In the Twin Cities metro area, heating and cooling systems are equally important, so it’s helpful to know exactly how these systems work. While you don’t have to learn all the technical acronyms, being able to answer the question “What is HVAC?” is a good place to start.

If you’re planning a trip away to escape the sweltering Twin Cities summer, don’t make the mistake of thinking your home conserve energy while you’re gone. Conserving energy while on vacation is just as important as conserving it while you’re home.

Ductwork is the circulatory system of your home’s heating and cooling system. When ducts are leaking, lots of energy is wasted. Defective ducts can also circulate dirty air throughout your home, as well as allow potentially toxic or lethal gases inside. Find out how four problem situations with ductwork can contribute to poor indoor air quality in your home.

If you’re in the market for a new central air conditioning system, make sure you get one with the latest technology. That means adaptive output, both in the air handler and compressor. For example, a variable-speed air handler will enhance energy efficiency, comfort and indoor air quality in your Twin Cities area home.

For many people, the science of air conditioning is an enduring mystery. Why should you worry about understanding it? If your A/C keeps your home cool in the summer, what more can you ask? As a matter of fact, knowing how an A/C works, particularly the refrigeration cycle, can help you troubleshoot problems that may arise, as well as perform limited maintenance tasks.

When it comes time to buy a new home or an old home that’s new to you, buyers are advised to commission a full inspection of the house to make sure they’re not investing in a home with a cracked or slipping foundation, a bad roof or termite-infested walls. If they’re investing in a brand new home, home inspectors should be concerned about poor construction practices and materials. However, there’s another area that also should be carefully inspected: the home’s heating and cooling system. Most home inspectors only check to see that each system turns on, but an HVAC inspection by a qualified technician will dig deeper to check for less obvious problems. 

One control on a thermostat that many people take for granted is the fan setting. Setting the thermostat fan control properly can make a big difference in home comfort and energy use. Learn the difference between the two fan settings and how one is usually better to use than the other.

In Maple Grove, the summer temperature can reach up to 84 degrees Fahrenheit and higher depending on the year. For many people, this is simply too hot and can be very uncomfortable. There is more at stake than simple comfort when it comes to living with sweltering heat. Studies have shown a correlation between the mental condition of people and the temperatures they are subjected to. In most cases, it’s not the heat itself that wears down one’s ability to remain clear minded. It’s the aftermath that occurs from this increase in temperature that can be harmful physically and mentally.

If you want to get serious about assessing your home’s energy efficiency, there’s no better way than with the Home Energy Rating (HERS) Index. The HERS Index is an official analysis of a home’s energy efficiency that’s used to quality the home for the federal Energy Star label, Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs) and various tax incentives and rebates. Once your home qualifies for these elevated statuses, it’s easier to market if you want to sell it. However, if you want to stay put, a low HERS Index means substantial energy savings, plus better comfort.