Beware of this Simple, DIY Fix to Lower Energy Costs
We have all done it. Close the doors and vents in rooms that we are not using, thinking it is a simple, DIY fix to reduce energy bills.
However, did you realize this tactic might actually increase energy costs? Recently, The Day Marketplace published an article about this phenomenon.
The Day explains, “When the HVAC system pushes heated or cooled air through the home, an equal amount of air must return back to the furnace or air conditioner. McGarry and Madsen Home Inspection, a company in Gainesville, Florida, says closing the doors and vents in a room will pressurize it and inhibit air flow into the room.”
This scenario essentially causes the system to work harder than necessary. Supporting The Day article, “Allison Bailes, writing for the energy efficiency company Energy Vanguard of Decatur, Georgia, says this reduces the efficiency of the system and results in higher utility costs.”
Read the full article on The Day Marketplace here.
This article also quoted Bailes noting, “…a system with low static pressure and sealed ducts could allow you to close some vents.” Duct sealing is an excellent method for lowering energy costs in homes and buildings.
If you are a homeowner or building owner with high energy bills, then consider sealing your duct system. Visit our residential or commercial dealer locators to find a licensed Aeroseal contractor happy to help.
To continue this discussion on lowering energy costs, session #2 of the 2017 Energy Pro Series is scheduled as a live broadcast this Thursday, May 4th. This presentation will also feature proprietary energy models to calculate energy savings from duct sealing. Register now for session #2 or the full series.