Many people consider a proper HVAC to be an integral part of any modern home. Your HVAC system will work to keep the indoor environment at a comfortable temperature despite the climate outside. The higher the differential between inside and outside temperature the more work the HVAC unit must do. Unfortunately, these appliances can quickly drain a lot of energy and money if you aren’t careful. There are a few things you can check to make sure yours is running as efficiently as it can be.
Seal the Ducts
Ducts are often run through unheated spaces such as attics and basements. If your duct system is leaking, it will defeat the whole purpose of making your HVAC run well. Therefore, you might want to check this area off of your list first. A leaking duct will allow the warmer or cooler air that you want to escape the home before it reaches you and does its job. To avoid this expensive issue, you can get a product designed to seal any cracks in the ducts and maximize airflow. In addition to leaks, you should ensure that the ducts are properly insulated because even if they aren’t actually leaking they can lose efficiency through conduction if they aren’t properly insulated.
Change the Filters
As your HVAC system circulates air, the filters inside it will become clogged with dust and other debris. If there is too much gunk inside the filters, your HVAC will need to up its game and work harder just to maintain the normal temperature that you like. This means that it may turn on more frequently or stay on longer than it needs to. It will also increase the load on the blower causing it to use more electricity and wear out sooner.
Routine Maintenance
This one requires a qualified HVAC contractor to take a look at your unit and check freon levels and voltages etc. but it is well worth it to head off problems while they are still minor rather than having to make an emergency service call. Most of these professionals offer a complete package of maintenance services at one price.
Clean the Drain
Some people may not know this, but having a clean drain is a basic part of creating the most energy-efficient environment that you can in your home. All you need to do here is drop one cup of chlorinated bleach down your drain and chase it with about one gallon of clear water. The bleach and water help to clean the drain and eliminate mold and mildew buildup that can plug the drain.
Shade the Unit
Your HVAC unit will be somewhere next to one of the outer walls of your home. While this makes it convenient for any maintenance issues, it could cause a problem if you don’t place it correctly. The system should have ample shade to keep cool during the hotter months. If it overheats due to excessive sunlight, it will cause it to work harder to keep your home cool.
If you find that your HVAC isn’t quite as optimal as it could be, don’t panic. You can combine some of the tips above to bring down your energy usage and add savings to your wallet. It always feels nicer knowing you can run your system to stay warm without running up the bill at the same time. Even if your HVAC seems dated, there might be ways you can retrofit it to run smoothly. Don’t forget to check on things related to the system. Making sure your home has proper insulation can help take some strain off the HVAC.
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