Opting for a greener lifestyle has significant rewards for you, your budget and the planet. The most effective approach for energy savings is with your home’s cooling and heating systems, since it’s likely they are the largest energy consumers inside your home. These tips will help you manage your system to reduce energy consumption.
- Change the air filter. This simple act cuts energy consumption because a clean filter allows the ideal airflow through the air handler. Anytime the airflow slows, it takes your system longer to condition your home.
- Have your equipment professionally serviced annually. When HVAC technicians maintain your system, they clean and adjust all the parts, which helps the system return to its original condition as much as possible. They’ll check the refrigerant level, lubricate the motors and make sure all the electrical connections are clean and tight.
- If you’re gone routinely, consider installing a programmable thermostat. It’ll remember for you when to change the temperature based on when you or family members are at home. If you have a heat pump, verify that it’s an adaptive recovery thermostat to avoid higher heating bills.
- Put ceiling fans in the rooms you use frequently. Moving air feels cooler, helping you stay comfortable at higher indoor temperatures.
- Seal cracks around windows and doors to achieve immediate energy savings. Caulk and weatherstripping are easy to apply and last for years.
If your cooling system is more than 10 years old or needs frequent repairs, consider replacing it with a new one that will save energy. Choosing an Energy Star system, with the help of a NATE-certified (North American Technician Excellence) contractor will give you a system and installation that will measurably reduce energy consumption.
A quality installation includes proper system sizing using software called Manual J. Your ductwork needs a close inspection and evaluation, as well, for the system to provide the most efficiency.
Approaching energy savings with your HVAC as a priority results in energy savings while ensuring your comfort. To learn more, contact NATE-certified Around the Clock Heating and Air Conditioning, serving greater Los Angeles homeowners since 1967.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Los Angeles, North Hollywood and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about energy savings and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock