8 Tips To Enhance The Efficiency Of Your HVAC

Rising energy costs have made it worthwhile to maximize the efficiency of your HVAC unit. You may also be able to improve the value of your Bay Area home by increasing the efficiency of your HVAC system. While replacing the unit is the best solution, there are a few free or low-cost alternatives to increase the efficiency of your cooling system.

1. Get a Smart Thermostat

You may want to consider upgrading the thermostat. You will be able to use a smartphone app to adjust the settings if you have a smart thermostat. You can switch settings easily with internet access. You can also regulate heating and cooling when you are not at home. Smart thermostats have advanced processors running on clever algorithms. They employ machine learning to know exactly when to lower or raise the ambient temperature.

2. Increase Temperatures When Not at Home

Many homeowners believe that they can save money by keeping the AC temperature same at all times – even when they are not at home. An AC doesn’t work more in attaining the same temperature drop. In fact, peak operational efficiency is achieved when an AC is working at full speed. On and off cycles to maintain the low temperature will cost more in the long run as compared to lowering the temperature just once when you get back home.

3. Install the Thermostat Correctly

Your thermostat can do a lot in improving the efficiency of an HVAC unit. You should never place the thermostat close to a sunlit window. This will trigger the unit more often than required because of false temperature signals. You should not place the thermostat close to any heat-producing appliances.

This includes heaters, personal computers, and lamps. The thermostat will get confused with the extra warmth and make the AC work longer cycles. Smart thermostats should not have anything obstructing the connection. Heavy doors, cupboards, and bookshelves act as possible sensor blockers.

4. Keep the Air Filters Clean

You need to make sure that the air filters are kept clean. Dirty filters can slow down circulation. They also make the HVAC unit work harder, which means more energy consumed. You may want to clean the air filters or get them replaced depending on the condition.

5. Insulate Ductwork

Make sure all ductwork is sealed properly. There is a big risk of air leaks if the ductwork is not sealed properly. You should use high-quality duct-sealing tape if you find any spots. You may also want to consider calling a professional to inspect the ducting.

6. Use Fans to Circulate Conditioned Air

Fans can be useful in reducing cooling costs and creating serious savings. You can make your room feel 10 degrees cooler by turning on the ceiling fan. You don’t need to tweak the thermostat to feel comfortable.

7. Don’t Block Vents

Vents can accidentally get blocked by things in the house. This can greatly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit. You should remove any toys, blinds, furniture, or bookshelves that are in front of the vents.

8. Reduce Power Consumption

There are several concrete steps you can take for reducing power consumption:

• Keep all doors and windows closed
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms
• Allow natural ventilation in mornings and evenings
• Never set your thermostat lower than 78 degrees when cooling