Heating and Air Energy Efficiency Options

When it comes to heating and air, most homeowners and commercial buildings pay a significant amount each year to maintain a comfortable climate. There may not be a way to cut those expenses completely, though using solar systems may be able to provide some help. There are methods to reducing the energy used by these systems, though. That can help you to save money every month.

Air Filters Need Changing

The best way to keep heating and air systems working at their best and their most proficient level is to keep the filters clean. Changing them monthly is often recommended especially in periods of heavy use such as the winter and summer. Otherwise, changing them one time every three months may help to reduce the amount of material present that makes it difficult for the system to work. These prevent dust and other material from building up in the system.

Tune Up Annually

It is also recommended that both commercial and residential homes have a full HVAC tune up annually. This includes the ductwork, not just your furnace or cooling system. An annual tune up, done by a professional, will ensure the system is working properly. This is also an ideal way to get improved efficiency overall.

Seal Ducts

Sealing the furnace and cooling ducts in the building can also help. This prevents the treated air from escaping. Ducts move the warmth, for example, from the furnace through the rest of the home. However, if there are cracks, some of that warmth will escape and never reach the areas it is intended for. This leaves cold spots throughout the home. Sealing and insulating ducts can save as much as 20 percent of energy costs.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

The use of a programmable thermostat allows you to control the temperature in the space more consistently even when you are not there. Set it to treat the air when you are in the building and not to do so when you are out. In residential situations, if the home is empty during the day while you are working, allow the temperature to drop in the winter significantly but program the thermostat to start warming just before you arrive home. In commercial settings, doing the opposite - keeping the building cooler at night and warmer during the day makes sense.

Overall, heating and air systems need regular care and maintenance in order to work efficiently. However, those who have systems over 10 years of age may wish to discuss the newer models with their technician. In some cases, newer models are far more energy efficient than those used just a decade ago. Making the decision to upgrade may save money over the lifetime of the system.