Boo! Energy Vampires!
Happy Halloween! Once again that spooky time of year comes around but let’s keep the surprises to halloween costumes and scary movies! Did you know there are energy vampires lurking around your home? Sapping energy, electricity, and money that you could be saving! Idle electronics, appliances, and especially your heating and air conditioning system are main culprits. Pick up these 5 tips to reduce these energy vampires!
1. Unplug devices not in use or used rarely, such as gaming systems, DVRs, etc to save electricity.
2. Plug devices into a power strip to reduce phantom power because of the switch system, but be sure to make use of that power switch to turn off those energy sappers when not in use.
3. Plug them into a timer. A digital timer has a lower energy standby load which is helpful for using on hot water re-circulation pumps, instant coffee machines, and any electronic or appliance that’s not always in use.
4. Adjust power settings. Set your home computer, television system, gaming system, etc to a time or sleep mode after a certain period of time so that you save energy when you accidentally forget to turn something off!
5. Buy ENERGY STAR equipment – Energy Efficient Leader York Heating and Cooling provides cost saving comfort solutions!
What is that burning smell when I turn on my heater?
What is that burning smell when I turn on my heater?
It’s the First Time You’ve Used it in the Winter
If it is the first time you’ve turned your heater back on since last winter which is common in Texas, a burning odor is the common result. Dust tends to settle in the system as it hasn’t been in use for months. Turning on the heating system will stir up the settled dust causing the smell. However, don’t be alarm the dust will burn off quickly and the smell will dissipate.
The Filter is Clogged
If you haven’t changed your filter in a while, more than likely the filter is clogged. With the amount of dust on the filter, turning on the heater will filter the dust into the system causing the same burning smell as mentioned above. Cleaning or replacing your filter will clean up this problem in no time.
Have a Proper Clearance
While the heater is on, foreign materials such as fabrics, plastics, and any flammable materials should not be placed near or besides the unit or vents. The burning smell can originate from the material becoming hot and possibly burning. Always double check clearance for safety purposes.
Other Cause
The common burning smell causes can be found above but if you smell something else once the heater is on, for example, gas. Don’t ignore the signs and contact a professional at Ken’s for proper inspection and safety.
