Most common HVAC mistakes that drive up energy bills, and how to fix them
(BPT) - Rising energy costs are prompting many homeowners to examine the efficiency of their heating and cooling systems. Although your HVAC system works year-round to keep your home comfortable, small maintenance issues or usage mistakes can cause it to overwork, resulting in higher energy bills.
Here are five common mistakes people make with their HVAC systems, along with easy fixes that can save money, reduce strain on the equipment, and help keep your home comfortable from one season to the next.
1. Choosing the wrong-sized system
Installing an HVAC system that’s too large or too small is an expensive, yet avoidable mistake.
An oversized system may cool quickly but won’t remove humidity, leaving rooms damp and uncomfortable. A system that’s too small struggles to maintain temperature, runs nonstop and wears out parts early.
When selecting a system, consider
having an expert, such as a Rheem Pro Partner¬Æ, assess your home’s heating and cooling needs before buying or replacing. Certified professionals help ensure proper sizing, improving comfort and efficiency. Plus, if you’re upgrading your system, consider leveraging federal tax credits through 2025 for qualifying high-efficiency systems.
2. Letting outside air sneak in
Over time, caulking can dry out and crack, making your system’s job even harder. Cracked seals around windows or doors may seem insignificant, but they allow hot, humid air to enter during summer and cold drafts to enter during winter, forcing your HVAC system to work harder.
Keep windows and doors tightly closed when running your HVAC and check for broken or aging seals Resealing can quickly improve comfort and energy use.
3. Overlooking seasonal maintenance
Neglecting to perform seasonal maintenance can silently increase energy costs. Dirty filters, worn belts or failing parts force systems to use more power. Like a car, your HVAC needs regular checkups.
Schedule maintenance at least twice a year, ideally before cooling and heating seasons. A certified technician can inspect filters, capacitors, motors and other
components to ensure everything runs efficiently. Regular tune-ups lower your utility bills and extend the life of your system.
4. Blocking vents and registers
If air can’t move, it can’t heat or cool your home effectively. Furniture, rugs or curtains that cover supply or return vents restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder than necessary.
Keep vents and registers open and clear of obstructions to ensure air circulates freely. Balanced airflow helps your HVAC system run more efficiently and maintains consistent temperatures throughout your home.
5. Attempting DIY thermostat installation
Smart thermostats help control comfort and save energy, but improper installation can lead to issues. Wiring mistakes can lead to inconsistent performance or damage.
Leave thermostat installation to pros. A licensed contractor will wire it correctly and pair it with your system.
Avoiding common HVAC missteps saves energy, reduces your bills and keeps your system running smoothly. Selecting the rightsized equipment, sealing air leaks and scheduling professional maintenance are crucial matters. Small efforts make a big difference.
Keep your family safeand soundwithanew solar generator
(BPT)-Astorm is raging outdoors, but youand your family aresafely tucked away in your cozy home. thatis, until the powergoes out.You don’t know if the outage will last minutes,hours or days, but youdoknowthatyou need backup powerquick to keep the heatand lights onand necessaryappliances like your fridge running
The first solution youmightthink of is your gas generator.However,you can’t safely use it indoors, anditmightbetoo dangerous to bravethe weather to run the generator outdoors. Plus,you maynot haveenough gas to turnthe generator on, let alone powerwhatyou need
Instead of hoping the powercomes back on sooner rather than later,consider upgrading to asafer,reliable backup power source:asolar generator Not amatterofifbut when Poweroutages arebecoming more and morecommon. According tothe U.S. Energy Administration,Americans averaged 11 hoursofoutages in 2024nearly double the prior decade’s average Statesthatexperienced the most time without powerdealt with major weather events like hurricanes
Given the increase and durationofpower outages,itpaystobeprepared to weather the stormcomfortably and safely inside your home
Theproblem with gas Fordecades, gas generators were the gotobackup powersolution formanyhomes. However, gas has manydrawbacks.
First and foremost,gas generators create carbon monoxide,which means they’re notsafetorun inside your home or garage. Dependingonthe storm, they maynot even be safe to operate outdoors.For apartmentdwellers without dedicated outdoor spaces,agas generator isn’t even anoption.
Second,gas generators require youto keep fuel on hand. Youcan’t rely on leftovergas from its last use. Depending on the intensityofthe storm, youmay not beable to get to the gas stationbeforeor after adisaster.Eventhen, the gas station maynot have fuel available due to high demandorsupply disruptionscaused by the storm.
Solar:Amodernsolutionfor modern power outages
Gasgenerators were built fora different era with differentneeds.Totackle today’s backup powerneeds,you need amodern solution like asolar generator
When it comes to powering your home during astorm,asolar generator offers several benefits,including:
*Fume-free,quiet operation
* Easier maintenance
*Multiple charging methods
*Modular,scalable designs
Solar generators aren’t just for homeowners.Now,apartmentresidents can finally have reliable emergencypower instead of waitingfor the lights to come back on.
Best of all? Youwon’t run out offuel.All youneed is the sun.
Asolutionfor anyhome
If you’re ready to upgrade to asolarpoweredgenerator,consider oneof Jackery’shome backup powerstations.For example,the Solar Generator 5000 Plus is reliable backup poweraccessible to any household,designed to bridgethe gap between portable generators andcomplex permanenthome energy systems.
As the name suggests,solar is themain charging source forthe portable home generator.However,itcan also be charged via astandardwall outlet or 12-volt car port. When paired with Jackery’s Smart Transfer Switch, the 5000 Plus can connectdirectly to ahome’s circuit panel, automatically deliveringbackup power the momentthe grid goes down -no extensioncords,nomanual intervention. When running, the 5000 Plus is completely silentand 100% fume-free,ideal forsafe indoor use.The solar generator also requires virtually no maintenance.That means no oil changes,nofuel stockpiling, no seasonal startup rituals.
Thesolar generator’s sizeisversatile enoughfor apartmentuse and powerful enough to powerall your needs in ahouse. Thanks to its modular and scalable design, youcan easily expandthe solar generator’s total powercapacitywith additional batterypacks.
But backup is only thebeginning.When the Solar Generator 5000 Plus is expanded to its full 60kWhmodular capacityand paired with aSmartTransfer Switch, it becomes more than an emergencypower source.Homeowners- especially those with electric vehiclesorhigher daily energy use -can lowertheir electricitybills by up to $11,800 ayear through simple peak shaving, which means charging the system when ratesare lowand using stored powerwhen prices rise.It’san easy waytomake your energy dollars go further,with no noise,nofumes and no ongoing fuel costs.For manyhouseholds, it’s notjust acleaner backup option.It’sa practical, long-termupgrade thatcan pay off year afteryear.
Asmarter, safer upgrade fortoday’s households
Don’twait fordisaster to strike.Before the next stormhits,ditch your old gas generator and upgrade to solar.Tolearn moreabout thisportable solar generator and Jackery’sother powersolutions, visit Jackery.com.
Startpreparing forspring allergyseason with these expert tips
(BPT)-Spring is rightaround the corner! If you’re among the one in four U.S. adults thatsuffers from seasonal allergies,it’stime to start preparing forthe influx of pollen and other allergens.
“The biggest mistake people make with spring allergies is waiting forthe first sneezetotake action,”saidDr. Fred Pescatore,M.D., aManhattanbased natural physician and author of The Allergy and Asthma Cure.“If you wait forsymptoms to showup, you’re fighting an uphillbattle.Preparing early is the differencebetween controlling your allergies and letting them controlyou.”
Check out Dr.Pescatore’s top tips forpreparing forallergyseason so youcan enjoyspring with minimal symptoms.
Change your air filter
Your HVAC air filter workshardyearround to improveyour indoor air qualitybyremoving dust,pollen and other allergens from your home. Change the filter at the onset of spring so it is operating optimally beforespring allergy seasonarrives.
Protip: If youhavesevereallergies, don’t replacethe filteryourself.The old filter will be fullofallergens that can trigger your symptoms during the
replacement. Instead,haveanother household member take on thechore and disposeofitimmediately.
Manage inflammation
Leadinguptoallergy season, make anefforttomanage inflammation beforeitstarts.Inflammation is a normalimmune responseto allergens,triggering symptomslike sneezing,congestion,coughingand watery eyes
Aproactiveapproach can help reduce the intensityofseasonal symptoms.Foundational habitslike limiting excess sugar,gluten and dairy, prioritizing sleep and managing stressall supportamorebalanced immune response. Forthose looking to add targeted nutritional support, Pycnogenol® French maritime pine barkextract has been clinically studied forits role in helping to modulate thebody’s inflammatory response when taken ahead of allergy season.
Whilemanypeople rely on over-thecounterantihistamines forshortterm symptom relief, some prefer a morenatural approach thatsupports overall immune health rather than simply masking symptoms.
Dr.Pescatore adds,“When recommending Pycnogenol® to my patients,Itypically suggest50to100 milligrams daily starting 5-8 weeks before allergyseason forbest results.”
Reducepollenexposure
Pollen is one of themost common seasonal allergytriggers,soreducing your exposureiskey.Thisisespecially importantnow,aspollen seasons
have become moreintense,start earlierand lastlonger in recent years-largely duetoclimate change. Warmer weathercreates the perfect environmentfor pollentothrive, especially during warm days and cool nights.
Even though it’s tempting to letthe freshspringair in, keep doors and windows closed to preventpollen from entering your home andsettling onsurfaces.Using ahigh-qualityair purifier with aHEPA filter canalso help reduceindoor pollen levels and improve overall air quality.In addition, avoid doing yard work like mowingthe lawn beforenoon, when pollen counts aretypically highest, and trytolimit outdoor activities on high pollen-countdays.
Addashowertoyour nighttime routine
If youdon’t showeratnight, it’s time tostart. During the day, pollen settles on and clings to your hair,faceand body.Rinsing off beforegoing to bed prevents pollen from settling on your pillowand triggering allergies while yousleep.Plus,having awarm showerbeforebed canbeincredibly relaxing,allowing youtosettle into sleep and wake up refreshed to take on anotherday.
Don’t be reactive. Be proactive. Youcan’t controlallergens,but you can make intentional changesin your lifetoreduceyour exposure to allergens and manage your symptomsbeforethey start. Use these experttips to get ajump on allergy seasonsoyou can enjoythe warmer weathertothe fullest!
By Holly Lyman
For homeowners in Cañon City, Penrose, and Florence, the “clock is ticking”on more than just the change of seasons Local roofing experts are warning residents that several upcoming insurance deadlines could mean the difference between a covered roof replacement and a $20,000 out-of-pocket expense
The“Hidden”Damage of 2025
Most people associate roof damage with visible leaks or missing shingles. However, the hailstorms that hit our area in 2025 specifically the July 31st storm in Cañon City and the September 17th midnight storm in Penrose and Florence produced golf-ball-sized hail.
Because the September storm happened in
the middle of the night, many residents slept right through it, unaware that the impact compromised the integrity of their shingles
If these “bruises”aren’t inspected and claimed within the insurance company’s specific filing window, the claim will be denied, leaving the homeowner responsible for all future repairs
The T-Lock Shingle Crisis
If your home still has T-Lock shingles, your window of opportunity is even smaller Major insurance carriers have begun issuing Letters of Non-Renewal for homes with these outdated shingles While many policies will still pay for a full replacement today, once that policy period ends, the roof becomes “ .”At that point, any replacement must be funded entirely by the homeowner.
Investing in Resilience
To help neighbors navigate these challenges, Farha Roofing is currently offering a Free Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingle Upgrade (an average $2,500 value). Not only do these shingles stand up better to Colorado weather, but they can also trigger a 15% to 30% discount on future homeowner’s insurance premiums.
“Our goal isn’t just to fix roofs; it’s to provide
SCHLEICHER
peace of mind,”says James Lyman of Farha Roofing. “An annual inspection ensures you are either documented for a claim or good for another year It prevents the ‘denial’letters that occur when damage is left too long or is improperly documented”
Community First
Beyond repairs, Farha Roofing remains committed to the local community through their annual Roof for a Veteran giveaway
Each year, they provide a free roof to a local hero in need, accepting nominations directly through their website.
About the Author
Holly Lyman serves as a Project Manager alongside her husband, James, at Farha Roofing in Cañon City As a local, family-operated team, they specialize in navigating the complexities of insurance claims and high-quality installations. If you haven’t had a professional roof inspection in the last year, or if you have questions about your T-Lock shingles or the 2025 storm windows, call Holly directly at (303) 550-4970 to schedule a free, no-obligation assessment
Visit www.farharoofing.com to learn more or to nominate a Veteran.
3WaystoRefreshYourHome Entryway
(StatePoint) Curb appeal is all about first impressions,and your home’s entryway plays an importantrole in that.This spring, consider making a splash whereitcounts with these three entryway updates:
AddPotted Plants or Planters:
Flank the entryway with colorful potted flowers,lush greenery, or even small topiaries to create afresh and inviting look.This will provide awonderful transition between the
outdoors and your home’s interior.
Refresh Outdoor Lighting: Good lighting will not only boost visibility and safetyfor household members and guests,itcan also enhancethe beauty of your entryway.Replaceoutdoor light fixtures foracozyevening ambiance. If it’s not time to replace fixtures just yet, simply cleaningthem can go along waytowardsprucing up the spaceand improvingillumination.
Upgrade to aModernEntry Door:
Transformthe entirelook of your entryway by installing asleek,modern entry door.Consider optionswith glass panels fornatural lightorbold designs that make astatement.The new 2026 Ensemble EntryDoor Trends Collection exclusively from Renewal by Andersen wasmade to help you
find an entrydoorthatfeels just right. Thecollection prioritizes aesthetics without compromising durability, enhanced security or comfort. From earthyneutrals to modernminimalism, nature-inspireddetails to quiet luxury, thereare countlesswaystorefresh your spacewithanEnsemble entrydoor. In fact, thecollectionoffersover38 panel styles,over20colorsand stains, avarietyofglass and grilleoptions,and multiple hardware finishes,giving you the flexibilitytocreateafront entrance that suitsyour style and stands up to real-lifeuse.Toexplore the collection, visit:renewalbyandersen.com.
If you’re lookingfor an impactful home projectfor thespring,startwith your entryway,wheresimpleupdatescan vastly improvethe functionalityand beautyofthe space.
Set an appointment for a free roof inspection at our booth at the Home and Garden Show
March 27th & 28th and receive a free gift!
The T-Lock Warning
• Most insurers are sending Letters of Non-Renewal for T-Lock shingles.
• Many policies are still paying for full replacements NOW—but if you wait, you will likely have to pay for the entire roof replacement out of pocket later.
The Deadlines
• Cañon City: Hailstorm on July 31, 2025
• Penrose & Florence: Nighttime Hailstorm on Sept 17, 2025 (Golf-ball sized hail)
• Message: If you haven’t had a free inspection in the last year, your claim window is closing. Insurance companies are no longer paying for old damage or “out-of-window” claims. Don’t wait for a leak or a letter of non-renewal!
The Big Offer & Financing
• FREE CLASS 4 IMPACT-RESISTANT UPGRADE: (Avg. $2,500 Value).
• The Benefit: Saves 15-30% on future homeowner’s insurance premiums.
• Financing: Need help with your deductible? Apply for a roof loan for part or all of your costs at www.farharoofing.com.
Community Giveback
• ROOF FOR A VETERAN: Every year, Farha Roofing gives away one free roof to a local Veteran. Nominate a hero on our website today!