Give Heating System Checkup A Warm Welcome (NAPSA)—Don’t freeze up when it comesto servicing your heating sys- tem. A regular system check before the season will help your system work efficiently when the temperaturestarts to drop. Here’s what to do to avoid wasting energy dollars: First, check your house to determine how airtight and insulated it is, and then ask your heating contractor to check how efficiently your system providesheat. Things he can check: The “R” value (the relative value of your home’s insulation) in areas like the basement, crawl space, attic, as well as in the living spaces; Leaky seals or gaps around doors and windows; and Ductworkfor leaks. Things you should discuss with him to help identify problems in your home: If there is moisture inside double-glazed windowsor if they are cloudy; and Whether the snow melts and refreezes directly on uncovered window ledgesor similar places. When checking your heating system, ask the contractor to determine: If it is properly sized (one too large will do the job, but very expensively; and one too small incessantly cycles, running up bills while not delivering comfort); Whether flues are properly vented so combustion by-products are not sucked into your home; Whether a humidifier moisturizing air would make your homefeel warmer; If your system’s air filter is clean; and If there are small problems that could affect your entire heating system if uncorrected. With proper care, corrective action and prevention, your heat- ing system may provide you with Ask your contractor to give your heating system a thorough checkup once a year before colder weather gets here. affordable comfort. Don’t put off a system checkup. Spending a few dollars this fall could save hundreds of dollars during the year. When choosing a heating con- tractor, find one with NATE-certi- fied gas, oil or heat-pump technicians. Certified professionals have proven their knowledgeof heating by passing a stringent test, which is national in scope. Locate con- tractors with NATE-certified technicians at www.natex.org by clicking on the question mark. Schedule a service call today so you’re ready for whatever winter may bring. Let your contractor explain to you how affordable winter comfort can be. These tips are brought to you by North American Technician Excellence, or NATE, the nation’s largest nonprofit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration technicians. The U.S. Department of Energy endorses NATE for raising quality standards and energyefficiency. For a contractor near you with NATEcertified technicians, visit the Consumer Contractor Connection at www.natex.org.
