Sophia Klemenz - Galactic Air

Smart thermostat being controlled on mobile device

How Smart Thermostats Can Save You Money

Written by Sophia Klemenz on February 17, 2023. Posted in Tips. Leave a Comment

While Virginia Beach has the benefits of warm beach weather, it also experiences a cold winter season! Both hot and cold temperatures can result in high utility bills year round. Staying comfortable in the summer and winter should not break your piggy bank, which is why many homeowners search for ways to save money on heating and cooling costs. If you are looking for ways to lower your utility bills in Virginia Beach, consider a smart thermostat! Investing in the home device can provide a variety of benefits for you and your home. In this article, we detail everything you need to know about smart thermostats and how the device can save you money!

What Is A Smart Thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a thermostat connected to Wi-Fi and can be controlled on a smart device such as your phone. Smart thermostats aim to improve your home comfort while saving energy and money. The device monitors your temperature preferences and adjusts your thermostat setting accordingly. Smart thermostats can be programmed to alter your home temperature at specific times, such as at night or during the work day. Additionally, some types of smart thermostats can detect problems with your heating and cooling unit and remind you when it is time for maintenance.

Why Should I Upgrade My Thermostat?

While regular thermostats can keep your home at a comfortable temperature, smart thermostats provide a variety of additional features. While smart thermostats can be costly upfront, the device can save money in the future when compared to a regular thermostat. Regular thermostats have to be controlled manually, which makes it easy to forget to adjust the temperature when leaving the house for work or vacations. Smart thermostats can improve your heating and cooling systems efficiency, and many believe the benefits outweigh the upfront price tag.

Benefits Of A Smart Thermostat

As we have mentioned, smart thermostats can provide a variety of advantages for your Virginia home. Below are five benefits to upgrading to a smart thermostat in Virginia Beach and surrounding areas.

Saves Money
Adjusts Temperature From Anywhere
Receive Alerts & Notifications
Improves Efficiency
Compatible With Other Devices

Saves Money

Smart thermostats can save money on monthly utility bills, and who doesn’t like to save money? According to Energy Star, smart thermostats save an average of 8% on homeowner’s energy bills each year. The home device can automatically adjust the temperature at night or other times during the day without you feeling a comfort difference. Smart thermostats adjust your home’s temperature based on your preferences to keep you comfortable and your bills low!

Adjusts Temperature From Anywhere

If no one is home to enjoy the comfortable temperatures, it can be wasteful to heat your home. Whether this is during the day or for a vacation, it is important to adjust temperature settings before you leave. However, the last thing on your mind when rushing out the door or packing for vacation is your home’s thermostat. Smart thermostats can be previously programmed or controlled on your mobile device, so you never have to worry about forgetting to adjust the thermostat again! If your home is set on an uncomfortable temperature to save money while you are away, you can adjust the thermostat before arriving home to maximize comfort!

Receive Alerts & Notifications

Heating and cooling units can often be forgotten about until the system stops working. Smart thermostats can alert you when it is time for annual maintenance and a variety of other important notifications, such as:

Filter changes
System malfunctions
Energy usage

Improves Efficiency

Smart thermostats can improve heating and cooling efficiency by not overworking the unit. Due to the thermostat lowering or raising the temperature in the given season, it can give your HVAC system a much needed break. Your home can be comfortable the moment you walk in the door, but save energy while you are away.

Compatible With Other Devices

If your home uses other smart home devices, smart thermostats can connect and communicate with them. Smart home devices include Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and even humidifiers and dehumidifiers. This feature allows all of the devices to work together to maximize home comfort in Virginia Beach.

Investing in a smart thermostat for your home can benefit your home in many ways. There are multiple brands and types of smart thermostats, and it can be hard to find the perfect one for your home. Let one of our trained technicians help select and install your smart thermostat to keep your home comfortable and bills low each season!

How to Prepare Your System for Spring and Summer

Written by Sophia Klemenz on April 20, 2022. Posted in Tips. Leave a Comment

Let’s Keep You Cool And Your System Running Efficiently All Summer Long

It’s that time of year again! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the flowers are blooming. It must be spring, which means summer will soon follow! As we all know, springtime and changing seasons also mean a change in weather. Warmer temperatures and humidity will start to become more common. This can cause problems for your heating and air conditioning system if it’s not prepared for it. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prep your HVAC system for spring and summer. We’ll also provide some tips on how to keep it running smoothly during those seasons!

How Does The Changing Weather Affect Your HVAC System?

As the weather gets warmer, your HVAC system will be working harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. The humidity level will also start to rise, which can cause condensation on your coils. This can lead to mold and mildew growth, and it can also reduce the efficiency of your system. Galactic Heating and Air Conditioning can help keep your unit in top tier shape.

How can the warm weather damage your system?

If your system is not properly maintained, the warm weather can cause a number of problems. These include:

Coil corrosion
Refrigerant leaks
Compressor failure
Fan motor failure

All of these issues can be avoided with proper maintenance and care. Galactic Air offers annual maintenance packages that can keep you and your home cool all spring and summer long.

Is A Ductless System Right For You?

Written by Sophia Klemenz on March 4, 2022. Posted in Tips. Leave a Comment

Everything You Need To Know About Ductless Mini-Splits

A ductless mini split system could be the perfect solution for you if you are looking for a way to heat and cool your home without having to install ductwork. These systems have many benefits, including energy efficiency and zoning capabilities. In this article, we are going to share the benefits of a ductless system, and how it can help you create a more comfortable home.

What is a Ductless System?

A ductless mini split system is a type of air conditioning system that does not require ductwork. These systems are often used in homes that do not have existing ductwork, or in homes where the ductwork is not in a convenient location. A ductless mini split system consists of two main parts: the outdoor unit and the indoor unit. The outdoor unit is installed on the outside of your home, and the indoor unit is installed in the room where you want to cool or heat.

There are a number of reasons why homeowners prefer ductless systems. One of the biggest benefits is that ductless systems are much more energy efficient than traditional air conditioning systems. Ductless systems also have zoning capabilities, which allow you to cool or heat only the areas of your home that you need to. This can be a great option for homes with multiple levels, or for homes where there are rooms that are used less frequently. Additionally, ductless mini split systems are often more affordable than traditional air conditioning systems.

What Are The Benefits of a Ductless System?

There are a number of benefits to installing a ductless mini split system in your home. Some of the most notable benefits include energy efficiency, zoning capabilities, and affordability.

Energy Efficiency: Ductless mini split systems are much more energy efficient than traditional air conditioning systems. This is because they do not require ductwork, which can be a major source of energy loss.
Zoning Capabilities: Ductless mini split systems have zoning capabilities, which allow you to cool or heat only the areas of your home that you need to. This can be a great option for homes with multiple levels, or for homes where there are rooms that are used less frequently.
Affordability: Ductless mini split systems are often more affordable than traditional air conditioning systems. This is because they do not require the installation of ductwork, which can be a costly process.

If you are considering installing a ductless mini split system in your home, contact our team today for more information. We would be happy to help you choose the right system for your needs.

When To Choose A Ductless System

There are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether or not to install a ductless mini split system in your home. Some of the most important factors include climate, existing ductwork, and zoning needs.

Climate: If you live in a climate where the weather is consistently warm, a ductless mini split system may be a good option for you. These systems are ideal for homes without central air conditioning, or for homes where the existing ductwork is not in a convenient location.
Existing Ductwork: If you already have ductwork in your home, a traditional air conditioning system may be a better option for you. Ductless mini split systems are best suited for homes without existing ductwork.
Zoning Needs: If you have a need to cool or heat only certain areas of your home, a ductless mini split system may be a good option for you. These systems have zoning capabilities, which allow you to direct the airflow to specific areas of your home. This can be a great option for homes with multiple levels, or for rooms that are used less frequently.

Contact our team today if you would like more information on ductless mini split systems. We would be happy to help you choose the right system for your needs.

Request A Free Estimate Today!

Contact us today if you would like to learn more about the benefits of choosing a ductless mini split system! We offer free estimates on all new installations & have flexible financing options in place to help make the payment easier for an upgrade.

How to Prepare your HVAC for the Cooler Months

Written by Sophia Klemenz on November 2, 2021. Posted in Tips. Leave a Comment

5 Ways To Improve Your Home Comfort This Winter

We don’t want to accept it, but the colder weather is here. While we can’t stop it, we can help you prepare your HVAC system for the frigid months ahead with these 5 tips.

Check Outdoor Components

Clear any and all debris from around your system. While you’re out there, repair any damage to allow your system to run smoothly and effectively in all 4 seasons. During the Fall time, leaves and pine straws fall into the yard and can quickly accumulate around your outdoor unit. Though you may not be utilizing your condenser unit as much right now, if you have a heat pump or ductless mini split system, you’ll want to make it a priority to keep the leaves raked up around the unit.

Get A Fall System Tune Up

Just like your vehicle, your HVAC system needs an inspection. Schedule a visit to get a professional to take a closer and detailed look at your system. The last thing you want is your system to stop working in the dead of winter.

There are several benefits for getting a fall heating tune-up, including:

Increased lifespan of your system
Lower utility bills
Less emergency repairs
Improved indoor air quality

At Galactic Air, we offer comprehensive annual maintenance that will help ensure that your system is ready to take on the colder weather! Contact us today to schedule your service.

Seal Leaky Air Ducts

High utility bill? Your culprit may be air leaks. The easiest way to check for leaking air ducts is to go up into your attic or down into the crawl space to see if the climate is warmer than the house is.

If you have leaks and tears in your ducts, the air will escape into these areas and condition them. If you think you may need to get your ducts repaired – contact us today to come take a look!

Other signs of leaking air ducts:

Dirt build up around air vents
Funny smells in the house when heat is running
Cold spots/inconsistent air flow

Replace Your Air Filter Routinely

This is a year-long tip, not just appropriate for the winter months. Air filters, clean ones at least, will help your system run more efficiently and effectively. The best part, with an efficient running system because of a clean filter, it will help you save money on your utility bill.

There are a lot of different places to purchase air filters, we always recommend getting the appropriate filter for your system and home. If you are unsure of what kind of air filter is best for your system, reach out to us! We will be glad to show you which filters to use.

Consider Upgrading Your System

Although not always necessary, a new system is a way to start from scratch–have one of our techs come out and see what kind of system would be best for you before the snow falls! We understand that investing in a new heating system can often times cause a financial burden on you and your family. For this reason, we offer flexible financing options with approved credit. For more information, head over to our financing page and see begin the approval process today!

Schedule Your Service With Galactic Air Today!

Are you in need of professional heating repair or maintenance services in Virginia Beach? Contact our team of pros today and let’s get you scheduled for service.

How To Lower AC Energy Costs This Summer

Written by Sophia Klemenz on August 6, 2021. Posted in Tips. Leave a Comment

Summer is slowly (and unfortunately) wrapping up! But–use these tips now and carry them into next summer!

Don’t Stop and Start Your AC Repeatedly

It takes your AC about 5-7 minutes before it reaches peak efficiency. So, let it run for a little bit longer, and once you’re comfortable, than turn it off.

Open Doors and Vents

With closed doors and vents, this adds barriers. Barriers can build up pressure in certain rooms of your home. As this pressure builds, your AC will have to work harder resulting in making it less efficient.

If energy usage is your top priority in these hot summer months, we recommend getting an AC tune up. This could save you money and time down the line!

Run your AC Efficiently with These Tips

Written by Sophia Klemenz on July 9, 2021. Posted in Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

Stay cool, but energy efficient!

1. Keep windows and doors closed

Every time you open and close your windows or doors when your AC is running, you’re letting the cool air out and the warm air in! This forces your AC to cycle on and work even harder to maintain the comfort of your home. Keeping windows and doors closed when the AC is running will help your unit work more efficiently in keeping your home cool.

2. Weatherize doors & windows

Make sure there are no leaks of any size in your attics, or around your windows or doors. These small gaps and holes can let cold air out and warm air in. Fixing these small leaks and weatherizing your doors and windows will allow your unit to work best.

3. Shade the Condenser

If your condenser is in direct sunlight, it gets hot! The hotter it gets, the harder that the condenser has to work to keep your home cool. Although you should give it shade, make sure to remember that you don’t want to surround your unit or block any air flow. Just provide it with a nice, shady spot!

Summer HVAC Maintenance Tips

Written by Sophia Klemenz on June 1, 2021. Posted in Maintenance. Leave a Comment

5 Summer Maintenance Tips

Memorial day just passed which means it’s a straight shot to the summer months!

Yippie! With summer on the horizon, we’d love to share our five favorite maintenance tips that will keep you cool all summer long.

1. Replace/clean your air filter

Air filters allow your HVAC system to work efficiently and effectively. Cleaning or replacing it will make sure your HVAC can produce the coldest air to keep your home cool this summer.

2. Upgrade your thermostat

Smart thermostats like nest allow you to control your home’s temperature from your phone, allowing you to turn it on and off when you need it. Smart thermostats allow you to turn it on and off from anywhere, which could save you $ on your next energy bill–and who doesn’t like saving some cash?

3. Clean up the area around your unit

Clear and clean out any mulch, leaves or other yard debris. When you are cleaning and prepping your yard for those summer barbeques–don’t neglect your HVAC.

4. Seal up those leaks!

Check those windows and doors to see if/where that precious cool air may be leaking! Make sure your insulation is adequate–without correct insulation, your unit will have to work much harder to cool down your home.

5. Schedule with the Professionals

HVAC systems are complex and require skilled and trained professionals to diagnose and treat issues. We will make sure your home is cool all summer long!

Author: Sophia Klemenz