Tips on Cooling an Old Home Efficiently
Old homes offer charm, character, and history that simply can’t be had with new ones. However, one of the challenges of owning an old home is cooling it without causing a big dent in your energy bills. Local air conditioning and electric heaters company, Countryside Plumbing & Heating, Inc. shares some tips on how to cool your old home efficiently.
Address the Causes of Heat Gain
Old houses are more vulnerable to heat gain because of poor insulation, air leaks, and uninsulated glass. They increase the workload on the air conditioning systems, leading to higher utility bills. You can address these causes by installing energy-efficient replacement windows, sealing gaps and cracks between the indoor and outdoor spaces. You can also install new insulation in the attic and exterior walls.
If you’re unsure where to begin, have your old home assessed by a certified energy auditor. It’s important to note that if your old home was built before the 1980s, you may have to have your home tested for asbestos (it was widely used for insulation at the time) before installing new insulation.
Inspect the Existing HVAC System
If your old home has an existing heating and cooling system, you or your HVAC contractor should inspect it and see whether it’s still fit for use. Leaks in the air ducts should be fixed to ensure cool air gets into the rooms. The air handler, which is the part of the HVAC system that distributes cool air and radiant heat, should also be inspected and fixed if needed. The air filters in it should also be replaced if filled to capacity.
Check if Your Home Is Heritage Listed
A building is heritage listed if it has special architectural or historical interest and will need to be conserved at some level. If your home happens to be one, consult your local historical council on what changes can and can’t be done. For example, if you are buying energy-efficient replacement windows, you may be required to choose certain window styles and colors. Ductless systems might not be an option if you’re not allowed to punch holes (required for the HVAC refrigerant and electrical lines) through the exterior walls.
Call Countryside Plumbing & Heating, Inc. for Your HVAC Needs
To know more about our HVAC services, as well as air conditioning and furnace prices, call Countryside Plumbing & Heating, Inc. at (715) 246-2660. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We’ve proudly been serving the greater St. Croix Valley area for over 70 years.
