If you’re like most homeowners, half of the energy used in your home is for heating and cooling. The following Energy Star tips can help you maintain your HVAC system for best efficiency and energy savings.
Change Your Air Filter
Extend the life of your HVAC system by regularly changing the filter. Dirt and debris accumulation on the filter causes your system to work harder and lowers its efficiency. Check filters monthly and change them when they look dirty, no less than once every three months. To remove mold spores and other allergens, install a filter with a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) of 8 or higher.
HVAC Equipment Tune-Up
Annual tune-ups for your HVAC system will lead to increased efficiency and cost savings, as well as extending the service life of your equipment and ensuring safe operation.
Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats add more control to temperatures in your home, thereby reducing energy waste and increasing energy savings. They can be programmed to lower temperatures during low-demand times such as when you’re at work, school or sleeping.
Sealing and Insulating Ducts
Ducts move air through your force-air HVAC system and throughout your home. Duct heating or cooling losses decrease the efficiency of your HVAC system by up to 20 percent. Seal duct leaks with mastic sealant or foil tape. If not already done, insulate ducts, especially in unheated spaces such at the attic, crawl spaces or garage.
Use Energy Star Qualified HVAC Equipment
If your HVAC system cannot maintain a comfortable indoor climate or has become less efficient, it may be time for upgrading or replacement. Clues that your HVAC system may need to be replaced include:
- your heating or cooling equipment is 10 or more years old,
- more frequent/costly maintenance,
- uneven heating/cooling in your house, and/or
- increased humidity or dust problems.
Have your HVAC system professionally inspected. If replacement is needed, install only qualified Energy Star equipment for maximum efficiency and cost savings.
Contact our HVAC professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services Inc. for for answers to your HVAC questions.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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