Energy Saving Habits (HVAC Maintenance Works!)

In the summer, homeowners use their ACs to the point that they can account for over 50% of their electric bills. As such, having an energy-efficient HVAC system is critical for keeping costs at a relatively affordable level. Because AC maintenance involves an abundance of work, Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing wants to ensure their customers know how to maintain an effective and efficient air conditioning system. Follow the list of tips below to reach these goals and keep your bills low.

Thermostats

Did you know you could save 2-3% on your cooling costs based on how you set your thermostat? This is both easy and effective: set your thermostat to 78-80 degrees when you’re home and to 85 degrees if you plan to be away.

You can also increase the energy efficiency of your HVAC system automatically by installing a smart thermostat.

ACs, Filters And Vents

When it comes to your AC, there is much that can be done to maintain an energy-efficient HVAC system. For starters, turn the fan motor off, or to auto, when the unit isn’t cooling to save around $15-$25 monthly on energy costs.

Air vents, should they be opened or closed? Leave them open all the way. Closing air vents leaves 10% of the space your AC could reach, untouched. This creates a pressure imbalance and reduces your system’s effectiveness, leaving you hotter in the summer.

Dirty air filters, aside from possibly making allergies unbearable, also forces your AC to work harder. To avoid dirty filters, set a reminder to regularly change your filters and increase the efficiency and lifespan of your HVAC system.

Aside from all of this, remember to stick to proper AC maintenance. In typical homes, 20% of the air moving through duct systems is lost due to improper installation, which can cost over $200 a year. Lower the cost of your ducts by finding and repairing any leaks. Additionally, getting your unit serviced annually will help you know when an AC tune-up is necessary. By annually, we mean to have a professional come over to inspect, clean and service the unit yearly.

Around Your Home

Aside from taking care of your AC, there are a few things you can do around your home to keep the air running efficiently.

While ceiling fans might sound like they make rooms more comfortable, remember to adjust them with the seasons. For example, don’t lower the thermostat during the summer, instead, circulate air by setting your fans to blow down. While you might think otherwise, fans don’t cool rooms, they cool people. If you’re leaving a room, turn your fan off to save energy and money.

Avoid turning on the oven, if you can, during the summer. While a popular way of cooking, ovens can force your AC to work harder to keep the indoor temperature low. For the summer, consider grilling outside or barbecuing, a classic summer tradition, instead.

Cooling systems also have to work harder when the air has extra moisture, such as that produced by your dishwasher or washing machine. We get that these are tasks that can’t be ignored. To keep an energy-efficient HVAC system, do these tasks in the early morning or after dark. If you’re on a time-of-day price plan, this also benefits your off-peak usage.

Increase Your AC’s Efficiency Today!

AC maintenance is important at all times of the year, but this importance significantly increases during the summer. Use the advice above to increase the efficiency of your HVAC system and get your home to a comfortable temperature as soon as possible. If you need an AC tune-up, inspection or a second opinion, contact the professionals at Brown Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today.