Heating and air conditioning uses the largest chunk of your home’s energy dollar. Conversely, energy conservation designed to reduce heating or cooling load will have the greatest impact on your monthly energy bills. Heating and cooling expense is driven by seasonal weather extremes. An average home will experience its highest energy bills of the year during the hottest months of the summer and the coldest months of the winter. To reduce your heating and cooling expense follow these simple tips!
- To assure that your heating and cooling system is operating efficiently, have it serviced annually by a certified technician.
- Inside and outside coils should be kept clean and free of debris.
- Return filters should be changed monthly. Set thermostat at 78º F in the summer and 68º F in the winter. For each degree higher or lower you set the thermostat, you save an additional 2% to 3% on heating or cooling costs. Install and utilize a programmable thermostat and save an additional 10%.
- Have a HVAC technician check carefully for duct leaks. Leaks that are found should be sealed with fiberglass mesh and mastic sealant.
- When purchasing a new system, make sure that it is sized correctly for your home and has the highest efficiency rating (SEER) that your budget can afford.