Monthly Archives: May 2014

As a homeowner, one of the biggest challenges is learning how to control energy costs. The secret to lowering your energy usage is to focus on the things that negatively affect your home the most. You can start by following these six easy-to-follow tips:

• Install equipment certified by Energy Star– Your heating and cooling equipment can’t last forever. When a unit begins showing its age, its efficiency will suffer. Once replacement is inevitable, look for new equipment that has been certified by Energy Star. This will ensure the utmost energy efficiency, which will save you money for years to come.
• Ensure proper installation – The most advanced HVAC equipment on the market won’t be very effective if it isn’t properly installed. Instead of doing it yourself, hire a reputable technician whose work will be guaranteed.
• Replace your air filter on a regular basis – When the air filter has been gummed up by dust and debris, the compromised airflow will force the HVAC system to work harder, and to lesser effect. Left unchecked, this can damage your system. Prevent this by switching out the filter when it gets dirty, but don’t wait longer than three months.
• Get a tuneup – If your equipment isn’t old enough for replacement, a yearly service call by a licensed contractor will keep it running efficiently. This will also prolong the life of your system.
• Invest in a programmable thermostat – Problems turning heating and cooling equipment on and off are a thing of the past with the use of a programmable thermostat. You can set the time at which your system operates each day, saving you money in the short-term and long-term.
• Seal home ductwork – Air leakage contributes to a huge waste of energy on a daily basis. A big problem area is your home’s ductwork. To fix the issue, seal any leaks that you find and wrap the ducts in insulation to keep the temperature more consistent.

For more professional advice on how to control energy costs or any other home comfort questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the friendly technicians at Keith Air Conditioning.

The first and perhaps most important step when choosing an HVAC contractor is to ensure they meet the basic requirements to do business in your area. This means making sure they are licensed, bonded and insured. Here’s a look at why these qualifications are important to ensuring a job well done.

Licensed HVAC Contractor

To obtain a license, a technician must complete an apprenticeship, provide proof of insurance, pay a fee and pass a written exam. Then the technician must complete continuing education courses to renew the trade license in coming years.

This process tells you that a licensed contractor is knowledgeable in the trade and serious about delivering satisfactory work. If you don’t place priority on hiring a licensed contractor, the work could be delayed or the end product could be unsatisfactory.

Bonded HVAC Contractor

A “bonded” contractor has purchased a surety bond from a third party. This acts as a type of insurance, designed to protect you, the customer, if the contractor installs equipment incorrectly, damages your property, or fails to pay for permits or meet other financial obligations. In serious instances, it also covers lost or stolen property.

In short, a bond protects you from being saddled with the cost of an unpaid worker or having to live with a poor installation. You can receive compensation for unsatisfactory work by contacting the surety company and proving that you were wronged.

Insured HVAC Contractor

Never hire any type of contractor unless they are insured. Look for two types of coverage. The first is a liability policy, which takes the blame off your shoulders if the property is damaged or a worker is injured on the job. The second is workers’ compensation, which provides payments to injured workers and compensates them for lost wages. In the event of death, workers’ compensation also provides benefits to the technician’s family.

It’s easy to make sure the HVAC contractor you hire has these qualifications. Simply ask for the license and bond number and proof of insurance. To work with a contractor that has all the necessary credentials, please contact us at Keith Air Conditioning, Inc. today.