During the coldest and hottest weeks in Heflin, your heating and cooling system is an essential ally in keeping your home comfortable. However, it’s also your worst enemy when trying to lower your energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your HVAC system could make up nearly half of your household’s energy use.
That hefty draw of energy makes your HVAC unit a perfect place to start changing your energy habits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or want to lower your energy bill, there are plenty of ways—big and small—to manage how your heating and cooling system uses energy.
Switch Out Your Air Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system are vital to upholding your home’s air quality. They help catch a variety of debris—including dust, dirt and other small particles—and block them from polluting your house. However, more than just your air quality suffers when your filters are full of debris. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a dirty filter can decrease air conditioner efficiency by up to 15 percent. Replacing your air filter consistently keeps your system from using an unnecessary amount of energy. Replace one-inch pleated filters every month. Remember, filters might need more frequent attention if your HVAC system is in constant use, is by dusty conditions, or you have pets at your home. Call Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc to find out what frequency of filter change is appropriate for your system.
Schedule Regular HVAC Service
If you want your HVAC system to run as efficiently as possible, routine maintenance is key. While it’s spring, have an HVAC technician inspect your air conditioner and clean its coils, check refrigerant levels, adjust system controls and more. In the fall, have them return to check up on your furnace and make adjustments before the cooler weather sets in later. Routine maintenance confirms your equipment is ready to run exactly as it was intended to—with peak efficiency. Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc professionals are qualified to help your system get back on track.
Switch Out Your Thermostat
Saving money on your energy bill can be as stress-free as adjusting the temperature in your home while you’re asleep or gone. The closer the house’s temp is to the conditions outside, the lower your energy bill can be. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to take extreme measures each day. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends lowering or increasing (depending on the season) your temperature by easily resetting your thermostat when you are asleep or not at the house.
You could make these adjustments manually each day, but a programmable thermostat automates the process. These thermostats allow you to set a schedule for your HVAC system and automatically controls the temperature in your home to match it. A smart thermostat takes your control a step further, usually allowing you to monitor the temperature wirelessly from almost anywhere. Talk with Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc to see if either of these options will work for you.
Upgrade Your Equipment
Old HVAC equipment can be a drain on your energy bill during the year. Whether they’re no longer running efficiently, are the inappropriate size for your home or lack the energy efficiency new systems provide, there’s a good chance your system is costing you extra money if it’s more than 10 years old.
When you’ve determined it’s time to look for a replacement system, Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc can help you out. We’ll help you recognize different efficiency ratings and select a system that will work for your needs.
If you have additional questions about watching your energy costs, need to arrange maintenance or want to discuss new system choices, the team at Bain Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc in Heflin is ready to guide you. Contact us at 256-270-1196 or schedule an appointment online.