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How Can I Make My Home More Energy Efficient In The Winter?

Portrait of a pensive woman relaxing sitting on a sofa in the living room in a house interior in winter

Get More Comfortable

When it comes to energy efficiency, everyone is looking for ways that they can save money. Whether you own a home or rent, there are so many different things that you can do this winter that will help save you some money here and there. Energy efficiency for winter is something you will want to look out for. There are a different set of rules for winter than there are for summer that you can follow. There are also a lot of alternative ways to get warm in the winter as opposed to trying to find a way to cool off in the summer.

Common Questions For Energy Saving

How can energy efficiency be improved?

We have gathered some great tips at the bottom of this page to take a look at. The best thing that you can do is to make sure your temperature is never too low or too high. Find the temperature outside and then set your thermostat for a good middle ground that your home won’t be fighting to keep on.

How energy efficient are space heaters?

If you are turning off the heat in your home and just using a space heater, this would be a great way to save money. If you are using a space heater in addition to your heater, it will not do much to help your energy bill.

How can I lower my electric bill in the winter?

Use as little as possible. Set your thermostat somewhere around 68 and bundle up. Lighting a fire also helps if you have that option. Keep your fire going and you will certainly see a difference in the warmth of your home.

What is the most efficient way to heat your home?

The best way would be to have central heat. This way your whole home is getting the same amount of heat and you will be less inclined to have to turn your heat up. You can always do this in conjunction with a fire burning. This will be sure to keep your home warm and if not the entire place, at least the room that you are in.

What should you set your thermostat at in the winter?

Set your thermostat somewhere around 68. This may seem cold, but it is not unbearable. At this temperature, you can wear warm clothes and socks to help with any added warmth that you may need.

Is it cheaper to leave the heating on all day?

As strange as it sounds, leaving your heat on all day long is a better option than turning it off all day. This is because if you turn it off, your home will get very cold, and then when you turn your heat back on, it will take a lot more power to heat your whole home back up again. It is better to just leave your heat at a lower temperature and then to turn it all the way off.

Flame of burning logs in the fireplace

Energy Efficiency Tips For Winter

Change Your Temps – Usually, people like it cooler in their home at night as opposed to during the day. So, when you wake up in the morning, adjust your temperature to what you like it at, when you go to bed at night, you can turn it down lower than you normally would. When you leave your home for the day, turn your heat down low. This way you don’t have a heater running for an empty house.

Get an Inspection – When you get an inspection done, your pipes can be checked, and also the seals on your windows, fireplace, and doors can all be looked at to make sure you aren’t letting out any hot air.

Heater Maintenance – Make sure you are keeping up with all your winter maintenance. There is nothing worse than your heater not working and then running overtime and giving you a larger bill because you didn’t have it maintenance in time. Also at this time make sure you don’t need anything like a water heater replacement because that will also end up raising your bill if there is damage there and who wants to take a cold shower in the winter?

Open Your Curtains – Let the light shine in your home. The sun is a great way to warm up a room and when you keep curtains closed, it can make a cold space, feel even colder. At night time, you will want to close them to help give your windows another layer of insulation to keep the cold from coming into your room.

Lights – When the holidays come around, make sure that you are turning off your tree lights and putting your Christmas lights on a timer. This will help you to save money on your electricity bill. You can also consider using LED lights to make sure that your home is as energy-efficient as possible.

Space Heater Efficiency vs Heat Pump

A space heater will be able to warm one specific area very well but it does use a lot of power. A heat pump is much more energy-efficient and will be able to move more heat to your home than a space heater would. We recommend space heaters for your feet if you are sitting in one spot or even under your desk, but not as a primary means to keep your home warm. When you need your regular HVAC maintenance done for better energy efficiency in Severn and Baltimore, MD, make sure that you give us a call at (410) 921-1277 and let the pros at Rocky HVAC help you with any of your heating needs this winter. There are so many different ways to keep your home warm while still keeping your bills low. Follow these tips above and ask us how we can help you save. Also, make sure your filters are changed before the winter season approaches so that your heater is ready for the cold months ahead. Our professionals are here to help in any way that we can this winter.

What is a Commercial Rooftop HVAC Unit?

rooftop hvac units

Have a Secure Unit

Many commercial buildings will place their air conditioning units on their roof instead of on the ground. This is to prevent theft, vandalism, and improve aesthetics of the business. Since most commercial buildings have flat roofs, rooftop HVAC units easily fit right on the flat, unused space. However, commercial rooftop HVAC units tend to wear down commercial roofs quicker, requiring them to get roof repair in Maryland. Rocky HVAC offers a range of HVAC repairs, including those of commercial rooftop HVAC unit in Baltimore, MD. If you need your rooftop commercial air conditioning unit in Severn and Baltimore, MD repaired, call us today at (410) 921-1277.

Benefits of Rooftop HVAC Units

  • Saves Energy: Having a properly working rooftop commercial air conditioning unit helps to save you money by lowering your energy bill.
  • Less Noise Pollution: HVAC units are loud, but with them on the roof, no one has to hear them running.
  • Space Saving: With the entire roof and tons of space available, you have more room to put this large HVAC unit out of the way.
  • Adaptable: These units can be placed wherever on the roof and withstand severe weather.
  • Easy to Maintain: A rooftop commercial air conditioning unit has all the parts together unlike a regular central air conditioner, where there is the outside and inside unit.
  • Better Protected: With commercial air conditioning units off the ground and on the rooftop, this lowers the chance of theft and vandalism as it is harder for criminals to get on the roof.

The Truth About Air Purifiers – Will They Work for Your Home?

air filter close up

Get Cleaner Air

As a company that installs many whole home air purifiers each year, it’s important for us to know whether or not the system we’re installing will function as intended. We never cared for the snake oil business; we genuinely want connect people with a product that works for them. So let’s take a moment and look at air purifiers as a whole and see if they really do help.

Do Air Purifiers Really Help With Allergies?

Before we go any further, we need to clarify something. Air purifiers definitely help with most indoor allergies, but they do not remove 100% of allergens in your home. Allergens that have fallen down into your carpet or on your bedroom pillows (for instance) are still there.

Air purifiers can greatly alleviate the symptoms of allergies. In fact, you should start seeing significant air quality improvement as your purifier removes irritating many of the allergen particles, such as…

  • Pet Dander
  • Airborne Mold Spores
  • Pollen
  • Dust Mite Feces
  • Household Dust

Air purifiers, especially those with high grade HEPA filters, offer wonderful benefits for homeowners or family members that regularly suffer from indoor allergies. Just be sure to continue dusting, vacuuming, and washing your sheets!

Can Air Purifiers Help With Asthma?

The answer to this question is yes and no. The type of system you choose will have a big impact on your outcome. For instance, family members that are sensitive to ozone and other similar particles might actually suffer flare ups with an ozone powered purifier. Your doctor can help recommend a purifier that’s right for your loved ones.

In general, purifiers high-grade HEPA filters will be the most successful at capturing the particles that cause flare-ups. You can even partner your system with a UV germicidal light to neutralize bacteria and viruses.

Professional Air Purifier Installation

Are you considering an air purifier installation in Severn and Baltimore, MD or a nearby city? Our team at Rocky HVAC would love to help you find an air quality solution that can provide lasting protection for you and your family. If you like, feel free to give us a call at (410) 921-1277 to consult with one of our experts!

What is Rooftop HVAC?

Air and heat conditioning system on top of the building

Get a Secure HVAC System

Rooftop HVAC units are package units that are located on top of commercial buildings. These systems are created in a modular form to make additions and service easier and attach directly to your ventilation system to protect against energy loss during transfer. Rooftop HVAC systems are ideal in almost any commercial situation, from office buildings to restaurants and offer uniform, efficient air flow to your entire building.

The Benefits of Rooftop HVAC

When it comes to commercial heating and air conditioning, these types of units are the simplest to install, maintain, and care for. This is because rooftop HVAC units are designed as one singular module instead of a split system like you would see in some offices or homes. With all of its components in one place and attached directly to the ventilation system, there is no need for your technician to go back and forth between components to provide service, saving you labor cost and time without air flow to your business. Rooftop HVAC systems are also able to control humidity in your building with the addition of a humidistat, which can help your building be more comfortable and energy efficient. Rooftop HVAC units are also perfect for buildings that have no extra space or that are going for a specific aesthetic appeal. Since these units install complete on the roof, there are no boxes or cabinets to hide or get damaged.

Why Get Commercial HVAC Inspection Services

Even with a durable system like a rooftop HVAC unit, commercial HVAC service is crucial to the life and performance of your system. Regular inspection helps identify any damages or weaknesses before they become huge issues and can prevent corrosion, wear and tear, and other damages that occur from dirt, dust, and other debris. Inspection of your unit can also uncover leaks or drips that can lead to roof damages and leaks as well as duct damage that may cause your unit to lose efficiency. When you’re looking for reliable commercial HVAC service in Severn and Baltimore, MD, call the Rocky HVAC experts at (410) 921-1277. We provide the service you need to ensure your commercial heating and air conditioning is always performing at its best.

Tips to Save Energy Costs With Your A/C

Heating and air conditioning inverter used to heat and cool condos

Get an Optimally Working Unit

During the hot Summer months, we are all looking for ways to save on our cooling bill. While we know that replacing our filters and keeping our HVAC system in optimal condition can help with air conditioning efficiency and save energy costs, there are many other ways to help cut cooling costs this year.

Change Your Lighting

Believe it or not, standard light bulbs produce a lot of heat. However, switching your home to compact fluorescent bulbs can not only cool the surrounding air but also save energy costs when on.

Appliances and Furniture Adjustments

Your furniture can inadvertently block air conditioning circulation, making your system work harder. Arrange your furniture in a way that promotes natural airflow. Appliances also contribute to the heat help in your home. Protect against unnecessary heat by doing dishes and laundry at night.

Ceiling Fan Installation

Believe it or not, a ceiling fan can drastically reduce the temperature of a room. Install a fan in the rooms of your home that are most difficult to cool and turn your thermostat up a couple of degrees.

Create Shade

Consider creating natural planters or vine pedestals to combat harsh sunlight that enters your home. These foliage blockades can be used for windows, doors, skylights, and sliding doors to help block the sun and cool down the surrounding air.

While regular filter replacement, duct sealing, and programmable thermostats provide the most extensive energy savings for your home, there are multiple other ways to save on cooling costs as well. If you’re looking for ideas on how to save on your next cooling bill, call the Rocky HVAC experts today at (410) 921-1277. We’re here to make your HVAC maintenance in Severn and Baltimore, MD is carried out well.

Signs You Need Air Conditioning Repair Service

Two AC technicians on a roof repairing an industrial compressor unit.

AC Problems

In order to have an air conditioner that lasts a long time, it’s important to get air conditioning repair when it’s needed. However, it can be hard to identify when your AC needs repairs if you are unfamiliar with that type of HVAC system. Below are signs that can help you determine when you need air conditioning repair service.

You Are Hearing Strange Sounds

It’s common for the AC to make a noise when it turns on or off, but rattling or grinding noises are a cause for concern. If you have heard unusual noises coming from your air conditioner, it’s important to get repairs right away.

Bruning Smell

A burning smell coming from your air conditioner is never a good sign. This is an indication that the wiring in the air conditioning system has burnt out. If you smell anything musty in your air it can be that there is mold in the system.

Insufficient Air Flow

If you are turning your air conditioner on and there is barely any air coming from the vents, it’s time to call for air conditioner repair service. Another thing that can indicate poor airflow is when some rooms are getting cool while others are not.

Nonexistent Cool Air

And the biggest problem that you should immediately call for is when there is no cool air coming from the air vents. This can be nonexistent cool air or if warm air is blowing through the vents.

For air conditioner repair in Severn and Baltimore, MD call (410) 921-1277 for the experts at Rocky HVAC.

4 Benefits of Getting A Whole House Humidifier

Vapor from humidifier near houseplants

Clear Out Stuffy Air

Dry air makes your nasal passages so dry, it can feel like you are breathing in sandpaper. If you are tired of bloody or itchy noses from no moisture in the air, consider getting a whole house humidifier.

Benefits Of A Whole House Humidifier Are:

Less allergy symptoms

If multiple people in your house suffer from allergies, have dry skin, or snore, getting a central humidifier can benefit everyone. The moist air will help to keep away dryness in the nasal passages and skin. If you are looking for other ways to keep your family healthy, we also provide air purification services.

Lower Energy Bills

Since the whole house humidifier is connected to the home’s air ducts and plumbing system, the humidifier blows hot moist air, making you turn your thermostat lower, which saves money.

Convenience

While portable humidifiers may be cheaper upfront, you have to constantly lug them from room to room or buy multiples to satisfy everyone. With one whole house humidifier that is connected to the entire HVAC system, everyone can get moist air without having to use a portable humidifier.

No Maintenance

With portable humidifiers, you have to constantly refill them with water. Since a whole house humidifier is connected to the home’s plumbing, it automatically refills with water, requiring virtually no maintenance or upkeep. The filters only need to be cleaned every once in a while just like all humidifiers.

If you are interested in getting a whole house humidifier in Severn and Baltimore, MD, contact Rocky HVAC at (410) 921-1277 today.

Is It Time for a New Furnace?

Gas boiler control panel. Gas boiler home heating. 3d

See if You Need a New Unit

During the winter, your furnace plays an important role in keeping you and your loved ones warm and cozy at home. That’s why, when it breaks down, it is considered an emergency and should get prompt attention. It may seem sudden, but there are many factors and signs that a furnace needs service. If this has happened to you, you may wonder if you simply need repair or a replacement. There are a few key indicators that can help you determine if replacement is your best option. 

Signs You Need a Replacement

The Age Of The System

As a homeowner, keeping track of the age of your furnace can actually benefit you greatly in the long run. With an average maximum lifespan of 20 years, these systems begin to work less and less effective over this age. If you keep track of hold old it is, you can plan ahead, shop around, and find a new system for your home.

Your Utility Bills Are Rising

While raises in utility bills may be due to general pricing changes, it is important to take note of any sudden jumps. Over time, your furnace may begin running less and less efficiently, using more gas or electricity while putting out less and less heat. This may be reflected in your monthly cost. If you have a sudden spike in energy or gas usage, consider having a replacement system installed.

It Always Needs Repair

Does it seem like you are consistently calling for service for your furnace? After years of service, your furnace can receive a normal amount of wear and tear, requiring maintenance. However, if it seems like every time you turn it on it needs a new part, it is time for a new system. If your system has a breakdown, then it is on its last legs.

Your System Talks Back

When you turn on your furnace, does it pop, squeal, or rattle? Older furnace systems may start to make interesting noises when they are nearing the end of their usefulness. While repair can keep it going, these sounds are your system trying to tell you replacement is in the near future.

Remember that a damaged or malfunctioning system can be hazardous to you and your loved ones, especially if you have a gas furnace in your home. When it is time for replacement, the team at Rocky HVAC are ready to help! Give us a call at (410) 921-1277 for your furnace in Severn and Baltimore, MD today!

How to Lower Your Electricity Bill This Winter

fireplace and fire close view as object or background, brick wall

Keep Warm With Low Energy

It can be hard when winter rolls around, to be able to keep your house warm and your electricity bill low. It seems that every time you walk in the door, you are turning up your heart. This is fine until you get the bill in the mail and are shocked at how high it is. It can be very frustrating, but there are a few things you can start doing today to help you out a little bit on your energy bill.

Lowering Your Bill

Layer Up– It’s not fun to have to wear a jacket in your house because it is so cold outside, and that’s not exactly what we are recommending, but layering up can help. Putting on heavier socks and a sweatshirt can often warm you up quite a bit. It may not keep you from having to try in the heater on, but it can definitely make it so your heat is a little lower, which will help your bill.

Light a Fire – lighting a fire in your fireplace can help warm up your home a lot. If you have a wood burning fireplace or gas, it may be smart to get one of those lit and help bring up the temperature in the home.

Lower The Heat At Night – If you just can’t stand to have the heater off, consider lowering the temperature at night to somewhere around 70 degrees. This will help you stay warm and also not have a crazy high bill.

If you think your thermostat may be broken or need your electric heater in Severn and Baltimore, MD looked at, our team of professionals can help you with that as well. Just call (410) 921-1277 with Rocky HVAC for details or to set an appointment today. We can go over more options to lower your bill then as well.

How to Improve The Indoor Air Quality Of Your Home

Ficus green leaves on the background of ceiling air conditioner in modern office or at home. Indoor air quality concept

Get Cleaner Indoor Air

Everyone worries about outdoor air pollution all around the world, from areas with extreme traffic and vehicle emissions, to places with refineries and other contaminants. However, not quite as many people remember to think about the indoor air quality of their own homes. Today we will go over a few things that can compromise the quality of your home’s air, as well as provide you with some options that can help improve it. 

Change Your Air Filters

Changing your air filters promptly is one of the best ways to keep the air in your home clean. Dirty air filters don’t function properly, and leave your air quality, and your HVAC system at risk.

Install an Air Purifier

An air purifier is a great addition to any home. You have plenty of different kinds to choose from, including ones that are built right into your HVAC system, or ones that stand alone and service one room at a time. These systems are perfect for minimizing contaminated air in your home, by trapping the contaminants within.

Use Natural Cleaners

Using just a few natural cleaners instead of traditional chemical cleaners can significantly reduce the amount of contaminants in your home’s air. If you do continue to use cleaners like bleach, be sure to open the windows while doing so.

Open The Windows

Opening the windows allows fumes from cleaning products, or smoke from cooking mishaps to exit the home before they have a chance to cling to your air filters, furniture, curtains, or anything else. Additionally, fresh air circulating through the home helps keep the air from becoming stale or over-circulated.

To get started towards cleaner air at home today, call our Rocky HVAC team at (410) 921-1277 to find out which of our HVAC services will serve you best. Consider a whole house air purifier in Severn and Baltimore, MD.