Winter Energy Efficiency Tips for Your HVAC System
With winter on the way, you might be eyeing your energy bills with trepidation. The freezing months often bring an increase in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t fret—with the right approach, you can regulate your winter energy efficiency and save a pile of cash. Here’s how to fine-tune your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system to keep your home pleasant without draining your finances.
Book Fall Furnace Maintenance
Your HVAC system is like a car—it runs easier when well-maintained. Booking annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives enhances your system’s operation and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. In addition to helping your HVAC equipment run more efficiently, this scheduled check can detect any hidden issues. Identifying and fixing these problems early prevents inconvenient breakdowns and more costly repair bills mid-season.
Consider Replacing Your Current Furnace
If your furnace is more than 10 years old and frequently failing, it might be time for an upgrade. Outdated systems can be a significant financial burden, costing you more in energy and repairs than the cost of replacement in the long run. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified unit can minimize your energy costs by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently cozy indoor environment when your heating equipment meets today’s standards.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Remember those hot summer days when you programmed your thermostat to 78 degrees to save money? Well, that setting won’t do you any favors in colder months. Adjust your thermostat for the season by adjusting it to 70 degrees or a lower temperature. Every degree you decrease the temperature can save you as much as 3% on your energy costs.
Moreover, opt for a smart programmable thermostat you can set and leave alone. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices allow you to adjust your home’s temperature anywhere you are. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments based on your habits, helping you stay comfortable while saving energy when you’re away or sleeping.
Change the Air Filter
A furnace air filter impacts how efficiently your HVAC system operates. A dirty, blocked filter forces the HVAC system to work harder to circulate air, increasing energy consumption. To stop this situation, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a budget-friendly and straightforward way to improve winter energy efficiency.
Check Your Air Registers
The little details count. Rapidly dusting your supply and return registers cleans out hair, dirt and other blockages that impede airflow. Once clean, ensure your curtains, rugs and furniture aren’t blocking the vents. Keeping the path clear for warm air to circulate makes a substantial improvement in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.
Remove Drafts in Your Home
Even slight drafts can put excessive strain on your HVAC system. Perform a sweep of your home to spot and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to find on chilly, windy days that pull the heat out through gaps and cracks. Install weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to halt costly air leaks right away.
Increase Insulation in Your Home
The attic is the most convenient place to add insulation to your home. More insulation on the attic floor means reduced heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your heating and cooling system to maintain a pleasant temperature. But insulation isn’t just for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to boost efficiency.
Consider Zoning
If your home has more than one story or wings, you could benefit from installing a zoned HVAC system. This involves placing dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that enable you to independently control the temperature in different areas of your home. You could heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, saving energy by only paying to heat select parts of your home when you need them.
Select a Humidifier
Winter air is typically extremely dry. You might tackle this with portable humidifiers throughout your living space, but there’s a more effective way. Set up a whole-house humidifier to work in coordination with your heating system. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier enhances a warmer interior without raising the thermostat.
Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Winter Prep in the U.S.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s winter energy efficiency in the U.S., Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is ready to support. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, reliable solutions to all your comfort challenges, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
If you’re not thoroughly pleased with our service, you can depend on us to make it right. Call 866-397-3787 today so the crew at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can make a significant difference in your life and sense of comfort in the colder season.
