75% of Americans worry about their ability to pay their utility or electricity bills. 51% are shopping less to budget for it, and 25% got a second job.
These aren’t the only ways to reduce your bills. A few simple tips will cut down your heating and cooling costs.
Read on for five ways to have a more energy-efficient HVAC system.
1. Retrofit or Upgrade
Check the energy efficiency ratings on your HVAC unit to see how efficient it is.
The SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures the cooling output throughout the entire system divided by the energy used. The EER or Energy Efficiency Ratio measures how long it takes to cool one room to 95°F.
EER is used for window or portable systems. Central systems use SEER ratings, with an average rating of 16.5.
A low rating is a sign that it won’t work at its best. You must also consider how small or large it is. Signs that it’s too large or too small for your home include:
- Uneven heating or cooling
- Frequent cycling
- Excessive energy consumption
- Constant repairs
You can also retrofit it instead. Try adding a new compressor, fan control, or air-side economizers.
2. Insulate Your Home
Not having enough insulation allows air to flow out. This forces your HVAC unit to work harder to maintain the right temperature.
Look for sources of leaking air such as:
- Attics
- Windows
- Pipes
- Outlets
- Crawl spaces
- Basements
Add extra insulation to cover any gaps. Have a professional check that the material is thick enough during maintenance visits.
3. Check the Thermostat
Perform a thermostat check if you notice that your HVAC isn’t as efficient as it could be. Look for issues such as uneven heating, incorrect temperature readings, or unresponsiveness.
Your thermostat settings should be as close to the outside temperature as possible when no one is home. Programmable thermostats automatically set them for you. Smart thermostats let you change them from anywhere.
4. Clean and Seal the Ducts
The size, shape, and layout of your duct system are important because it affects how air flows through your home.
Regular duct cleaning helps them work the way you should. It improves efficiency, increases the system’s lifespan, and improves your home’s air quality.
Keep furniture and decorations away to prevent obstructions. 20% of air is lost in the ducts, so seal any cracks or holes.
5. Perform Regular Maintenance
Ducts aren’t the only part you’ll need to keep an eye on if you want an energy-efficient HVAC. You’ll need a regular maintenance plan for the entire system.
A dirty air filter makes it harder to push air through the debris. A recent survey of 1,000 homeowners found that only 18% change it every month and 29% never do.
Go outside to keep the area around the condenser unit clean. Flush out the drain line underground.
Call for professional preventative maintenance at least once or twice a year. They’ll spot any issues before they become an emergency that requires a repair or replacement.
Who Can Install a More Energy-Efficient HVAC For Me?
An energy-efficient HVAC means lower bills and a more comfortable home. Check the insulation, thermostat, and ducts. Perform regular maintenance and replace it when necessary.
Ultimate Comfort Heating’s mission is to help you find the right products to create a happy, healthy home. Contact us to book service today.
