ARLINGTON, VA--(Marketwire - October 26, 2010) - As homeowners prepare for the colder months ahead, North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the only technician certification organization supported by the heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) industry, is providing tips to keep heating systems working at peak energy efficiency performance.
- Clean your heating filters by checking them every few weeks, and change them at least twice a season, or as directed by the manufacturer.
- Check and maintain home insulation, checking walls, floors, attics, basements and crawlspaces, as poor insulation in these areas can drain heat and potentially lead to a moisture imbalance. In addition, adding weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors can improve a home's insulation.
- Turn down the thermostat by five degrees to lower utility bills with little noticeable change in comfort.
- Keep vents and returns free from obstructions.
- Install a humidifier, which may make the home feel five degrees warmer.
- Request a NATE-certified technician to inspect the home's heating system to ensure proper service.
"Now is the time when many homeowners begin to switch on their heating systems and schedule routine maintenance. We at NATE understand that energy costs are on the minds of most Americans, and by providing these tips we hope to help arm consumers with the appropriate knowledge," said Peter Schwartz, president and CEO of NATE. "Requesting a NATE-certified technician will give homeowners the peace of mind that their system is being serviced by a trained professional who can ensure that the equipment is running at peak efficiency."
To find a contractor that employs NATE-certified technicians, homeowners can visit www.HVACRAdvice.com to view the contractor locator. The informative website also features additional tips and resources for maintaining HVACR systems and an energy savings calculator.
About North American Technician Excellence (NATE)
Headquartered in Arlington, Va., NATE was founded in 1997 as the nation's largest non-profit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration technicians. NATE tests technicians while others train. Testing validates the technician's knowledge and a training program's instruction. NATE-approved testing organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada offer NATE tests. Candidates can earn installation and/or service certification in nine specialty areas: air-conditioning, air distribution, heat pumps, gas heating, oil heating, hydronic gas, hydronic oil, and commercial, light commercial refrigeration and senior efficiency analyst. For more information about NATE, visit www.natex.org.