There is no doubt about it. Your HVAC system is the most energy-intensive equipment in your home. In fact, heating and cooling account for almost half of the energy expenses in an average American household! This is according to the U.S. Energy Information Association. With so much money going towards energy, it makes since to improve HVAC efficiency as much as possible.
Invariably, an increase in your utility bills will likely tip you off that you can improve HVAC efficiency for your Air Conditioning system. Though the changes might be subtle and gradual at first, you will eventually notice the drop in efficiency, and it could be too little too late.
However, by maintaining your HVAC system properly, you can boost its efficiency and reduce your cooling and heating costs significantly.
Additionally, reviewing your energy bills is an easy first step to determine the extent of a decrease in energy efficiency. Energy audits are important and helpful to know precisely the level of efficiency you are getting from your HVAC system. A complete audit is best carried out by a professional.
However, there are some initial, simple steps you can take that have the potential to enhance the efficiency of your HVAC unit.
Ways to Improve your Energy Efficiency
Invest in a Smart Thermostat
When you install a programmable thermostat in your home or office, you’ve taken a very effective step to increase your HVAC’s efficiency. Adjusting the temperature by just a few degrees can make a big difference in your monthly utility bills. You greatly enhance your energy efficiency with your smart thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature when you are away from home or asleep.
What’s more, a thermostat with Wi-Fi capability will allow you to access the settings of your HVAC unit remotely. You can even monitor your thermostat settings from your smartphone, giving you ultimate flexibility and the potential for major energy savings.
Install an Economizer
An economizer is a piece of equipment that attaches to an air conditioning unit to ensure its maximum efficiency. This gadget takes advantage of cooler outdoor temperatures, and, when necessary, it can bring cooler air into a building’s interior to avoid the necessity of having to cool warm air. It does this by automatically increasing the load on the HVAC’s compressor.
The economizer employs logic controllers and sensors while being triggered whenever the thermostat dictates lowering the interior temperature, but the outdoor air is actually cooler. Internal dampers are used to control the amount of filtered external air that comes into your home. An economizer can save a homeowner about 30 percent on energy expenses!
Seal Gaps in Your Home
Small gaps can be resolved by applying caulk or placing weatherstripping beneath the door to block cold drafts. Another option is to use foam gaskets to block the loss of conditioned air from electrical switches and outlets.
Also, make sure to keep your doors and windows closed whenever your heating or cooling system is operating. By insulating your home, you can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 20 percent.
Change Your Filters
You may not realize how important it is to change your air filters regularly and how much it can boost your HVAC unit’s efficiency. Your air filters prevent debris, dirt and other contaminants from getting into your indoor air. These pollutants can accumulate on the filters, making your HVAC work harder to treat your indoor air, driving up your energy bills.
Neglecting to change your air filters can lead to poor air quality and decreased HVAC efficiency. We recommend you change your air filters at least every two months or so, and more often if you have occupants with allergies or if you have pets.
Seal Leaky Ductwork
You could be wasting considerable energy heating and cooling your home if your ductwork is leaking. You know you have leaky air ducts if you observe dirt and dust around your vents or if you notice some rooms getting warmer or cooler than other rooms.
Be Vigilant About HVAC Regular Maintenance
Having routine maintenance done on your HVAC can enhance the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling systems. Scheduling tune-ups for your energy system will help your HVAC last longer and potentially save you significant money in both repairs and utility costs.
Among the important tasks, your HVAC field technician will perform are checking the refrigerant levels, calibrating the HVAC unit, and cleaning the components. Your technician may also offer suggestions for keeping your HVAC unit clean.
Look to Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning for Helping You Achieve Maximum Efficiency with Your HVAC Unit
Look to the HVAC experts at Apollo to improve your HVAC efficiency to help ensure operational optimal efficiency throughout the year. Our experienced team of highly trained technicians will work with you and exceed your expectations during HVAC installs and repairs.
Apollo field technicians will work closely with you in deciding what HVAC system is the best and offer recommendations for keeping your energy system running at peak efficiency.
We are committed to delivering premium quality HVAC service, maintenance, products, and documentation in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and beyond!
Learn more by contacting Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning! Call us at (509) 396-COLD (2653).
