We love our HVAC systems. Modern heating and cooling are a far cry better compared to what previous generations had to work with. But there is a downside. Modern HVAC consumes energy. And the more it consumes, the more it costs homeowners to maintain comfortable temperatures in their homes.
If you are looking to save money on heating and cooling, start thinking of your system as a tool. It is a tool designed to do a specific job. Like any tool, there are efficient and inefficient ways to use it. You can reduce energy consumption by using it as efficiently as possible.
Below are seven things every homeowner can do to reduce HVAC energy consumption, complements of Utah-based Comfort Solutions. Comfort Solutions services HVAC services in West Haven and Sandy, in the northern part of the state.
1. Commit to Professional Maintenance
Homeowner maintenance is a must for any HVAC system. But if you hope to maximize efficiency, commit to professional maintenance as well. Professional maintenance includes an annual inspection and tune-up. An HVAC technician is trained to clean, lubricate, and adjust your system. So annual inspections and tune-ups will keep it in tip-top shape.
2. Change the Filter Frequently
The filter is a critical component of any HVAC system. It filters out dirt and debris that would otherwise make it into the system as air circulates. The thing about filters is that they need to be changed frequently. How frequently? That depends on a home’s environment.
Comfort Solutions says that three months is about average. But in especially dirty and dusty environments, monthly might be a better option. Note that a dirty filter will only cause your system to work harder. Why? Because as more dirt collects in the filter, the unit needs to work harder to pull air through it.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are the biggest offenders when it comes to energy leakage. Check all your windows and doors for gaps. Seal any gaps you find. While you’re at it, make sure attic insulation is sufficient.
4. Maximize Airflow
A dirty filter interrupts air flow and causes your HVAC to work harder. Guess what? So do other types of obstructions. Make sure all your events and registers are free of clutter. Ditto for the cold air returns. Throughout the rest of your home, de-cluttering can improve airflow significantly. Your HVAC unit will work more efficiently as a result.
5. Take Advantage of Ceiling Fans
If your home is equipped with ceiling fans, use them. You might consider installing them if you don’t have any yet. Ceiling fans do not actually reduce the temperature in your home, but they can make you more comfortable by constantly circulating air. The benefit here is being able to adjust the thermostat by a degree or two, thus reducing energy consumption.
6. Take Advantage of Window Treatments
You can leverage your window treatments to save energy as well. During the summer, block direct sunlight so that it does not make your house warmer. During the winter, let daylight sunshine in but button everything at night.
7. Install a Smart Thermostat
Finally, a smart thermostat could help you save energy by learning your routine and automatically adjusting its own programming. Smart thermostats make even the largest and most energy-hungry HVAC systems more efficient.
It is no secret that HVAC systems can consume a lot of energy. But they do not necessarily have to. By taking certain steps to improve airflow and insulate against exterior air, you can have a more efficient system that uses less energy.
