Tag: winter

A Cheaper Way to Heat the Home During the Winter

Heat the Home Easier With Heat Pumps 

Everyone is looking for a better way to heat the home that won’t break the bank. Heat pumps are a relatively new technology that is gaining popularity for heating and cooling. Heat pumps use the same principles as air conditioners but are reversed. This allows them to provide heat that can be 400% more efficient than fossil fuel furnaces. Here is a quick guide to help homeowners understand more about these useful comfort control systems. 

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

pumpUnderstanding heat as a perception of comfort or a certain temperature isn’t the most scientific way of describing heat. Heat is actually a measure of energy stored in any given medium. This means that even things perceived as cold, like a cold winter morning, still contain heat energy. 

A heat pump can tap into the heat energy outside, even during frigid weather. The refrigerant in the heat pump has the unique capacity to absorb the heat energy outside so that it can be “pumped” indoors. The outdoor heat energy is transported inside as the refrigerant goes through a compression and evaporation cycle. 

The main difference between types of heat pumps is where the heat energy is drawn from. There are three main types of heat pumps for consumers to choose from: 

Benefits of Installing Ductless Heat Pump Systems 

One of the most popular ways to take advantage of heat pump technology is with ductless heat pump systems. They are installed without ductwork, so they can be cost-effective options for homes with aging air ducts or ones that never had ductwork. Given this, ductless heat pumps are a popular choice for heating and cooling renovations or add-ons in a home or climate-controlling a finished garage or basement. 

Ductless heat pump systems offer many advantages over traditional heating and cooling systems. One of the biggest benefits is energy efficiency. Ductless systems are very efficient at converting energy into heating or cooling, which can significantly reduce energy costs. Additionally, installation is much less complicated than with a standard system because they don’t require ductwork. 

Ductless systems are also incredibly quiet, making them ideal for people who want a peaceful living environment. Finally, ductless systems provide greater flexibility. Homeowners can control the temperature in each room separately and adjust settings as needed for optimal comfort. 

Energy Efficiency Means Cheaper Heat 

savingsHeat pumps are a much more energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. By using the existing heat from outside, the system takes advantage of lower temperatures to help reduce energy consumption. This ultimately leads to cost savings for homeowners in their monthly utility bills. 

Additionally, because these systems don’t use fuel like the traditional heating and cooling options, they are better for the environment. Heat pumps can also help improve indoor air quality in homes since they don’t release pollutants like other HVAC systems. All of this makes them an ideal choice for those looking to save money and reduce their environmental impact. Many heat pump models also offer additional features such as zone control and humidity control, making them even more efficient. 

About Veteran Services

Veteran Services is a veteran-owned company serving Lakeville, MN, and the surrounding areas. They provide competitive pricing, 24/7 services, and financing. Call them today for heat pump services in Lakeville, MN.

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Easily Avoid Frozen Pipes This Winter

Winterize Pipes Like a Professional

Plumbing professionals understand that the plumbing system is usually the last thing on homeowners’ minds at the end of the fall or the beginning of winter. If this sounds familiar, let this article be a reminder that as the weather continues to get colder, homeowners need to start thinking about ways to protect their pipes.  

Frozen Pipes Are Asking For Trouble!pipes

Frozen pipes pose a danger to the home because frozen pipes increase the risk of burst pipes. Burst pipes pose an enormous threat to the house for many reasons. Firstly, burst pipes jeopardize the integrity of the rest of the plumbing system. When there is one burst pipe, more will soon follow. Second, the water damage to the home’s structural integrity due to the burst pipe is why it is essential to have burst pipes fixed as soon as possible—the more water that leaks from the line, the more extensive the water damage. 

Additional risks of a burst pipe are: 

  • The water bill will increase from wasted water pouring from the burst pipe.
  • The wasted water is bad for the planet.
  • Water escaping from the pipes makes them more susceptible to rust and corrosion.

The last thing anyone wants is to be forced to re-do their home’s piping system because they fell victim to frozen and burst pipes. Winterizing the plumbing system is more than just preventative maintenance. It can save the homeowner lots of money in repairs. 

The Advantages of Pipe Insulationinsulation

Pipe insulation is the best way to protect pipes from frigid temperatures this winter. It typically doesn’t have to be redone unless it’s too old or the foam gets ripped or damaged. Pipe insulation helps prevent frozen pipes, in turn, preventing burst pipes. 

Other benefits of pipe insulation include the following: 

  • Maintains warm water temperatures longer, so there is less strain on the water heater in the winter
  • Saves on utility costs because the water stays at a warmer temperature longer
  • Protects the homeowner from plumbing breakdowns due to frozen pipes

 

Here Are a Few Other Tips to Remember!

Aside from insulating the pipes, there are other things homeowners can do to help prevent their pipes from freezing. Some simple tips include:

  • Sealing any cracks or openings around doors and windows to help keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
  • During periods of freezing weather, let the water drip from faucets. Running water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water.
  • Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature during both day and night. Sudden temperature changes can cause pipes to freeze.
  • If homeowners will be away from home for an extended period, make sure to shut off the water to the house and drain all the pipes.

If someone thinks their pipes have frozen, turn on the faucet and wait for them to thaw. Never try to thaw pipes with a blow torch or other open flame, as this can cause severe damage. By taking some simple precautions, homeowners can help prevent their pipes from freezing during the winter. 

About Veteran Services 

Veteran Services is a veteran-owned company serving Apple Valley, MN, and the surrounding neighborhoods. They provide competitive pricing, prompt services, and financing. Call them today for plumbing services or burst pipe repair in Apple Valley, MN. 

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