Increasing your home’s HVAC system efficiency is a great way to save on energy costs over time. Although it may require some effort and an upfront investment from you, the payback can be dramatic in terms of lower utility bills. Below you will find a few tips to help you enhance your HVAC system’s performance and become more energy efficient.
Having regular maintenance checks of your HVAC system is the first step towards improving efficiency. Regular maintenance helps to improve the system’s performance, and it can also help to prevent the need for costly repairs down the road. It’s best to have an HVAC technician inspect your unit twice a year: once for a tune-up and again for a system flush.
Another great way to boost efficiency is to upgrade your HVAC system’s air filter. As air filters become more clogged, your system has to work harder to do its job, causing it to use more energy. Replacing your air filter regularly will help to reduce the workload and save on your energy costs.
Change the Thermostat Settings
Changing the thermostat settings to optimize energy efficiency is a great way to save. You should set the thermostat to a temperature that is comfortable for you but not too warm. During winter, try setting it a few degrees lower than normal to save energy, while in the summer, set the temperature a few degrees higher. Additionally, you can install a programmable thermostat to help reduce energy consumption by controlling when your system turns on and off in line with your schedule.
Upgrade Your HVAC System
If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it likely relies on outdated technology that isn’t as efficient. By upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system, you can potentially save hundreds of dollars in energy costs each year. If you’re in the market for a new system, look for one with an ENERGY STAR® label to ensure you get the most efficient model.
When installing your system, ensure that it’s well insulated. An inefficiently insulated system will result in air escaping from the unit and costing you money. Investing in appropriate insulation could mean that less energy is needed to maintain your desired temperature and result in noticeable savings.
Other ways to increase the efficiency of your HVAC system include scheduling duct whole repairs, using window treatments and vents, and insulating the attic. All of these measures can drastically improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and help save you money.
DIY Maintenance
There are some tips for increasing HVAC efficiency and maintenance that you can carry out yourself. These include:
- Vacuuming around the outside unit
- Checking air filters every 30 days and replacing as needed
- Cleaning clogged outdoor vents
- Checking all existing ductwork for air leaks
- Keeping trees and shrubs at least two feet away from the outdoor unit
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and save on energy costs. It’s important to remember that even small changes can have a big effect, so why not give these tips a try and start saving today?