Winter Energy Efficiency Tips for Your HVAC System
With winter on the way, you may be considering your energy bills with a sense of unease. The chilly months often bring a rise in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t worry—with the right approach, you can manage your winter energy efficiency and save a significant amount of cash. Here’s how to optimize your climate control system to keep your home cozy without draining your finances.
Schedule Fall Furnace Maintenance
Your climate control system is like a car—it operates easier when well-maintained. Scheduling annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives boosts your system’s operation and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. Apart from helping your HVAC equipment run more efficiently, this regular check can reveal any hidden issues. Finding and addressing these concerns early prevents inconvenient breakdowns and more costly repair bills mid-season.
Upgrade Your Old Furnace
If your furnace is more than 10 years old and frequently failing, it may be time for a new one. Antiquated systems can be a considerable drain on your finances, costing you more in energy and repairs than what you would save by replacing them. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified model can minimize your power expenses by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently comfortable indoor environment when your heating equipment meets today’s standards.
Modify Your Thermostat
Remember those warm summer days when you set the thermostat to 78 degrees to save money? Well, that setting won’t do you any favors in the winter. Modify your thermostat for the season by configuring it to 70 degrees or a lower temperature. Every degree you drop the temperature can save you up to 3% on your heating expenses.
Even better, opt for a smart programmable thermostat you can set and forget. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices allow you to modify your home’s temperature from anywhere. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments taking into account your behaviors, helping you stay comfortable while saving energy when you’re away or sleeping.
Replace the Air Filter
A furnace air filter has an impact on how efficiently your HVAC system functions. A dirty, clogged filter forces your furnace and air conditioner to work harder to circulate air, increasing energy consumption. To stop this from happening, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a cost-effective and simple way to improve winter energy efficiency.
Check Your Air Registers
The little details count. Occasionally dusting your supply and return registers eliminates hair, dirt and other blockages that restrict airflow. Once clean, ensure your curtains, rugs and furniture aren’t obstructing the vents. Ensuring clear passage for warm air to circulate makes a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.
Remove Drafts in Your Home
Even minor drafts can put excessive strain on your home heating system. Carry out a sweep of your home to locate and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to find on chilly, windy days that pull the heat out through gaps and cracks. Install weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to halt costly air leaks immediately.
Add More Insulation in Your Home
The attic is the easiest place to add insulation to your home. Extra insulation on the attic floor means decreased heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your home heating system to maintain a cozy temperature. But insulation isn’t solely for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to enhance energy efficiency.
Explore Zoning
If your home has several floors or wings, you might find advantages from using a zoned HVAC system. This involves placing dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that allow you to independently control the temperature in different areas of your home. You might heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, saving energy by only paying to heat chosen sections of your home when you need them.
Choose a Humidifier
Winter air is infamously dry. You may combat this with portable humidifiers throughout your living space, but there’s a better way. Install a whole-house humidifier to work in tandem with your furnace. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier enhances a more comfortable interior without cranking up the thermostat.
Work with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Winter Prep in Fort Lauderdale
If you’re looking to boost your home’s winter energy efficiency in Fort Lauderdale, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is available to help. Our ACE-certified technicians offer prompt, reliable solutions to all your comfort issues, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
If you’re not thoroughly pleased with our work, you can trust us to make it right. Call 954-736-4314 today so the technicians at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can make a substantial difference in your life and sense of comfort during the winter months.