Category: Energy Efficiency

Energy Saving Tips: Should You Be Turning Your Furnace Off In The Summer?

Spring cleaning is about more than just donating a bag of clothes, or doing a deep clean of your fridge. It’s also about taking a look at our spending habits, and seeing where we can save money without sacrificing comfort.

A great place to look is at your seasonal heating and cooling bills. To help out, the expert team at Always Plumbing & Heating created this new blog, about how small changes like turning off your furnace during periods of little to no usage can make a big difference. We’ll also go over potential drawbacks to this approach and the importance of choosing professional repair and maintenance for year round savings.

Our team is always dedicated to providing 5 Star Superstar Service for all your heating and cooling needs. We have over 20 years of experience installing, maintaining and repairing furnaces, heat pumps and air conditioning units all over the Edmonton area so call us today!

Let’s start the season strong with some energy and money saving tips!

Pros of Turning Off Your Furnace For The Summer

Your furnace was built to heat your home efficiently, but in the summer months, there isn’t much need for it. Unless you find +25 degree temperatures cold, in which case maybe you skip this section.

Here are some pros of turning off your furnace this summer:

  • Energy savings – significantly lower costs associated with standby power by turning your furnace off completely, rather than just turning the thermostat down.
  • Reduced wear and tear – Prolong the lifespan of this significant investment by giving your furnace a well deserved break.
  • Minimize noise – less operational noise if your furnace isn’t, well…operating!

Potential Cons of Turning Off Your Furnace For The Summer

It’s also important to note the potential drawbacks of turning your furnace off as well, just in case this energy saving solution isn’t for you.

  • Ventilation issues – not having your furnace running can impact airflow and circulation, improving the risk of allergen build up in your ducts and decreasing your indoor air quality.
  • Maintenance considerations – out of sight out of mind, right? If you’re not using your furnace for an extended period of time, hidden issues might appear when you go to heat things back up.

Thermostat capabilities – some thermostat options actually don’t have a complete “off” feature, because they’re designed to maintain minimum temperature.

How to Safely Turn Off Your Furnace

Whenever you’re working on your furnace, it’s important to do things properly and safely. And that includes something as seemingly simple as turning off your furnace.

Start with your thermostat and switch it to “off”” (if you can, please see above) or into cooling mode. This will ensure your furnace isn’t continuously trying to reach a minimum temperature and causing your energy bills to creep up.

You can also turn off your furnace at the source using the control switch. Control switches look just like a light switch. Depending on the model of your furnace, you may also want to shut off power at your electrical panel as an extra step, but this is usually not necessary.
Alternatively, if you don’t want to mess with your furnace, give us a call! We can undergo a complete shutdown and maintenance check to ensure your furnace is ready to go when the temperature drops again.

Additional Energy Saving Tips For Summer

Want to add a little more bang for your buck when it comes to summertime savings? Check out these additional tips:

Regular Maintenance

Furnace performance is directly correlated to how much attention and love you show it. So stay on top of it with regular furnace tune-ups from the 5-Star Superstars from Always Plumbing & Heating.

Our heating team has over 20 years of tune-up experience in Edmonton and the surrounding areas. No matter where you are, we have fully-stocked trucks on the ground and we’re ready to come to you!

Our thorough tune-up process includes:

  • Troubleshooting
  • Cleaning
  • Air flow & quality inspection
  • Energy efficiency inspection
  • Replace air filters
  • Check thermostat settings

Tune-ups typically take an hour or so to complete. We did say it’s thorough! And the biggest benefit to tune-ups are the ability to prevent furnace repairs or replacements, increased air quality and increased efficiency. And increased efficiency means more energy savings for you month over month!

For long term coverage, join our Diamond Maintenance Program you’ll never have to worry about your HVAC needs:

  • Exclusive discounts.
  • Front of the line service.
  • Discounts on service and repairs.
  • Discounts on equipment and fixtures.
  • Extended service and fixture warranties.

Check & Improve Your Home’s Insulation

Another great way to improve savings this summer is by inspecting your insulation. Look for any spots that are in need of replacement and check for drafts and ensure they’re sealed up. When heated or cooled air escapes your home, it can cause your equipment to work harder to maintain temperature and raise your bills.

5 Star Advice & Service From Always Plumbing & Heating

No matter your seasonal needs, our team has you covered with comprehensive installation, repair and maintenance service designed to keep you cozy and your costs low.
Our service is backed by trusted guarantees, workmanship and we have over 2500 positive reviews from your friends and neighbours in the Edmonton area. Find out why we’re the preferred choice for home comfort, give us a call today!

Common Questions 

How much does a furnace tune-up cost?

Our thorough furnace tune-ups start at $149, call us today to schedule yours!

When should I schedule furnace maintenance?

We recommend scheduling a comprehensive furnace tune-up before and after you turn your furnace off for the summertime, to ensure it’s ready to go and any issues are addressed prior to the heavier workload of Edmonton winters. Give us a call today!

Is furnace maintenance covered by warranty?

Through our exclusive Diamond Maintenance program we’re proud to offer 2 year service and repair extended warranties, in addition to 10 year extended equipment warranties. Contact our team to learn more.

The Temperature Is Rising: How to Lower Your Energy Bill While Enjoying Your Air Conditioner This Summer

How To Lower Your Energy Bills – As our summer’s heat continues to become more intense, many of us rely on air conditioners to keep our homes cool and comfortable. However, running an air conditioner continuously can lead to a significant increase in energy consumption and, subsequently, higher utility bills. In this article, we will explore various strategies and tips to show you how to lower your energy bills while still enjoying the benefits of your air conditioner during the summer months.

How To Lower Your Energy Bills – Understanding Energy Consumption and Air Conditioning

How To Lower Your Energy Bills – Air conditioners are notorious for consuming a substantial amount of energy. To effectively reduce your energy bill, it’s essential to understand how air conditioning systems operate and where energy is being consumed. Air conditioners work by removing heat and moisture from indoor air and replacing it with cool air. This process requires energy to operate the compressor, fans, and other components.

Optimal Temperature Settings for Energy Efficiency

One of the simplest ways to save energy while using your air conditioner is to set the thermostat at an optimal temperature. Aim for a temperature that is comfortable but not excessively cool. Every degree increase can result in significant energy savings. Setting your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.5 degrees Celsius) is generally recommended for energy efficiency without compromising comfort.

When you’re away from home or during nighttime, adjusting the temperature can further optimize energy efficiency. The Department of Energy suggests raising the thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 6 degrees Celsius) for eight hours a day to save on cooling costs. By doing so, you can avoid wasting energy on cooling an unoccupied or sleeping space.

Utilizing Smart Thermostats to Save Energy

Smart thermostats offer advanced features that can further optimize energy usage. These devices learn your schedule and preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly. They can also be controlled remotely through mobile apps, allowing you to make changes even when you’re away from home. By utilizing a smart thermostat, you can maximize energy savings by customizing temperature settings based on your specific needs.

For example, you can program your thermostat to automatically raise the temperature when you leave for work and lower it shortly before you return home. Smart thermostats can even learn your habits and adjust temperatures accordingly, providing optimal comfort and energy savings.

Effective Insulation for Cooling Efficiency

Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a cool indoor environment. Insulating your home effectively minimizes heat transfer and helps keep the cool air trapped indoors. Make sure that your walls, attic, and windows are well-insulated to prevent hot air from entering and cold air from escaping. This can significantly reduce the workload on your air conditioner and result in substantial energy savings.

Using Fans to Supplement Air Conditioning

House fans work by moving air throughout your home, promoting better airflow and ventilation. They create a breeze that helps evaporate moisture from your skin, making you feel cooler. House fans do not actually lower the temperature of the room, but they provide a perceived cooling effect through increased air movement.

Best places to put house fans:

  • Bedrooms
  • Home Office
  • Livingroom
  • Kitchen
  • Basements
  • Hallways and Stairwells:

Fans can be used in conjunction with air conditioners to enhance cooling efficiency. Ceiling fans or portable fans create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler without lowering the temperature of the room. By using fans, you can set your air conditioner to a slightly higher temperature while still enjoying a comfortable environment. This approach reduces the workload on your air conditioner and lowers energy consumption.

Reducing Heat Gain with Window Coverings

Windows are a significant source of heat gain during the summer months. To minimize heat transfer, consider using window coverings such as blinds, curtains, or shades. These coverings can block sunlight and prevent heat from entering your home. Opt for light-colored or reflective materials to deflect heat effectively. By reducing heat gain through windows, you can reduce the reliance on your air conditioner and save energy.

Maintenance and Regular Servicing of Air Conditioners

Regular maintenance and servicing of your air conditioner are essential for optimal performance and energy efficiency. Ensure that your air conditioner is clean, and the filters are regularly replaced or cleaned. Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder and consume more energy. Additionally, schedule professional maintenance annually to identify any issues and ensure that your air conditioner operates at its best.

Energy-Efficient Cooling Options

Consider investing in energy-efficient cooling options to reduce your energy consumption. Energy Star-certified air conditioners are designed to consume less energy while delivering excellent cooling performance. These units are more efficient and can help you save on your energy bills in the long run. When purchasing a new air conditioner, look for the Energy Star label and choose a model with the appropriate cooling capacity for your space.

Landscaping for Shade and Cooling Benefits

Strategic landscaping can significantly impact your home’s cooling efficiency. Planting trees or shrubs strategically around your home can provide shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight that enters your living spaces. The shade from trees can help keep your home cooler and reduce the reliance on your air conditioner. Additionally, well-placed vegetation can promote natural airflow and ventilation, further enhancing the cooling effect.

The Importance of Energy Audit

An energy audit can help you identify areas of improvement in your home’s energy usage. Consider scheduling an energy audit to assess your home’s energy efficiency. Professional auditors can identify energy leaks, insulation issues, and other factors that contribute to energy wastage. By addressing these problems, you can optimize your home’s energy performance and reduce your energy bills.

Efficient Use of Appliances and Lighting

Appliances and lighting contribute to heat gain in your home. During the summer months, use energy-efficient appliances that generate less heat. LED light bulbs produce less heat compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and are more energy-efficient. Additionally, limit the use of heat-generating appliances during the hottest parts of the day to minimize the strain on your air conditioner.

Unplugging Electronics and Power Strips

Electronics and appliances continue to draw power even when they’re turned off. This is known as standby power or vampire power. Unplugging electronics or using power strips with built-in switches can help eliminate this wasted energy. By reducing standby power, you can lower your overall energy consumption and contribute to energy savings.

Taking Advantage of Off-Peak Energy Rates

Some utility companies offer off-peak energy rates during specific hours of the day when the demand for electricity is lower. Take advantage of these lower rates by scheduling energy-intensive tasks such as laundry or dishwashing during off-peak hours. By optimizing your energy usage and shifting high-energy tasks to off-peak periods, you can reduce your energy bill.

How To Lower Your Energy Bills – FAQs

Will raising the temperature on my thermostat save a significant amount of energy?

Raising the temperature on your thermostat by just a few degrees can make a noticeable difference in energy consumption. Every degree increase can lead to energy savings of around 3% to 5%. By setting your thermostat to an optimal temperature, you can reduce your energy bill while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

Can using fans instead of air conditioning help lower your energy bills?

Yes, using fans instead of air conditioning will lower your costs, but they do not cool the rooms like an air conditioner. You may be sacrificing comfort to save money. However, using fans with air conditioning can help lower energy costs, while keeping you cool & comfortable.

Fans create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler without significantly lowering the temperature. By using fans, you can set your air conditioner to a higher temperature, reducing its workload and saving energy.

Are smart thermostats worth the investment?

Smart thermostats offer advanced features that optimize energy usage and provide convenience. While they may have a higher upfront cost, smart thermostats can lead to long-term energy savings. They learn your preferences, adjust temperature settings automatically, and can be controlled remotely, allowing you to maximize energy efficiency and save on your energy bills.

How can landscaping help in lowering your energy bills?

Strategic landscaping, such as planting trees for shade, can significantly reduce energy consumption. Trees provide natural shade and can block direct sunlight from entering your home, keeping it cooler. Additionally, well-placed vegetation can promote airflow and ventilation, further enhancing the cooling effect.

What is an energy audit, and why is it important?

An energy audit is a professional assessment of your home’s energy efficiency. It identifies areas where energy is being wasted and provides recommendations for improvement. An energy audit can help you understand your energy usage, and identify energy leaks, insulation issues, and other factors that contribute to high energy consumption. By addressing these issues, you can optimize your home’s energy performance and reduce your energy bills.

Keeping your home cool during the summer doesn’t have to lead to sky-high energy bills. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, you can enjoy the benefits of your air conditioner while reducing your energy consumption and lowering your utility costs. Remember to set your thermostat at an optimal temperature, utilize smart thermostats, enhance insulation, use fans, and reduce heat gain through window coverings. 

Not sure if your AC Unit is working properly, call the experts at Always Plumbing & Heating today and book your AC Tune-Up. To increase your savings, you can always join our Diamond Club to enjoy both AC and furnace maintenance every year, as well as additional discounts on service calls, new appliances, and installations. Contact us today by calling 780-489-8118 or by submitting the contact form.

4 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Home Heating Unit

’Tis the season to crank up that thermostat! As the weather cools, staying warm and toasty at home is a priority. When was the last time you checked your home heating unit? Here are some ways to know if your furnace needs some TLC.

1. Your Furnace Is Noticeably Noisy

If you’re playing detective on your heating unit, check its noise. Do you hear anything new or strange? Then, that’s a sign you may need an upgrade. 

The noises could be coming from a belt, fan, or the blower. Our HVAC experts can help you determine what those terrible screeches or clangs mean.

2. It’s Over a Decade Old

Typically, home heating units last for about ten years. If yours is starting to get around that age, you’ll want to start looking for a new model.

Good news: Newer units are more energy efficient. While you’ll need to fork out some cash for a new one, you’ll ultimately save on your monthly bills!

Thermostats have also seen some major improvements through the years. You might want to consider swapping your existing unit for a smart, programmable thermostat, which is another great way to save energy—and money, too.

3. The Heat Is Inconsistent

If some rooms feel much warmer than others, or one room always seems to be really chilly, that can be another sign that you’re due for an upgrade. Home heating units are developed to evenly distribute warmth through your house. 

Before you jump to conclusions, check your air ducts. They could be the culprit! While inconsistent heat can be a sign of an aging heating unit, it can be helpful to have someone take a peek at the air ducts in your home to see if they need to be resealed or cleaned first. 

4. You Keep Repairing It

Absence makes the heart grow fonder… especially when it’s your repairman. If you’ve been calling for repairs way too often, that’s a big indication it’s time to get a new unit. Hopefully, if you’ve had to call a professional a few times, they’ve already recommended this (we certainly would!). 

We recommend completing regular maintenance on your furnace to extend the lifetime of the unit. You’ll spend less money, since you’ll catch big issues before it’s too late. 

Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?

If you’re starting to get suspicious about your heating unit’s performance, let us know! Our expert technicians will assess the unit and present options. We always offer repairs first, but sometimes, replacing is the only way to go. 

Choosing a new furnace can be an intimidating task, so our certified technicians will assess your home’s unique heating needs, and be straightforward with you about replacement options. We’ll provide you with the exact cost before the work begins. Contact us today and we’ll help you get the heat going again! 

The Best Garage Heaters for 2022

When winter hits in Edmonton, many of us want to hibernate! While that’s not an option, having a garage heater for your vehicle can make the season a little more bearable. 

Garage heaters allow you to use the space whenever you want, even when the temperature drops into a range where we’d all like to crawl back into bed. A nice and toasty garage means you can use it as a workshop or as storage without any danger. Garage heaters eliminate the need for idling, which means a decreased carbon monoxide risk and far less stress on your vehicle. They are also a far safer alternative to space heaters.

At Always Plumbing and Heating, we recommend natural gas garage heaters. They are less expensive to operate and more energy efficient. Here are our top picks:

Hot Dawg® by Modine

Gas-efficient Hot Dawg® garage heater.

We carry the Hot Dawg® Power Vented model. When it’s cold in the winter, this is an excellent choice for heating residential garages but it’s great for commercial or industrial spaces too. Hot Dawg® garage heaters come in a variety of sizes. 

One of our favourite things about this brand is that it is incredibly quiet. You get all the comfort without the noise! 

The Hot Dawg® Power Vented heater can run on natural gas or propane and puts out 30,000 to 120,000 BTU of heat, making the area balmy and pleasant. These units are quick to install, since they’re power-vented and extremely lightweight. 

Reznor® 

Safety-packed Reznor® garage heater.

We’re big fans of Reznor® and carry the UDAP and UDAS models of their V3 heater. If you have a minimally insulated garage, this could be the pick for you! We’re consistently impressed with these industry-leading units, which are available in several sizes. 

These garage heaters also run on natural gas or propane, and are controlled by a separate thermostat. We’re big fans of the safety features Reznor® has on their units. These models run on a spark igniter with no standing pilot light. 

Like the Hot Dawg®, these heaters are extremely quiet. Power venting increases the efficiency of the units, and they also boast an 82% to 83% energy-efficiency rating.

Let’s Talk About Your Garage Heater Options

If your daily weather forecast checks have you thinking about a garage heater in time for winter, give us a call! We’ll discuss our top picks for your space, answer any questions you have, and schedule an installation. Your garage doesn’t have to be a frigid, uncomfortable spot! Contact us today to book your appointment. 

Planning an Eco-Friendly Bathroom

Saving money is at the top of everyone’s list, and for good reason. Simply using the appliances and fixtures in your home can crank up the bills without you even realizing it, and the weekly gasps and incredulous ‘we spent HOW much?’ expressions at the charges incurred get old…quickly. Thankfully, there are a few changes you can make just by swapping these elements out that will instantly make a difference in your monthly statement.

We’re going to take a look at how swapping out the components in just one room – the bathroom – can make a difference.

On top of the extra money you’ll pocket, making the jump to eco-friendly things in your bathroom, you’ll also be reducing the amount of energy and waste you’d usually cause just from daily use. But if you’d rather skip the appliance-swapping and pull the trigger on a full-scale remodeling of your bathroom, Always Plumbing & Heating has expert plumbers at the ready to help you turn your bathroom into an efficiency wonderland.

Low-flow Toilets

  • While low-flow toilets have been around for a while, they weren’t efficient at all when they broke onto the scene; they usually required multiple flushes to completely get rid of everything. Now, as technology has progressed and the designs have gotten more refined, they’re a perfectly viable option. Traditional toilets use anywhere from 3.5-7 gallons of water per flush, and that can add up quickly – especially if you’ve got a bigger household. A family of four that switches to low-flow toilets can save an average of 22,000 gallons of water per year, and you’ll notice the difference.

…And Showerheads

  • Swapping out your regular showerheads for low-flow models can also be a good way to cut down on the hot-water usage in your home. A shower typically pumps out 5-8 gallons/minute, while low-flow showerheads whittle that down to 2.5/minute – saving you water and energy. Getting one with a filter to screen out hard water is another easy way to help you out.

Motion-sensing Faucets

  • It might not seem like a lot, but the water you waste in the time it takes you to turn a faucet on and off adds up over time. A motion-sensing faucet ensures water is only being expelled when your hands – or toothbrush, or whatever – are in front of it.

LED Bulbs

  • Enough about water. Let’s talk lights. Traditional halogen bulbs are powerful, sure, but they’re also more expensive to power day in and day out because of that. You’ve also got to replace them much more frequently. LED bulbs last longer, they’re less prone to breaking, and they use 80 percent less energy.

Picking Perfect Paint

  • If you’re going to, say, remodel a bathroom, consider the type of paint you’re going to use. Some paints have low-volatile organic compounds (VOC), and as a result they’re less toxic. It’s not much, but it’s just one more simple way you can make sure you’re doing what you can to create a greener bathroom.

Even swapping out just a few of your bathroom elements for the ones we mentioned above can make a huge difference, both in your wallet and in the environment — you can feel good about what you’re doing in more ways than one!

Always Heating & Plumbing’s experts are equipped to oversee an entire bathroom renovation from start to finish, if you’d rather just do it all in one fell swoop. We offer plenty of makes and models in low-flow toilets, showerheads, sinks and tubs, and we’d be thrilled to help you pick out your dream bathroom. Give us a call at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) today!

25 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Winter Energy Bill

We are deep into winter here in Edmonton and chances are your energy bill has started to see the effects. Colder temperatures, longer nights, and the holiday season are keeping people inside more, cooking at home, and turning up the heat. The good news is that it’s never too late to reduce your winter energy bill! While expensive home upgrades may be the first thing that comes to mind, even in the middle of winter you can still reduce your energy bill with these cheap and easy tips.Use the sun for free heat. When the sun is beaming in, open the drapes. At night, or when it is not sunny, close them to keep the heat in.

  1. Use the sun for free heat. When the sun is beaming in, open the drapes. At night, or when it is not sunny, close them to keep the heat in.
  2. Use space heaters in areas that tend to be cooler.
  3. Use a programmable thermostat.
  4. Turn down the thermostat at night and when no one is home during the day. Did you know that you can save up to 5% on heating costs for every degree you drop your thermostat in the 60-70 degree range!
  5. Keep your furnace cleaned and unblocked.
  6. Set your hot water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Use ceiling fans to your advantage by using the reverse setting to keep heat from rising and hovering near the ceiling.
  8. Bundle up! Keep your heat at low setting and add cozy layers and blankets while indoors.
  9. Upgrade older appliances.
  10. Add additional insulation.
  11. Add weatherstripping to windows and doors to seal out drafts.
  12. Regularly change furnace filters.
  13. Turn off unused electronics and small appliances.
  14. Only heat the rooms you use.
  15. Replace conventional lightbulbs with LEDs.
  16. Install window film on the outside of windows to reduce heat loss. This will also help to more efficiently cool your home in the warm summer months too!
  17. Close the damper when you are not using your fireplace.
  18. When using your fireplace, turn your thermostat down to 60 degrees F or cooler.
  19. Insulate your hot water heater by wrapping it in an insulating jacket. This helps to keep heat from escaping, making it easier for it to efficiently heat water.
  20. Insulate the basement. Did you know that up to 30% of a home’s heat loss can be due to an uninsulated basement!
  21. Seal and insulate around electrical outlets.
  22. Insulate the attic access door.
  23. Clean registers and make sure they are not being blocked by furniture, rugs or drapery.
  24. Lock doors and windows. When doors and windows are locked, it creates an added seal preventing warm air from escaping.
  25. Minimize the use of kitchen and bathroom fans. When overused, they also suck out the heated air from your home.

After the holidays, it is always nice to be able to save a little money. These simple tips will make your home more efficient, and decrease your home’s energy bills in winters to come. Keeping your appliances maintained and working properly is the key to making sure they stay as energy efficient as possible. If you are noticing a spike in your energy bills this winter, contact Always Plumbing & Heating for an inspection. Call 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment today!

Water Conservation for Edmonton Homes

If you are an Edmonton resident who is mindful about water conservation, you know that the summer is the most difficult period to keep plumbing usage low. Average household water use peaks in the summer, which sees kids on school break and adults on extended vacations. In the summer there is more showering/bathing, more clothes to wash, more dishes to clean and more use of the commode. If you have kids in the house, pools and water activities will probably be a part of daily activities. Keeping water usage low throughout the break isn’t easy, but the professionals at Always Plumbing & Heating have some practical tips to help minimize the deluge.

Fix Plumbing Leaks

This might sound like an obvious suggestion, but it is surprising how many people will live with a slow leak rather than fixing it. Whether it is a faucet leak, a leak coming from the base of a fixture or a pipe leak, it’s not going to stop on its own. A slow, consistent leak might be easy to overlook, especially if the water escaping is easily contained. But leaks are extremely wasteful – the average household loses around 22 gallons of water every day. Assess all the water fixtures in your home and repair any leaks in your plumbing.

10 Things you Must Know About Plumbing Leaks

Smart Lawn Watering

Make sure that you water your lawn in the morning when the air is cooler. Water evaporates at a higher rate when it is warmer, so watering your lawn later in the day won’t help maximize use. Watering in the evening is also not recommended as the cooler night air will not allow the water to dry out properly. Damp areas can leave your lawn susceptible to fungus and other disease. You might consider investing in a smart sprinkler system that you can control from an app installed on your phone. These systems will never water the lawn when it’s raining – and can adjust its watering schedule based on previous and future weather patterns.

Reduce Water Usage

Small changes in the way that you use water around the house can help drastically cut down usage. Stop hand-washing your dishes – and only run a dishwasher cycle when the machine is full. Don’t pre-rinse dirty dishes before loading them into the machine as you can waste up to 20 gallons of water per load. If you have kids, consider giving them showers instead of baths. A five-minute shower (using a standard shower head) will use around 10 – 12.5 gallons of water as opposed to a standard bath which uses about 30 gallons of water. Installing low-flow fixtures will also help in curbing summer water usage.

Outdoor Water Use

If you own a pool, make sure that you keep as much water as you can by covering it when not in use. In the heat of the summer, a pool can lose an average of a quarter inch of water each day through evaporation. Depending on the heat and humidity, it can lose even more. If you don’t own an inground or above ground pool and use wading pools or water toys for outdoor recreation, consider taking the kids to a public pool or water park this summer. All outdoor pools are offering free admission this summer to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday.

Buy a Rain Barrel

Rain barrels have become increasingly popular in recent years. Collecting the water from your roof and reusing it to water your garden and other areas in your yard is a smart use of the runoff. It will help you to reduce the amount of drinking water you use to water your yard – and help curb pollution from untreated water runoff. Acquiring a barrel is easy and will pay for itself in a matter of months.

Rain Barrel Suppliers

Conserving water (and saving money) in the summer is attainable if you take these practical tips into consideration. If you need assistance with repairing those fixture leaks, our professionals can help you both quickly and efficiently. Do you have some slow leaks that need the attention of an experienced plumber? Call us at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to schedule an appointment today!

More Information on Edmonton Water Conservation

Related Blogs:

Summer Water Safety for Edmonton Homes

Supply Valve Locations in Your Edmonton Home

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Energy-Saving Tips for the Summer

Another Edmonton summer is here, which means more time at home to relax and catch up with friends and family. More quality time at home also means that more energy will be used for comfort and leisure activities. Though our summers are mild, keeping the cooling bill at reasonable levels, the extra hours at home ensure a spike in energy usage. To keep your utility bills low during the next couple of months, it’s important to focus on the household energy habits that diverge from typical use.

If you have kids, they are probably tied to the computer or a smart device – perhaps several. Having kids home all summer will also necessitate more laundry, bathing and dish washing. People socialize more in the summer, so dinner parties, backyard barbeques and guest visits will require different and extended energy use. Always Plumbing & Heating wants to make sure that our Edmonton neighbors enjoy a safe, happy and energy-efficient summer. We’ve compiled a list of smart, easy-to-follow tips to help cut down on your household utilities throughout the season.

Central Air Maintenance: Always trumpets the benefits of annual central air maintenance any chance we get. Keeping your air conditioning and heating units clean and running efficiently will ensure optimum performance and a long life. A dirty or defective system will keep energy bills high and put unnecessary wear on your unit. If you haven’t had preventative maintenance performed on your air conditioning for the summer, it’s important to have it scheduled soon.

Change Out Air Filter: The easiest and most helpful DIY service that you can perform on your HVAC system is changing out the air filter consistently. During the months of constant use, it’s important to change out the filter (or clean if reusable) once a month. A dirty filter will compromise the entire system, making it work harder and hurting the indoor air quality. Summer allergens are also a big problem and a clean filter can help clean them from the indoor air.

Thermostat Setting: During the summer, try to set your thermostat as high as comfortable. With current Edmonton temperatures on the cool side, it might not even be necessary to turn on the AC yet. But as the summer progresses, try to keep the thermostat as high as your comfort level allows. Installing a smart thermostat can help you monitor and control your central air usage both easily and efficiently.

Facts About a Smart Thermostat

Close Blinds: In the heat of the summer, make sure to keep your blinds and curtains closed. Keeping out the sunlight is a simple way to keep the temperature down a few degrees. Your HVAC thermostat can also be affected by sunlight if it is located in an exposed area. The thermometer can’t get an accurate reading and will continue to cycle if it is warmed by sunlight. Try to keep your home interior dark during those hot summer days and save a little on cooling.

Minimize Indoor Heat: Try to avoid using the oven (especially during the day). Use alternative methods of cooking including the microwave, toaster oven and the outdoor grill. Only use the clothes dryer and dishwasher at night; allowing the dishes to air dry. Avoid using all major appliances from the most intense heat outside, which is usually from 2 to 8 p.m.

Unplug: Your appliances and electronics are still using electricity when they are turned off. The best way to keep them from draining energy (however small) 24 hours a day is to unplug everything at the end of the day. This might not be possible with all appliances/electronics, but there are several that could be easily “unplugged” by simply attaching them to a power strip and turning it off at night.

12 Household Appliances You Should Unplug

Charging Station: Most households have at least one smart device in their home that requires charging. Smart phones, tablets, music devices and other “essentials” should be given a specific place in the home to be charged. Consider also using a power strip to make sure that they aren’t draining power over night. Simply turning off the strip before bed will help keep these “energy vampires” from using any unnecessary energy (even after they have been fully charged).

Fans: Installing a ceiling fan can help maximize the cooling from your central air unit – allowing you to turn the AC up during the hottest days of the summer. A ceiling fan can’t lower the temperature, but it can help cool a person down inside a room. A whole house fan helps to exhaust the warmer air in a home and is ideal for the mild summers we experience in Edmonton. Opening the windows while a whole house fan is on helps to draw in the cooler outside air. Our cool mornings and evenings are the best times to get the maximum usage of a whole house unit.

8 Benefits of Whole House Fans

Save money this summer and keep comfortable with these easy energy-saving tips.

Remember that Always Plumbing & Heating can help you with air conditioning maintenance – and all aspects of HVAC service. If you need annual maintenance performed for this summer, give us a call at 780-489-8118. We can schedule an appointment with a professional technician today!

Related Blogs:

Importance of Whole House Fans

8 Ways to Save Water in Your Edmonton Home

Call Always Plumbing & Heating at 780-489-8118 or contact us online today to discuss your water quality options for your new home.

Earth Day Tips for Energy-Efficient Homes in Edmonton

To celebrate Earth Day, Always Plumbing & Heating has some eco-friendly tips for our Edmonton neighbors. Part of Earth Month, where people are encouraged to fight “environmental apathy,” Earth Day (April 22), marks the anniversary of the modern environmental movement in 1970. Originating in the U.S., it has grown to become a world-wide date for action and reflection. The first Canadian Earth Day was held on September 11, 1980 which evolved into a national environmental charity that supports several eco-friendly events (including the one celebrated this month).

There are several things that a homeowner can do to lessen their environmental footprint –ultimately making their homes more efficient and lowering their monthly utility bills. While it’s still decidedly winter in Edmonton (at least as far as the weather is concerned), these tips are great for your spring maintenance agenda and can be implemented well before the summer season is underway.

More About Earth Day Canada

Low-Flow Water Fixtures

Modern water fixtures are already more efficient than their counterparts from 20 years ago. If your home still has faucets and shower heads that were installed in the 90s or earlier, simply buying new fixtures will ensure less water consumption. However, modern fixtures designed to use less water (called “low-flow”), can cut water consumption by as much as 50 percent. These new designs also perform the same, or even better, than the less efficient versions from the past. Low-flow fixtures are also inexpensive (shower heads start at $20), easy to install and available at most hardware and home improvement stores.

Insulation

An easy way to keep your Edmonton home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer is to add more insulation. Retrofitting your home with added insulation in the attic can cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 20 percent. There are several types of insulation available, but blanket batts and rolls are ideal for DIY installation projects and designed for standard stud and joist spacing in attics. If you feel that your home needs more than a simple retrofit, getting estimates from several professional contractors is advised. Make sure that you inquire about their air sealing practices as a home should be properly sealed before a major insulation project.

Change Out Your Incandescent Bulbs

Changing out your incandescent light bulbs to newer, more efficient designs are essential in making your home more efficient and eco-friendly. CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) were designed to replace incandescent bulbs – and use one-fifth to one-third the electricity. CFLs can also last up to fifteen times longer. But CFLs contain mercury and disposing of them securely is complicated. LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are a better option as they are more efficient than both incandescent and CFL designs. They produce a light that is similar to natural daylight and last far longer than the other bulb options. While a fluorescent bulb will last about 1,000 hours its CFL and LED counterparts will last around 6,000 and 50,000 hours respectively. Both newer bulb designs are more expensive, but the money saved in electricity more than makes up for the higher price.

Understanding the Different Types of Light Bulbs

Install Modern Appliances

It is estimated that home appliances account for about 13 percent of a home’s energy cost. Much like water fixtures, modern designs are much more efficient and can provide better performance while using less energy. For instance, since 2000, refrigerator designs use 40 – 60 percent less energy than previous models. If you have appliances in your home that are 15 – 20 years old, you might consider replacing them for more efficient designs. Refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, air conditioners, heaters and hot water heaters are all appliances that consume a great deal of energy. Upgrading them to high-efficiency models (which can be found on the Energy Star website) can help cut energy and water usage – and lower utility bills by hundreds of dollars.

Other ways to create a more energy-efficient home:

  • Install a Programmable Thermostat
  • Add Weather Stripping
  • Install a Tankless Water Heater
  • Install Ceiling Fans
  • Schedule an Energy Audit
  • Plant Trees (for Shade and the Environment)

10 Tips to Celebrate Earth Month

Celebrate Earth Day this year by making your home more energy efficient and eco-friendly. Always Plumbing & Heating can help with your environmental focus by ensuring that your plumbing and central air systems are working at optimum efficiency. Contact us when you are ready to install low flow fixtures, new appliances, or add a programmable thermostat. We can also help you make eco-friendly decisions with your new home construction. Call your Earth Day partners at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment today!

 Related Blogs:

A Green Way to Clean Your Edmonton Home

8 Simple and Easy Ways to Save Water in Edmonton

To request a service appointment, give us a call at 780-489-8118 or contact us online.

Boosting the Heat in your Holiday Home

Christmas and Boxing Day are just days away, which means that friends and family will soon be convening for extended visits. With more people in the home than usual, you’ll be using more energy to keep everyone comfortable and entertained. The HVAC system in your Edmonton home will be working overtime to ensure everyone stays warm (especially with the forecast predicting zero degree lows). Always Plumbing & Heating wants to help you keep your utility costs down throughout the extended holiday. We’ve compiled a few tips to help balance the comfort of your holiday household with sensible energy use. While some of these precautions have already been mentioned in previous winter weather blogs, all are worth touching upon again.

Proactively boosting your central air before your holiday events will ensure a comfy, cozy vacation that won’t create a high energy bill.

Dust

Before the guests arrive, make sure that the house has been thoroughly dusted – including the duct vents and areas around them. While cleaning is usually on the agenda before a big event, sometimes dusting can take a back seat to more obvious chores. However, dusting is an essential component is helping your HVAC this holiday. The extreme winter weather in the past few weeks means that your home has probably been sealed tight. Dust and dirt can collect when the airflow has been restricted, which means that your HVAC has been pulling in a lot of that debris (and collected in the air filter). When possible, dust with a vacuum or a sheet of microfiber.

15 Simple Dusting Tricks

Change Air Filter

As stated many times on this blog, changing your HVAC air filter once a month during peak seasons is always a good rule of thumb. But if you’ve already changed the filter for the month, give it a quick inspection and consider changing it out again if it’s dirty. The extra foot traffic in your home will increase the dirt, dust and pollutants in the air. A clogged air filter restricts airflow and can also affect the temperature of the air. Your HVAC will end up working harder and using more energy to circulate air that has been compromised.

Consistent Thermostat Setting

With additional people in your home, and the constant flow of holiday guests, it will be tempting to raise or lower the thermostat whenever the temperature becomes uncomfortable. One of the easiest ways to increase your energy bill is to constantly change the setting of the thermostat. Wait until you have the maximum amount of people gathered – then find a temperature that is ideal. Keep the thermostat at that setting throughout the extended break. If you are traveling for the holidays, leaving the thermostat set between 50 – 60 degrees will ensure you save money while keeping the interior of your home at a safe level of warmth.

Open the Shades

Remember to open the curtains and blinds on days that are sunny. In the winter, using the sunlight to boost the indoor heat is a good way to help keep utilities down. The natural sunlight helps to reduce the amount of work that your HVAC does in order to keep it warm. This phenomenon, called passive heating, is an important supplement to your winter heating. Depending on the angle of your home you can save quite a bit of energy throughout the season.

Stock Up on Blankets

You will want to make sure that your houseguests are warm – especially at night. To keep everyone comfortable (and from adjusting the thermostat), keep plenty of clean blankets at the ready. This is especially important when the outside temperatures are hovering around zero. Sherpa, wool, flannel, and fleece blankets are ideal for cold nights. You might also consider sleeping bags that are rated for sub-zero temperatures. They are great for additional layering and can be transformed into a proper bed blanket with the addition of a duvet cover.

Check for Air Drafts

If you are hosting guests over the holidays, you will want to make sure that any drafts have been sealed. That cold guest bedroom should be your first stop! Drafty windows can be easily fixed with transparent window film. There are several different brands of film insulation, but most work in a similar fashion. The plastic film sheets are cut to fit the window area and then molded airtight to the glass through the application of heat. Drafts in walls that come though the plumbing or small cracks/gaps can be easily fixed with latex caulk or weather stripping.

More on Drafty Windows

Ceiling Fan Support

Just like ceiling fans boost the cool air in the summer, they can also help make the most of the warm air in the winter. If you have a ceiling fan with reversible blade movement, set it to run clockwise. When the blades turn counter-clockwise, they pull up the warm air. When they move in the reverse, they push the warm air back down and help maximize the available heat.

A spirited holiday gathering with several people will increase the warmth in your home even without the additional precautions. But by taking a few hours to help boost your home’s heating system, you’ll not only be saving energy, but ensuring that your family and guests are comfortable throughout the holidays. Remember that Always Plumbing & Heating has agents available 24/7 for any HVAC emergencies that might occur during your festivities. If you begin having problems with your central air system give us a call at 780-489-8118. Don’t let a heating problem compromise your holiday!

Related Blogs:

Winter Weather Precautions for Edmonton Homes

Winter Energy Saving Tips for Edmonton

Call us at 780-489-8118 to learn more about winter plumbing and heating in Edmonton. You can also contact us online to reach our plumbers.

Winter Energy Saving Tips for Edmonton

Though winter hasn’t hit Edmonton in full force just yet, we’ve already had a taste of the chilly weather to come. As the temperatures continue to plummet over the next few weeks and months, thoughts turn to keeping safe and warm in our homes. Because of the harsh winter weather, thoughts also turn to ways of saving energy while maintaining the comfort of your household. There are several simple procedures that you can do to ensure a more energy-efficient home during the coldest months.

Always has compiled a list of helpful ways to reduce the cost of energy this winter without compromising on comfort.

Seal Drafts – Most homes have a few areas where cold air can creep in; windows, doors, sink piping and basements are just a few of the usual suspects. Insulating and air sealing these areas will go a long way in lowering your heating costs. Insulation kits and products made specifically for filling small cracks are readily available at the local hardware store.

Five Ways to Seal Your Windows for Winter  

Ceiling Fan Switch – A little-known fact about ceiling fans is that they can also be used to help distribute heat. A fan moving counter-clockwise will help push warm air up – and a fan moving clockwise will help trap the heat and keep rooms warmer. Most modern ceiling fans have a switch that will allow you to change the direction of the blades. Good ventilation and airflow will also help with energy efficiency, so keep the ceiling fans running throughout the season.

Adjust the Thermostat – By turning your thermostat down 10 – 15 degrees for eight hours a day, you can save about 10 percent a year on your utility bills. Try turning the thermostat down every night before bed – and simply bundling up. If sleeping is a problem in cooler temperatures, try turning down the thermostat while the family is out of the house during the day.

Unplug Electronics – During the winter, and especially during the holidays, we tend to use more electronics. Make sure that you unplug your gadget chargers, computers, tablets and any other product that requires electricity when it isn’t being used. Even when these products are not in use, they are using electricity when they are plugged in.

Sunlight – The most obvious, yet neglected, source of free heat is sunlight. Open the curtains and blinds during sunny days, which will help to heat the home. South-facing windows will get the most benefit, so make sure they are open all day to ensure maximum exposure.

Insulation – One of the best ways to keep your home energy-efficient throughout the year is to add insulation to your home. Many older homes (and even new ones) can benefit from adding extra insulation to their attic or walls. Those drafty areas in the walls that compromise your heating every winter can be minimized with additional insulation. A home energy audit by a professional technician can determine how much insulation you already have – and help determine problem areas in your home that would benefit from air sealing and insulation.

What is a Home Energy Audit? 

Decorate with LED Lights for the Holidays – If you are big on decorating for the holidays,consider using LED (Light Emitting Diodes). LED’s last up to 25 times longer and are at least 75% more efficient than incandescent lights.

Save on Home Heating in Edmonton

Remember that another good way to save energy (and money) this winter is to schedule a tune-up for your boiler or furnace. An annual tune-up will help keep your heating unit running at maximum efficiency and ensure a long life. Call Always Plumbing & Heating today at 780-489-8118 to schedule maintenance on your boiler or furnace.

Book your furnace and boiler maintenance inspection today for efficient home heating in Edmonton. Call Always Plumbing & Heating at 780-489-8118 or contact us online .

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