How to Save Money on Your HVAC Energy Costs

It’s no surprise that AC and heating costs skyrocket during the summer and winter months since we use our HVAC systems more frequently. However, even throughout the rest of the year, our HVAC systems account for almost half of your monthly energy expenses! Fortunately, you can save money on your HVAC energy costs by following the tips below.

Seal Air Leaks

Besides high energy bills, you don’t want heated or cooled air escaping through leaks in your house. Check your home for any cracks, holes, or gaps that allow heated or cooled air to leak out. Air seal the gaps with caulk or weatherstripping to cut back on energy expenses.

Use Properly Fitted Window Treatments

Believe it or not, window treatments do a lot more than add to the overall aesthetic of your home. They can actually help you conserve energy if they are properly fitted and adjusted according to the time of day and season. In the winter, open your window treatments during the day when the sun is hitting your windows directly and close them at night when the temperature drops. In the summer, close your window treatments during the day to help keep your home cool and open them at night.

Change Your Air Filters Regularly

Air filters prevent dust particles, pet dander, and allergens from floating around your home. However, if you don’t change your filter regularly, dust can accumulate and clog your filter. When your filter becomes clogged, your HVAC system will be forced to work harder than usual to keep your house at a comfortable temperature, raising your electricity costs in the process. It’s important that you change your air filters every month or when instructed by the furnace or filter manufacturer. Doing so will ensure that your system runs smoothly.

Switch to a Smart Thermostat

If you don’t already have one, switching out your current thermostat for a smart programmable one will help reduce your energy costs significantly! Today, smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular since they allow you to regulate the temperature in your home with just a touch of a button. Additionally, a smart thermostat can monitor your energy usage and provide you with feedback on how to save money on your energy costs. You can even set up a schedule, so if you prefer one temperature during the day and another at night, this thermostat will be the perfect addition to your smart home. When you’re away from home, your smart thermostat will help you save energy and money on your heating and cooling bills.

Generate an HVAC Zoning System

A zoning system is a great way to reduce energy costs by running the appropriate levels of heating and cooling in different areas of the home based on occupancy. For example, if the family living room is empty, then there's no need to run the air conditioning or heating which would cause you to waste money.To create a zoning system, the first thing you need to do is determine how many zones you need in your home. Then, plan which rooms should be in each zone. You will need to make sure that your ductwork and vents are in place before installing the zoning system. You’ll also need enough thermostats to put up in the different zones, dampers for your ductwork, and a central control panel.Next, you need to decide what temperature you want to set your zones to. Once you have the rooms and temperatures for each zone, go to the thermostat's menu and select "Zoning." When in this menu, select "Zones" from the left-hand side menu and then add your zones from the right-hand side options.

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

We recommend scheduling two maintenance checks a year. The last thing you want is for your AC and heating to break down right before they’re needed the most. Hire a reputable HVAC service company to maintain your HVAC system.Maintenance typically includes cleaning and ensuring that your system is in good working order. If there is any damage, your technician will repair your HVAC system right away. Routine maintenance not only helps your AC and heating system work more efficiently but will also help it last longer.

Replace Your Heating and Cooling System

If your currency HVAC system is outdated and causes you to have high energy bills, it may be time to replace it. Although HVAC systems tend to last for 15 to 25 years, as AC and heating systems get older and approach the 15-year mark, excessive wear will cause the system to be wasteful. Fortunately, newer HVAC systems are becoming more and more energy-efficient. Modern units have a higher SEER or Seasonal Ratio rating than older models. And the higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the heating and cooling system is. While upgrading your HVAC unit can be quite an investment, it will save you quite a bit of money down the road. Before replacing your HVAC system, make sure that you have a clear idea of your budget and needs. If you’re looking for a reputable HVAC service company in the New York or New Jersey area to replace your HVAC system, reach out to Quick Serve Pro. We’d be more than happy to answer any of the questions you have!