Electricity consumption in the average American household spikes in winter, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do to lower your energy bills. The HVAC installation contractors at Dependable Heating & Air Conditioning share some energy-saving tips below.
Routine HVAC Maintenance
HVAC contractors recommend scheduling maintenance work for your HVAC unit at least twice a year. This will help keep your furnace working efficiently and aid in reducing energy and repair costs.
Change Air Filters
You should change your system’s air filters at least once a month, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Filthy air filters not only reduce the circulation of warm air throughout your home, they can also lower indoor air quality, not to mention trigger allergies and cause respiratory health problems.
Set the Thermostat at Optimal Temperature Levels
ENERGY STAR®, a government-run program promoting energy efficiency, recommends setting your thermostat to 68 °F (or 20 °C), as this temperature provides the right balance between indoor comfort and energy efficiency.
Lower the Thermostat When You’re Not at Home
By turning your thermostat down by 7–10 degrees °F for eight hours a day, you can save up to 10% in electricity costs. However, HVAC companies recommend that you avoid raising or lowering your thermostat repeatedly throughout the day because this can increase your HVAC unit’s power consumption. That’s why a programmable thermostat would be a smart investment.
You can preprogram modern thermostats to change temperatures at certain times of the day. For example, set it so that when you leave for work, the thermostat lowers the temperature, then raises it again about 10 minutes before you get back so your home will be nice and toasty by the time you arrive.
One more thing more: make sure to hire a qualified contractor. After all, a broken-down furnace is the last thing anyone wants in the middle of winter.