HVAC is an important system of any building that helps control environmental conditions. It helps in making the environment comfortable by providing heating and cooling to space. Even if the weather outside is cold, an HVAC system will keep the place warm enough. It is also important to keep in mind this system requires energy which can cost you money. Hence, it is important to have an efficient HVAC unit to spend less money in the long run.
What Makes It Energy Efficient
Whenever people buy a machine or device, they look for energy-efficient ones. Such is the case with an HVAC system, it requires a lot of energy which will add up to the electricity cost of your home. Various factors can affect the efficiency of this system. It depends on the type of system and how well you maintain it. That is why; we always recommend people to have maintenance services from professionals like Clover Services.
Invest in A New System
If you do not have any plan to sell your home soon, then you should consider installing a whole new energy-efficient HVAC system. It is the best alternative if you have an old system. When you go shopping, check the SEER ratings and energy-rated models.
Retrofit an Old System
If you have a large system installed in a building, then this is the best option. You can replace the compressor, add air-side economizers, and condenser fan controls to take advantage of the outside cool air.
Better Insulation
If you want to save more electricity, then you need to ensure that your house is well-insulated. When you insulate your home well and the unit’s ducting, then there is less chance of air escaping. In other words, the unity does not have to work hard to cool or heat your home.
Aero Seal Duct Sealing
You also need to make sure that there is no leakage in the duct system. If it is not sealed, then the air will escape through the air before it reaches your home. Most people ignore this issue, and it can cost you a lot of money. You can easily fill cracks and holes with products like Aeroseal. It will prevent any air leakage from the duct system.
Programmable Thermostats and Controls
There are lots of benefits of installing programmable controls and thermostats. They can drastically improve the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. They will change the temperature control according to the environmental conditions. This will help in taking some load off the unit during the peak time of the day. For example, if no one is at home then they will automatically change the temperature which can save you a lot of money on your electricity bill.
Preserving System Airflow
It is also important to keep the unit clean from any dust and debris. Dust and debris can clog the HVAC system and it works hard to push cold or hot air. It is also essential to ensure that no curtains are blocking the air ducts of vents which can prevent airflow.
Use Curtains and Blinds
You can use curtains and blinds to improve the efficiency of the unit. For example, in the month of summer, you can keep curtains closed to avoid heat inside the house. This way, the unit does not have to work hard to maintain the temperature inside the house. In winter, you can do the opposite to allow sunlight to come through and warm your house.
Regular Maintenance
People do not pay much attention to the regular maintenance of their HVAC unit. But it is essential to regularly maintain the system to get the most out of it. At the end and start of every season, we will recommend you inspect the system to ensure everything is working fine. Furthermore, regular maintenance checks can help prevent sudden failures of the system which can result in expensive repairs.
Thermostat
Setting the thermostat closer to the outside temperature is a good idea to improve the efficiency of the system. In this way, it does not have to work hard to maintain the temperature. That is why; we always recommend people install a programmable thermostat that can change the temperature automatically according to the outside environment.
Change Air Filters
The air filters are clogged by dust and dirt of different types. It is important to keep them clean. A dirty filter prevents the flow of air and the system has to work hard to do its job. This means, it will use more energy and will cost you more on the utility bill. So, you should replace the filters regularly to ensure that system is working at its best.
Use Fans
No matter, you have a floor or ceiling fan in the house, it is a great device to enhance the efficiency of the HVAC unit. Whether you have set the system to heating or cooling, fans can help circulate air in the entire house. Furthermore, in this way, each part of the house will get even cold or hot air.
Drain Line
Keep the drain line clean can also help with improving the efficiency of the system. A cup of chlorine bleach can help with cleaning the line. After that, a gallon of water will rinse it through. Furthermore, it will ensure that your basement will not flood due to a blocked drain.
Place It in A Shaded Area
It is better to place the unit in a shaded area. If it is placed in direct sunlight during summer, then it will overheat and consume more energy to cool down. So, it is better to keep it in a place where there is no excessive amount of sunlight to consume less energy and maintain a consistent temperature inside the home.
Right Size
Size does matter when you want to keep hot or cold your entire house. If you have installed a small system, then it will work hard and consume more energy to maintain the temperatures. You also need to keep in mind that installing a big system is not a good idea. You should get the help of a professional to know what size is best for your house.
