May16
You can apply the whole-house approach to energy efficiency for new construction, but it can also save you money when remodeling or adding on to your home, or simply upgrading your HVAC equipment.
Apr12
Ductless mini splits are air-source A/Cs or heat pumps that forgo ductwork and instead employ advanced technologies that result in effective and energy-efficient cooling and heating. The sleek components of ductless mini splits offer homeowners practical solutions for a plethora of heating and cooling quandaries and situations where ductwork won’t work and a window unit will not do.
Dec10
With cold winter weather fast approaching, many Chicago homeowners are bracing for higher utility costs. One way to reduce heating bills this winter is to consider more energy efficient HVAC equipment. Choosing a new furnace or air conditioner may seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, a government program known as Energy Star makes shopping for efficient HVAC equipment easier.
Sep25
You will have greater success in your efforts to improve your home's energy efficiency if you view your entire property as a single energy system, with smaller components that all work together to make the whole system run well. If one element in the system is not working as efficiently as it should, then the other parts have to work harder to make up the difference. An understanding of how the pieces all work together will help you build a more energy-efficient home, or to improve the efficiency of your existing house.
Aug14
Saving on energy costs isn’t always about buying the latest in high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment. An important building block for the cost-effective HVAC system is knowledge of how to air seal a house properly. A house that's well-sealed and properly insulated can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs.
Aug09
The sun's warmth that radiates into your home through windows, skylights or glass doors is called solar heat gain, and in Chicagoland's winter months, can feel warm and cozy. In mid-summer, however, the heat gain from these sources, as well as outside heat entering your home through air leaks and poorly insulated walls, ceilings and attics, can make your air conditioner work overtime to maintain your home's comfort level. That means more wear and tear on the system and more maintenance and repair costs, not to mention, increased utility bills. You can control energy costs and make your home more comfortable by knowing the areas where heat comes in and taking steps to minimize its effect.
Jul19
Did you know you can save about 10 percent on your heating and cooling bills every year simply by installing a programmable thermostat and using it correctly? The chance to save energy without sacrificing comfort is the primary reason people invest in programmable thermostats. Here’s a look at the many options available to you and tips for getting the most out of your investment.