energy efficiency | Action Plumbing, HVAC, & Electric

One day it’s spring. The next, it feels like standing inside an oven. Utah summers have a way of sneaking up on you, and your air conditioning system takes the hit every single time.

Here is what most homeowners do not know. You do not have to choose between staying cool and keeping costs down. Your local HVAC team at Action Plumbing has spent years helping Utah families do both, and these cooling tips really work.

Read on, and start saving before the next heat wave hits.

Why Utah Summers Hit Your Wallet Hard

Utah summers are dry and intense. July and August are the worst months for home energy use. In fact, cooling costs can make up nearly half of your summer utility bill.

The key to knowing how to lower your AC bill during Utah summers is understanding where the energy goes. Most of it goes to your HVAC system running longer than it needs to. The fix is easier than you think.

Start With Your Thermostat Settings

Your thermostat is the brain of your cooling system. Getting the settings right makes a big difference.

Use a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat learns your schedule. It adjusts the temperature when you’re away and cools things down before you get home. This alone can save you up to 10% on your annual cooling costs.

Many smart thermostat models connect to your phone. It is like having a remote control for your home’s comfort. You can change the temperature from anywhere. That means no more coming home to a blazing hot house or wasting energy cooling an empty one.

Try a Programmable Thermostat

Not ready for a smart model? A programmable thermostat is a great step up from manual settings. You set a schedule once and it runs automatically.

Here are some simple thermostat settings that work well for Utah summers.

Set it to 78 degrees when you’re home
Raise it to 85 degrees when you’re away
Drop it back to 78 degrees about 30 minutes before you return
At night, try 75 to 76 degrees for comfortable sleep

Every degree you raise the thermostat saves about 3% on your cooling costs. Small changes add up fast.

Best Energy-Saving HVAC Tips for July and August

These are the two hottest months of the year in Utah. Here are the best energy-saving HVAC tips to get you through them.

1. Change Your Air Filter Regularly

A dirty filter makes your HVAC system work harder. A clogged filter reduces airflow and forces the system to run longer. This drives up your bill and puts stress on the equipment.

Check your filter every month during summer. Replace it every 30 to 60 days if it looks gray or dirty.

2. Seal Air Leaks

Hot air sneaks in through gaps and cracks, and cool air leaks right out. Both problems waste money.

Check the seals around windows and doors. Add weatherstripping or caulk where needed. It’s cheap to do and the savings add up.

3. Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans do not cool the air. But they make the air feel cooler on your skin. That means you can raise your thermostat by about 4 degrees and still feel just as comfortable. Just remember to turn fans off when you leave the room.

4. Block Heat From the Sun

Direct sunlight through windows heats up your home fast. Close blinds and curtains on south-facing and west-facing windows during the hottest part of the day. Blackout curtains or cellular shades work especially well.

5. Avoid Heat-Generating Appliances During Peak Hours

Ovens, dryers, and dishwashers all add heat to your home. Try to run them early in the morning or late in the evening. This keeps your home cooler and reduces the load on your air conditioner.

6. Consider a Portable Air Conditioner for Specific Rooms

If you spend most of your time in one or two rooms, a portable air conditioner can help. You can cool just that space instead of the entire house. It gives you flexibility and can reduce the load on your central system.

Just keep in mind that portable units are less efficient than central systems. Use them as a supplement, not a replacement.

Schedule a Tune-Up Before the Heat Peaks

One of the best cooling energy savings tips we can give you is this: get your system serviced before summer really hits. A professional HVAC tune-up catches small problems before they turn into expensive repairs.

During a tune-up, a technician will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, test electrical components, and make sure everything is running at peak energy efficiency. A system that runs well uses less energy. It’s that simple.

Think of it like an oil change for your car. Skip it too long and you pay the price.

Check Your Home Energy Use Overall

Cooling is the biggest summer expense, but it’s not the only one. Here are a few more ways to trim your home energy costs.

Upgrade to LED lighting if you have not already. They produce less heat.
Add insulation to your attic. Heat from the roof transfers down into your living space.
Use a dehumidifier. Dry air feels cooler, so your AC does not have to work as hard.
Install a whole-home energy monitor to see exactly where power is going.

Do not overlook your water heater either. It can account for a surprising chunk of your energy use year-round. Lowering the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees is a simple adjustment that reduces standby heat loss and trims costs without any noticeable difference in your hot water supply.

When to Call a Local HVAC Professional

Some things are easy DIY fixes. Others are not. Here are signs it’s time to call in the pros.

Your system is running constantly but the house stays warm
You hear strange noises like banging or squealing
Your energy bill has jumped without a clear reason
There are warm or cold spots throughout the home
Your system is more than 10 to 15 years old

Older systems can lose efficiency quickly. Replacing an outdated unit with a modern, high-efficiency system can cut your cooling costs by 20 to 40 percent.

Ready to Save? Action Plumbing Is Here to Help.

You do not have to fight through another expensive Utah summer on your own. Action Plumbing’s local HVAC team is ready to help you get your system running at its best. Whether you need a quick tune-up, a new thermostat installation, or a full system upgrade, we are just a call away.

Contact Action Plumbing Today. Our local HVAC experts serve Utah homeowners all summer long. Schedule your tune-up, get a free estimate, or ask us anything.

Call us or visit our website to book your appointment. Stay cool and save more this season.

So, you’re in the market for a new heating system? Maybe your old one is on its last legs, or you just want something more efficient. Either way, you’ve got questions.

And honestly, who can blame you? With all the heating system options out there, it’s easy to feel lost.

Here’s the thing, though. Picking the right heater for your Arizona home doesn’t have to give you a headache. Let’s break it down together and figure out what works best for you and your family.

What Are Your Heating System Options Anyway?

Alright, let’s talk about what’s actually out there. You’ve got four main players: furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, and ductless mini-splits. Each one does the job differently.

Furnaces: Heat air and distribute it through ducts; reliable and common in Arizona homes.
Boilers: Heat water and deliver warmth through radiators or radiant floors.
Heat Pumps: Pull heat from outside air; function like an AC in reverse.
Ductless Mini-Splits: Ideal for homes without ducts or for heating specific rooms.

Your home’s setup, what you want to spend, and how you like to stay warm all play into which one makes sense. Trust me, there’s no perfect answer for everyone.

The Big Debate: Furnace vs Boiler

This is where things get interesting. People ask us about this all the time. Should you go with a furnace or a boiler?

Furnace Pros

Faster heating
Lower installation cost
Works well with existing ductwork
Lower long-term maintenance

Boiler Pros

More even, consistent heat
Quieter operation
Better for allergy sufferers
No forced air or dust circulation

For most of our neighbors here in Arizona, furnaces win out. They’re affordable, they work great with our climate, and you can’t beat the reliability.

Let’s Talk About Saving Money on Energy

Nobody likes throwing money out the window, right? That’s why you’ve got to pay attention to energy efficiency when you’re shopping for the best heating systems.

Look for high AFUE ratings (95% or higher)
Consider variable-speed or two-stage systems
Balance higher upfront cost against long-term savings
Choose systems that match your home’s actual heating needs

Climate Considerations for Arizona Homes

Let’s be real. Arizona’s climate is unique. Sure, we’re known for scorching summers, but winter nights can get surprisingly chilly. Especially if you’re up north.

These climate considerations really matter when you’re picking out heating equipment.

Heating Systems for Phoenix and Tucson

Down in Phoenix or Tucson? You need something that handles both heating and cooling like a champ. Heat pumps are perfect for this. They do both jobs and they’re crazy efficient in our moderate climate.

Think of it like having your cooling system and heater wrapped into one smart package. When you’re looking at heating and cooling systems for Arizona homes, versatility is key.

Best Heating Options for Northern Arizona

Now, if you’re in Flagstaff or the higher elevations, that’s a different story. Winters there are legit cold. You’ll actually use your heater a lot. A high-efficiency furnace or boiler makes way more sense up there.

Managing Dry Desert Air in Arizona Homes

Oh, and here’s something people forget. Desert air is dry. Really dry. Some HVAC systems make it worse.

If that bugs you, think about adding a whole-home humidifier. It’ll make everything more comfortable and help your system run better too.

System Sizing: Getting It Just Right

Here’s where a lot of people mess up. They think bigger is better. It’s not. Proper system sizing is actually one of the most important parts of the whole process.

Why Proper Heating System Sizing Matters

An oversized heater wastes energy like crazy and burns out faster. Too small? It’ll run nonstop and never quite get you comfortable. Neither one’s a good time.

Why Professional Heating Installation Is Important

A good tech will measure your square footage, check your insulation, look at your windows, and factor in our local weather. They’ll crunch the numbers and tell you exactly what size you need.

Don’t just guess based on your old system either. Maybe you’ve added insulation since then. Or replaced those drafty windows. Your home changes, and so do your heating needs.

Get it right, and your system will run like a dream for years.

Home Heating Tips to Keep Your Place Cozy

Once you’ve got your new system, let’s make sure it performs its best.

Install a smart thermostat
Keep vents clear of furniture and curtains
Change air filters every 1–3 months
Run ceiling fans in reverse during winter
Monitor energy bills for sudden spikes

Don’t Skip the Yearly Tune-Up

Real talk. Seasonal maintenance is the best money you’ll ever spend on your heating system.

Schedule it every fall before you really need your heat. A tech will clean everything, check for worn parts, test all the safety stuff, and make sure you’re running efficiently.

They’ll inspect critical components like heat exchangers to catch any cracks or damage early. It’s like a physical for your heater.

Benefits of Annual Heating Maintenance

We get it. Paying for maintenance when nothing’s broken feels weird. But here’s the deal. That annual checkup costs way less than emergency heating repair in the middle of winter.

Plus, a well-maintained system uses less energy. You’ll see it in your bills.

Heat Pump Maintenance Tips

If you’ve got a heat pump, keep the outdoor unit clear. Trim back plants, sweep away leaves, make sure air can flow freely. Inside, just keep the area around your equipment clean and easy to access when the tech comes out.

Making Sense of Packages and Pricing

Shopping for a new system can feel like buying a car. You’ve got basic packages, premium packages, all sorts of add-ons.

Basic Packages Typically Include

Equipment
Standard installation

Premium Packages May Include

Extended warranties
Smart thermostats
Air quality upgrades
Maintenance plans

Here’s our advice. Don’t just grab the cheapest option. Quality equipment and solid installation matter way more than saving a couple hundred bucks upfront.

Bad installation can tank your efficiency by 30%. That savings disappears real fast.

Get quotes from a few different contractors. Compare what each one includes. Make sure they’re all doing proper sizing calculations, pulling permits, and offering good warranties. Ask about financing if you need it.

Remember, the best deal isn’t always the lowest price. Look for contractors with great reviews, proper licenses, and experience with homes like yours.

Know When to Call for Professional Heating Repair

Even the best systems need repairs eventually. Catching problems early saves you money and headaches.

Call someone if you’re experiencing:

Unusual or loud noises
Uneven heating between rooms
Frequent cycling on and off
Sudden increases in energy bills
Burning or unusual smells

Don’t wait until you’re freezing with no heat at all. That’s when you pay emergency rates and you’re miserable while waiting. If something seems off, get it checked out now.

Find a contractor who offers emergency service, upfront pricing, and experienced techs. Check reviews. Ask your neighbors who they use. Good heating repair services are worth their weight in gold.

Ready to Make Your Move?

Look, choosing the right heating solution is a big decision. It affects your comfort and your budget for years.

Take your time with it. Do some homework. Work with people who actually know Arizona homes.

Whether you need a fresh installation, routine maintenance, or some repairs, Action Plumbing Arizona has your back. We get what Arizona homeowners need because we’ve been doing this for years. We’ll help you pick the perfect system for your home and your wallet, then install it right the first time.

Give Action Plumbing Arizona a call today for a free consultation. Let’s keep your home comfortable all year long.

Let’s be honest. Your heating and cooling system is probably not something you think about every day. It just quietly does its job in the background. You flip the thermostat, and boom, your house gets warmer or cooler.

But here’s the thing. Your HVAC system works really hard for you. It runs almost constantly to keep you cozy in winter and cool in summer. Just like your car needs oil changes, your system needs regular care too.

Most people wait until something breaks before they pick up the phone. Trust me, that’s the expensive way to do things.

Regular HVAC maintenance is honestly one of the best things you can do for your home. It saves you cash, keeps everyone comfortable, and helps your equipment last way longer. Let’s talk about why you should make routine service a priority.

Save Money with Preventive Maintenance

Nobody wants to deal with surprise repair bills. Especially when your air conditioner dies in July or your heater quits in January. Emergency repairs always seem to happen at the worst times, right? And they hit your wallet hard.

Spot Problems Before They Turn Into Disasters

Here’s where preventive maintenance becomes your best friend. Think about it like this. You get oil changes for your car to avoid bigger problems later. The same idea applies to your home’s heating and cooling.

During a maintenance visit, technicians spot the small stuff before it turns into a disaster. Replacing a worn belt now costs way less than fixing a burned-out motor later.

Improve Energy Efficiency and Lower Bills

There’s another big bonus too. Annual checks improve your energy efficiency. When everything runs smoothly, your system doesn’t have to work as hard. Dirty filters and clogged coils make your equipment strain to keep up.

That means higher electric bills every single month. A well-maintained system can slash your energy costs by 15 to 20 percent each year. That’s real money back in your pocket.

Better Indoor Air Quality Starts with HVAC Maintenance

Your HVAC does more than just heat and cool. It also moves air throughout your entire home. Over time, all kinds of stuff builds up inside the system.

We’re talking dust, pollen, mold spores, and other gross particles. Then your system blows all that around your house. Not exactly ideal.

Regular service tackles this problem head-on with air quality improvement. Technicians clean or swap out filters, clear your ductwork, and remove all that built-up gunk.

The result? Much cleaner air for you and your family. If anyone at home deals with allergies or asthma, this makes a huge difference.

Cleaner air means better sleep and fewer sniffles. You might notice less coughing, fewer allergy flare-ups, and just feeling better overall. Pretty good payoff for a simple maintenance visit, right?

Enjoy Consistent Comfort All Year Long

Picture this. It’s 95 degrees outside, and your air conditioning system suddenly stops working. Or it’s freezing cold, and your heater decides to take a day off.

These scenarios are every homeowner’s nightmare. Regular maintenance keeps your system reliable when you really need it.

During routine service, technicians check every part of your equipment. They test thermostats, look at electrical connections, and measure airflow. All these checks make sure everything works together like it should. Your home stays at exactly the temperature you want without random hot or cold spots.

Reliable heating and air conditioning upkeep means no more surprises. No shivering under piles of blankets in winter. No sweating through summer nights because your AC can’t keep up.

Your system kicks on when it should and maintains steady temps throughout your house. Life just feels better when your home comfort is on point.

Extend Your System’s Lifespan

Let’s talk about the big picture for a second. HVAC systems cost serious money. Most folks spend thousands on installation.

You definitely want that investment to last as long as possible. Regular care is how you make that happen.

Long-lasting systems don’t just happen by luck. They’re the result of paying attention and taking care of things.

When you skip maintenance, little problems grow into big ones. Parts wear out faster than they should. Your whole system ages before its time.

With routine service, your heating systems and cooling systems can run strong for 15 to 20 years or even more. Skip the maintenance, and you might need a replacement in just 10 years. Those extra years of service add up to major savings.

In the long term, you’re looking at thousands of dollars saved by pushing off that expensive new equipment installation.

What Happens During a Maintenance Visit

So what do technicians actually do when they come out? They follow a complete checklist and inspect everything from top to bottom. This thorough approach catches problems you’d never spot yourself.

Technicians typically:

Clean components
Lubricate moving parts
Tighten electrical connections
Check refrigerant levels
Test safety controls
Calibrate the thermostat
Measure overall system performance

Timing Your Service for Best Results

Spring and Fall Maintenance

Most pros recommend getting service twice a year. Spring maintenance gets your cooling system ready for summer. Fall service prepares your heating for winter. This timing catches potential problems before the weather gets extreme.

Annual Plans and Service Agreements

You can also sign up for an annual plan that includes both visits. Many companies offer service agreements with regular checkups, priority scheduling, and discounts on repairs. These plans give you peace of mind and usually come with extra perks too.

Don’t wait until you hear weird noises or notice your system struggling. By then, damage might already be happening. Stay ahead of problems with proactive care instead of playing catch-up with emergency repairs.

Cost-Saving Tips Beyond Maintenance

Professional service is super important, but you can do simple things between visits too. These steps protect your investment and keep efficiency high.

Simple ways to protect your system:

Change air filters every 1–3 months
Keep outdoor units clear of leaves, plants, and debris
Maintain at least 2 feet of clearance around the unit
Use a programmable thermostat to save energy and reduce wear

Finding the Right Service Provider

When you search for “HVAC repair near me,” you’ll see tons of options pop up. Choosing the right company matters just as much as getting regular service. Look for licensed, insured techs with good reputations in your area.

Check out reviews from other homeowners. Ask your friends and neighbors who they use. The best companies combine real technical know-how with great customer service. They show up when they say they will, explain things in plain English, and treat your home with respect.

Local businesses that have been around for a while usually provide the most reliable service. They’re part of your community and depend on happy customers. They’re also there when you need help fast.

Take Action for Your Home’s Comfort Today

Your HVAC system deserves the same attention you give other important parts of your home. Regular maintenance protects what you’ve invested, saves you money, and keeps everyone comfortable all year long. The benefits are way bigger than the cost of routine service.

Don’t wait for something to break before you think about your heating and cooling needs. Action Plumbing offers complete HVAC services that keep your system running smoothly no matter the season.

Our experienced technicians provide thorough inspections, straight-up honest recommendations, and quality work you can count on. Contact Action Plumbing today to schedule your maintenance visit and see what a difference professional care makes for your home comfort.

Did you know that lighting accounts for about 15% of your home’s energy use? That’s a significant chunk of your energy bill! But what if there was a way to illuminate your space beautifully while saving money and reducing your environmental impact? Enter LED lighting – the energy-efficient champion of the modern world.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re passionate about helping homeowners make smart choices for their homes. Today, we’re diving into the world of LED lighting and exploring the numerous benefits it offers.

LEDs: A Technological Marvel

Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are a type of solid-state lighting that uses semiconductors to convert electricity into light. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs that waste a significant amount of energy as heat, LEDs are incredibly efficient, transforming most of the energy they consume into light.

Here are some fascinating facts about LED technology:

Lifespan: LED bulbs boast an incredible lifespan, lasting anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 hours – that’s up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs! This translates to fewer bulb changes and significant cost savings in the long run.
Energy Efficiency: LEDs are champions of energy efficiency, using up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and 25% less than halogen bulbs to produce the same amount of light. This translates to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental footprint.
Durability: LEDs are built tough. They’re resistant to shock and vibration, making them ideal for areas prone to wear and tear, like workshops or garages.
Versatility: LEDs come in a wide range of colors, wattages, and styles, making them suitable for any lighting application in your home. From warm white for a cozy ambiance to cool white for task lighting, there’s an LED option to perfectly suit your needs.

Benefits of Upgrading to LED Lighting

Making the switch to LED lighting offers a multitude of advantages for your home:

Save Money on Energy Bills: The significant reduction in energy consumption translates to lower electricity costs. Over time, the savings on your energy bills can significantly outweigh the initial investment in LED bulbs.
Reduce Your Environmental Impact: By using less energy, LEDs contribute to a smaller carbon footprint. This allows you to make an eco-conscious choice for your home and the planet.
Minimize Maintenance Hassles: With their extended lifespan, LED bulbs require significantly fewer replacements compared to traditional bulbs. This translates to less time spent climbing ladders and changing bulbs, and more time enjoying the benefits of your beautiful lighting.
Enjoy Consistent Brightness: Unlike traditional bulbs that dim over time, LEDs maintain their brightness throughout their entire lifespan. This ensures consistent, reliable illumination for your home.
Enhance Your Home’s Aesthetics: LEDs come in a variety of styles and color temperatures, allowing you to create the perfect ambiance for each room. From warm white for a relaxing atmosphere to cool white for task lighting, LEDs offer the flexibility to personalize your home’s lighting scheme.
Improved Safety: LEDs don’t emit harmful UV rays, unlike some traditional bulbs. This makes them a safe choice for areas frequented by children and pets. Additionally, LEDs generate minimal heat, reducing the risk of burns.

Making the Switch to LEDs: Tips and Considerations

Ready to embrace the benefits of LED lighting? Here are some helpful tips:

Choose the Right Color Temperature: Color temperature refers to the “warmth” or “coolness” of the light. Opt for warm white LEDs (around 2,700 Kelvin) for living rooms and bedrooms, while cool white LEDs (around 4,000 Kelvin) can be ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Consider Lumens: Lumens measure the brightness of light. When choosing LED bulbs, look for lumens that are equivalent to the traditional bulbs you’re replacing.
Dimmability: Ensure the LED bulbs you choose are compatible with your dimmer switches if dimming capability is important to you.
Seek Expert Advice: For assistance in selecting the right LED bulbs for your specific needs, don’t hesitate to consult the friendly professionals at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric. We can help you find the perfect LED solutions for your home.

LED Lighting: A Bright Future for Your Home

LED lighting represents a significant leap forward in lighting technology. By combining energy efficiency, long lifespans, and a wide range of styles, LEDs offer a compelling choice for homeowners seeking to illuminate their spaces while saving money and protecting the environment.

Contact Us Today for LED Lighting Installation

Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric is committed to helping you create a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Reach out and contact us for more information.

Showering without hot water? Washing dishes in a lukewarm abyss? The quest for the perfect home water heater ignites a fiery debate: gas or electric?

Both options heat your water, but understanding their key differences can help you crown the champion for your home:

Fueling the Flame:

Gas Water Heaters: These fiery warriors burn natural gas or propane to heat water directly. They offer faster heating rates and often come at a lower initial cost. However, installation can be more complex and gas lines require maintenance.
Electric Water Heaters: These clean titans utilize electricity to power heating elements submerged in the water tank. They’re more eco-friendly and easier to install, but typically have slower heating times and higher running costs depending on your electricity rates.

The Cost Conundrum:

Initial Cost: Gas water heaters generally have a lower upfront price, while electric models tend to be pricier.
Operating Cost: Gas water heaters usually boast lower running costs thanks to the efficiency of burning fuel. However, if electricity rates are low in your area, an electric model might be more economical.
Installation & Maintenance: Gas water heaters require professional installation and potential gas line maintenance. Electric models are easier to install but may require upgrades to your electrical system.

Choosing Your Champion:

Consider these factors to find your perfect water heater match:

Budget: Can you afford a potentially higher initial cost for an electric model or are you looking for a lower upfront price tag?
Energy Efficiency: Are you prioritizing eco-friendliness and potentially lower running costs with an electric option, or are you comfortable with natural gas or propane?
Availability: Is there a readily available gas line to your home, or are you limited to electricity?
Space & Installation: Do you have space for a larger tank that comes with a gas heater, or is the more compact size of an electric model preferable?

Need Back-Up?

Still unsure which water heater to choose? Don’t let this hot debate leave you in the cold!

Our skilled technicians can assess your needs. They can also discuss the pros and cons of each option. Additionally, they can recommend the perfect water heater for a comfortable home and enjoyable showers.

Remember, choosing the right water heater is an investment in your comfort and home’s value. With the help of Action Plumbing, you can navigate the Great Water Heater Debate and crown the ideal champion for your needs. Let our expertise flow seamlessly into your home and ensure you never face a lukewarm future!

Contact Action Plumbing Heating, Air, & Electrical today and turn up the heat on your water heater happiness!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the common mistakes made by homeowners during the winter as they look to heat their homes. While many of these are well-intentioned or based on understandable gaps in knowledge, they can lead to issues ranging from spiking heating bills up to long-term stress and damage to your HVAC system.

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, we’re here to help not only provide your home with proper HVAC equipment like furnace installation and repair, but also offer expertise on the use and maintenance of these components. What are some of the other common mistakes we help our clients avoid as they look to heat their home both affordably and comfortably this winter? Here are a few to keep in mind.

Curtains and Window Concerns

Curtains and window dressings are an area where homeowners should be proceeding in the opposite manner from the summer period. During warm season, keeping blinds or curtains closed during the heat of the day is a great way to limit the home’s interior temperature – during the winter, on the other hand, these should be opened during the day to allow the sun to assist in warming the home. This is free heat you should not avoid.

In addition, always ensure windows are properly closed and locked. You might be shocked how much harder your furnace and HVAC system will have to work to heat the home if even a small gap is present in certain windows, allowing air out when it should be kept in.

Vent Closing

Some homeowners assume that closing all vents in rooms that aren’t being used is a way to save on heating costs. This is not true – ducts in your home are meant to heat the entire area evenly, and will stop working correctly if you close vents unevenly. HVAC professionals recommend keeping all vents in the home open even if you aren’t using certain areas or rooms.

Leaks or Drafts

If you notice any drafts of cold air where there shouldn’t be, or especially if you find leaks, gaps or full-on cracks in your entryways, door areas or similar locations, these should be attended to right away. Leaving them alone will only cause them to worsen, and as we noted above, even small gaps leading to air loss will cause enormous strain on the furnace – and a rise in your heating bill simultaneously.

Regular Maintenance

Finally, perhaps the single largest mistake you can make this season is putting off annual HVAC maintenance. Best done twice a year, during the fall and spring, this maintenance allows us to ensure your system is in good shape headed into a new season – we’ll inspect the entire setup, ensure there are no minor issues that require repair and set you up for the season ahead.

For more on avoiding common heating mistakes during the winter, or to learn about any of our HVAC or plumbing services, speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric today.

The long Utah winter has ended, and for anyone who knows this local climate well, you’re well aware that the heat of summer will soon be upon us. This means homeowners across the state are looking for ways to stay cool during the heat, and they’re attempting to do so without taking a major hike in their utility bill each month

At Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical, we’re here to help with everything from air conditioner maintenance to electrical, air quality and several other areas. One sneaky area we often remind our clients about when they’re looking to help keep the home cool during spring and summer without increasing the bill: Utilizing your landscaping in intelligent ways. Here are a few basic areas to show you what we mean.

Trees and Shade

One massive area that not enough homeowners take advantage of when it comes to cooling is shade. The sun’s heat is incredibly strong, and providing the home with respite periods and areas from this heat can go a very long way.

Generally, you want trees that are tall enough to reach to the windows and even the roof of your home. The less sun exposure your entire structure has, the cooler it will remain in general. Deciduous trees here are often a great first choice; they shade the home very well during the summer but then lose their leaves during the winter, allowing for the sun to heat the home and assist with warming areas. Our only additional tip here is to plant trees far enough away from the home that they and their roots don’t risk any structural damage when they grow.

Shrubs and Bushes

Down similar lines you can keep lower areas of the home and property shaded using the right shrubs and bushes. One important area to use these in is on sidewalks, driveways and other paved areas – particularly if there’s asphalt involved, these areas can reflect light up and onto your home, increasing its temperature slowly over the course of a day. Well-placed shrubs, however, will block this light.

Trellis or Pergola

If trees and shrubs are not an option or a preference for some reason, or if you don’t want to wait for them to grow, a trellis or a pergola can help instead. Place it on the sunnier side of your home, and consider vines or leaves to provide additional cover.

Water Features

Finally, consider a water feature in your back yard. You may not think this will have a direct impact on the indoor temperature, but you’d be surprised – a small pond or fountain can actually cool the entire yard by several degrees, and this is much of the same air that moves in and out of your home as well.

For more on how to use landscaping to your advantage when it comes to heating your home, or to learn about any of our plumbing or HVAC maintenance services speak to the staff at Action Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electrical today.