A HVAC system that’s well-managed can use fewer resources than one that is not. Consistently having your HVAC system serviced can improve efficiency and help save you money in energy costs. Thankfully, there’s even more you can do to better your property’s energy efficiency. Here are some simple actions you can take take to improve your Phoenix home.
- Secure any leaks around your windows and doors. Even tiny gaps can let heat or cool air leave your house. Add caulk or weatherstripping every place you find leaks.
- Use your windows. If it’s cooler after dark, turn off your your HVAC system and open the windows. After you get up in the morning, shut the windows and your curtains or blinds to keep the cooler air in and to stop heat gain through the windows.
- Insulate your walls and attic. Insulation is generally connected to keeping your home comfortable in the cold season, but it also helps you out in the summer. Heat is constantly looking for cooler places—like your rooms. Sufficient insulation keeps heat from passing through your attic and walls.
- Have your ducts cleaned. Air moves easier through your home when your ducts are uncluttered. That makes your air conditioner’s job easier.
- Check to see your ducts are properly sealed to block air leaks and insulate them if needed. You’re losing valuable heated or cooled air if your ducts have leaks. Correctly sealing and insulating ducts is even more important if they are in the attic, a vented crawlspace or any other unconditioned room.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats make managing your home comfort and efficiency easy. You can automatically move your temperature when you’re not at home or when you’re sleeping while avoiding discomfort because your home’s temperature will go to normal when needed.
- If you choose not to use a programmable thermostat, avoid setting your thermostat at a chillier setting when you turn on your air conditioner. It might seem it will cool your home faster, but the time it takes to cool won’t be impacted. You’ll only cost yourself more in energy.
- Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. To help keep your cooling bill low, make sure the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures is as close as possible. According to the Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% each year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7° to 10°F from its average setting for eight hours a day. Using a ceiling fan together with your air conditioner can let you raise your thermostat a little more. You can raise your setting by about 4°F without impacting your comfort.
- Limit heat-generating appliances near your thermostat. If you’re putting lamps, tvs or other heat generating appliances near your thermostat, it can cause your air conditioner to run for an extended time because it senses heat from these appliances and thinks your home needs cooling.
- Invest in new, energy-efficient equipment. If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping up with your home-comfort needs, call Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc for an check up. It could be time to replace it with ENERGY STAR®-qualified equipment that can lower your annual energy bill by more than $115, according to energystar.gov.
If you’re interested in improving your home’s energy efficiency, call Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc at 602-832-7808. Our team can help you think about solutions, energy-efficient equipment or schedule a regular maintenance appointment. You can also schedule your appointment online using our online scheduler.