Best Practices for Wine Storage
Small changes in how you use and maintain your systems can meaningfully impact comfort, efficiency, and longevity. Here are practical tips that make a difference.
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Immediate Improvements
These changes can be implemented today:
Optimize Your Settings:
Setting temperatures a few degrees closer to outdoor conditions significantly reduces energy use without major comfort impact. In cooling season, 78°F works well for most people when home, higher when away. In heating season, 68°F balances comfort and efficiency.
Use Fans Strategically:
Ceiling fans make rooms feel cooler, allowing you to set thermostats higher. In winter, reverse fan direction to push warm air down from ceilings. Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans remove heat and humidity, reducing cooling loads.
Manage Heat Sources:
During cooling season, minimize heat from cooking, dryers, and other appliances during the hottest parts of the day. Use curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight on windows.
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Equipment Optimization
Get more from your existing systems:
Air Filter Attention:
Clean filters improve both performance and air quality. Check monthly and replace when dirty rather than waiting for a fixed schedule. Upgraded filters capture more particles but may reduce airflow—balance filtration with system requirements.
Ductwork Efficiency:
Inspect accessible ducts for obvious gaps, disconnections, or damage. Even small leaks waste significant energy. Sealing gaps with appropriate mastic or tape (not regular duct tape, which fails over time) improves efficiency.
Thermostat Upgrades:
Programmable and smart thermostats reduce energy waste by automatically adjusting temperatures when you're away or asleep. Even basic programmable models provide meaningful savings if used consistently.
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Longer-Term Improvements
These require more investment but provide substantial returns:
Insulation and Sealing:
Proper insulation and air sealing reduce both heating and cooling loads. This often provides better return on investment than equipment upgrades.
Window Treatments:
Quality window treatments reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Cellular shades, in particular, provide good insulation.
Equipment Sizing:
When replacing equipment, ensure proper sizing for your home. Oversized systems cycle frequently, reducing efficiency and comfort. Undersized systems run continuously without maintaining comfort.
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Bay Area Specific Tips
Our climate offers opportunities for passive comfort: