at levels it was probably not designed for.If you’ve been experiencing problems with your air conditioner, don’t wait until the entire system shuts down. Call the trained technicians of Air Assurance today for an expert consultation.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here.Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Manual, Programmable, Thermostats, Uncategorized

Make The Most Of Your HVAC Equipment With A Zoning System

One of the greatest advances in home comfort was the introduction of zoning systems. A home can be fitted with separate thermostats to monitor heating and cooling in different "zones," or areas, of a home. These are tied to a central thermostat control that can distribute cool and warm air in a more controlled fashion. Dampers placed in ducts control the temperature for the different areas. For example, if a south-facing area of the home has a bank of windows and needs more cool air in the summer, dampers will open more for that area. North-facing areas with more shading would require less, and dampers would constrict that air flow. Zoning systems thus direct warm and cool air into areas where they are needed most.The floor plans of most homes are not logically designed for optimum air distribution. Hot air rises, cool air falls. Therefore, the same amount of cooling is not needed for downstairs areas as it is for upstairs. Rooms farther away from the HVAC system can also receive less air flow than is required. Zoning systems address that lack of balance and create a more even heating and cooling pattern throughout the home.In addition, rooms or sections of a home that require less heating or cooling due to limited use can get less air flow, thus saving energy. A properly designed zoning system can not only maximize home comfort but also reduce energy costs.  Think of it as like a light switch for different rooms of your home.  Of course we have those, but who would have only one light switch that controlled every room's lights?  Same principle with zoning systems.  You don't have to cool all of your house, just to be comfortable in part of your house.If you would like to investigate the advantages of zoning systems for your Oklahoma home, contact the comfort experts at Air Assurance. We can explain all the benefits and logistics of zoning. We're always ready to give you the information that you need in order to take better control of your home comfort.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Air Conditioning, Central, Energy Evaluations, IAQ – Indoor Air Quality, Manual, Planned Maintenance, Programmable, Service & Maintenance, Thermostats

Programmable Thermostat Features

Programmable thermostats are an excellent way to increase the energy efficiency of your home and save money on your monthly utility bills. They work especially well for anyone who is gone from their home for a specific period of time during the week. With a programmable thermostat you can set the temperature of your home and have your heating/cooling system operate only when it's needed.Programmable thermostats possess a temperature-sensitive switch that enables them to maintain the temperature you set. When choosing a programmable thermostat, you should take your weekly schedule into account. There are three different kinds of options that you can choose from:7-Day Model7-day models are the most efficient option if you or your family members have varying schedules throughout the week, therefor allowing the optimum schedule to be set for any day of the week. For example, if you work later than usual on Tuesdays, or have children that arrive home from school earlier than usual on Wednesdays, a 7-day model will allow you to program specific times for your heating/cooling system to kick in.5+2-Day Model5+2-day models are the way to go if you have the same schedule each week and have a separate schedule on the weekends. So, for instance if you arrive home at 5 o'clock each day during the week, you can set your thermostat to start running each day shortly before you return, so the house is comfortable when you arrive. On the weekends, you can set an entirely different schedule that will be the same for both two days.5-1-1 Model5-1-1 models are similar to 5+2-day models, except that they allow you to have a different schedule for each weekend day. So,  you can have the same schedule set during the week, as well as a different schedule for Saturday and a different schedule for Sunday.Some other options that can be found on programmable thermostats, are:

  • Touch-pad screen programming

  • Voice/phone programming

  • Vacation settings

  • Dirty air filter alerts

  • Equipment malfunction alerts

  • I-Phone or smart phone controlled

If a programmable thermostat is used correctly, it can pay for itself within four years. If you are having trouble deciding what thermostat would be best your home, contact the professionals at Air Assurance today. They have been serving Oklahoma's Tulsa and Broken Arrow region for more than 30 years and will be happy to help you with all of your home comfort needs.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Programmable, Tax Credits, Thermostats

Heating Or Cooling A New Space? Zoning Systems Can Help

With today’s rising energy costs, everything a homeowner can do to reduce those costs, especially reoccurring costs like environmental control of their home, is worth the extra effort. However, finding the balance between controlling costs and maintaining your family’s comfort can be a challenge.In most families, different parts of the home are used during different parts of the day. During the day the living room and kitchen are the most occupied rooms; while at night those areas are abandoned and everyone is in the bedrooms. Unfortunately, in most homes, heating and cooling is piped throughout the whole house 24 hours a day.  Another common example in our area is homes that have 2 levels, but only one central heating and air conditioning system.  This tends to leave the upstairs hot, and the downstairs cold.Obviously, this is an inefficient way to maintain your family’s comfort. A zoning system, which only heats and cools the areas of the house while they are occupied can help. Early zoning systems were cost prohibitive, requiring a separate HVAC system for each zone of the house. While this type of system would pay off over time, for most people it was not financially feasible.Because most homes today are built with forced air heating and cooling, modern zoning systems take advantage of the centralized HVAC to produce heated and cooled air for the whole house. Motorized ducts are installed in the ductwork, each one connected to a programmable thermostat in its corresponding zone. The ducts are only opened when two conditions are met: firstly, that it is during time periods programmed into the thermostat; and secondly, when the temperature of the room warrants heating or cooling.This type of system is both easy to install and economical. Costs of installing your zoning system will easily be recouped in reduced energy bills. Not only that, but you can apply for an energy tax credit on your 2011 tax returns, which will return a portion of your installation costs to you.When additions are made to an existing home, upgrading your HVAC system to include zoned heating and cooling is a decision you won’t regret. Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information, click here. Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.

Programmable, Service & Maintenance, Thermostats

Download The Air Assurance Free Home Comfort Solutions Guide

We hope you’ve been following our blog each week, and getting your HVAC questions answered right here.  Whether it’s how to change a filter, improve your indoor air quality or size your replacement HVAC equipment, we want to make sure that you get the facts you need to make informed decisions about your home comfort.Another handy resource for homeowners is our Home Comfort Solutions Guide. This free download is available right here on our blog page, so be sure to check it out.  Inside, you’ll find a wealth of information about how to get the most from your heating and cooling equipment.Here’s a sneak peek at some of the topics covered in our Guide:

  • Your house as a system- Your HVAC equipment works in conjunction with many other factors in your home to ensure your comfort. Each piece of the puzzle is critical.

  • HVAC controls- Programmable thermostats and zoned systems are two ways to gain control over your home comfort and your energy bills.

  • Replacement options- Is it time for a replacement? Which system is right for you?

  • Hiring an HVAC contractor- What to look for, questions to ask and signs that you’ve found the best contractor for you.

  • Equipment installation- The best HVAC equipment available won’t function properly if it’s installed incorrectly. Find out how to tell if your contractor is doing the job right.

  • Maintaining your equipment- Regular professional maintenance can prevent equipment failure and early system breakdown. Learn about how your contractor keeps your system running smoothly.

Our Home Comfort Solutions Guide also provides some important resources for homeowners, where you can get more information about maximizing the energy efficiency of your HVAC system to save money on your energy bills.So take advantage of this free download today!  And be sure to ask us how we can help you get more from your heating and cooling system, with products and services designed to give you ideal home comfort, clean, healthy indoor air and greater energy savings.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas.  To get started, check out our website or see our current promotions.