Debunking Heating System Myths

Many homeowners will begin to trust the myths and fables that they hear in order to lower their utility bills or heat their homes as winter continues. Heating myths can be misleading. J.C.’s Heating and Air has four myths that homeowners need to be aware of in the winter months.

Myth: You can reduce your heating bill by closing registers and vents.

Modern homes are equipped with forced-air heating systems. These balance heat distribution and distribute pressure evenly. The heating system will work harder to heat your home if you close off registers and vents.

Myth: A higher temperature setting will make your house heat up faster.

Heating systems provide air at the same steady rate, regardless of how high the heat setting is. Heating systems will run at the same speed until they reach the desired temperature, even if it is cold.

Myth: Adjusting your thermostat when you’re not there won’t make a difference to your bill.

Your utility bills will go up the warmer your house is, regardless of whether you live there or not. The utility bill can be significantly reduced by lowering the temperature when you’re not home. Heating contractors in Knoxville TN say that the ideal winter home temperature is 78 degrees. The thermostat set at 74 degrees can lower monthly heating costs by 32 percent. This is because the house uses less energy to maintain 78 degrees.

Myth: Cold floors are part of winter.

Your home may not be properly insulated if you have a cold bathroom or kitchen during winter. Warm air should flow through your home during winter months and cool air should escape during summer. Check for air leaks in the ductwork, windows, and doors if your floors are unusually cold. You may need to seal your home in order to prevent cold drafts. Battling the cold of winter shouldn’t be a struggle with the right heating system in place. Call your trusted heating contractor to know more about how you can improve heating in your home.

Call J.C.’s Heating and Air today to improve the efficiency of your home’s heating system.

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J.C.’s Heating and Air
3709 N Broadway
Knoxville, TN 37917
(865) 388-1712
https://jcsheatingandair.com/

Things To Consider When Buying A Home Heating System

It may be time for your heating system to be replaced if it is not keeping you warm or comfortable. You shouldn’t take a heater installation in Knoxville, TN as a short-term investment. You should always look at it in the long term. These are some factors to consider when shopping for a new heating system for your home:

Power Levels

Heating systems can provide heat according to your home’s needs. Heating systems that are too small can run all day, but not keep your home warm. The heater that is too big for your home will heat up too fast and then turn off because the cool outside air lowers the temperature.

The heating system will need to use more energy to turn on or off because of this short cycling. It can also increase energy costs. The heating system’s wear and tear can be increased by short cycling. Make sure the heating system in Knoxville you buy is the right size.

The Climate at Your Location

Consider the winters in your area before you decide on a heating system. If your climate is sub-zero, a furnace will work well. Furnaces generate heat using standard combustion processes. If your climate is mild, heat pumps are suitable.

Layout of ductwork

It is important to take into account the ductwork layout when you are looking at a home heating system. This determines how powerful it will be. A larger home with a lot of ductwork will require a stronger unit than homes that are smaller. If your home does not have ductwork, you may need to install it or select a heating system without ducts.

Your heating system choice will also depend on the age of your ductwork. You should ensure that the ductwork in your home is compatible and up-to-date with the heating system you are considering purchasing. Before you buy a heating system, it is best to have a professional HVAC contractor inspect the condition of your ductwork.

The System’s Efficiency

You need a heating system that is energy efficient and doesn’t cost you a lot in energy bills, whether it’s an electric heat pump or a furnace that burns propane, fuel oil, or natural gas. You should choose a heating system that has a higher energy rating. To measure the efficiency of a heat pump, you should look for the HSPF. The AFUE is the fuel percentage the furnace can convert to heat.

Total Costs

Apart from the initial purchase price of a heating system, it is important to factor in other costs such as operational and maintenance expenses. You should ensure that the heating system you are purchasing is cost-effective and will last for the long term. A professional heating contractor can help you to determine the cost of maintenance, repairs, and other operating costs for different heating systems in order to make a decision that is favorable.

Energy Source

It is important to research the fuel options available in your area before you buy a heating system. This will allow you to determine if it is cost-effective and what fuel type your home can handle. Learn about the fuel options and determine if they are right for you. Ask an HVAC contractor to do the math. They will advise you on the best energy source for your home.

Call J.C.’s Heating and Air today if you are shopping for a heating system that’s best suited for your home.

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J.C.’s Heating and Air
3709 N Broadway
Knoxville, TN 37917
(865) 388-1712
https://jcsheatingandair.com/

Winter Heating Tips For Your Home

Although the holidays are over, the cold temperatures are still here. It’s nice to return to a cozy and warm home as we get back into routine and go back to work. These are not-so-obvious heating tips to keep your home warm and cozy during winter.

1. Reduce the thermostat

Although it may seem counterproductive, this can help you save some money. When the temperature drops, your heat pump, and HVAC system are put to the test. A few degrees lower thermostats can reduce the heating system’s burden and save you money on your utility bill. It keeps your home’s climate comfortable.

2. Replace Heat Pump Filters

Many homeowners neglect to check the indoor air quality, especially in the winter months. You should change the filter on your HVAC or heat pump, especially since you are spending more time indoors in the winter. Your air filters could have become clogged with dust, pet hair, and other debris over the summer or fall. Your heat pump and HVAC system will run smoothly all winter if you replace your old filter. For better indoor air quality, make sure you check it once per month and change it every three months.

3. Caulk and seal drafts

Even though you have the best heating system, if there are any drafts or cracks in your home it could be a sign that your heat pump is working overtime to heat your home. You should check for any gaps between or over doors, windows, or doggie doors that could allow warm air to escape. You can seal any gaps that you find in your home by caulking them.

4. Schedule HVAC maintenance and inspection

HVAC contractors recommend that you schedule annual heat pump inspections and HVAC maintenance appointments. This is not just a marketing tactic. It will save you money over the long term. You can reduce future repair costs and keep your heating bill down by being aware of how your heating system is performing.

5. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Many homeowners don’t know that ceiling fans can be reoriented for different seasons. Locate the switch on your ceiling fan’s body and turn it clockwise. Heat rises according to science. Keep this in mind: The clockwise motion of your ceiling fan will pull the hot air near your ceiling down, keeping every room in your house warmer.

6. Purchase a humidifier

Winter months can be dry especially if you run the heater continuously. A whole-home humidifier can be used to add moisture to your home and make it feel warmer. If the humidifier provides enough warmth, you may be able to lower your thermostat by a couple of degrees.

7. Gas Fireplaces: Say “NO” to them and Wood Fireplaces: “YES!”

A wood fireplace is a better choice than a gas fireplace. Did you know that gas fireplaces consume more energy to heat a space than central heating? If you have a wood-burning fireplace that you can use to heat your home, then fill it with firewood.

8. Shut Off Exhaust Fans

Exhaust fans are found in most homes. They can be found in the kitchen or bathroom and vent smoke and steam. The exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom can be used continuously to draw down your home’s supply of warm air. To reduce heat loss, limit your use of exhaust fans during winter.

Call J.C.’s Heating and Air for your home heating needs.

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J.C.’s Heating and Air
3709 N Broadway
Knoxville, TN 37917
(865) 388-1712
https://jcsheatingandair.com/

Tips On Keeping Heating Costs Down

Heating your home in winter can quickly become a significant expense. Once that bill arrives, you may feel the chills. There are many ways to keep warm during winter without spending a lot of money on fuel. Here are some ideas:

Seal Drafts

It is a sure way to lose heat in the winter months. Warm air can escape, and cold air can get in through gaps around doors and windows or other openings that connect the interior of your home to the exterior. You can heat up your home quickly and inexpensively by inspecting all your windows and doors. Weatherstripping is a good idea if your curtains are fluttering or you feel drafts or gaps. The rubber or foam material can be used to seal gaps and prevent drafts around windows and doors.

Use curtains

Windows account for approximately 30% of the home’s heating energy. Thermal-insulated curtains and drapes are another great way to keep heat in your home while keeping the outside cold out. These curtains can be used to block heat from the windows but there are also versions that can cover doors. There are many styles available so you can find the right one for your home. Keep the curtains closed if your home is exposed to sunlight. This will allow solar energy to warm your space. To keep the warmth inside, close your curtains at night.

Check your insulation

Although this is a more expensive and time-consuming project, it’s important to ensure that your home has good insulation. Although it can be difficult to inspect the insulation in your walls and crawl spaces, it is possible to do so easily. Insulating these areas can make your home more efficient and reduce energy consumption. Homeowners can save up to 15% on heating in Knoxville by sealing their homes and insuring that crawl spaces and attics are well insulated.

Smarter Thermostats

It’s a great way to reduce your heating bills while still being comfortable in the winter. Most people don’t have the time or ability to adjust their thermostats every day. A smart thermostat or programmable thermostat is a good choice. These thermostats can replace your existing thermostat and allow you to set the times and temperatures that you want throughout the week. Even the simplest programmable thermostats can be set to a different schedule on weekdays than on weekends. Smart thermostats such as the Google Nest monitor your movements and adjust the temperature accordingly.

These are just a few tips to help you heat your home more efficiently. You will be happier in a warm, comfortable home that doesn’t have drafts and does not increase your monthly utility bills to unbearable levels. Contact a local heating contractor for more tips on how to ensure your home stays warm without breaking the bank.

Call J.C.’s Heating and Air now for professional heating and cooling services.

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J.C.’s Heating and Air
3709 N Broadway
Knoxville, TN 37917
(865) 388-1712
https://jcsheatingandair.com/