HVAC System Prep

Always Be Prepared! That may sound like an old-fashioned Scout motto, but when it comes to saving money on your power bill, this advice is key to your comfort. Summer arrives every June in Georgia, and while it may be a bit late to get ready for the hot days and humid nights, it’s never too late to follow these first 5 Tips:

1. Service your HVAC System:
   • Call Integrity Air to schedule an HVAC system tune-up to ensure it’s running optimally.
   • If you haven’t already done so, clean or replace your HVAC system’s filters to improve airflow and efficiency.
2. Seal All Leaks:
   • Check windows, doors and ductwork for leaks and get them sealed up to prevent cool air from escaping. This may entail adding or replacing weather stripping or caulk.
3. Check the State of your Insulation:
   • Ensure your home is well-insulated to maintain the desired temperature with less energy. You may save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs by adding blankets, rolls or loose material, sprayed or rigid insulation or even reflective/radiant barriers to attics, crawl spaces and basement ceilings.
4. Shade Your Unit:
   • If possible to do so without obstructing airflow add a shrub, fence or other shade to your outdoor HVAC unit to help it run more efficiently.
5. Time for a Replacement?:
   • If your HVAC system is older, it may be less efficient than a new unit. Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system and the energy bill savings will help you offset the cost while cooling your home faster – even during the heatwave.

During the Heatwave

When the weather forecast calls for scorching heat, be sure to implement these 5 Tips as soon as possible to ensure your air conditioning keeps up with the demand:

1. Be Mindful of Thermostat Settings:
   • Install a Smart or Programmable Thermostat to monitor and set the temperature from anywhere.
   • Set thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature (generally 78°F) when you’re at home.
   • Raise the temperature as high as 88°F when you’re away at work or on vacation. Take care to account for pets in your home.
2. Use Fans:
   • Ceiling fans circulate air allowing you to raise the thermostat setting by as much as 4°F without sacrificing comfort. Ensure they are rotating counterclockwise to push cool air down in summer (reverse in winter).
   • Use oscillating table and floor fans whenever possible or if you don’t have ceiling fans.
3. Close the Curtain:
   • Block out direct sunlight by keeping blinds and curtains closed, especially during the hottest part of the day and especially on west-facing windows.
4. Limit These Activities:
   • Avoid turning on the stove, oven, or dishwasher during the hottest part of the day.
   • Cook outdoors! There’s a reason summer grilling is popular.
5. After Dark:
   • Take advantage of cooler nighttime temperatures by opening windows and run the fans for improved ventilation.

HVAC Efficiency

These last 5 Tips help ensure you won’t be calling Integrity Air for an emergency repair call:

1. Zone Cooling:
   • Whenever possible, cool only the rooms you’re using. If you have a basement in your North Georgia home, spend time there as it’s sure to be more comfortable during the day.
     Close vents in rooms you don’t use.
2. Maintain Airflow:
   • Keep vents and registers unobstructed by furniture or drapes to ensure efficient airflow.
     Employ those ceiling, floor and table fans.
3. Dehumidify:
   • Humidity can make you feel warmer but adding a whole home or portable dehumidifier can help your home feel cooler even at heatwave temperatures.
4. Regular Maintenance:
   • Having Integrity Air out to do scheduled maintenance of your HVAC system is a great way to keep the air flowing all summer long!
5. Energy Audit:
   • Inspect your home to identify areas to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

BONUS! More Money Saving Summertime Tips

1. Bring Back Granny’s Clothesline:
   • Stop running your electric dryer and reduce utility bills.
2. Turn-off Lights:
   • Use natural lighting whenever possible. And if you work from home, arrange your workspace near a window.
3. Unplug Chargers and Devices When Not in Use:
   • Unused appliances still draw power when plugged in. This "Phantom Power" can cost as much as $150 a year in energy costs.
4. Go Solar:
   • Adding solar lights to your yard, patio or deck saves money. Whether you choose string lights, lanterns, stake lights or something more decorative, outdoor lighting options are more numerous than ever before!
5. Install LED Bulbs:
   • If you've not upgraded your incandescent bulbs to LEDs, you're spending more than you need to on your electric bill. LEDs use up to 90% less energy than their old fashioned counterparts.

We’re committed to keeping you and your family comfortable and your energy bills more affordable. Whether you’re in Pickens, Gilmer or Cherokee county, it’s time to implement these money-saving tips and strategies to ensure that your HVAC system runs as efficiently as possible all summer and especially during a heatwave.

Integrity Air provides dependable HVAC service to homes in Jasper, Big Canoe, Marble Hill, Tate, Nelson, Ellijay, Canton, Ball Ground, Holly Springs, Waleska, Woodstock, and Towne Lake. Call (706) 889-6092 to schedule service.