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Mini Splits vs. Window Air Conditioners

Mini-splits are compact, space-friendly, and efficient alternatives to window air conditioners. On the other hand, it isn’t easy to install. That’s because experts have to spend time judging the best installation spot for each unit.

Window air conditioners are easy to install, more efficient, and low-cost compared to mini-splits. However, they’re bulky and not versatile enough to suit every room’s décor. Plus, they require you to direct the drainage water for safety purposes.

Mini-Splits vs. Window Air Conditioners: What is Good for You?

Since both indoor cooling systems bring a lot of features, it’s not easy to pick one. However, weighing the pros and cons of each can make the decision easier.

· Energy Efficiency

Although mini-splits cost more than window air conditioners, they offer a better return on investment thanks to higher energy efficiency. A window air conditioner consumes more electrical energy input to produce the same amount of cooling as a mini-split.

Mini-splits are also comfortable as they don’t make a lot of noise. They impose low running costs because of cheaper maintenance routines. Window air conditioners require more maintenance and higher running costs.

However, the efficiency of window ACs is unmatched for large buildings compared to mini-splits. In rare cases, window ACs can be uncomfortable because they can create highly unpleasant temperatures due to a lack of automatic regulation.

· Installation (and Upgrading)

If you don’t know already, installing mini-splits is difficult because they’re smaller than window ACs. Since they’re smaller but efficient, it’s important to choose a strategic spot for them in their installed room. That takes time and expertise on the installer’s end.

On the other hand, window air conditioners are more powerful, so choosing a strategic location isn’t always necessary. Plus, installing a window air conditioner doesn’t usually require professional installation.

A mini-split system has only two main components, including an indoor and outdoor unit. To connect both components, you only have to fix refrigerant pipes adequately.

· Aesthetics (Versatility)

Installing a cooling system to remain cool during the day is vital. But, you wouldn’t like to install an odd-looking, rusty air conditioner in your luxurious house. Therefore, considering the aesthetics and versatility of an air conditioning system is also necessary.

Mini-splits come in a range of designs and options. That means they’re highly versatile and could be suitable for nearly all types of interiors. The winner of aesthetics is definitely mini-splits because of their sleek appearances and stylish finishes.

It’s worth mentioning that you can install a mini-split subtly, whereas that’s not possible for window air conditioners. For one, window ACs could be eye sores. They obstruct the view and rarely come in versatile designs or finishes. They’re also noisy, while mini-splits aren’t.

Which One is Right for You?

Mini-splits offer more versatility and heating and cooling facilities to homeowners’ advantage. They are ductless heating/cooling systems. With a single button, you can make the ductless mini-split systems go from heating to cooling.

So, what’s got you waiting? If you’ve decided between the mini splits and window air conditioners, contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions to install them for you. The experts at Cape Cod Energy Solutions are knowledgeable, reliable, and timely.

Energy Saving Tips You Can Do At Home for the Summer

You may be looking for ways to save energy, but it is hard to do so when temperatures outside are so high. After all, you must use the air conditioner and other appliances to stay comfortable on hotter days.

So, how can you stay cool this summer without breaking the bank? We have created an easy-to-follow list of tips that will help you save more during the summer. Use these tips to keep yourself comfortable.

Keep Your Windows Open

In most regions, summers tend to be warmer during the day and cooler during the night. So, it is a great idea to keep your windows open in the evening and let the cool breeze blow in.

You can also turn off your HVAC system if your home gets too cold. Doing so can help you save a lot on your energy overnight.

If you wish to save more, keep the windows open during the day. But, you will need to prevent heat gain from the windows by installing window coverings. Investing in solar-blocking drapes that can contain the cool air inside is especially great.

Keeping your windows open can reduce your electricity bills and keep your home cooler.

Check Your Air Conditioner for Maintenance

Air conditioning systems require regular maintenance to run smoothly and work efficiently. Neglecting an HVAC system’s maintenance hugely affects its performance throughout years of service. Don’t forget, that you’re also reducing its life span by skipping maintenance.

Likewise, regular maintenance has many benefits, with energy efficiency being the best one. After all, your air conditioner won’t need to work unnecessarily hard and use more power.

So, it is crucial to check your air conditioner for maintenance if you want to cut down on unnecessary costs. Start by cleaning your air vents to make sure you don’t block any airflow. Typically, you will need a certified HVAC technician to check the coils, heat pump, fins, etc.

Replace the Air Filter

One of the easiest things you can do to increase your home’s energy efficiency this summer is to replace the air filter. An AC filter replacement has many comes with many perks, from ensuring that the AC runs smoothly to maximizing energy efficiency in your home.

Dirty and clogged filters block normal airflow, decreasing your AC’s ability to absorb heat. So, replace your old and dirty AC filter with a new one and watch your AC’s energy usage decrease by up to 15 percent.

Typically, it would help if you replaced or cleaned the filter at least once every two months. You will need to pay more attention to the filter if you constantly use it or have pets.

Ready to Save Home Energy this Summer?

The tips mentioned above will increase your home’s energy efficiency and help you save money all year. Cape Cod Energy Solutions can significantly help if you’re looking for AC experts who can help increase its cooling without increasing your bills. We can help you maintain your AC and replace the filter during the summer.

Why you should hire an Energy Audit for Your Rental Properties

An energy audit is essential for every type of house, whether it’s a rental property or your main residential property. It offers several benefits, but most importantly, it helps you attract and impress tenants willing to pay your asked price.

Read further to learn why an energy audit is important for any rental property.

What is Energy Audit?

An energy audit can help you determine how energy efficient your property is. Typically, a professional auditor, like an expert electrician, will perform this task. They evaluate all the property’s components and appliances to help you understand how you can make your property more energy-efficient. You might have to replace your bulbs with energy-efficient ones, upgrade your appliances, or get new window shades.

Why do You Need to Hire Energy Audit for Your Rental Property?

An energy audit can save your money and, more importantly, help you play your part in reducing environmental problems. Here are some reasons that you need to hire an energy audit.

Point Out Common Problems

Your hired energy auditor can detect problems in your appliances, devices, and other energy-consuming accessories. Though your appliances and devices may seem like they’re working fine, they might be energy drainers. The experts will suggest necessary improvements such as installing a solar energy system, changing showerheads, or purchasing energy-efficient appliances.

Improves Energy Efficiency

It can help boost your property’s energy efficiency. Energy audits can help you identify areas in need of improvement. For example, your electrician can help you identify air leaks from gaps in the flooring, walls, and ceilings. An experienced and skilled expert will look for heat loss to find the reason for poor insulation. If your HVAC system isn’t heating or cooling your home as well as it should, they can navigate the reason behind it.

Saves Money

Once your energy consumption drops, you ultimately save more money. A carefully done energy audit can cut down 30% of your property’s yearly energy consumption. If you’re living in a big house, you can end up saving thousands of dollars every year.

Attracts Several Tenants

If you ever plan to rent your house, an energy audit can help make the process less daunting. When you rent out an energy-efficient property, more potential tenants will reach out to you. This boosts your chance of renting out your property at a higher value in less time.

Hire an energy audit today

Are you ready to improve your home by reducing the energy consumption of appliances, devices, and other electronic accessories? If yes, contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions to get help from experts in the field. We perform seamless energy audits and offer you approachable suggestions to upgrade and improve your house in Cape Cod.

Tips for Saving Money and Energy at Home while on Vacation

Going on a vacation is a great way to escape the troubles of everyday life. It also allows you to give some time to your family or friends, which isn’t always possible when you have a super-busy schedule. But if you’re about to splurge on a vacation, you’ll want to save money somewhere, no? Here are a few tips to save money at home while you’re on vacation.

Here are some things to do before leaving home for the airport.

Set Water Heater on Vacation Mode

The water heater accounts for 14% to 25% of your total electricity bill. Also, your water heater takes up a lot of energy when you leave it on stand-by. An easy energy-saving tip is to set your water heater on vacation mode before leaving for vacation.

Adjust Programmable Thermostat

If you’re not leaving your pets at home, adjust the programmable thermostat to the highest temperature. This way, it takes less energy than usual.

Unplug all the Appliances

We know that you’ve turned off all the appliances, but you still need to unplug them. That includes your coffee maker, laptop computer, rechargeable toothbrush, cable box, TV, headset chargers, and printer. Americans typically waste one month’s worth of electricity each year by leaving appliances plugged in when unused.

Draw Curtains and Window Shades

When you get back home, it needs to have a comfortable temperature so that you don’t have to set the air conditioner on the highest mode. You can do this by drawing window shades and curtains, preventing sun rays from entering your home.

Turn off all lights

Well, this is obvious- since you probably intend to do this. Turning off the lights can save a lot of money. You also need to turn off the security timer and other devices in your home. Of course, make sure not to turn off the CCTVs. They’ll help you keep an eye on your home while you’re on vacation.

Save money today

When you decide to go on vacation, you probably plan to give your pets to someone for their care, or you ensure that your security system works appropriately. In fact, some people temporarily stop their newspaper and magazine subscriptions. While all these measures are great, you should also consider saving energy and money while on vacation. The tips mentioned above will help reduce your energy bills when you’re not around, helping you avoid high utility costs once you’re back. If you need expert help, you can contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions for ways to save energy.

What Does it Mean to Buy an Energy Star Certified Appliance?

In 2022, it’s no secret that consumers have prioritized energy efficiency. If you’re looking for a way to make your home more energy-efficient, upgrading to Energy Star Certified appliances is the solution. A lot of people are unsure precisely what that certification means, though.

What is an Energy Star Certification?

The US Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is always looking for ways to make American homes and businesses more efficient. Over 20 years ago, they devised the idea to create an Energy Star Certification for products that meet certain efficiency requirements.

Windows, appliances, siding, and even entire buildings can receive an Energy Star Certification if they meet the required standards set by the department. When you see an Energy Star Certification on a product, you know it’s an efficient product. View the complete list of Energy Star Certification requirements here.

Are Energy Star Appliances Good Quality?

A big concern for consumers is whether an Energy Star Certified product is of the same quality as a non-certified product. The short answer is yes, Energy Star Certified products are good quality! That’s one of the requirements to earn the certification.

Manufacturers must prove that their Energy Star product is as good as or better than the less efficient counterpart. Efficient products also tend to have a longer lifespan, saving you money on repurchasing a replacement in the future. When an Energy Star product does need to be replaced, it’s easier to recycle the old product.

Reasons to Make the Switch to Energy Star Certified Appliances

There are many reasons to switch to Energy Star Certified appliances, but most of those can be summed up into 2 categories.

First, you’ll save money! Energy Star products are more efficient. That means less water, electricity, and other resources are used to operate the appliance. This helps to keep monthly costs low for homeowners.
Second, you can feel good about purchasing an Energy Star Certified appliance. You’re doing your part to battle climate change and the environmental crisis by using a more efficient product. Even if you aren’t someone who spends a lot of time worrying about their carbon footprint, there’s no denying that it feels excellent morally to be more efficient!

If you’re interested in switching to Energy Star Certified appliances, contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions today! We have access to a large inventory of Energy Star Certified products to meet every homeowner’s needs. We can also help identify other areas of your home that could benefit from Energy Star products. Start making your home more efficient today!

What Is the Difference Between a Home and a General Energy Audit?

Home maintenance is undoubtedly a daunting job, especially for new homeowners. It takes a million processes to ensure the smooth run of the home, and an energy audit is one way to know more about the entirety of your home. However, hundreds of families have no idea what an energy audit is.

What is an energy audit?

An energy audit is an inspection analysis of a home’s energy flow—it includes processes that help limit energy consumption without causing harm. Performing an energy audit can range in various ways; hence, it is divided into home energy audits and general energy audits.

These two audit forms entail different processes, and the results can be similar. For homeowners unsure about the types of energy audits, this blog post will extensively provide knowledge about them.

What is a home energy audit?

A home energy audit is an audit analysis performed by an efficiency expert. Most home energy audits do not require equipment to perform these diagnostic and entail processes like checking the sustainability of envelope structure like doors and windows, inspecting the HVAC units, the features it possesses, and how long it has been in use.

Also, it includes checking the lighting and electricity-based appliances, inspecting the source of the homeowner’s complaints, and tackling water issues. In addition, utility bills are checked, and every energy-intensive expenditure is analyzed. In general, a home energy audit takes 60 to 120 minutes to complete and can be done by the homeowners without needing an expert.

What is a general energy audit?

A general energy audit or standard and detailed energy audit is a more intensive form of energy auditing, including diagnostic testing with equipment. It entails more information on the building’s energy consumption, and a certain number of tests are performed to determine the total energy consumption of the building.

Experts are trained to execute tests like intensive insulation checks to determine how effective the insulating materials are, HVAC tests to know the possible leakages, and air leaks.

Benefits of an energy audit in the home

1. Energy auditing helps save money

According to energy star, homeowners and industries can drastically reduce their energy consumption if they adhere to efficient technologies and advice that can only be received during energy auditing. Energy auditing helps families and companies cut out their excesses, allowing them to save more.

2. Identify problems in the home

For homeowners who repeatedly battle with home problems ranging from pipe leakages and insulating problems, an energy audit will help tackle them efficiently. An expert auditor will use high-tech equipment to detect the anomaly and proffer a solution to them immediately.

Do You Need an Energy Audit?

If you need an energy audit in your home, why not seek the services of Cape Cod Energy Solutions, a professional efficiency organization with years of experience performing home and general energy audits.

Our team consists of trained professionals with years of experience that has continually helped families and business owners like you audit their building’s energy. We possess high-tech auditing equipment like blower doors, infrared cameras, and surface thermometers to help investigate and detect air and pipe leaks and insulation levels in your home.

How to Improve Home Efficiency by Investing in a Thermostat

Homeowners are constantly looking for ways to improve their home efficiency, from turning off bulbs that are not in use to turning down air conditioners at night. However, these methods have proven to be futile, allowing homeowners to intensify their search.

Thankfully, technology has proven to be effective and innovative as millions of homeowners see the new light—in this case, a thermostat. Yes, a good thermostat can drastically reduce your home energy consumption, reducing monthly bills.

What is a thermostat?

A thermostat is a device usually incorporated into appliances to help detect and regulate temperature changes in an enclosed area’s environment. In HVAC systems, thermostats monitor the indoor temperature and automatically regulate to the desired level set by you. Today, many house owners incorporate thermostats into the HVAC units to help detect the current temperature within their entire homes and even specific rooms accurately.

This allows them to adjust the thermostat to their desired condition when the temperature goes above or beyond the set level. Thermostats are great energy-saving devices, and technological advancement has allowed for the development of automatic and programmable thermostats.

Smart thermostats

Smart thermostats are like regular thermostats; however, they are more automated. These devices recognize your temperature and automatically adjust them whenever they have been crossed. For example, homeowners who like their home to be certain at a certain time can input this information on the thermostat. The thermostat automatically turns on this temperature at the desired time.

Benefits of thermostat

1. Save money

The most common reason people own thermostats is to save costs because they help families cut down the ever-rising electricity bills. Thermostats allow you to adjust to your desired temperature and depending on this, you can get save more than 5% of your yearly electricity bill.

2. Zoned temperature

With thermostats, families can get to avoid wastage while exhibiting flexibility. For homes with different temperatures, that is, certain rooms are cooler while others are hot; thermostats allow the equitable distribution of hot and cold air around the home.

3. Saves time

It’s a hassle adjusting thermostats to your desired temperature constantly, and oftentimes, we don’t get our desired adjustment. Smart thermostats are programmed to switch to the set temperature, saving you time and energy that can be channeled into other productive activities.

4. Compatibility

Smart thermostats are compatible with the latest smartphone and home gadgets. Their compatibility gives them an edge and provides families with better comfort. With smart thermostats, homeowners can control the temperature of any room from their gadget on their palm or by vocal sensors with Siri and Alexa.

5. Aids your home HVAC system

Thermostats are beneficial to your whole HVAC system as they help these conditioning systems operate optimally. With a smart thermostat, there is little to no need to change your HVAC systems as the thermostats help regulate their activities, lessening stress and optimizing the lifespan and operation.

Conclusion

Need a thermostat installed in your home? Why not contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions? We are a professional energy efficiency organization in Cape Cod that has helped hundreds of families with their home efficiency.

What Happens During an HVAC Inspection

An HVAC unit offers numerous benefits for your home and workplace. The system keeps the air clean and safe to breathe. However, it may not properly work for various reasons. However, your HVAC system may not work because of the shift in weather and other technical problems. Therefore, you need to hire a professional team for inspection. Below, you will understand how an experienced team will inspect your HVAC unit and identify the problem.

Heating Maintenance

Physical Components

When you hire a professional team to inspect your heating system, they will start the process by ensuring that the boiler or furnace is functional. The technician will check the furnace filter and replace it with a new one. Once done with the filter, they will identify the issue by inspecting your heater’s ventilation and exterior system by looking for any damage and tear in the system.

They will repair the problem upon identification. Subsequently, the team will inspect and clean the interior components of the furnace. The inspection location includes a blower, ignition assembly, pressure switches, and motors.

Electrical Components

Now, the team will check the electrical component for power consumption and measure the power usage. They will also check your thermostat and clean and calibrate it. They will turn on the furnace, monitor the performance, and ensure that all the components are functional. A professional technician will also check for any leaks and clean the pipe.

Cooling Maintenance

Physical Components

Your technician will switch the cooling system on and off to examine the working process of the air conditioner. They will make sure that the system is in great condition. They will check the indoor and outdoor components, including motors, internal parts, and belts. Professional technicians will measure the coolant levels and replace them if necessary. They will also check the circuits, condensate pump, drain line, safety controls, and all valves and caps on their visit.

Electrical Components

Once the professionals inspect the physical component, they will search for the problem in the electrical components. If they identify any damaged wire or component, they will immediately replace it. This instant replacement will avoid any failure. The pros will also inspect the performance of the outdoor unit. If the filters are causing a problem, replacing them will avoid debris and dust accumulation and prevent them from entering the duct. The final step would be the inspection of the thermostat. The technicians will clean and calibrate the thermostat if they find any need for it.

Conclusion

We at Cape Cod Energy Solutions provide the best team in your neighborhood. We have highly qualified technicians with extensive experience and skills. They will inspect your cooling and heating system and identify the problem using advanced tools to fix and clean the component. For more details or to book an appointment, contact us at 774-205-2001 or learn more from our website.

Insulation Options to Consider for New Homes

Building a new home is an exciting journey with lots of decisions along the way. From choosing the location of the build to the final finishes on the interior, new homeowners have a long list of decisions to make before a new home is complete. One of the most important choices is what type of insulation is installed in your new home. If you’re struggling to choose a type of insulation for your new home, check out this breakdown of the different options.

Why is Insulation Important?

Insulation is something that can’t be skipped during the home-building process. Insulation serves multiple purposes including:

Interior temperature control
Minimizing outside noise heard inside the home
Prevention of drafts & cold floors
Prevents frozen pipes

Cellulose

Cellulose is one of the oldest types of insulation on the market. It’s most commonly used in the attic and wall cavities. Cellulose is made of newspaper or denim, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at it! Cellulose insulation can be installed either wet or dry. Dry cellulose has a tendency to settle and shift, while wet cellulose will stay where it’s applied and form a better seal.

The biggest benefit of cellulose is that it’s affordable and easy to install.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass insulation is the cheapest type of insulation on the market. This insulation is made up of tiny fibers of glass, hence the name fiberglass. Fiberglass is the go-to insulation choice for homeowners looking for a quick and easy fix. The insulation comes in rolls or sprays that’s applied in the attic and wall cavities. Unfortunately, this cheap option is also the least effective insulation option.

Fiberglass insulation is not recommended for new home builds. If you’re starting with a brand-new home, why would you install the least effective type of insulation? Fiberglass insulation will settle over time and makes a great nesting material for unwanted pests.

Spray Foam

Spray foam insulation is the preferred insulation choice among contractors. This insulation is applied as a spray, but can expand up to 100 times once it’s been installed! That means your insulation will expand into every nook and cranny in the attic, walls, and floor joists. Spray foam insulation does cost more than cellulose or fiberglass insulation, but it’s by far the most effective option on the market.

Homeowners who choose spray foam insulation can expect to save big on their heating and cooling costs each month. Since the insulation doesn’t settle over time, you won’t have to worry about having unprotected areas in the home. Instead, spray foam moves with your home as it shifts and settles onto the foundation.

Contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your insulation options!

Steps to Energy Efficiency on Your Own

It is vital to protect energy in a commercial facility. You can adopt various best practices to decrease the consumption of energy, which include managing the ventilation, heating, and cooling systems. You can conduct a maintenance process and improve your HVAC all alone using the following steps.

Maintain Proper System Boundaries.

You can save up to 20% of the energy by creating boundaries according to the season and environment. Steer clear from using a heating and cooling system in your garage or loading area. These locations include doors that need to be open multiple times a day. It would be best to create boundaries and maintain the flow of your HVAC system.

Maintain Set Points for Thermostat.

The thermostat regulates the air according to temperature and air pressure. This enables the system to maintain the comfort level of temperature throughout the day. You can refer to this thermostat as a programmable thermostat. This system adjusts the temperature around the day and night, saving up to 10% of the energy.

Use Automatic Controls.

You can control the speed and temperature to provide the appropriate amount of cooling and heating. This is also a programmable system regulating airflow, saving 25% of the energy. It maintains the flow at different times of the day, keeping the environment comfortable.

Maintain Set Points of the Equipment.

Make sure that the setpoints of the equipment are reasonable. You need to maintain the comfort levels by maintaining the blowers and fans. Consider running this equipment at an appropriate speed. As a result, your system will not deliver heating and cooling more than you need.

Adjust HVAC Operation.

You can also save energy by raising the temperature and maintaining the water supply to the chiller. You can control the cooling water of your chiller through manufacturing guidelines. Make sure that you receive a comfortable level of cooling and heating.

Also, since the compressor will not work as hard in this process, you can save a lot of energy. You need to be aware of the change in season and maintain the HVAC operations accordingly.

Consider Variable Speed Equipment.

You can use various systems to maintain your heating and cooling systems. Components including motors, blowers, fans, and more will improve your energy efficiency significantly. Advanced cooling and heating systems contain variable speed features to manage the operating system according to your preference. You can configure the settings and prevent fans, motors, and other operational components from overrunning.