February 11, 2025

Optimizing Your Thermostat Settings for Late Winter Energy Savings

As winter nears its end, temperatures can fluctuate between chilly mornings and milder afternoons. Many homeowners leave their thermostats at the same setting all season, but making small adjustments can help lower energy costs without sacrificing comfort. Fine-tuning your thermostat for late winter allows you to stay warm while reducing unnecessary heating expenses. Ideal Thermostat Settings for Late Winter The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F while you’re home and awake. As outdoor temperatures rise toward spring, you might not need as much heat as earlier in the season. Lowering the thermostat a few degrees when you’re asleep or away from home can lead to significant savings on your energy bill. If you have a programmable thermostat, setting it to automatically lower the temperature at night and while you’re at work makes it easier to save energy without constantly adjusting it manually. Smart thermostats take this a step further by learning your schedule and adjusting accordingly. Balancing Comfort and Efficiency Late winter can bring unexpected cold snaps, so it’s important to find a balance between comfort and energy efficiency. Here are a few ways to optimize your thermostat use: Use layered clothing and blankets instead of...

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November 8, 2024

How to Choose the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System

How to Choose the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System With so many air filter options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which filter is best for your home. The first step is to pick a filter that’s sized correctly for your system, which you can find in your HVAC unit owner’s manual. Read on for other important considerations when selecting an air filter for your HVAC system. Understanding MERV Ratings The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating measures an air filter’s efficiency in trapping airborne particles. Filters typically range from MERV 1 to MERV 16, with higher numbers capturing smaller particles. For most homes, a filter with a MERV rating between 8 and 13 is ideal. These filters capture common household pollutants, like dust, pollen, and pet dander, without restricting airflow. Higher-rated filters trap finer particles, but they may reduce airflow in certain systems, so check your owner’s manual to be sure. Types of Air Filters Fiberglass Filters Basic and affordable, fiberglass filters trap larger particles like dust and lint. However, they don’t capture smaller pollutants, so they’re best for homes with minimal allergy concerns. Pleated Filters Pleated filters capture smaller particles than fiberglass and...

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