From Guest Blogger Dixie Somers: Five Ways to Make Your HVAC System More Energy Efficient

Your HVAC system can provide many years of comfortable heating and cooling for your home. However, to ensure that your system is working at peak efficiency, a number of periodic maintenance tasks are needed. These measures can help to reduce wear on the system, as well as reduce your annual energy bills. A well-functioning HVAC system will also produce fewer emissions to help keep the environment clean.
1. Change Your Filters Regularly

Your HVAC system’s filter should be changed at least monthly to ensure that it functions well during normal operation. Some homeowners may find that the filter becomes grimy well before the monthly change. In this case, more frequent filter replacement is indicated to prevent poor operation that will cost you money.

2. Install a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to computerize your heating and cooling needs throughout the day for maximum efficiency and savings. In winter, you can set your system to a cooler temperature during the night while you’re sleeping and a warmer temperature during the day when family members are moving around. In summer, you can set your temperature to provide a cooler temperature during the hours when you are at home and slightly warmer temperature when you and the family are out of the house. These measures can save you hundreds of dollars on energy costs annually.

3. Have Your System Inspected and Cleaned Annually

You should also have a professional heating and cooling system contractor like Cape Fear Air Conditioning & Heating Co., Inc. come in once each year to inspect your system, replace worn parts, lubricate moving parts, and test the system for efficiency.

4. Clean the Coils on Your Air-Conditioning Unit

The coils on the outside unit of your HVAC system should be cleaned off on a regular basis. Cleaning should include removing any twigs, leaves or other debris that could interfere with the unit’s operation. You should then carefully vacuum the blades of the coil to remove surface dirt. You can also use the garden hose to wash off the blades.

5. Replace Your System with an Energy Efficient Model

Even with the best of care, your home’s HVAC system will require replacement after 15 to 20 years. Frequent breakdowns and increased maintenance costs are signs that your system needs replacement. Talk to your HVAC contractor about energy efficient models that will help save you money, while it helps to protect the environment.

Like any equipment, your HVAC needs regular maintenance to prevent breakdowns and poor operation. These 5 tips can help you to increase your HVAC system’s efficiency for a more comfortable indoor environment and lower energy bills.