Maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is an important task as a first-time homeowner. Not only can proper maintenance improve the comfort of your home, but it can also save you money on energy costs. To get started, here are some tips to consider:
- Thermostat set to a consistent temperature: Keeping your thermostat at a consistent temperature can save you energy and money in several ways. By setting the thermostat at a constant temperature, your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to maintain that temperature, which reduces energy consumption and lowers your energy bills. Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature while you are at home. If your thermostat is set too low, it will use more energy to heat your home. If it is set too high, you may feel uncomfortable and constantly adjust the temperature, causing the system to turn on and off more frequently and use more energy. When you are away from home, you can save energy by setting the thermostat to a higher temperature. This is especially true during the winter when you are not using the air conditioning. This way, you can save energy without compromising comfort when you return home.
- Schedule regular maintenance: Your system will be thoroughly inspected during a maintenance visit and any necessary adjustments or repairs will be made to identify any potential problems that could disrupt its operation. By catching small problems before they turn into major problems, you can extend the life of your HVAC system by avoiding costly repairs and downtime while keeping it running at its best. It can also reduce your energy bills and reduce your energy consumption if you regularly maintain your system. Regular maintenance also helps identify any issues causing your system to work harder than it needs to, which reduces wear and tear on the system and prevents costly breakdowns in the future.
- Ensure the air filter is clean: To keep your HVAC system running efficientl, change the air filter regularly. The air filter is located in the air handler or furnace and its job is to remove contaminants, like dirt and dust, from the air that passes through it. If the filter becomes clogged, it can reduce the efficiency of the system and increase energy costs and can also cause the system to malfunction or break down, leading to costly repairs. The frequency of air filter replacements depends on the type of filter and the amount of use the system receives. Some filters need to be replaced monthly, while others can last up to three months. Check the air filter every month and replace it as soon as it becomes visibly dirty or clogged to maintain the efficiency of the HVAC system.
- Use ceiling fans: Ceiling fans are an excellent way of getting the air circulated throughout your house and making it more comfortable by using them. Thermostats work by letting you set the temperature of your home to a high in the summer and a low in the winter, saving energy as well. In order to reduce your dependence on your air conditioning system and your energy consumption, you can use ceiling fans in order to circulate air throughout your home. This can lower your energy bills and help you save money on energy costs since you won’t be relying on your HVAC system as much.