Improve your Home’s Energy Efficiency by Optimizing Your HVAC System


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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has stated that your HVAC system is responsible for about 40 to 50% of the energy you are using at home. That’s a big portion of your energy consumption. Put another way, roughly half of your power bill is to pay for your home’s heating and cooling. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to optimize your HVAC (and lower your energy bills). Here a few ways to improve:

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are among the best examples of how smart home technology is revolutionizing home management.  Used correctly, the DOE projects that you can save 5 to 15% on energy costs, simply by minimizing HVAC use during the hours when you’re at work each day. That seems obvious, but remembering day in and day out to adjust your thermostat can be hard to do. By installing a smart thermostat that allows you to pre-program temperature settings, you’ll get the benefit of saving energy without the hassle.

Use the Right Air Filter and Change it Regularly

Air filters can become clogged with dust particles, making it hard for your HVAC to “breathe” adequately. When this happens, your system has to work harder to circulate and maintain your preferred air temperature. That takes more energy and is hard on your system. You should change your air filter every 2- 3 months to keep this from happening.

It’s also important to use a filter that has the right MERV rating for your system. Some filters are marketed as in-home HEPA cleaners, but they often restrict the flow of air so much that your system will struggle to keep up, not unlike a clogged filter.

Clean Your HVAC System and Ducts

If your ducts, registers, or AC coils are filled with dust and debris, pet hair, dirt, etc. then airflow is being obstructed. Reduced airflow means more workload for your HVAC unit. Vacuum these to improve the efficiency of your system.

At Wells Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, your home is our priority. If you’re encountering any issues with your plumbing or HVAC system, call on us for professional care: (951) 375-6856.