The cost of running your HVAC system can be substantial, especially if your system isn’t running efficiently. Several contributing factors can impact your HVAC system’s efficiency. Let’s look more in-depth at those factors and how you can improve.
Thermostat Settings
Consider the temperature your thermostat is set to in the summer and winter months. You can likely change that setting by one or two degrees to boost efficiency. However, such a subtle change doesn’t usually impact comfort noticeably. You can use your thermostat’s scheduling function to change your interior temperature while you’re away from home for an extended period. When you return home, the temperature can be changed to something more comfortable.
Smart thermostats provide several great energy-saving features. If you don’t already have one, consider upgrading. Geolocation will make thermostat adjustments based on where you and your smart device are, so you won’t have to take the time to adjust manually. They can also send detailed e-mails on how you can improve energy efficiency, as well as text messages about when to change filters or schedule maintenance.
We can determine if your thermostat is positioned correctly. Avoid placing your thermostat on an exterior wall or in direct sunlight. This doesn’t give accurate temperature readings.
Utilize Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great way to cool a room in the middle of the summer without having to drop your thermostat setting. However, they can also be used in winter when Pensacola gets a little chilly. Just make sure your fans are moving clockwise in the winter to circulate cold air upward and warm air downward. Reverse the direction in the summer for the opposite effect.
Replacing the Filters and Cleaning Around Condenser Unit
Changing your air filters every 1 to 3 months helps keep the air in your home fresh and allows your heating and cooling system to work better. It stops dust from building up. Keeping the area around your outside unit clean is also important by removing debris, leaves, and dirt. This helps the system stay cool and prevents it from getting too hot. These simple tasks can help your system last longer and run more effortlessly.
Scheduling Routine Maintenance
Having someone from our team come to your home once per year for routine AC maintenance and heating system tune-ups can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. We will inspect and address interior components that may have experienced wear and tear over the year. If they aren’t serviced regularly, they may become overworked and strained. This can lead to your HVAC system working overtime. It can also lead to more frequent HVAC repair needs, which can be expensive.
Consider Upgrading
Most heating and cooling equipment, with regular maintenance and inspections, will last 15 to 20 years or more. If your equipment is past that time frame, consider upgrading to a new model AC or heater. The latest HVAC technology is very energy efficient, and the money you save may very well make it worth the initial investment. There may also be incentives and rebates available for new equipment purchases, which can help offset the cost of a new unit.
Make sure that you work with a knowledgeable HVAC team such as ours. Your new equipment must be sized appropriately. We take into account things like your home’s square footage, heating and cooling needs, the number of people living there, and the ductwork setup.
Adjust Dampers Accordingly
The dampers in your HVAC system’s ductwork network can be adjusted to allow more or less conditioned air through your living spaces. Thus, you can provide more consistent heating and cooling without changing your thermostat temperature. Avoid closing off vents in rooms you don’t use often. This can impede proper airflow through your HVAC system and cause equipment malfunctions and inefficiencies. If you’re experiencing cold or hot spots in your home, there may be other things you can do. This includes sealing up cracks and gaps that allow outside air to come inside.
For more information on HVAC system efficiency in Pensacola, FL, contact our team at Bluewater Heating & Air. In addition to routine HVAC maintenance, we install new heating and cooling systems, make emergency and scheduled repairs, address indoor air quality concerns, upgrade thermostats, install spray foam insulation, and more.
Contact Bluewater Heating & Air for more information or to schedule an appointment.
