7 Ways to Save Money on Your Heating and Cooling Bills

Now is the time of year when a lot of people start thinking about the electric bill and ways to spend less money.  At Royal Heating and Air we are all about saving on HVAC costs and we wanted to share 7 tips to help you use less energy this summer.

1) Change filters and keep it clean.

It is more important than most people think.  Dirty air filters increase energy use by about 7% and are the most common cause for breakdowns. Changing your HVAC filter monthly could reduce your energy usage by 5-15% and help extend the life of your system.  Clogged filters make your entire system work  harder.  Keeping your outside unit clear and free from debris is also something that will help your system run more efficiently.

2) Keep registers clear.

Just like a clogged filter, anything blocking the register could cause your system to have to strain to produce the proper airflow and work harder to maintain the same temperature.

 

3) Use Ceiling Fans.

Ceiling fans help in a couple ways.  They circulate create air flow which has a cooling effect on the skin by itself.  They also circulate the air, so your system is not trying to cool hot patches while cold air sits static.  Because heat rises and cold air sinks, make sure the fan is blowing up towards the ceiling in the summer to pull cold air up. 

 

4) Windows.

Sunlight is a huge source of indoor heat, and during the summer as much as 30% of undesirable heat comes through the windows in your home.  The more of those rays you can block the better it is for HVAC savings. Using sun blocking curtains, or window tinting film can reduce the temperature in your home and allow your system to work less.  

 

5) Fix leaks.

No matter where they are, leaks rob your system of efficiency and cost you more money. Caulking leaky windows and weatherstripping doors are great starting points.  If your HVAC unit was not installed by Royal Heating and Air, you may have leaky ductwork causing your system to lose efficiency.  Having your ducts sealed can make a difference if that is the case.

6) Programmable thermostat.

When you are at work or on vacation, or other times when you don’t need to keep the house so cool, raising the thermostat can add up to significant savings. We recommend having a programmable thermostat installed.  A programmable thermostat allows you to set your temperatures to adjust automatically for when you are typically home or away.  Properly used, you could save up to 12% over the course of a year.

7) Preventative Maintenance.

An air conditioner that is not properly maintained can use 10%-30% more energy which can reduce its total life span. Every 2- 3 years it is recommended to have a professional tune up to check refrigerant levels, controls, and make sure everything is clean. In addition, it is a good idea to have your HVAC system inspected twice yearly by a trusted HVAC company at the Lake of the Ozarks. 

Royal Heating and Air is here to help you lower your energy costs with HVAC service and maintenance you can count on.  Go to our website or call today to schedule your preventative maintenance check now. 

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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5 Things that will Lower the Humidity in your Home

Indoor humidity can have a huge impact on your comfort level in your home.  It also can affect your home itself.  Ideally, the humidity in your home should fall in the range of 30-50%.  If the humidity in your home is too high, it can not only be uncomfortable, it can also lead to condensation and mold growth.  High humidity can lead to wood rot and peeling paint in your home and can even contribute to respiratory problems.  To achieve that proper balance of 30-50%, here are a few things you can do.

Air Conditioning.

First, if you want to get an accurate reading of the humidity in your home you can purchase a hygrometer at your local hardware store. If your humidity is too high, using your air conditioner will help automatically.  By removing hot air and replacing it with cooler air (which holds less moisture), using your air conditioner will naturally help to reduce indoor humidity.  Properly maintaining your air conditioner and changing your filters frequently will help keep airflow unrestricted and reduce humidity as well.  

Exhaust/Ventilation.

Using exhaust fans that ventilate air outside (not into the attic) when cooking and showering can reduce humidity.  It is a good idea to leave them on a little longer than just when you are cooking or showering to reduce the humidity even more.  It can also make a difference to reduce the temperature slightly when you shower as it will introduce less steam into the air.

Fix Leaks.

Anything you can do to lower the amount of moisture that is introduced in your home is good.  If you have leaky or dripping pipes, fixing those, and insulating your pipes to prevent condensation will both help lower the indoor humidity. Also make sure that drip pans and drain lines on your air conditioner are clean and free flowing. Even checking your gutters and areas around your home to make sure there is no standing water is helpful.

Charcoal.

Did you know … that charcoal briquettes can work as a desiccant?  Place a few charcoal briquettes in a plastic coffee container with a vent holes cut in it and replace them every 2-3 months.  It is a great low cost and simple way to pull moisture out of the air.

Dehumidifier.

Of course, the most effective way to reduce indoor humidity is by using a dehumidifier.  You can get portable dehumidifiers that are inexpensive and work very well.  But they do have to be emptied daily.  An even more efficient way to control the humidity in your home is to have a whole-home dehumidifier installed.  A whole-home dehumidifier goes inside your furnace/air handler and will pull moisture out of the air as it passes through.  This brings cooler dryer air into your home and actually helps your air conditioner work less, saving you money on cooling bills.

If you would like to reduce the humidity in your home, Royal Heating and Air can help.  Give us a call or request a quote on our website to learn more about having a whole-home dehumidifier installed, or for routine HVAC maintenance to keep your system working at peak efficiency.  Helping you control your indoor humidity is just one more way that Royal Heating and Air is the King of Comfort!

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Family Friendly Attractions at the Lake (part 2)

This week, Royal Heating and Air, will continue sharing with you some of the fun things to do with your family here at the Lake of the Ozarks.  We will talk about things to see and learn in the area (for those inquisitive kids).  We will discuss low cost or free activities, so you don’t have to worry about the budget.  We will also talk about some of the more random or miscellaneous things that you might not even think to look for.

Things to See or Learn.

If your kids love seeing and learning new things, there are lots of options at Lake of the Ozarks.  We are fortunate to have several commercial caves including Bridal Cave in Camdenton, Stark Caverns in Eldon, and Jacob’s Cave in Versailles, each with their own unique features. There are also caves in the area State Parks. In addition, we have the Camden County Historical Museum, the Morgan County Historical Society and Museum, the Miller County Museum, and Wilmore Lodge and the Bagnell Dam Historical Museum located near the dam.  If you want to show your kids exactly how the dam was built, that is the place to go.  Also, if you have a budding artist in your family, you could even take art classes at Lake Fine Art Academy and Galleria.

Low or No Cost.

The State Parks at the Lake of the Ozarks are extensive and so beautiful with breathtaking natural beauty.  Whether you are looking for a public beach to swim, or hiking trails, fishing spots, caves, springs, castle ruins and Ozark bluffs, the local State Parks have it all and more.  Check out Ha Ha Tonka in Camdenton, the State Park down Hwy 42, and the State Park Marina in Osage Beach.

More.

Of course, most kids love a good pirate adventure and at the Lake of the Ozarks you have options.  You will love Jolly Roger’s pirate themed restaurant in Rocky Mount where you can even book a cruise on the Pirate Ship Calypso!  Or you can check out famous Captain Ron’s, (home of the Shootout) and enjoy the beach and sand volleyball areas all day long.  If you are in town around the Shootout, you most definitely do not want to miss the kids’ treasure hunt on the beach. 

If you would like to enjoy some mini golf with the family, you may choose from Pirate’s Cove Mini Golf, Putt ‘N’ Stuff, and Sugar Creek Miniature Golf.  Or how about some bowling fun at Eldon Lanes or at the Westside Lanes in Gravois Mills.  Maybe you want to just relax and see a movie … there is Lake West Cinema 5 down O Road in the Laurie/Gravois Mills area, and Marcus Eagles Landing Cinema in Osage Beach.  

For a tasty treat, enjoy a lake favorite with frozen custard at Andy’s, and Randy’s, both in Osage Beach.  Then for a close up look at some of the fastest power boats in the nation, you can venture out to Performance Boat Center’s showroom with an upper viewing balcony so you can even see inside the boats.

We are so proud to live at the Lake of the Ozarks.  We are happy to raise our family here and committed to providing the best HVAC service and maintenance to all our customers, because as a family-owned business, it matters to us.  We just wanted to share these ideas with you because we think there is something for everyone in the family here at Lake of the Ozarks. We hope you enjoy living here just as much as we do. With so much to choose from … memories are waiting to be made!  

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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Family Friendly Attractions at the Lake (part 1)

 As a family-owned HVAC business at the Lake of the Ozarks, we know how great this area is for family fun and adventures.  There is so much to do and so many lifelong memories waiting to be made.  Whatever kinds of activities your family enjoys together, there is something at the Lake that is a perfect fit for you.   So, at Royal Heating and Air, we put together a list of family fun activities at the Lake of the Ozarks to get you started, including indoor and outdoor options (in case you experience a rainy day at the Lake).  This week we are going to talk about the many fun water-based activities you can choose from.  We will also talk about places to go for a little more adventure.

Water Fun.

If your kids are water lovers, the lake will not disappoint them.  Bear Bottom Waterslide in Sunrise Beach is a favorite at over 700 feet long!  (Your child must be 36 inches or taller to ride.)  The Aquatic Centers in Camdenton, and in Eldon are a hit all summer long.  If your kids like being in the lake, you can find Super Dave’s Paddle Craft Adventures located at Franky and Louie’s in Sunrise Beach.  There you can rent kayaks, canoes, kiddie kayaks, pedal boats, and paddle boards … all in a large no wake cove for your kid’s safety.  The lake also has water parks for your family to enjoy including Jolly Mon at Margaritaville (which is indoors and open year-round), as well as the awesome Big Surf Water Park in Linn Creek.

Adventure.

If your family is all about adventure, you are in for a treat!  Make the memory of a lifetime by riding with Lake Ozark Helicopters.  Their tours start as low as $29 per person and they are worth every penny.  Malted Monkey is a new ropes adventure course located on Bagnell Dam Strip that is 60 feet high, with 3 levels and 45 different obstacles (and a restaurant as well).  Fort 54 Paintball is located on Hwy 42 in Osage Beach and they offer paintball adventures designed for kids that are safe, fun, and great for building confidence. 

Miner Mike’s is another indoor option including a Family Fun Center and Buster’s Garage.  With over a million dollars-worth of the latest high-tech games as well as bumper cars and an amazing multi-level indoor go cart track with the most state of the art go carts you have ever seen (full sized to accommodate adults as quite comfortably).  

If you are interested in horseback riding, there is the Old Family Farm Trail Rides in Mack’s Creek, as well as the stables at Margaritaville.  Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy ice skating or sand volleyball at Old Kinderhook near Camdenton.  Or take it up a notch with Paradise Parasailing at Bagnell Dam, or wakeboard lessons at Kirby’s School of Wake in Osage Beach.  Last, but not least, don’t forget Jetz Trampoline Park for all day indoor fun for kids of all ages!

In next week’s blog, we will tell you about more low- or no-cost options for family fun at the Lake of the Ozarks.  We will also talk about things to see and learn, pirate adventures, and much more!  You can understand why we love raising our family here at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we are proud to serve yours with all your HVAC maintenanceand service needs. 

Royal Heating & Air - "The King of Comfort"

Visit our website: www.RoyalHeatandAir.com

CALL TODAY! (573) 480-4313

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