When it comes to creating a comfortable environment in your home, the ideal room temperature plays a crucial role. Whether you’re snuggled up in bed, entertaining guests in your living room, or working in your home office, having the right temperature can greatly enhance your comfort and overall well-being. But with so many factors to consider, how do you determine the perfect temperature for each room?

In this article, we will explore the various factors you should consider when choosing the ideal room temperature.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing the Ideal Room Temperature?

Seasons

One of the primary factors to consider when choosing the ideal room temperature is the season. As the weather changes throughout the year, so do our temperature preferences. During the winter months, you’ll likely want a warmer temperature to combat the cold, while in the summer, a cooler temperature will help you beat the heat.

Colorado Climate Conditions

For Colorado’s climate, set your AC thermostat to around 78°F during the summer months to balance comfort and energy efficiency. Use programmable settings to increase temperatures when you’re away. Ensure proper insulation and sealing to minimize heat transfer. Additionally, consider using ceiling fans to enhance air circulation and comfort. Regularly maintain your AC system for optimal performance in varying Colorado weather conditions.

Your Home’s Floor Plan and Design

The size of the rooms, the number and placement of windows, and the insulation of your home can all influence how well your home retains heat or stays cool. For example, if you have a large, open-concept living area with high ceilings, it may be more challenging to maintain a consistent temperature compared to smaller, enclosed rooms.

Your HVAC System and Thermostat

Some HVAC systems offer more precise temperature control and zoning options, allowing you to set different temperatures for different rooms. Additionally, programmable or SMART thermostats can automatically adjust the temperature based on your preferences and daily schedule.

Personal Comfort Levels

Everyone has different temperature preferences, and what feels comfortable to one person may be too hot or too cold for another. Factors such as age, health conditions, and personal preferences can all influence your comfort level. Experiment with different temperatures and pay attention to how you feel in each room to find the perfect balance for your individual comfort.

How Does Room Temperature Impact My Health?

Maintaining the ideal room temperature not only contributes to your comfort but also has a significant impact on your health. Here are three ways in which room temperature can affect your well-being:

• Sleep: A slightly cooler room temperature, around 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 19 degrees Celsius), promotes better sleep. Cooler temperatures help your body cool down naturally, which is essential for falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night.
• Respiratory Health and Allergies: Extreme temperatures trigger respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. Maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature can create a healthier living environment.
• Productivity: Working in an environment with a comfortable indoor temperature can improve cognitive function, concentration, and overall productivity. By maintaining an ideal room temperature, you can create a conducive environment for maximum productivity.

Recommended Room Temperature for Different Rooms in Your Home

While the ideal room temperature can vary depending on personal preferences and factors such as climate and floor plan, here are some general recommendations for different rooms in your home:

Bedroom

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for rest and relaxation. For most people, a temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 19 degrees Celsius) is ideal for sleep. However, it’s essential to consider your personal comfort level and adjust the optimal room temperature accordingly.

Living Areas

In living areas such as the living room or family room, a slightly higher temperature, around 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius), is generally comfortable for most people. Again, personal preferences and factors such as climate should be taken into account.

Kitchen and Dining Spaces

In kitchen and dining spaces, it’s important to strike a balance between comfort and functionality. A temperature between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius) is typically suitable for these areas, as it allows for comfortable cooking and dining experiences.

Home Office

If you have a home office, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature is essential for productivity. A temperature between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius) is generally recommended for optimal focus and concentration.

How Do I Maintain Room Temperature in My Home?

Maintaining the ideal room temperature in your home involves several key strategies. Here are three essential steps to help you achieve and maintain a comfortable indoor environment:

• Proper Insulation Throughout the House: One of the most effective ways to maintain room temperature is to ensure your home is properly insulated. Good insulation helps to trap heat in the winter and keep it out in the summer, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. Inspect your windows, doors, walls, and attic to identify any areas that may need additional insulation and address them accordingly.
• Know How to Use Your HVAC System and Thermostat: Understanding how to use your HVAC system and thermostat correctly is crucial for maintaining room temperature. Familiarize yourself with the settings and features of your HVAC system, such as timers and programmable options. Adjust your thermostat settings based on your daily schedule and personal preferences, ensuring that each room is set to the ideal temperature.
• Install Programmable or SMART Thermostats: Consider upgrading to a programmable or SMART thermostat to enhance your control over room temperature. These advanced thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day and can even learn your preferences over time. By utilizing programmable or SMART thermostats, you can achieve optimal comfort and energy efficiency in your home.
• Proper Ventilation and Air Circulation: Proper ventilation and air circulation are essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Ensure that your home has adequate ventilation, such as exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, to remove excess moisture and odors. Use ceiling fans or portable fans to improve air circulation.

How to Address Common Temperature Issues

While striving for the ideal room temperature, you may encounter some common temperature issues. Here are a few strategies to address them:

Disagreements Over Room Temperature

In households with multiple occupants, disagreements over room temperature are common. Consider compromising by finding a temperature that is comfortable for the majority or utilizing zoned heating and cooling options to allow each occupant to control the temperature in their respective spaces.

Temperature Fluctuations Between Seasons

As the seasons change, so do the temperature requirements in your home. Adjust your thermostat settings accordingly to accommodate the changing weather and maintain a comfortable indoor environment throughout the year.

Extreme Weather Conditions in Colorado

Colorado is known for its extreme weather conditions, from scorching summers to freezing winters. During heat waves or cold spells, it may be necessary to adjust your thermostat settings to ensure your home remains at a comfortable temperature. Use additional cooling or heating methods, such as fans or space heaters, when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ideal Room Temperature

What is the ideal room temperature for a newborn baby?

The ideal room temperature for a newborn baby is around 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius). It’s important to ensure that the room is not too hot or too cold to prevent discomfort or health issues for the baby.

What temperature should I set on my thermostat when I’m away from home?

When you’re away from home for an extended period, it’s recommended to set your thermostat to a slightly higher temperature in the summer and a slightly lower temperature in the winter. Aim for energy-saving settings, such as 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) in the summer and 62 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit (17 to 19 degrees Celsius) in the winter.

Can the ideal room temperature vary based on the time of day?

Yes, the ideal room temperature can vary based on the time of day. For example, you may prefer a slightly cooler temperature at night for sleep and a slightly warmer temperature during the day for productivity and comfort.

Does the ideal room temperature change as you age?

As you age, your body’s ability to regulate temperature may change. Older adults may feel more comfortable with slightly higher room temperatures, around 68 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 23 degrees Celsius), to prevent cold-related health issues.

Does the ideal room temperature affect energy consumption?

Yes, the ideal room temperature can affect energy consumption. Setting your thermostat to an appropriate temperature and utilizing energy-efficient settings can help reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills.

Can room temperature impact the lifespan of electronic devices?

Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can negatively impact the lifespan of electronic devices. It’s important to keep your home at a moderate temperature to ensure the longevity of your electronics.

When the weather gets really hot in Fort Collins, the last thing you want is a broken air conditioner. Many common problems with air conditioning systems can arise. Our team at Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing wants you to be aware, prepared, and ready to solve these air conditioning issues so you and your family can stay cool this summer.

Inconsistent Cooling

Do you find some of your rooms are too cold while others are still on the warm side? Many Colorado homeowners have trouble with inconsistent cooling. While factors such as the age and design of your home can cause these consistency issues, you may also have a leak in your duct system. One of our trained professionals can come and inspect your air conditioner and duct system and suggest solutions to this problem.

Failure to Cool

If your air conditioner is simply blowing warm air, you may want to check simple things like your filter. Dirty filters can prevent your system from functioning properly and are easy to change. They can also decrease the efficiency of your system.

In fact, you can save between 5 and 15 percent of the energy used for your air conditioning by changing your filter in combination with other energy-saving actions.

In some cases, you may need to clean condenser coils or have one of our professionals come out and add refrigerant to your air conditioner due to a leak in your system. Other mechanical failures may cause cooling issues as well.

One way to ensure your air conditioner is ready for the season is to have regular maintenance performed. One of our highly trained and experienced professionals can conduct a thorough inspection, cleaning, and tune-up to be sure all system components are running well.

No Air Movement

When you place your hand on a room’s register and feel no air blowing at all, even though your air conditioning unit is turned on, you may have a broken fan or thermostat, or a tripped breaker.

It’s easy to fix your tripped breaker on your own, and you can inspect your unit to see if you notice the fan is running or not. Other less common issues may be a bad blower belt or wiring issues, which may require a professional.

Ice Accumulation

You may notice that ice is accumulating around your air conditioning unit at times. Many situations can result in your air conditioner freezing up. Check to be sure you have good airflow through and around your air conditioning system.

Dirty air filters, closed dampers, or blocked vents or ducts can restrict airflow. If all of these areas seem clear on visual inspection, you may want to call our trained team to conduct a more professional check of your system.

Strange Noises

By being aware of what your air conditioning system usually sounds like, you will notice more quickly if something seems amiss. If you hear strange noises, they can be cues something needs to be repaired or replaced.

Squeaking sounds usually indicate problems with your air conditioner belt, which may need realignment or replacement. If you hear grinding sounds, you may need to inspect the motor’s bearings. Other noises may be easier to remedy, such as rattling can simply indicate a loose cover.

Odd Operation Patterns

In nearly all weather conditions, your air conditioner should kick on at a certain temperature, run for a while, and then shut off. If you find your air conditioner is constantly running or seems to cycle on and off too frequently, you need to address these issues.

If your air conditioner never takes a break, you may have an issue with the fan, refrigerant level, or relay switches. This may require a professional visit from a member of our team to diagnose and repair these issues.

A system that constantly turns off and on may indicate a dirty or blocked condenser unit or evaporator. A thorough cleaning can help solve this issue.

Contact Us Today

If you find yourself with air conditioner problems you can’t resolve, contact our knowledgeable professionals at Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing in Loveland, Colorado for help. Call 970-345-3361 or request service online today for any of your air conditioning needs.

Some like it hot!

Others, not so much.

If you have a large home with multiple stories or a large household with family members who prefer different temperatures, consider installing a zone control system.

A zone control system—or zoning—only provides the necessary cooling or heating that each zone in your Colorado home needs at the time. It not only adds to the comfort level of your home but can also lower your energy bills.

At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we always look for ways to improve the comfort, health, and safety of homes and businesses in Fort Collins and surrounding areas. Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a significant purchase—a big part of our job is to help ensure you get the maximum value from this investment.

How Do Zone Control Systems Work?

To create a zone control system, our experts will place dampers in the ductwork that distributes hot or cold air throughout your Fort Collins home. Each zone you create is equipped with a thermostat that connects to a central control panel. When you adjust the thermostats in each zone, the control panel opens or closes dampers to distribute hot or cold air where needed.

Working with our team, you create the size and location of each zone throughout your home or business. You can turn one room into a zone, or an entire floor. The zones should be areas that either have different temperature requirements or have specific areas that have had trouble maintaining temperature compared to the rest of a zone.

Whatever you decide, you can count on our team at Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to help you achieve the most comfort in your home that comes with a zone control system.

Zoning Options

Installing a zone control is a money saver since it lessens the load on your HVAC system. Your furnace or air conditioner no longer has to struggle to heat or cool every room in your home. Here are some ideal zoning situations:

• Homes with rooms that are hardly used
• Home with concrete slab foundations, large windows, or high ceilings
• Finished rooms in the attic or basement
• Homes with multiple floors or intricate floor plans

Reducing the stress on your HVAC equipment extends the service life of your entire system. It also lowers your monthly utility bills. According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), heating and cooling your home accounts for upwards of 40 percent of your energy costs.

How do I know if I need a zone system?

Most homes can benefit from a zone control system. If your home has any areas that are uncomfortable compared to the rest of the home or you have different temperature requirements throughout your home, this system may help.

Larger homes with multiple systems also see huge benefits from a zone control system because there is no reason to heat or cool the home to a comfort level when some areas are not being used. Only maintaining a comfort level in occupied rooms can generate huge energy savings.

Many programmable thermostats also have Wi-Fi features so you can monitor and adjust the heating or cooling in the home; only the necessary energy is being used when no one is at home, or when people are only using certain rooms at certain times of the day.

These are significant utility savings that can occur while also increasing your home comfort!  You will save money and make everyone in your home happy!

What If I Close Off Vents?

Our customers will occasionally ask if they can achieve the same result simply by adjusting the slats on the air vent covers. The answer is no.

Closing or partially opening a vent restricts the amount of air that exits the ductwork—but does not cause an air conditioner or furnace to produce less cold or hot air. By comparison, the zone control system not only redistributes airflow by operating dampers but also controls your HVAC equipment, signaling it when to run and when to stop. This eliminates unnecessary energy expenses.

Using air vents as a substitute for zone control may also contribute to air leakage and low airflow, among other problems. Those adjustable slats over air vents are designed to direct the flow of air into a room, not block it entirely.

Call Your Zone Control Experts Today!

Schedule an appointment today to learn if a zoning system can benefit your Fort Collins, CO, business or home. At Balance Point Heating & Air-Conditioning, we take great pride in building long-term relationships with our customers. We want to earn the chance to be your trusted source for all your heating and cooling needs. Call 970-235-2427 or request service online today to learn more about zone control systems and other services.

We often hear from Colorado customers who want to understand the risks of carbon monoxide (CO). At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’re glad to share as much information as possible about protecting your indoor air quality (IAQ)—especially when it comes to the deadly nature of this silent killer.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas virtually impossible to detect without equipment. Like air, it is invisible and produces no scent. Inhaling enough of it can quickly cause adverse health reactions and even death.

Each year, CO poisoning is responsible for 20,000 emergency room visits, 4,000 hospitalizations, and 400 deaths in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To promote safety and well-being for our community in Fort Collins, here’s what you should know about this harmful airborne pollutant.

How CO Is Produced

Various substances can create CO gases from burning. Flammable materials like wood, gas, oil, coal, and propane contain carbon. CO molecules are a result of carbon that has only partially combusted.

Know the Risks

CO poisoning is a serious risk. It is toxic to the human body and can be fatal. When it enters the lungs, the bloodstream absorbs it. From there, it begins to displace oxygen, which is vital for the brain, heart, and other key organs to function.

The extent of harm depends on how much CO you inhale and the duration of time you’re exposed. Smaller amounts may produce subtle effects, whereas high concentrations may cause vomiting or fainting.

Leaks in homes tend to be smaller, which means they may go unnoticed. Residents may develop a headache, upset stomach, or feel dizzy. As a result, the poisoning may be mistaken for illness. In industrial settings like a steel mill, CO leaks are often much larger in scale. This can quickly create adverse symptoms and lead to death.

Protect your family from an unnoticed lead. Install a CO alarm in your Fort Collins home.

What Are the Symptoms? 

As a general rule of thumb, the more severe the symptoms are, the higher the level of exposure. However, vulnerable groups like small children or the elderly may be more sensitive to lower concentrations of CO.

Milder symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Feeling dizzy
• Chest pains

More severe symptoms include: 

• Throwing up
• Breathing difficulties
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Loss of consciousness

In addition to higher sensitivity, vulnerable groups are at greater risk of death as a result of exposure. Additionally, being asleep and/or intoxicated is a risk factor, since these states of consciousness make it harder for a person to detect symptoms.

How Much Is Too Much? 

Inhaling any amount of CO is bad for you. However, healthy adults don’t usually display symptoms at concentrations of 1 to 70 ppm (parts per million), according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Still, vulnerable people may begin to display symptoms at this stage.

The real danger zone is past 70 ppm. At 150 to 200 ppm, exposed persons are at risk of muscle failure, confusion, fainting, and death.

How Can I Protect My Home? 

Stay diligent and keep your living space CO safe for yourself, your family members, and your pets. By keeping up with a few simple things, you can save lives:

Purchase a carbon monoxide detector for each floor, preferably for each bedroom. Replace the batteries when needed and be sure to test run once a week.

Take the time to read over the instruction manuals for your natural gas appliances. This includes furnaces, stoves, and water heaters. When you need a repair, always let a professional take care of it. Keep up with seasonal maintenance, as well. Maintenance visits allow a professional to check and fix any CO risk factors.

Never run gas-powered appliances in spaces that aren’t well-ventilated. This is a surefire way to create massive amounts of CO.

Never leave your gas stovetop running when you’re not using it. Always double-check the burners are off when done cooking. Do not use your oven to heat your home.

Never idle your car in the garage. Even with the garage door open, it still presents a major risk for CO inhalation.

Need Service? 

Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing hope you found these tips helpful. Our goal, as always, is to help keep all of our neighbors in Fort Collins, CO, stay safe and healthy. If you need service on your home air conditioner or furnace, call us at  970-235-2427  or request service online today.

You just discovered there is a puddle of water on the floor in front of your furnace. What does this mean? Why would your furnace be leaking water?

It could be a few different things. In most cases, it is not a big repair, so keep calm.

However, you will need one of our Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing (HVAC) professionals to take a good look at it and resolve the issue for you.

Because No One Wants to Be in Deep Water

Do not delay. Any issue dealing with water can quickly get complicated if not addressed in a timely manner. It can also speedily snowball into affecting other areas of your Fort Collins home—like mold, creating poor indoor air quality (IAQ).

Schedule one of our highly trained professionals to come out to your Colorado home as soon as possible.

How to Identify Your Furnace Type

There are a few different reasons your furnace could be leaking water, but the most common reason is a condensation leak. Before a causal determination can be made, our HVAC expert needs to know what type of furnace you have.

Is it a high-efficiency (condensing) or standard-efficiency (conventional) furnace? If you are not sure, it is easy to tell on your own. Take a look at its vent or exhaust pipe. If the pipe is white plastic (PVC), then your furnace is a high-efficiency system.

Another way to tell what is what is by the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. If the rating is 90 percent or more, your furnace has a cool exhaust and produces condensation, therefore, it is defined as high efficiency.

On the other hand, if your furnace has a metal exhaust pipe, it is a standard-efficiency furnace and should not have condensation. It will have an AFUE below 90 percent.

Many times furnaces have their AFUE rating printed on a yellow energy guide sticker in plain site on the unit, since the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has very strict consumer product regulations for displaying energy usage.

Unfortunately this is not always the case, especially in older models. Taking a look at the vent or exhaust pipe is a fairly accurate technique, so do not worry if you do not know your furnace’s AFUE rating.

The Possible Causes of Your Leak

Again, the most common reason for a leaking furnace is a condensation leak. High-efficiency furnaces extract heat from the combustion gases for a longer period of time than a standard-efficiency furnace does, causing the gases to cool, then condense. Condensation is routed to a drain.

You might have a clogged condensation drain or tubing, a break in the condensation line, or issues with the condensate pump, if you have such a pump.

A standard-efficiency furnace extracts some heat from the combustion gases and quickly vents them out the exhaust or flue pipe. So there should be no water involved with a standard-efficiency furnace. If there is a condensation leak, the exhaust or flue pipe may be incorrectly sized.

You really need one of our HVAC professionals to assess what is going on in your Fort Collins home. If we rule out a condensation leak, we can then help you with the other possibilities.

One such issue could involve your whole-house humidifier, especially if yours is connected to the furnace. It might be leaking inside your furnace, though having annual preventative maintenance on your HVAC system should help ensure this will not happen.

Another possibility is an internal drain system clog. If your air conditioning is running, and it shares an internal drain with your furnace, the drain could have an obstruction causing water to be sent to your furnace.

Just so you are aware, the worst-case scenario is a faulty furnace secondary heat exchanger, but it is only for high-efficiency furnaces. Unfortunately, this problems falls into the big-repair category—generally resulting in a furnace replacement.

We Are Experts in All Facets of Furnaces

Whatever the reason may be for your furnace leak here in Fort Collins, CO, it is time to call in a professional. You can reach our Balance Point Heating & Air-Conditioning experienced and trained team members at  970-345-3361 or request service online. We are always happy to assist you in every aspect of furnace care.

When it comes time to replace your current standard-efficiency furnace, there are so many decisions to make. One of the primary ones is what level of efficiency you need for your new system.

It’s common to assume installing a higher-efficiency furnace is the best choice. But that’s not always the case.

When it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), the wisest decision is what’s going to work in your Fort Collins home upon a careful assessment of specific factors. At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we scrutinize aspects like your furnace’s location, your energy needs and plans, your budget, as well as other elements.

What Do 80% and 95% Efficiency Mean?

Furnace efficiencies are reflected in percentages called AFUE—annual fuel utilization efficiency. AFUE measures a furnace’s efficiency in converting fuel to energy.

For instance, 80% AFUE for a gas furnace means it uses 80% of the gas energy it consumes and turns it to heat. The furnace eliminates the remaining 20% energy via exhaust.

High-efficiency furnaces offer 90% AFUE and higher, with 95% AFUE a common percentage for a new gas-powered furnace. An 80% AFUE is considered a standard efficiency.

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), when you make energy efficiency a priority and look for an ENERGY STAR^® label on products and equipment for your Colorado home, you can reduce your energy bill by as much as 30 percent.

Purchase Energy Efficient Products and Equipment. By looking for the Energy Star label on products and equipment, you can reduce your energy bill by 30 percent and your electric lighting charges by 40 percent while cutting pollution.

Differences Between 80% and 95% Furnaces

With the 95% AFUE rating, it seems straightforward to choose this over an 80% AFUE furnace. You will get more efficiency and save money over the long term.

But this is too simplistic a perspective and not an accurate snapshot, as there are extenuating facts to consider. Take a quick look at how these two AFUE furnaces operate differently from one another in regard to energy efficiency.

The 80% AFUE Furnace

To generate energy from natural gas, an 80% furnace operates with open combustion. This means it extracts air from its surrounds instead of pulling in air straight from the outdoors.

If your current standard-efficiency furnace is located in a vented attic or crawl space, the accessible combustion air is readily available due to the existing vents. It doesn’t require any type of extra venting directly to the outside air.

The 95% AFUE Furnace

A 95% furnace uses sealed combustion—it pulls its needed air directly from the outdoors, generally through a PVC pipe exclusively for this purpose. It will also require an additional PVC pipe for exhaust, as it can’t work with your existing metal venting due to the condensation it creates. This option is best suited for sealed locations.

Another difference to remember is a 95% unit with its sealed combustion produces condensation. This moisture can build up and needs to go somewhere—a condensate pump and drain handle this. These components require installation and can be costly if you’re switching from an 80% to a 95% AFUE furnace.

What Do These Differences Mean to You?

These differences mean if you have an 80% furnace in a vented attic or crawl space, you should probably stick with an 80% furnace replacement. In this scenario, you most likely won’t make up the difference financially when you install a 95% unit.

If you have your heart set on a 95% furnace in a vented location, keep in mind you’ll need to install that combustion air avenue—a pipe. That will cost you more and can sometimes be a bit complex to install.

On the other hand, if your plan is to install a furnace in a sealed attic or an encapsulated crawl space, you will need to go with the 95% option with vents for both combustion fresh air and exhaust.

So when getting down to brass tacks of which type of efficient furnace you should install, it usually comes down to location, location, location.

What Else to Consider When Choosing a New Furnace

If energy efficiency is a prime factor in your decision, you should understand other furnace specifications as well. The two most important components to consider are the different stages of heat and airflow.

Stages of Heat

There are three basic heat stages available for furnaces:

1. Single stage

This type of furnace has only one setting—on. The furnace is either on or off. When it’s on, it blows heated air into your Fort Collins home at full capacity. A single-stage 80% or 95% furnace is less efficient than a two-stage furnace since the blower operates on this one speed and it’s high speed.

2. Two stage

A two-stage furnace has two speeds—high and slower. The slower speed is typically running at 65% furnace capacity. This type of furnace is more efficient since the majority of the time it’s running on the slower speed and doesn’t require the level of energy the high speed requires, like the single-stage furnace uses. The higher speed only kicks in as needed.

An 80% furnace with two stages is more efficient than a single-stage unit. Generally, a two-stage 80% furnace costs you less in energy than a single-stage 95% furnace.

3. Modulating

A modulating furnace refers to a fully modulating gas valve in the furnace. This is comparable to the two-stage furnaces but far superior. In lieu of only two stages of heat, a modulating furnace operates with a variety of levels to meet your Colorado home’s heating needs all day long. It continually matches your comfort needs directly.

Airflow

Your furnace’s airflow also affects energy efficiency and comfort levels with two options:

1. No variable speed

A standard furnace operates at full-throttle airflow, not varying its speed. The fan always blows at the same speed, not offering you control over your airflow levels. The level of efficiency is not as high as it is for a variable speed.

2. Variable speed

Furnaces with variable speed airflow provide better control over the amount of hot air flowing through your home. This makes a variable-speed furnace higher in efficiency than more standard units.

How to Decide?

There is no one-size-fits-all scenario for every Fort Collins home. Each home is unique, and yours may have a completely different setup or requirements. As you see, there are varying components to deciding which furnace would best suit your lifestyle, needs, and budget.

At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, our HVAC experts understand the intricacies involved in making this type of investment. We can work with you to evaluate whether an 80% furnace or a 95% furnace will provide the comfort you want in your Colorado home.

But keep this in mind. Unless you replace your standard furnace with an absolutely identical model, you will experience the benefits of higher efficiency in some capacity with whatever you choose. Small changes can reap big rewards.

We Are Your Heating Experts

If you are looking to install or replace your current Fort Collins, CO furnace and want to enjoy the advantages of an energy-efficient unit, call our Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team at  970-235-2427 or request service online today. We are here to help with all your heating and cooling needs—installation, replacement, repair, or maintenance.

With all the options available for setting your programmable thermostat, it is easy to get confused. Of course, this defeats the purpose of a programmable thermostat––it is designed for you to “set it and forget it,” making your life easier. Naturally, anything can be confusing at times, so feel free to contact our qualified Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing team members with any questions you may have about your programmable thermostat.

Forget About It

With a programmable thermostat in your Fort Collins home, you are able to program your thermostat once with the changes specified. Quite literally, you can “set it and forget it.”

Changing Temps Really Does Help

Why even bother to set different temperatures on your programmable thermostat?

Because living here in Colorado, it will save you a decent chunk of money. According to the US Department of Energy (DOE), if you turn your heat down 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours, you can achieve a 5 to 15 percent savings on your heating bill.

This goes for your air conditioning as well. Turn your air conditioning down (or the temperature up) when you are out of your house or sleeping, then do the opposite when you are back home or awake.

A Plethora of Programmables

If you are in the purchasing stage of a new programmable thermostat for your Fort Collins home, know  what type of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment you have for compatibility reasons. Also, keep in mind you will need to set a different program for the cooler months than the warmer months.

Here are a few of the main types of programmable thermostats and how they function:

• 7-day programming. This thermostat allows the most flexibility. You can set individual temperatures for each day of the week.

• 5-1-1 programming. This thermostat allows one schedule for the week (five days, Monday through Friday), then a separate schedule for Saturday and then Sunday.

• 5-2 programming. This thermostat is very similar to the 5-1-1 programming type, except Saturday and Sunday are combined into one plan.

• 1-week programming. This thermostat allows you to only set one repeated schedule, the same for every day, regardless of weekdays and weekends.

Programmable Thermostat Dos and Don’ts

Depending on the type of programmable thermostat you have, there will be somewhat different choices. This said, most programmable generally work on the same time options: Wake Time, Sleep Time, Leave Time, and Return Time.

Be sure when programming your thermostat you enter realistic times—accurately reflecting your schedule. You want to get the most from your thermostat.

These are a few things to keep in mind prior to setting your schedule:

• Install name-brand batteries, and change them annually. Cheaper batteries do not have as long of a charge in them. You want your thermostat working when you need it.

• Feel free to temporarily override your set schedule and adjust the temperature when needed. This override automatically cancels and then resumes to normal programming. Do not select Hold/Permanent/Vacation (depending on your thermostat, and unless you are actually going on vacation), and just choose Temporary.

• Avoid cranking temperatures to extremes with the mindset of heating up or cooling down your home quicker. The system does not work that way, and it just uses up your energy faster, costing you more money. Your equipment will heat or cool your home just as quickly when setting it at the accurate temperatures.

In general, here is how to set your thermostat:

1. Be sure to follow your manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Choose either heating or cooling—whichever you will be doing, obviously dependent on the season.

3. Set the temperature for weekdays by setting the switch to heating or cooling and selecting the weekday program. Start with Monday or just weekday, depending on your model, and select the time and temperature for the day(s) you wish.

Continue with the remaining times for that day(s) with temperatures. For example, you may want your air conditioner to cool your home to 72 degrees at 7:00 a.m., so when your alarm goes off at 7:30 a.m., your home is nice and cool for you. Then when you go to bed at 11:00 p.m., you would want to set your air conditioning to 76 degrees at 11:30 p.m. so you are saving energy while asleep.

The same procedure goes for the heating setting. Many thermostat models allow you to set times and temperatures up to four times during weekends. So if you work or leave during the day, you can change the temperature to reflect this and save even more money.

4. Set the temperature for weekends in the same manner. However, since most people tend to be home more during the weekend, you may only want to set the temperature for your wakeup and bed times. You can use a temporary override to adjust the temperature if you decide to leave the house during the day.

Contact Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for All Your HVAC Needs

Programmable thermostats are designed for you to “set it and forget it.” A programmable thermostat will help make your Fort Collins, CO, home comfortable and may allow you to save money at the same time. Call Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at  970-235-2427 or request service online if it is time for a new thermostat or if you need help programming yours. We are always happy to help.

You hear it all the time—buy energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment to lower your Colorado utility bills!

But what about creating an energy-efficient home?

Even the best furnace or heat pump will struggle in a poorly insulated home. Leaky ductwork will drive up energy costs regardless of whether you have new or old HVAC equipment.

At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we believe in taking a whole-house approach to conserving your energy use. That’s why we offer energy audits designed to save you money in all weather conditions. Let’s work together to find ways to save you money.

Advantages of a Home Energy Audit

Why schedule an energy audit? Here are a few of the benefits you’ll enjoy:

• Improve your home comfort with fewer drafts and balanced humidity levels
• Lower your energy bills
• Reduce the risk of mold or a pest infestation
• Experience a quieter home
• Increase the value of your Fort Collins home

Most of all, you will enjoy the peace of mind knowing you are no longer wasting money on drafts, leaks, and other issues. Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has the tools and training to assess your home and offer proven remedies. Call us today.

How Long Does a Home Energy Audit Take?

A home energy audit typically takes one to four hours. Much of it depends on the size and age of your home. One of our Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing technicians will evaluate conditions inside and outside your home that could impact how much energy you are using.

Some of the tools our professionals use include infrared cameras, blower doors, gas leak detectors, and moisture meters. You receive a prescription at the end of the audit, with recommendations on how to create a healthy home.

Your comfort is a critical part of the equation. Along with analyzing past fuel bills, our certified energy auditors will ask you to share your observations about your Colorado home—whether there are hot and cold spots in different rooms, for example.

Do you live in an older home? ENERGY STAR^® estimates that nine out of 10 homes in the U.S. are under-insulated. Adding new insulation to your attic, floors, and crawlspace could reduce your heating and cooling expenses by up to 15 percent.

Is a Home Energy Audit Worth It?

The savings could be big. According to the U.S. Department of  Energy (DOE), a homeowner could save up to 30 percent on energy bills by making the upgrades identified in a home energy audit.

Even if you don’t follow all the recommendations, you will develop a much better understanding of how your home works. You can also map out a long-term strategy to tackle the improvements in small chunks.

Scheduling a home energy audit is similar to an annual physical with your doctor—it pays to be informed!

Call Your Energy Service Experts Today

Improve the efficiency and comfort of your Fort Collins, Colorado, home. Call today to schedule a professional home energy audit with Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. You can reach us at  970-235-2427 or request service online.

When it comes to staying warm during the cold winter months, folks in Fort Collins love their heat pumps. Fast, reliable, and cost effective to use, heat pumps are a popular choice in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry.

But what if it’s freezing outdoors and your heat pump starts blowing cold air?

At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we offer practical solutions for installing and maintaining your heat pump. We’ll be sure you get the best value for your dollar and the best system to suit your personal needs here in Colorado. Keeping you comfortable is our goal.

Bigger, Better

Heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently in a variety of weather conditions. While heat pumps are ideally suited to regions with moderate climates, the newer models are capable of handling extreme weather conditions and are increasingly versatile in terms of how they are used. According to ACHR News, heat pumps are gaining in popularity as a sensible alternative to traditional furnace and air conditioning units.

Did You Know?

Heat pumps are three to four times more energy efficient than electric furnaces because of how they transfer heat rather than trying to create it. They reduce carbon emissions, they require little maintenance, and one heat pump serves both your heating and cooling needs.

Good to Go

All heating and cooling systems require proper maintenance—and your heat pump is no exception. To start with, always clean or replace filters as needed. This inexpensive action maintains efficient airflow through the system and helps lower your utility bills.

Other home remedies include cleaning the outdoor coils and removing any vegetation that’s growing too close to your outdoor unit. Check your service manual for other preventative maintenance tips on how to get the best performance from your heat pump.

Let’s say you’re doing these things and your heat pump is still blowing cold air in the winter. Continue reading for a few more factors to consider.

Super Cold

Unlike a traditional furnace that generates its own heat, a heat pump transfers air from the outdoors and vice versa. During the winter, the pump’s compressor can capture and absorb outdoor heat and transfer it indoors. In the summer, a heat pump operates likes centralized air conditioning by extracting the warm indoor air and pushing it outdoors.

During the colder months, a heat pump will produce air that is approximately 55 degrees warmer than the outdoor air. That means if it’s 25 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the heat pump will crank air into your home that’s around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It seems pretty warm, but 80 degrees is much cooler than the average body temperature (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) and could feel like cold air blowing into the home.

It’s Defrosting

To protect the outdoor coils from freezing up in the winter, heat pumps go through a defrosting period every hour or so in which they are truly blowing out cold air. This defrosting period only lasts a few minutes and should not affect the overall temperature of your home.

Check It Out

If your heat pump continues to blow cold air for more than a few minutes, and your home’s thermostat indicates the temperature is dropping, first try a little troubleshooting:

• Check the air filter to be sure it’s clear.
• Be sure the indoor vents aren’t blocked.
• Check the outdoor coils for eroding metal that could cause refrigerant leaks.
• Check the ductwork to be sure it’s properly connected.
• Check your thermostat to be sure it’s properly set.

If everything seems to be in order, then it’s probably time to call Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to have one of our trained technicians come out and take a look.

Give Us a Call Today

It’s always a good idea to have your heat pump inspected at least once a year to keep it from blowing cold air when you want heated air. Contact Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing here in Fort Collins, CO, to schedule an appointment or if you are in need of a repair. We’d be happy to address whatever heat pump issue you may be having. Call  970-345-3361 or request service online today.

There are few things more annoying than running out of hot water in the middle of a shower. But do not fret if this happens. It is more than likely an issue with your hot water heater.

It may be something very simple you can take care of yourself. However, some fixes do need the assistance of a professional.

Turn a Cold Mess Into a Hot Time

If you run into this situation, try troubleshooting or give us a call at Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. One of our experienced professionals can promptly come out to your Fort Collins home to get your water flowing hot running again.

Focusing on Tank Water Heaters

There are a few options for powering water heaters—electric, gas, propane, and fuel oil. We will take a look at the two most popular types, electric and gas.

For each of these two, there are different steps to diagnose where the problem lies. However, for either type you may first want to:

• Check if your tank size is adequate for your Colorado home’s water needs. If you have more than two people living in your home, you may need a larger tank than what you currently have. It takes time to reheat enough water to refill the tank. Should this be the case in your home, wait about 30 minutes and retry the hot water.If you succeed, it might be time to consider upgrading. Or maybe a tankless water heater would be best for your home in Fort Collins. Call Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing to discuss your options.

• Increase the thermostat temperature by a couple of degrees. Ideally, you want your water heater temperature set between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees or lower if you have small children in your Fort Collins home to avoid burning their sensitive skin). If you perform an adjustment, allow about 30 to 40 minutes for the hot water to return.If these two options do not produce hot water, read on for more troubleshooting.But before you continue, please heed this word of caution. Any time you work with electricity, turn off the power to the tank. A strong electrical current is running through there, and electricity is nothing to underestimate. Call one of our Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing professionals to help if you have any doubts.

Hot Tips for Owners of Electric Tank Water Heaters

If your unit is electric-powered, consider these possibilities:

• Restart your water heater. Sometimes a power surge can shut down your heater. Turn off the tank for a few minutes and then turn it back on and wait about 30 minutes. If you still have no hot water, this is not the problem.

• Check the fuse or breaker. If the fuse has blown or the breaker has been tripped, sometimes it is not obvious that this is the problem.Reset the breaker, even if it does not look tripped. Flip it off, wait about 30 seconds, and then flip it on. If it does not stay on, you need to call a professional electrician.

• Call one of our Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing professionals. Sometimes the technical side of electricity mingled with a water repair makes everyone feel more secure if handled by a pro. We can address the issue without causing further damage to other components, like a heating element or thermostat.

• Install a new water heater. The average life span of a water heater these days is 10 years. If your tank is close to that age, it may be smarter to invest in a new tank rather than replacing a costly part. After replacing that component, the tank itself could fail, and you would have thrown money out the window. Purchasing a new water heater with higher efficiency and energy savings can save you money in the long run. ENERGY STAR^® reports that higher efficiency water heaters use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models. Since heating water accounts for approximately 15 percent of your Colorado home’s energy use, going with a higher efficiency tank could add up to a nice savings on your utility bill. A new water heater may also qualify you for an energy tax break or rebate. Check with your Fort Collins area energy company.

Hot Tips for Owners of Gas Tank Water Heaters

If your unit is gas powered, consider these possibilities:

• Check the pilot light. Your issue could be as simple as this. Maybe a strong wind down the vent pipe blew the flame out. Read the instructions affixed to your tank on how to relight the pilot. Many tanks have a button to depress for relighting. If you are not comfortable with this process, call one of our Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing professionals to light it. In some cases, a new pilot light assembly is required, in which case a plumber will need to replace it for you anyway.

• Fix the thermocouple.Af ter you light the pilot and are certain the flame does not remain lit, the thermocouple may be at fault. A thermocouple is a sensor that measures temperature. As a safety precaution, it will shut off the gas flow if the pilot goes out. If you are capable of replacing this yourself, it is a low-cost fix. If you are unsure about your level of competency, call a Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing professional in to replace it for you.

• Check the gas supply. Occasionally, your heater may not be getting gas. If after you check to be sure the gas valve is turned on and you do not see a flame or smell gas, this could indicate the problem is the gas supply. Be sure the valve is open and assess the gas line. Is anything leaning against it, or does it have a twist or kink in it? If nothing appears out of the ordinary, call your gas company to see if they are working on the gas line in your area or if your gas has been turned off. If the answer to both of these is no, you need to call one of our professionals.

• Install a new water heater. The life span for a gas water heater is typically 10 years, just like an electric water heater. Unfortunately, it may be time for a replacement. Call Balance Point to discuss what type and size tank would be best for you.

We Are Your Water Heater Experts

At Balance Point Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, our certified professionals can help with whatever water heater issue you may have. Talk to us about a new installation or replacement, a repair, or water heater maintenance. In the case of no hot water, we are here in Fort Collins, CO, to help. Give us a call at 970-235-2467 or request service online today.