financingHeating and cooling your home takes up about half of your utility bills. While this is pretty significant, there are some simple ways you can improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency. It all starts with doing an energy audit and making a few changes.
Install a New Smart Thermostat
You can install programmable or smart thermostats to improve your HVAC system’s efficiency. With these devices, you can program your daily schedule so that your home is only heated and cooled when it’s occupied. A smart thermostat has sensors that determine when people are and aren’t home. Furthermore, you can control the thermostat from anywhere in the world using your smartphone.
Have Your Ducts Sealed
Studies show that the typical HVAC system loses 25% to 40% of conditioned air in the ducts. The conditioned air in them escapes before it ever reaches your living space. This costs you a lot of money. You can have an HVAC company, use Aeroseal Duct Sealing to fix this issue. This product fills cracks and holes in your ductwork.
Get Regular Maintenance Checks
HVAC systems naturally lose their energy efficiency over time. If you get annual tune-ups, your HVAC system’s original energy efficiency will be preserved. You should have your HVAC system receive maintenance from a technician at least once a year. At Integrated HVAC of Edmond, OK, we maintain HVAC systems. This includes furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, and more.
Change Your Filter Regularly
You should be checking your HVAC system’s filter every month and replacing it regularly. A clogged air filter reduces airflow in your HVAC system, which forces it to work harder. You’ll spend far more on higher utility bills than what it costs to buy a filter every few months.
Use Blackout Curtains and Blinds
You should close curtains and blinds during the day so the sun doesn’t heat your home. This is a relatively simple and efficient way to keep the temperature down in your home. Your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard, so you’ll save money on your electricity bills.
Be Mindful of When You Use the Oven and Dryer
Both of these appliances heat the room they’re located in. You should operate them later in the day so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work hard to overcome the heat they add.
Use Fans
Ceiling and floor fans make a room feel cooler by circulating the air. When you use fans, you can set the temperature a few degrees higher and not notice the difference. Your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard so it will operate more efficiently.
Keep the Drain Line Clean
There is a drain line located in your outdoor AC unit. You can keep it clean by dumping a cup of chlorine bleach and then a gallon of water in it. This helps the air conditioner operate correctly and saves energy.
Have a Properly Sized HVAC System
When you need a new HVAC system, make sure it’s the correct size. A system too small or large will cost you money on your energy bills. Only the correct size HVAC system will be energy efficient. A professional can help you choose the right size HVAC system for your home.
Buy a New HVAC System
Older HVAC systems are not nearly as efficient as the ones produced today. Buy one that is Energy-Star rated and has a high SEER rating. These HVAC systems will save you a substantial amount on your utility bills as they are highly energy efficient.
Place AC Outdoor Unit in Shaded Spot
The AC outdoor unit should be located in a spot where it’s mostly shady. Excessive sunlight overheats them and reduces their energy efficiency. If your existing AC unit is in a sunny spot, consider blocking the sun using trees or plants.
Have Properly Sized Ducts
Ducts that are too small reduce airflow and thus your HVAC system’s performance. Ducts that are too large means air gets lost and your HVAC system has to work harder to compensate.
Increase Your Home’s Insulation
Many homes have insufficient insulation in the attic. A well-insulated home saves you money as your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard. Proper insulation prevents conditioned air from escaping out of the roof.
Integrated HVAC in Edmond installs, repairs, and maintains HVAC systems. We also handle electrical work, AV systems, alarms, and indoor air quality solutions. Please contact us today to find out more. We look forward to assisting you with all of your home comfort needs.
