On
an average span of ten years, the typical homeowner will spend more
than $10,000 on heating and cooling. There are ways to reduce these
utility costs and make sure that the HVAC system that is purchased is more energy efficient. Here are a few
tips to get point you in the right direction.
Maintenance
- Installing Energy Star HVAC equipment can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30 percent.
- Have an inspection of your HVAC system at least twice a year – before the weather starts to get cold and before it starts to get warm. Improper installation and maintenance are the top two causes of premature system failure.
- As soon as the air filter starts to turn grey, they should be changed (on average every 3 months). This will keep your HVAC system running longer and have the best performance. Air filters at M.E.R.V. 4 or lower do not really keep the air in your home clean.
- Clean your air ducts to remove any dust that may be blocking efficient air flow.
Energy
Efficiency
- Clean the compressor on the outside of the home with a hose whenever it looks dirty to protect it from natural elements.
- When you are not home, turn your HVAC system off or place the setting where it will not click on. No matter the setting, when your system is running you are using electricity.
- Close doors and ducts to unused rooms to make your HVAC system work more efficiently
- Find and seal any cracks in your home including gaps between and around windows and doors. This will help to keep cold air inside during warm weather and vice versa during the winter months.
Source:
Chron,
Old Coast, Tavares HVAC, Article Base
