How to Maintain Air Conditioning Efficiency
Dealing With Heat Loss: Even in Sunny Florida, It Can Be Costly
Heat loss may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of our sunny Florida climate. However, heat loss in Florida is a potential anytime desired interior temperatures are higher than the temperatures outside, which can occur during cold spells and after the sun goes down. Heat loss in Florida can be costly in terms of energy waste, which elevates utility bills and wear and tear on your HVAC equipment, which elevates repair bills.
The following steps can help you deal with heat loss in your Brandon area home:
- Seal leaks – Sealing air leaks will keep your warm conditioned air inside, as well as keep hot air from infiltrating your living space in the warmer months. Use caulking to seal any visible gaps or cracks in your exterior walls and where the siding meets the foundation. Also seal around exterior wall penetrations from plumbing and electrical work.
- Have your ducts inspected – Unless you live in a brand-new home, ducts need to be inspected on an annual basis to make sure they’re properly sealed, insulated and free of debris. Duct leaks or poorly insulated ducts will leak warm air out of your HVAC systems before it ever reaches your living spaces. Plus, any airflow obstructions will compromise your energy efficiency.
- Upgrade insulation – Is your home adequately insulated? If not, your home is prone to heat loss via your attic, crawl spaces and interior walls. In addition to preventing energy loss during the winter months, adequate insulation will save you significantly during the summer months as well. If you can’t finance a whole-home insulation upgrade, focus on the attic space first as it is one of the most significant sources of heat loss.
- Insulate your pipes – HVAC systems and attics aren’t the only place where heat loss occurs. Your water heater and the pipes that lead from it into your home can also be a source of energy loss. Insulate both the water heater tank and the pipes.
Contact the HVAC installation and service experts at Gulf Coast Air Systems to protect your Brandon area home from heat loss this winter.
