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TVA’s Energy Right Program
Wednesday, March 9th, 2011 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Your local power distributor and TVA are making it easier than ever to become energy efficient while also saving money. With the new In-Home Energy Evaluation Program, you can reduce your power usage and receive a cash incentive for installing home energy improvements. The recommended energy-related home improvements you make are eligible for reimbursement of 50% of the installation cost, with an upper limit of $500.
Here’s how it works
· Call 1-866-441-1430 to arrange for an in-home energy evaluation by a TVA-certified evaluator. There is a $150 fee for the evaluation. However, if you make recommended improvements costing $150 or more, the fee will be reimbursed in addition to the matching cash incentive.
· The evaluator reviews your home and creates a report outlining the potential energy-efficiency modifications and available cash incentives.
· Modifications must be made by a member of the TVA Quality Contractor Network (QCN), except for self-installed measures as allowed by the power distributor.
· All home improvements must be completed within 90 days. Once the work is finished, it will be inspected to ensure that everything is installed properly to maximize savings.
· After the inspection, you submit receipts for the completed work to be eligible for the cash incentive.
Visit www.energyright.com to watch a video for more information on the In-Home Energy Evaluation Program.
Selecting an electric heat pump for your home is a big decision to make. Did you know this installation is almost as important as the heat pump itself? The better the installation, the more comfortable and efficient your heat pump will run. That is why your local power company and TVA have developed the Quality Contractor Network (QCN) and the energy right heat pump program. QCN members, such as Rocky Top Air, have the skill and knowledge to install the right system for your home. Rocky Top Air will also be able to service your equipment down the road and even coordinate financing through your local power company. Rocky Top Air not only stands behind the systems we install, we also stand behind the installation process.
When you choose a heating and air contractor, there are a few important steps you should take. Always ask if they are a member of TVA’s Quality Contractor Network. Ask for references. Get a written estimate with details on work to be performed as well as the efficiency of the equipment. Rocky Top Air provides all of this and we will check your existing duct system and your insulation levels to determine what the right system is for you.
For more information about TVA’s energy right program visit their web site at www.energyrightpartners.com
HVAC Specialists Help Save Energy With Maintenance
Wednesday, December 29th, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Central air conditioning systems need regular check ups to ensure they’re working properly without wasting any costly energy. Leaks in ducts or dirty filters can end up costing much more than the average home and business owner would expect. This is why in the long run, finding a quality certified HVAC repair specialist like Rocky Top Air to do routine tune ups can potentially save you thousands of dollars. Before summer time comes each year, air conditioning systems need to be inspected by a professional. After it’s inspected, it’s up to you to maintain it in proper working order. Changing the air filters in your air conditioner each month can improve air quality and also prevent your air conditioner from having to work over time in order to maintain a stable temperature in your home or office. Disposable air filters should be thrown away each month, and reusable air filters need to be thoroughly washed and dried before putting them back in to place. Keeping any debris away from condenser units which are located outside can also help prevent your system from working overtime. Gently cleaning fan grills and blades to keep them free of dust and debris can help them run more smoothly and save you money. Call Rocky Top Air today to set up a maintenance plan for you home or business.
865.474.1511
Cold Weather Could Hurt Your Heart
Friday, December 3rd, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
This is an article from examiner.com in Nashville, TN. With the cold weather coming, we all need to think about staying warm and safe.
With several days of cold weather now behind us, and even cooler air ahead, the American Heart Association has released some seasonal advice on staying warm and safe. Cold weather can hurt your heart. Here’s what you need to know to protect it.
How does cold weather affect the heart?
AHA:
“Many people – especially in the warmer South – aren’t conditioned to the physical stress of outdoor cold-weather activities and don’t know the dangers.”
If you don’t take proper precautions, you may be at risk of hypothermia, a potentially deadly condition suffered when the body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Heart failure is a main cause of death in hypothermia.
Symptoms of hypothermia include:
- lack of coordination
- mental confusion
- slowed reactions
- shivering
- sleepiness
The AHA also warns that cold temperatures aren’t the only elements that “steal body heat.” You also need to be aware of the affect of high winds, snow and rain. The AHA says, “Wind is especially dangerous, because it removes the layer of heated air from around your body. At 30 degrees Fahrenheit in a 30-mile wind, the cooling effect is equal to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Similarly, dampness causes the body to lose heat faster than it would at the same temperature in drier conditions.”
Who’s at high risk?
AHA:
Children, the elderly and those with heart disease are at special risk. As people age, their ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature often decreases. Because elderly people seem to be relatively insensitive to moderately cold conditions, they can suffer hypothermia without knowing they’re in danger.
People with coronary heart disease often suffer angina pectoris (chest pain or discomfort) when they’re in cold weather. Some studies suggest that harsh winter weather may increase a person’s risk of heart attack due to overexertion.
What should we do to keep warm and safe?
AHA:
“To keep warm, wear layers of clothing. This traps air between layers, forming a protective insulation. Also, wear a hat or head scarf. Heat can be lost through your head. And ears are especially prone to frostbite. Keep your hands and feet warm, too, as they tend to lose heat rapidly.
Don’t drink alcoholic beverages before going outdoors or when outside. Alcohol gives an initial feeling of warmth, because blood vessels in the skin expand. Heat is then drawn away from the body’s vital organs.
People who are outdoors in cold weather should avoid sudden exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel full of snow. Even walking through heavy, wet snow or snow drifts can strain a person’s heart.”
The AHA’s final message as we head into the coldest months?
“Enjoy the cold weather and stay safe!”
Is Your Heating System Operating The Way It Should?
Tuesday, November 16th, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
With the chill in the air and the fluctuating temperatures of East Tennessee, it’s important that your heating system is operating at maximum efficiency to save money on your bills and maintain a comfortable temperature climate at your home. The team at Rocky Top Air has many years of experience and expertise in determining where there may be a problem in your system’s operation.
Says one customer in the Knoxville area, Carole Conner, “I knew my heating bills were high, so I had Rocky Top Air come out and check my system. They found a major leak within the crawl space underneath my home, so a lot of heat was going down there instead of into my house! I also have a bonus room that never stays heated or cooled like the rest of my home since it’s over the garage. Rocky Top Air discovered a major flaw in how the ductwork was routed at that end of the house, and they are going to ‘work their wonders’ with some modifications to my existing ductwork, making that room warm or cool as needed. Other companies had told me nothing could be done, and I’m thrilled that Rocky Top Air has offered me a cost effective solution!”
Rocky Top Air will also recommend if you need a new system, and our staff is up-to-date on the benefits the newer, energy saver models can provide to help you achieve worthwhile savings. One major benefit that sets Rocky Top Air apart from our competitors is we offer members of our Rocky Top Maintenance Club a LIFETIME REPAIR WARRANTY on new systems! We stand behind our work and focus toward the long-term satisfaction of our customers. Call now before you have to bundle up. 865.474.1511
Unique Project for Rocky Top Air
Thursday, September 30th, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
The Willows at Cottage Cove
A floating paradise located on
Norris Lake at Mountain Lake Marina
The Willows at Cottage Cove was featured in the September 2010 editions of Knoxville Magazine’s Home & Garden section. The article sketches a wonderful picture of a floating home with comforts such as public utilities (electricity, water, & sewage), natural gas, cable/satellite, and a 90% high efficiency heating and air conditioning system. Rocky Top Air has the unique opportunity to install the HVAC systems in the homes of this up-scale floating-home community. To see more, go to http://thewillowscommunities.com or visit http://virtual.angstromgraphics.com/publication/?i=46248
Don’t Get Caught Off Guard
Monday, March 22nd, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Is your air conditioner ready for the warmer weather? Your air conditioner manufacturer recommends a professional tune-up. This is the biggest step to preventing major malfunctions in an AC unit. Call Rocky Top Air now and take advantage of our $49.95 tune-up special.
Things that you as a homeowner can do to keep your air conditioning system running at its peak performance is to clean or replace the air filter every month. Do not run the unit with the filter removed. If you do, the coil becomes the filter and it is much harder to clean.
Make sure you remove any leaves or debris that has collected around your outdoor condenser unit.
If it is possible, keep the outdoor compressor unit shaded. Air in shaded spaces is typically 5 to 6 degrees cooler than the surrounding air. Shading can be up to 10 percent more efficient during the cooling season.
A dirty indoor evaporator coil will interfere with the unit’s ability to cool the air moving through the unit. Warm indoor air contacting the evaporator coils will condense causing moisture to collect and drip. In most units, a plastic pipe carries the water outdoors or to a drain. Algae and bacteria growth can clog the pipe. When this happens, the backed-up water can puddle and cause rust or water damage.
Make sure you are ready when hot weather hits by calling 865.474.1511 and scheduling a tune-up. Your air conditioner is like your car. If you don’t perform the proper maintenance needed, you can be extremely uncomfortable and wishing you called us earlier.
Get Ready for Spring
Monday, March 15th, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Rocky Top Air 865.474.1511
The time changed and we are all suffering from the hour loss. The time change to spring forward also signals that spring is just around the corner. The warmer weather has us thinking about planting flowers, putting down new mulch, and getting our homes ready for the spring season. Homeowners need to remember the importance of regularly scheduled maintenance to keep their homes in top condition and prevent costly repairs.
Here are some tips for homeowners to take care of before the heat and humidity hits East Tennessee;
- Caulk around all exterior windows and doors. Caulking keeps your house weather-tight and will help to reduce high summer energy bills. It will also help to keep unwanted insects out of your house.
- Clean the lint from the dryer vent system. Lint is very flammable and lint build up can create a fire hazard. And if you have a gas dryer, the build up will prevent proper ventilation and force deadly carbon monoxide back into your house.
- Reconnect your water hoses and check for leaks.
- Make sure the filter in your air condition system is clean. Replacing a dirty air filter will keep the airflow moving through the duct system and keep you from wasting money trying to cool your home because the fans are not moving air properly.
- Clean around the outside condenser. If there are leaves or plants that have grown up around the unit, remove them so they don’t interfere with airflow.
- Call Rocky Top Air to schedule a spring tune-up. The tune-up is just $49.95 and will get your air conditioning system ready for the warmer months and give you the piece of mind that your home will be comfortable when you come in from mowing the lawn.
Call Rocky Top Air today at 865.474.1511
Benefits of Programmable Thermostats
Monday, January 25th, 2010 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Programmable thermostats have become hugely popular due to their energy saving benefits, improved comfort, convenience and cost – effective savings. These thermostats save energy and money on utility bills by allowing residents to set home temperatures according to various different factors.
Programmable thermostats supply personal comfort through pre-set temperature levels and are generally more convenient and accurate than manual thermostats.
If you’re looking to cut back expenses, you will usually see the return on your programmable thermostat investment within one year. Programmable thermostats are also a plus for the environmentally conscious because they contain no mercury and are eco-friendly. Using less energy helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production.
Programmable Thermostat
For homeowners who work outside the home during the day and have a different schedule on the weekend, a programmable thermostat can offer many benefits. On the other hand, if you are home throughout the day, seven days a week, then a programmable thermostat will offer more limited benefits.
Programmable thermostats can be set to adjust the temperature of a home according to a user’s schedule. The temperature on programmable thermostats can be set to change based on whether or not the home is occupied or whether residents are asleep or awake. For example, in the morning before occupants wake up, the thermostat can be preset for a slightly warmer temperature. As well, the thermostat can be adjusted for both heating and cooling seasons.
Programmable thermostats can automatically store settings and repeat those settings each day. However, they can still be manually set, overriding the programming when desired. A programmable thermostat generally allows more precise temperature management and a wider range of selections, offering a number of programming choices.
Most conveniently, it provides daily programming that allows one schedule to be used each day. Additionally, you can program your thermostat with different settings for the weekend. In fact, most programmable thermostats have a full seven-day programming ability, allowing for a different temperature schedule for every day of the week.
How much might you save?
Honeywell has introduced the Prestige™, a high-definition, full color, touchscreen, wireless-enabled, programmable thermostat. Designed for homes, the thermostat helps homeowners maximize savings by reducing heating and cooling costs.
Prestige’s patented, interview-based interface walks a homeowner through the set-up process by asking a series of questions such as “what time does the first person wake-up in the morning?” or “what time do you go to sleep at night?” The answers help the thermostat program itself – no owner’s manual needed.
Prestige’s built-in wireless technology allows it to communicate with other Honeywell RedLink™ wireless devices including the Portable Comfort Control™, a hand-held device that senses temperature in any room of the house, gives homeowners the control to adjust temperature from anywhere in the house.
Additional benefits:
- Graphic user interface displays information in an easy-to-understand format.
- On-board user’s manual provides definitions and directions for each display screen.
- Ability to customize the display in one of three languages: English, French or Spanish
When properly installed by an HVAC contractor, and used as directed, Honeywell estimates that homeowner’s can cut annual heating and cooling cost up to 33 percent – or by $200 each year – depending on geographic location.
Start saving on your heating and cooling bills today and call Rocky Top Air to install a programmable thermostat in your home at 865.474.1511. Watch a video from the Rachel Ray show on Thermostat Wars http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/show/segments/view/thermostat-wars/
Happy New Year!
Monday, December 28th, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Make a New Year’s Resolution
To Give Your HVAC a Tune-Up
Every year, we make New Year’s Resolutions to lose weight, get more sleep, and eat healthier. However, we never seem to make those resolutions about the structural components of our house. Do you ever hear, “I vow to weather-strip my house, give my HVAC a yearly checkup, or check for leaks in my house?” Ur, no.
Don’t get me wrong, New Year’s Resolutions to make you healthier are wonderful, but how about giving some love to the structure who shelters you from the cold and heat
I know energy conservation is just not as sexy as discussing red hot green tips for Valentines or discussing the pleasure of amazing, down to your toes, organic chocolate. However, it is one of those “do I have to?” concepts that everyone has to do to reduce our energy consumption. Your wallet will thank you. Even so much that you will be able to afford something for your Valentine this year.
Let’s make this as painless as possible! We already had a lengthily discussion about how to give a little heating and cooling duct TLC, right?
Move the couch. Check around your house and look if your registers are blocked by furniture. All you are doing is heating the back of your couch. So, move the couch that is blocking the register!
Program it, Baby. Get a programmable thermostat so you are not cooling or heating your house like it is full of people when you are at work. According to Energy Star, a programmable thermostat can save you $180 per year in energy costs.
Change the Filter. Don’t forget to change the filter at a minimum every 3 months. Dirt will slow air flow and increase energy costs. My thermostat reminds me to change it. Ask your HVAC contractor, what type of filter is best for your system.
No kinks, please Check to make sure there are no kinks in your duct vents. Think of when you are vacuuming and the line gets kinked. You lose suction. Well, your ducts are no different.
Seal around the vents When we were building, in order to obtain an energy star certificate for the house, we were required to seal around all of the vents. Without these vents being sealed, air is lost under the floor or in the attic since many people have vents in their ceilings of their second floors.
Have your system checked Treat your air conditioning and heating system like you treat your car. Regular maintenance is important. Have the HVAC system checked at least yearly. In addition, make sure the supply and return ducts are balanced. If there is a leak in one, this will cause building pressure to be skewed. Also, check whether or not the duct are adequately sized for your system.
“The efficiency of air distribution systems has been found to be 60-75% or less in many houses because of insufficient and/or poorly installed duct insulation and leaks in duct systems. Properly designed and installed duct systems can have efficiencies of 80% or more for little or no additional cost, potentially saving a homeowner $50-200 or more per year in heating and cooling costs. Moreover, efficient duct system installations can reduce equipment size, further saving money for new or replacement equipment,” according to the Department of Energy.
A simple yearly maintenance will be worth the cost. I am on a yearly plan with my service provider. They come in the fall and spring to check the system.
Replace any inefficient or broken systems. Is it time to replace your system? Energy star has a list of tell tale signs that it is time for you to say good bye to your heating system. If your system is in need of replacement consider replacing it with an energy star approved system. States rebates may be available.
Now, was that painful? Let me know any other tips you might have about keeping your HVAC system purring like a happy cat.
Article taken from on January 12, 2009 (www.green-talk.com)
Why Do You Need A Humidifier – Part 3
Tuesday, December 1st, 2009 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Why do floors creak, wooden furniture fall apart, and wallpaper and curtains wear out, even though no one ever touches them?
The answer: They dry out. The low-cost solution: Proper humidification.
If you have a forced air furnace, it is strongly recommended to have a central humidifier installed to protect your home if you have:
· Wooden floors
· Wooden, leather, or laminated furniture or counter tops
· A piano or other wooden musical instruments
· Hanging tapestries or expensive rugs
· Sinus problems
· High heating bills
· Comfort complaints
· Expensive electronics
Dry air causes the static electricity shocks that we all experience during the winter. It’s not a myth that some people lose the hard drive on their computers from static charge. Static electricity as low as 10 volts can damage microchips. Walking across a rug in dry winter conditions can produce static electric voltage of up to 12,000 volts. Humidifiers reduce the likelihood of that occurring.
Now ask yourself the following questions:
· Are you concerned about the dry winter air drying out the wood and glue in your piano and damaging it?
· If there was a way to lower your heating costs without buying a new furnace, would you want to know more about it?
· If you could reduce the amount of colds or flu you get in the winter, would you do it?
· If there was a way that you could feel more comfortable in the winter without buying a new furnace, would you want to know more about it?
· Would you like to reduce the amount of static electricity in your home during the dry winter months?
If you have answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you need to contact us at Rocky Top Air and find out more about installing a central humidifier in your home today. Call us at 865.474.1511