If your energy bill seems to be rising with the temperatures, keep reading to find out how you can save money and keep energy costs low.
Check for Leaks
If your HVAC unit is hooked up to a leaky duct system, the cool air escaping could cost you. Maintain costs and efficiency by regularly checking your air ducts for leaks and repairing when necessary.
Replace Filters Regularly
The air filter inside of an HVAC unit is there to collect dirt, dust, and other types of debris. The dirtier it gets, the harder the system has to work — and that means using more energy that’s costing you more on your utility bill.
By simply replacing the filter regularly, you can ensure that your HVAC system stays clean and efficient.
The air filter inside of an HVAC unit is there to collect dirt, dust, and other types of debris. The dirtier it gets, the harder the system has to work — and that means using more energy that’s costing you more on your utility bill.
By simply replacing the filter regularly, you can ensure that your HVAC system stays clean and efficient.
Run Hot Appliances When the Temperature is Cool
You may have noticed that your home warms up when running appliances like the oven or dryer. Still, many people forget to consider the temperature outside when running these appliances.
When heat-emitting appliances are used during the hottest parts of the day, the AC is forced to work even harder to maintain the temperature. As a result, many people unknowingly spend more on their energy bills simply due to timing.
To save money, try using hot appliances during cooler parts of the day, such as the morning or evenin
Retrofitting
The Department of Energy has found that you can save up to 35% annually in energy costs if you increase HVAC energy efficiency by adding or replacing parts.
Retrofits extend the life of your unit and can improve the consistency of temperatures and humidity.
Good candidates for retrofitting have large well-maintained, energy-intensive systems that get a lot of use.
Total Upgrade
While a total upgrade to your HVAC system can be a large cost upfront, it can have a major impact on your energy bill in the long run. Depending on the age and efficiency of your current unit, a new system could save you hundreds of dollars annually.
Another potential bonus that comes with replacing your HVAC system is a discount with your local energy company related to energy-efficient upgrades. Just be sure to check with them first to see where you could save.
You may want to consider a new, more energy-efficient HVAC unit if your current system:
- Is more than 10 years old
- Needs frequent repairs
- Runs longer to keep your home cool
