Experts advising home 'winterizing' as temps dip - FOX5 Vegas - KVVU
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Those working in air condition servicing are advising Las Vegas residents to winterize their homes to avoid the high cost of heating.
Experts from Yes! Air Conditioning and Plumbing provided these tips to save time, energy and money in combating dipping temps.
1. Replace Your Air Filters: A dirty air filter slows down air flow causing your system to work harder and waste energy. Replace your heating and air conditioning system's air filters every month to prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system, which can lead to expensive maintenance.
2. Check Your Vents and Ducts: Remove dust from vent covers and make sure that all vents are open and unblocked by furniture or other items. This will ensure that warm air is being evenly distributed throughout your home. Leaky heating ducts increase energy bills and can contribute to poor indoor air quality. Seasonal duct cleaning can reduce allergies caused by dust and mold.
3. Insulate Your Attic: Attics account for nearly 80 percent of heat gain and loss in homes.
4. Check for Leaks around Doors and Windows: Upgrading to energy-efficient doors and windows can be an effective way to reduce energy costs. Make sure they seal tightly and have door sweeps at the bottom to prevent air leaks. Caulk any cracks around the windows and make sure they seal tightly to save 10 percent or more on your energy bill.
5. Install a Programmable Thermostat: A set-back thermostat is programmable and it automatically sets back the temperature when you forget. Program your thermostat to automatically set itself cooler during the night or when you're not at home.
6. Call Your HVAC Technician: Each fall, schedule a routine maintenance appointment to make sure your system is operating correctly. When properly maintained, you will prolong the life of your system and prevent early failure.
FOX5's forecasters said overnight lows have gone below 39 degrees, and those temperatures should persist for a couple of nights in the next seven days.
For the latest conditions on in southern Nevada, you can visit fox5vegas.com/weather.
Copyright 2012 KVVU (KVVU Broadcasting Corporation). All rights reserved.
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