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Our Blog :: Archive » August 2011
Check out our list of posts below. If you would like to know more about any of these topics, or to talk to us directly, please call us at (513) 777-8933 or contact us by email.
Size Your Air-Conditioning System First, And You'll Get Efficient Results Later
by Greg Leisgang on August 29, 2011
So you’re upgrading to a high-efficiency air-conditioning system? Congratulations! You’ll save money, energy and help the environment. But first, make sure that your new equipment is properly sized and installed to get the most out of its performance.… read more »
Tired Of Thermostat Wars? Zoning Systems Could Be The Answer To The Problem
by Greg Leisgang on August 24, 2011
As you walk through your house, the temperature is more than likely inconstant. Some areas naturally collect more heat, such as upper-story bedrooms that face south, while other areas stay cooler, such as the basement.… read more »
Landscaping Affects Energy Savings: Don't Let The Planting Season Pass You By
by Greg Leisgang on August 22, 2011
Smart landscaping choices are another way to save money on your home's heating and cooling bills. With the right landscaping, you can block winds, reduce or maximize solar gain, and prevent energy loss. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the initial investments made while planting and landscaping for energy savings are typically recouped within about eight years.… read more »
The Cooling Season In West Chester May Be Near The End, But Preventive Maintenance Should Not Be Ignored
by Greg Leisgang on August 18, 2011
What’s the best way to ensure your cooling equipment makes it through to next summer in the West Chester area? Preventive maintenance. Maintenance tunes up your equipment after the worst of the summer heat and conditions it to work as efficiently as possible for the duration of the season. It’s the best way to prevent expensive repairs -- or an even more expensive breakdown.… read more »
Upgrade Your Indoor Air With Ventilation
by Greg Leisgang on August 16, 2011
The average homeowner is inside a home or office about 90 percent of the time. While your indoor space may be more comfortable than the hot, humid conditions outside, it’s not necessarily healthier. Ventilation is the key to keeping fresh, healthy air cycling into your home, while exhausting stale air.… read more »
Going Out Of Town? Tips For Your HVAC System While You're Away
by Greg Leisgang on August 11, 2011
A vacation is supposed to be a time of relaxation -- not a time to worry about whether your HVAC system will fail, or other potential home disasters. Tri-County Heating & Cooling is here with some HVAC advice to ease your mind and save you energy until you’re home again.… read more »
Summer Allergy Season Is Here: How To Further Your Indoor Air Quality
by Greg Leisgang on August 9, 2011
Summer allergies in our area can keep many homeowners inside. However, sometimes our indoor air quality is so poor that we may not find much relief. According to research done by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, outdoor air is often 10 times cleaner than indoor air! Allergens make up a big portion of indoor contaminants, including dust, pollen, mold and pet dander.… read more »
Summer Is In High Gear: Use These Operational Tips To Optimize Your Air-Conditioning System
by Greg Leisgang on August 4, 2011
The dog days of summer have set in around the West Chester area, and your air-conditioning system is more important than ever to your comfort. Any system that sees such demanding use on a continual basis is going to need attention to keep it operating at peak efficiency. To make sure your system doesn’t break down, and stays in it for the long haul, we’ve got some simple operational tips every homeowner can use:… read more »
Upgrading Your Cooling Equipment? HVAC Concepts You Should Know
by Greg Leisgang on August 2, 2011
If you’re investing in an upgrade to your HVAC equipment, understanding some basic HVAC concepts and terms can help you get the best deal for your energy dollar. Here are a few common parts and other terms that could help you out.… read more »
Please explain the recent change in energy efficiency regulations for air conditioning equipment.
The new regulations, which went into effect in January 2007, raised the minimum efficiency required for new air conditioning equipment, specifically from 10 SEER to 13 SEER. (The efficiency of central air systems is regulated by the U.S. Department of Energy. Systems are tested and assigned a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio.).
Manufacturers are no longer making 10-SEER systems. While the regulation is relatively new, we've recommended 13-SEER equipment and higher for years.
