Newsletter

 January 2010 --  Happy New Year!  Hear is hoping for a better new year for all of us. 

We ususally like to limit our newsletter input to the products that we sell, but we saw a commentary on heat pumps and thought we would share some energy thoughs with you.  Our basis for this deviation is that many of our products are directly related to energy efficiency and one of the goals of our newsletter is to provide you with information along that vein.

Did you know that a heat pump uses 30% to 40% less electricity than other kinds of heaters?  This is because they move heat into your home rather generate heat.  Operating a heat pump smartly will help you get the most of this already energy-wise system.  But, keep in mind that these systems operate differently than other heat sources and therefore, the same energy-efficiency rules don't apply.

While tuning your thermostat down while you are away from home or while you are asleep will help save energy and the same is true for heat pumps, you should be aware that there is a difference in how you should bump the heat back up.  Avoid turning the heat pump thermostat up by more than one degree at a time.  This will prevent the heat pump from using its auxiliary heat, which uses significantly more energy to operate.

Also, rather than running the indoor fan constantly, use the "auto" fan setting on the thermostat and subsequently run the fan only when needed.

Just like other heating and cooling systems, regular maintenance will keep your heat pump system running at peak efficiency.  Change the air filter once a month, remove debris from the outside units and clear air registers in the house.  Additionally, be sure to schedule an appointment with a professional technician to service your unit once each year.