Do rising electricity costs make you dread opening your monthly power bill? The biggest consumer of energy in your home is your HVAC system, so if you want to save money, that's the place to start. Fortunately, there are a few simple changes that can help enormously. Here are some of the top HVAC energy wasters in your home and what to do about them.
Clogged air filter. As dust builds up in your filter, it's harder for air to get through it. Thus, the system has to work harder and run longer, running up your energy bill. Check the filter monthly and replace it regularly to keep air flowing properly. You can also keep it from getting clogged quickly by dusting and vacuuming your home regularly to reduce dirt and other contaminants and, in turn, limit one of the top HVAC energy wasters.
Leaky ducts. It doesn't matter how well air flows through your system if that same air is still leaking out before it can reach your home. Pinhole leaks in your ductwork can cause energy losses of up to 30%, making them one of the top HVAC energy wasters. Look for leaks, holes, and other ductwork issues and seal them up with metal tape or mastic sealant (not duct tape).
Thermostat settings. The lower your AC setting and the higher your furnace temperatures, the more energy you use. Turning the thermostat up or down a few degrees can make a world of difference. It's recommended you set your thermostat at 78 degrees in summer and 68 degrees in winter to balance comfort and energy usage.
Thermostat programming. A programmable thermostat is one of the best tools for energy savings. Turning your HVAC system off entirely when you leave the house results in extreme temperatures and a lot more energy spent getting your home back to your comfort setting. A programmable thermostat lets you turn the temperature up or down a few degrees when you leave home or when you return, saving money and energy.
To keep HVAC energy wasters out of your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We help HVAC systems run comfortably and efficiently throughout the Broken Arrow area.