Keeping our homes comfortable relies largely on heating and cooling systems. If your HVAC system is out of whack, it makes your home uncomfortable and drains your wallet. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling accounts for nearly half of the energy consumption in the average household. Since this is likely the largest energy expense in your home, doesn’t it make sense to ensure that your HVAC system is as efficient as possible? Check out a few tips that can improve your HVAC energy efficiency and save you money:
1. Update your HVAC system. If some (or all) components of your HVAC system are not functioning properly, it will result in diminished performance. Air conditioners, boilers, and furnaces more than 15 years old need to be replaced with more efficient models. New, Energy-Star Certified equipment can save about $200 a year on your energy bill, and keep your home comfortable. Newer HVAC systems still require regular maintenance from a knowledgeable HVAC technician. Regular maintenance helps identify problems that can result in decreased efficiency, such as leaky duct work. When promptly addressed, these problems can be easily fixed and prevent you from racking up an exorbitant energy bill.
2. Properly program your thermostat. If you do not have a programmable thermostat, it’s time to install one. A programmable thermostat can save you a bundle on heating and cooling costs by reducing waste. For example, you can program your thermostat to higher or lower temperatures (depending on the season) during times when no one is in the home (when everyone is at work and school) or program different temperatures for the day and night. According to Energy Star, a programmable thermostat can save up to $180 per year.
3. Use zoning systems. In addition to a programmable thermostat, zoning systems can further improve efficiency by providing varying temperatures to different parts of your home. Just as your home’s temperature needs vary depending on time of day, these needs also vary depending on different parts of your house. If you have a two-story home, and only spend time upstairs while you are sleeping, that area does not need constant heating/cooling all day long. A zoning system has individual thermostats for each “zone” of the house, allowing you to have even more control over your HVAC system.
Updating old HVAC systems and providing regular maintenance from a qualified technician ensures efficiency and lowers your energy bill. Please feel free to contact us to learn more about improving your HVAC efficiency.
