7 Simple and Effective Green HVAC Tips

Going Green with Your HVAC

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling throughout the country accounts for almost 50% of all home energy costs. The good news is that slashing your energy bill doesn’t mean having to give up on your HVAC. Instead, there are plenty of great ways that you can boost the efficiency of your system and lower your utility bills at the same time.

1. Purchase a Smart Thermostat

New technology is emerging in the heating and cooling market all the time. One of the easiest ways to save money on your utility bills is to take advantage of what that technology can do for you. For instance, a smart thermostat can adapt heating and cooling efforts so that you’re only using energy when you’re in a specific room, or present in the house. You can even get systems that begin to cool or heat your home before you enter the property.

On the other hand, if you want thermostat efficiency on a budget, simply buying a programmable thermostat and using it correctly can be a great way to save on heating and cooling costs. These programmable solutions can allow your heating to adapt according to your schedule.

2. Banish Leaking Ducts

If you have a ducted HVAC system, then you need to make sure that it’s working at its best. Gaps or holes in the ducting might not seem like a big deal from an outsider perspective, but even the smallest amount of damage can significantly reduce the efficiency of your system by making it work much harder. In fact, according to the Department of Energy, taking the time to seal up leaking ducts and inspect them regularly can save you 20% to 30% of your heating costs. The great news is that dealing with leaking ducts is often simple and cost effective, too! You might want to consider a ductless system.

3. Change Air Filters Regularly

HVAC systems are more than just a solution for changing the temperature throughout your home. A good filter can remove outdoor toxins, dust, and dander from your indoor environment, improving the quality of your air. Depending on where you live, and how frequently you use your HVAC system, you may find that you need to change your HVAC filters regularly to keep them working properly. Clogged filters can force the system to work much harder just to perform at a normal standard. Typically, you should change each filter at least every 30 days, and inspect them once a month.

4. Invest in Additional Insulation

You could waste a significant amount of energy attempting to keep your home at a more comfortable temperature if you haven’t taken the time to properly insulate. All of the insulation in your attic and crawlspaces should be regularly inspected to make sure that it’s doing its job properly. You should also check for gaps in the caulking around your windows and doors.

5. Clean the Coils

It’s not just the filters in a HVAC system that can contribute to its energy efficiency, but a range of other components, too. For instance, keeping the AC coils on your units clean can be a great way to prevent excess energy usage. Keep the coils clean by ensuring that you remove any debris around the outside of your unit. In some cases, your system may need more intensive cleaning, and that will require an expert.

6. Keep the Vents Free and Clear

A lot of families accidently block their HVAC vents with furniture, which can be very bad for a HVAC system. Similarly to a clogged filter, a blocked vent can lead to greater pressure within the ducts, which means that the system must work a lot harder. Even if rooms aren’t occupied, it’s important to make sure the space around your vent is clear from any furniture or debris.

7. Buy a New Green HVAC System

Finally, if your HVAC system is getting older, then it’s worth noting that there are countless new, more energy-efficient models on the market today. Consider replacing your unit with a high-efficiency ENERGY STAR-rated unit to boost its performance and minimize your costs.

Today’s HVAC systems are becoming greener all the time, with brand-new technology to help these machines in excellent condition, year after year. However, it’s worth noting that even with a green system, there are still things that you can do to help your HVAC unit perform at its best.

The HVAC professionals at Bob Jenson Air Conditioning and Cooling maintain equipment in San Diego made by all brands. Get in touch with us today to get your system serviced and make sure it is functioning at its maximum efficiency.