Before You Decide to Do It Yourself, Read This!

With one of the highest rates of return on investment of any home improvement, bathroom remodeling not only adds value to your home, but also is a major selling point for potential buyers. However, when you consider everything that goes into a quality bathroom renovation, the costs can add up quickly. From fixtures to plumbing to floors to paint, you may find yourself in over your head before you even begin. Add expensive labor costs and contractor fees and you may start to think that doing the work yourself is not a bad idea. But before you undertake a major bathroom renovation project on your own, think about it carefully.

Sure, you can manage to finish all the work yourself but can you manage to make it look great? We all want to save money, but none of us wants oddly cut tiles, crooked wallpaper, peeling paint,leaky pipes an uneven toilet, or any one of the number of other little mistakes that can creep their way into an amateur remodeling project. Make sure you’re ready for—and can live with—a finished job that looks like you did it yourself.

Have you ever planned and executed such a project before? Not everyone has the eye, the vision, the understanding, the attention to detail, or the focus to properly design a bathroom themselves. And have you ever actually performed any of the remodeling tasks that your plan calls for or used any of the tools required to do the job? If you are inexperienced or just all thumbs, you may be biting off a lot more than you can chew.

Are you basing your bathroom remodel on something you got from a home improvement book or magazine? Sure, on paper it may seem like a simple, step-by-step process. But remodeling a bathroom is not like baking cookies. All homes and bathrooms are not alike, and a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all design project may simply not work for your bathroom situation.

Does your municipality require permits for such work? If so, do you know how to acquire them? Plumbing and remodeling contractors can get these permits easily; do-it-yourselfers may not know the proper channels.

If you’ve ever attempted a do-it-yourself home improvement you know how hard it can be to overlook even the smallest mistake once the project is complete. Your eyes go over and over that one spot that looks less than perfect or that dark corner that just doesn’t seem right. If you’re the kind of person who is uncomfortable with imperfection or can’t deal with your own failures then it may be better to leave the job to a professional.

One of the best things about hiring a pro is that they know people. And not just any people. They know people who can get great deals on everything from light fixtures to faucets to custom tiles. You probably do not know these people. A professional can help you get the best price on the best materials; you could actually end up paying more by doing things on your own.

Home improvements take time. In some cases, they can take lots of time—time away from your spouse, your kids, your normal life. Before you undertake a major renovation like a bathroom remodel, make sure you consider the toll it may take on your personal life and your relationships. Annoying delays and setbacks can pile up, making what once seemed like a simple project drag on for weeks or months. Unless you’re truly prepared for the unknown, you may want to leave things to the pros.

Bathroom upgrades are not a simple home improvement project. You may be reluctant to spend money on hiring a professional, but this is really the only way to avoid costly mistakes. It is possible, though, to save money even if you go with a pro. Here are some ways how:

• Buy your own fixtures instead of paying the contractor’s mark-up.
• Remove tile and flooring yourself if your plan is to replace it anyway.
• Take on painting and tiling on your own. Even if you’re a total novice, you can do a good job with a little practice.

• Horizon Plumbing Services
• Horizon Drain Cleaning Services
• Horizon Sewer Line Services
• How To Properly Use a Plunger to Unclog a Toilet, Sink or Tub
• Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips
• 9 Ways to Save Water

Related Blog Posts...

• A Few Bathroom Remodeling Don'ts
• Keeping Your Bathroom Warm in Winter
• Amazing Toilet Facts!
• Finding a Wall Mounted Sink That Fits Your Needs
• Is Your Bathroom Trying to Tell You Something?
• Build a Plumbing Arsenal
• Simple Plumbing Repairs You Can Handle!
• Green Plumbing at Home

Natural Ways to Protect Sewer Lines and Septic Tanks!

If you're a homeowner, it is extremely important to take care of your sewer line system or septic tank to prevent costly damage. Root infiltration is one of the most common causes of damage sewer lines, pipes and septic storage tanks. Over time, sprawling roots from trees and shrubs can make their way through thin cracks and holes in pipes, lines and tanks. Once they've penetrated, they can continue to grow, creating a major blockage that cause unsanitary sewage and waste water to back up into your home...or to leak and soak through the soil in your lawn.

To avoid root infiltration damage, try to avoid planting trees and plants with long root systems or that require a great deal of moisture within the vicinity of your main sewer line or septic tank. These plants will seek out and gravitate toward pipes, lines and tanks. Instead, stick with these sewer and septic safe alternatives.

• Grass: Plain old lawn grass is one of the best (and safest) things you can plant over your septic tank or main sewer line. The roots are very short and grass is relatively easy to care for. Try Kentucky bluegrass or Rye grass, be sure to mow regularly, and treat yearly with a weed-killing formula.


• Perennials: Perennial plants and flowers -- like daisies, daylilies, and poppies -- come back year after year. These plants are a good choice because they are low-maintenance and inexpensive. When planting perennials over a septic tank or the path of a sewer line, lay down topsoil at least six inches deep and cover with a layer of mulch to keep the soil from eroding.


• Wildflowers: Wildflowers also have short root systems that won’t reach deep enough to damage your sewer line or septic system. They provide great color, thick coverage, and a distinct look to any area of your yard. You can purchase individual packets of wildflower seeds in coordinating colors to give your planting structure or choose mixed seeds for a more casual, random garden. Be sure to put down an inch or two of good quality top soil so your wildflower seeds will sprout.


• Septic Tank Mix: Septic tank mix, or prairie mix, is a blend of wildflowers and wild grasses. It’s easy to plant, sprouts quickly, is super-low maintenance, and doesn’t require a bed of topsoil in order to flourish. Septic tank mix is often recommended by professionals because it absorbs excess moisture from the ground and has a very short root system. You can find prairie mix in any lawn and garden or home improvement store.


• Ornamental Grass: Ornamental grasses are also easy to grow and don’t require much maintenance. They tend to spread but don’t grow deep, so there’s little chance of the roots damaging your sewer lines or septic tank. The simplest way to start growing ornamental grasses is to purchase a starter plant in a small container from your local garden center. Once it’s replanted in the ground over your septic tank or sewer line, it should start to spread out within a few weeks. There are plenty of colors and varieties to choose from, making it easy to create a custom look for your home.


• Container Gardens: Most septic tanks need maintenance or repairs at some point. If you’ve invested a lot of time and money planting in this area, you could face a significant loss if the ground must be disturbed. An easy way to avoid this while still adding beauty to your yard is by arranging container plantings over the septic tank. Flowers, grasses and other plants can be potted in attractive containers and set over a layer of pea gravel. That way, if you ever need access to the underground parts of your septic system, you can simply move the containers out of the way until the work is finished.

Repairing and replacing sewer lines and septic tanks can be quite expensive and usually requires digging and tearing up large patches of your yard. Adding these plants can not only help you avoid these costly and destructive repairs, they can also give your yard added beauty and attract songbirds and butterflies.



Related Information from Horizon Services...

• Horizon Sewer Line Repair and Replacement Services
• Make Sure You're Covered for Sewer Backups
• Garbage Disposal Do's and Don'ts
• How To Properly Use a Plunger to Unclog a Toilet, Sink or Tub

Radiant heating is an emerging trend in new home construction and existing home remodeling. Radiant heating systems involve supplying heat directly to the floor or to panels in the wall or ceiling of a house. Radiant systems depend largely on radiant heat transfer: the delivery of heat directly from the hot surface to the people and objects in the room via the radiation of heat (similar to the effect you feel when you can feel the warmth of a hot stove top from across the room).

Here's how radiant heating stacks up against other common heating systems:


The Advantages of Radiant Heating

Radiant heating has a number of advantages over other home heating technologies. It is generally more efficient than baseboard heating and usually more efficient than forced-air heating because no energy is lost through your home's ducts.

Furnace Filter Maintenance Is Great for Your Budget and Health

What's the simplest thing you can do to make sure your furnace runs efficiently this winter, costs little to operate, and doesn't break down? Always have a clean furnace air filter! Dirt, dust and debris easily accumulate in your furnace. This can impede moving parts and block airflow -- the leading causes of furnace inefficiency and damage. It can also serve as a breeding ground and launching pad for pollen, bacteria, fungi, allergens and other airborne particles that can seriously affect your health and well-being.

Furnace filters not only increase your heating system's productivity by blocking dirt and dust, they screen out unwanted airborne agents. By regularly cleaning or replacing your furnace filters, you can maintain clean, healthy indoor air quality. Furnace filter cleaning or replacement also keeps the your heating system running at peak efficiency AND prolongs its lifespan.

The Horizon Comfort Zone recommends that inspect your furnace filters monthly to see if they need cleaning or replacement. In fact, you should check even more frequently during times when your heating system is being used continuously. If you see dirt or dust accumulation on your furnace filter, clean it or replace with a new one (available at most home and hardware stores). If you don't clean or replace your furnace filter, your heating system will have to work extra hard this winter-- and this will reduce furnace performance and increase your utility bills.


How to Clean or Replace Your Furnace Filter

First, turn off your furnace and locate the service panel. You should be able to remove the panels by hand or with a screwdriver.

Locate the furnace filter near the intake-outtake blower and check the level of dust accumulation. If you have trouble seeing through, then it needs to be cleaned or replaced.

If you have a reusable furnace filter, then simply rinse away the dust particles in your sink or with a hose. Allow the furnace filter to dry and put it back in place.

If you have a disposable furnace filter, dispose of the the dirty one; buy and replace with a fresh furnace filter.


Types of Furnace Filters

Furnace filters are either disposable (with cardboard frames) or reusable (with fiberglass or metal framing). Disposable furnace filters cost less per filter, but require monthly replacement; thus it's always a good idea to have several on hand to last you throughout the year. Reusuable furnace filters are more cost-effective but require more time and elbow grease because you must manually clean them on a regular basis.

All furnace filters come with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Report Value) Rating. The MERV rating tells you furnace filter's capability in trapping particles and helps you compare the performance of different filters. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filtration performance.

Here's an overview of the different types of furnace filters that are available on the market:

Mechanical Furnace Filters: These are the most commonly used furnace filters. They are basically a net of dry, man-made or natural fibers that simply captures particles in its meshing. Most mechanical furnace filters are disposable, but some can be reused if cleaned regularly. They are not as effective for smaller particles or for homes with allergy sufferers. But for most homeowners and if you don't mind replacing them each month, they're both efficient and inexpensive.

Electrostatic Furnace Filters: These furnace filters consist of polyester strands which become charged with static electricity as air flows through them. This static electricity attracts more dust and pollens to the filter; thus, these filters have a slightly higher MERV rating than mechanical furnace filters. Most electrostatic furnace filters are bound to a metal frame They usually do not need replacing and can often go up to three months without cleaning.

Electronic Furnace Filters: Unlike traditional filters which have actual fibers or other material to trap dust and debris, these specialized filters use a grid of electrically charged wires that attract particles. In fact, electronic furnace filters are so efficient that within a few days their MERV rating may actually plummet due to excess dust buildup. Thus, if you are thinking of using an electronic furnace filter, keep in mind that it needs to be cleaned at least once a week.

HEPA Furnace Filters: HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particle Absorber. This is the most efficient of all furnace filters. It has no MERV rating because it actually exceeds MERV requirements. HEPA furnace filters have a 99% efficiency testing which is considered exceptional for filtration. However, HEPA furnace filters are more expensive than all other furnace filters. Because of their superior filtration, these furnace filters tend to only be used in high-sanitary commercial environments, such as hospitals, laboratories, and surgical facilities; it's very rare to find them residential homes. WARNING: If you decide to look for a HEPA furnace filter, read the labels carefully; there are quite a few imitation brands out in the marketplace that claim to be but may not be true HEPA products.


The Bottom Line on Furnace Filters

Cleaning or replacing your furnace filter only takes a few extra minutes or a few extra bucks each month. Trust us...it's well worth the time and money. If you have questions about which kind of furnace filter is right for you, how frequently you should replace or clean your furnace filter or how to clean or replace your furnace filter, a Horizon Services heating technician can give you the answers you need.



Related Information from Horizon Services...

• Horizon Heating Services
• Horizon's Pre-Season Furnace Precision Tune Up
• Indoor Air Quality - A Major Problem for Homeowners
• Cutting Edge Solutions For Energy Efficiency

We Separate the Minor Inconveniences from the Major Headaches!

Got a backed up or slow moving drain? A toilet that won't flush? Waste water that comes back up your sink, shower or tub drains? A foul smell in your yard or basement? JOIN THE CLUB! As the weather gets cooler, we at Horizon Services usually begin to see an increase in drain, sewer and water line service calls. For many homeowners, the recent intense rainfall and flood conditions in the Mid-Atlantic states -- particularly our service area of Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland -- have brought latent drain, sewer and water line problems that have been lurking invisibly in the shadows out into the open in a very dramatic fashion.

Face it...there are many things that can go wrong with your home's drain, sewer and water line system. For example, years of accumulated waste can cause major obstructions in pipes and lines. Old pipes and seals can crack, corrode or collapse. Tree roots can even infiltrate sewer and water lines These are the kinds of drain, sewer and water line problems that can require significant repair and expense.

The good news is that the majority of drain, sewer and water line issues are not that severe. Most are easily and inexpensively repaired. And most are preventable.

The vast majority of drain, sewer and water line problems are usually caused by minor incidents such as something falling down the pipe, clogging due to inappropriate matter being sent down the sink or toilet, and frozen pipes in colder weather.

Identifying the problem is the first step. Visually inspecting your sinks, tubs, showers, toilets and pipes will usually reveal the source of the problem. If the problem isn't deep down in your drains or lines, there's a good chance that you can resolve it yourself...or at least save time and money by pointing your drain or sewer/water line repairman in the right direction when they arrive at your home.

In the case of clogged sinks or toilets that won't flush, if the problem isn’t solved by using a plunger to unblock it, then the cause is probably due to an obstruction further down the line. You can use a plumber's snake or coiled wire (available at most hardware stores) to probe into the drain and get to where a basic plunger cannot to remove the obstruction. If this doesn’t work, your next step may be to remove the toilet bowl or sink to get access to the main pipe. This can be a delicate job, so it is best to call in a professional plumber or drain professional at this point.

In cold weather, frozen pipes is one of the most common causes of backed-up or slow moving drains. This is especially common when homeowners have been away for some time and turned the thermostat right down. Water moving slowly and at a low temperature causes ice to form and expand, causing blockages that exert increasing pressure on the pipes. Wrap the pipes in special wrap heat tape and leave it in place for at least 24 hours or until the blockage is cleared. Also consider leaving the thermostat at a higher setting to keep warm water circulating whilst you’re away for a while.

If you find that your boiler starts making a noise, this is probably because of hot spots forming due to a build up of steam, caused in turn by air building up in the system. The hot spots sometimes make banging noises when they get too hot, which is where the noise in the boiler comes from. The root cause of the build up of air is a lack of water in the system, but it can also be caused by a build up of scale on the inner surface of the boiler, in which case feed a boiler cleanser into the expansion.

Drainage pipes helpfully tend to run in straight lines, which facilitate the sorting out of problems. Inspection chambers covered by manhole covers are placed at each joint, and these covers can be lifted with a crowbar to check for blockages and to clean the manhole of accumulated debris where necessary. If you find the inspection chamber empty, the blockage must be closer to the house, so move on to the next one in that direction, and if it is full move in the opposite direction to look for the blockage. Once the blockage area has been isolated, you can insert the plumber' snake down the pipe in the direction of the blockage to clear it.

The drain cleaning and sewer/water line repair professionals at Horizon Services encourage all homeowners especially cognizant, vigilant and proactive in the maintenance of their home's drains, pipes and lines. Be aware of what you are putting down sinks, garbage disposals and toilets -- particularly large solid objects, grease and hair. Keep your eyes and ears open for the signs of drain, sewer and water line damage or obstruction. Insulate your pipes in cold weather. If you suspect a problem, don't delay -- call a drain cleaning or sewer & water line contractor immediately to fix the problem before it becomes large and expensive.

• Horizon Drain Cleaning Services
• Horizon Sewer & Water Line Replacement Services
• Horizon Plumbing Services
• Make Sure You're Covered for Sewer Backups
• How To Properly Use a Plunger to Unclog a Toilet, Sink or Tub
• Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips

Time for a new central air conditioning system? The average air conditioner lasts about 15 years, so if you live in your home for more than 10 years or so, there’s a good chance you’ll eventually have to replace your system. If you have central air conditioning that was installed back in the 1990s (or earlier), keep in mind that today's air conditioning systems provide significantly greater cooling power and energy efficency.

Installing a central air conditioning system is one of the most significant steps you can take in improving the overall comfort of your home. Central air conditioning will also add value to your home, as it’s a very attractive selling point for potential buyers.

That being said, a new central air conditioning system is a major household investment and not a purchase one should make without doing some serious homework. If you’re due for an air conditioning system upgrade, there are several important considerations that can help ensure you get the best possible performance, energy efficiency and value.

Before you commit to a new central air conditioning installation, think about the following:.

• Try Maintenance First. Have you been replacing the air conditioner filters according to schedule? Have you been scheduling a regular air conditioning tune-ups and cleanings? The problem may not be your air conditioner, but you! If your current air conditioning system seems to be operating at less than full capacity, have a professional air conditioning service technician come to your home to inspect it before you blow your savings on a brand new air conditioning system. Sudden changes in the function of an air conditioner that’s been performing just fine up to a point could mean that simple maintenance is in order, rather than a complete system overhaul. A certified professional can clean your system, run diagnostic testing, and make repairs or adjustments as needed. An experienced pro will also be able to tell you if it’s time to replace your central air conditioning system.


• Totally New vs. Upgrading Your Existing Air Conditioning. You may not need an entirely new central air conditioning system at all...just some modifications to your existing system to enhance its performance. Upgrading an aging central air conditioning system requires a much different set of considerations than installing a new one. You’ll want to make sure you match brands and models, and choose new components that are compatible with older ones. If you’ll be replacing an old air conditoning system completely, you may incur extra costs for removal and disposal of outdated parts.


• Air Conditioning Installation Circumstances. Be sure to communicate with your installation professional so he or she knows how best to approach your job. If your new air conditioning installation is part of a larger home renovation project, you may be able to save significantly by arranging for installation at a specific point in the job. Also, when your air conditioning professional is in the loop, he or she will be much better equipped to determine the best kind of system for your home and a much more accurate estimate.


• Air Conditioning Power Requirements. Central air conditioners measure cooling capacity in British thermal units (Btu) per hour. Generally, you need about 12,000 Btu per 1000 square feet of well insulated space or 400 square feet of inadequately insulated space. Your home’s structure, windows, sun exposure, and climate will all impact your cooling needs. The best way to get an idea of what you need for your home is to talk to an HVAC professional. While an air conditioning technician may suggest products or installation features that might cost you more up front, they will likely save you much more in the long run.


• Replacing an Aging Air Conditioning System. Like many other household appliances, central air conditioners have become significantly more energy efficient in the last ten years or so. If you’ve noticed a dramatic decrease in your system’s ability to cool your home—temperatures are inconsistent, the system seems to be coming on more frequently or running longer, or your monthly utility bills are steadily increasing—it may be time to replace your air conditioner. If your new air conditioner will be tied into an existing system in your home, talk to an air conditioning contractor about compatibility and installation options.


• Air Conditioning System Accessibility. Installing a central air conditioning system means your installation technician will need access to your home’s air ducts. The easier the access, the less you’ll be charged in hourly labor costs. If your home is older or has limited duct space, you might want to think about purchasing a mini-duct or ductless air conditioner. These alternative systems are a much better and more cost effective choice for homes where installing traditional ductwork would be prohibitive.


• Look for Energy Star Appliances. Choosing environmentally responsible products can be a challenge; for appliances and home electronics, the Energy Star program makes it easy. Simply look for the blue Energy Star label and know that you are getting the most eco-friendly, energy efficient air conditioner for your money. Air conditioning systems can have a huge impact on your summer utility bills, so it makes sense to look for an appliance that’s going to reduce your home’s overall energy consumption and save you money. Shop for air conditioners with a high SEER rating (most units range from 10 to 17). If you’re installing a central air conditioner, make sure your contractor knows your preferences and ask for a unit with the highest SEER rating possible.


• The Noise Factor. This is your chance to get rid of that noisy old air conditioning unit that rattles and hums every time it powers on. Inexpensive air conditioners—either window-mounted or central—can cause a lot of noise pollution, especially if you have to install them in a bedroom, living room, or near a deck or patio. Consider placement carefully, and avoid areas close to living areas, bedrooms, and close to the neighbors. To guarantee quiet operation, go with a higher-end, more expensive model.


• Sun Exposure. No matter how energy efficient your air conditioner, it will struggle to perform properly if it’s placed in direct sunlight. Try to install a new unit in an area of your home with plenty of shade, or plant shrubs or small shade trees close by.


• Consult an Air Conditioning Pro. A professional HVAC technician will be able to answer any questions you have about installing a new central air conditioning system in your home...from proper placement to energy efficiency ratings to correct sizing for your square footage. If you are unsure about any aspect of air conditioning system purchasing or installation, call your local air conditioning contractor for advice.

Related Air Conditioning Installation Information from Horizon Services...

• Horizon Air Conditioning Installation & Replacement
• 5 BIG Mistakes Homeowners Make When Replacing Their Heating and Air Conditioning Systems...
• How To Choose The Right Air Conditioning Contractor
• SEER, AFUE and HSPF Ratings Explained

Replacing your old heating and cooling system with a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling system is a challenging decision for most homeowners. Heating and cooling can account for nearly half of the energy used in your home. You want to maximize your comfort, but you don't want to pay through the nose. The right system may cost more upfront, but save money and reduce utility bills over time. The wrong system may need constant repair, under perform or die before its time. So much to consider!

When it's time to install a new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, make an educated decision with the help of these simple suggestions:


Find the Right HVAC Contractor
Getting the right contractor is key to getting a quality installation. Make sure the contractor you choose has at least several years of experience and can provide references. Make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured. Be sure to ask for a written contract of all work in advance. And always choose a contractor’s whose service and installation technicians are certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE). NATE is an industry-supported certification for heating and air conditioning technicians. NATE-certified HVAC technicians have met the nation's highest standards for HVAC training and knowledge.

Here are some additional things your heating and air conditioning contractor should do BEFORE you sign a contract:

• Measure existing ductwork to be sure it can handle the increased air flow of a new system
• Do a complete Load Calculation that will take into consideration window and vent locations as well as existing hot or cold areas of your home.
• Discuss with you any indoor air quality issues such as allergies, humidity levels in your home and any additional features you would like in your new home comfort system.
• Present you with several system options, not just one.
• Give you a written guarantee that your new heating and air conditioning system will perform as promised.

Bottom line: all heating and air conditioning contractors are not alike. In the end, it’s the contractor who will make the biggest difference in how the installation or replacement goes.


Properly Size Your Heating and Air Conditioning System
When installing or replacing heating and air conditioning cooling equipment, bigger isn’t always better and one-size does not fit all. Oversized HVAC equipment will cost more up front, consume more energy, provide inadequate cooling and humidification, and ultimately, need to be replaced prematurely. And don’t assume your current heating and air conditioning system is the right size either; today’s HVAC equipment is more efficient than those 10 years or older and your original system may have been sized improperly. Efficiency, not size is what you're after. Ask your HVAC contractor to thoroughly measure your home and calculate the "size" of the system using Manual J, or an equivalent industry-acceptable calculation tool.


Proper Installation is Crucial
One of the biggest factors in getting the best performance out of your new heating or air conditioning system depends on how well it is installed. Shoddy installation accounts for over half of the HVAC service calls and most customer dissatisfaction during the first year of operation. At a minimum, make sure your HVAC installation technician performs the following:

• Installs equipment in easily accessible areas for easy maintenance.
• Tests for adequate airflow and verifies that the cooling system has been charged with the correct amount of refrigerant.
• Conducts a combustion safety test after ducts are sealed to be sure all gas or oil-burning appliances are working properly.
• Replaces indoor and outdoor coils for maximum efficiency.

Sealing and Insulation
Central air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces rely on a system of ducts to circulate air throughout your home. Heated and cooled air can easily escape through gaps between duct joints. Ask your contractor to seal and insulate ducts throughout your home; this can improve your heating and cooling system’s efficiency by up to 20 percent!


Heating and Air Conditioning System Maintenance
Your contractor should be available to do annual check-ups and tune-ups of your heating and cooling system to help prevent future problems and keep your system in fine working order. If your contractor offers a Service Partner Plan or other kind of maintenance contract, sign up for it! It will keep you on a schedule of regular and proper maintenance, save you money over time and give you peace of mind.

Also be sure to keep your system clean and free from dust, dirt and debris. Accumulated dust and other impediments can block the flow of air and that can drastically reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Be sure to check your air conditioner or furnace filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it or clean it. Never go longer than 3 months without replacing or cleaning a filter.

Look for the ENERGY STAR Label
When deciding on a heating or air conditioning system, insist on it being an Energy Star qualified system. The Energy Star designation is your best assurance that you are are buying an energy-efficient system. Be sure to ask your HVAC contractor to estimate your utility costs of purchasing an Energy Star qualified system. Although Energy Star heating and air condition equipment may cost more initially, they will cost much less to operate over time. In fact, most Energy Star qualified heating and air conditioning products can yield annual returns of 15–30 percent in lower energy bills. That translates into hundreds of dollars in annual savings.

More About Heating & Air Conditioning Installation...

• Choosing the Right Heating and Air Conditioning Contractor
• Making the Right Decision about Heating and Air Conditioning
• Heating and Air Conditioning System Analysis
• The Heating and Air Conditioning Installation Process
• 5 BIG Mistakes Homeowners Make When Replacing Their Heating and A/C Systems