As winter comes around, we all know what to expect in terms of the heating bill spike. It’s a familiar enough experience for people living in the city who have to contend with the cold and the infrastructure.
The cost of keeping a home or apartment warm in the Empire State has always been a significant one, with many people finding themselves in a position where they’re just not able to afford it. The twist in all of this is that modern engineered distribution systems and its technological advancement is now the key to helping New Yorkers stay warm, comfortable and energy efficient through the winter months.
The Winter Cost Crunch
New York winters are notoriously severe with average temps in the 20s°F and 30s°F and we don’t even have to look far to find some arctic blasts. The conventional heating systems (oil, gas, electric resistance) are not only costly to operate but can be very inefficient in older buildings which are the norm all over the city and state. With energy prices still on the rise, there’s a real push to find some new ways of keeping warm without the costs.
The Importance of Thermal De-stratification
One of the most effective and often overlooked methods for improving winter comfort and cutting costs in New York is thermal de-stratification. While modern heat pumps and efficient heating systems play a role, thermal de-stratification directly addresses a major source of waste: the natural tendency of heated air to rise and collect near ceilings, leaving floors and living spaces much colder.
In city apartments, offices, and especially older buildings, this effect can be pronounced, bringing about discomfort and higher energy bills as heating systems compensate for uneven temperatures. By using thermal de-stratification technology (such as engineered airflow delivery systems) warm air is pushed down to where it’s needed, creating a more uniform temperature throughout the space and reducing the overall demand on heating equipment.
What’s more, thermal de-stratification-driven technologies remove dust, allergens and pollutants from the air, as well as eliminate pockets of viruses in the air. This promotes good indoor air quality, which will be especially valuable when coughs, sneezes, etc. become increasingly marked during the season.
Consider Heat Pump Benefits
One of the biggest advantages of a heat pump is its energy efficiency. As they don’t generate heat but rather move it, heat pumps can provide up to three times the amount of heating energy as the electricity they use. For New Yorkers that’s a real opportunity to cut their monthly utility bills, especially if they’re moving from oil or electric resistance heating. In many cases there are government incentives and rebates available to help offset the cost of installation.
A Greener New York
With winter just around the corner, New Yorkers have more ways than still to stay warm without spending a fortune. Modern cooling technology in particular, including technologies driven by thermal de-stratification and high efficiency heat pumps, is changing the way people think about winter comfort. As uptake increases and technology continues evolving, the future looks warmer, cleaner and more affordable for all in the Empire State.
Content provided by Richard Halsall, CEO of Exhale Fans