Energy efficiency in heating and air conditioning replacement, repair and installation is a broad topic that encompasses a wide range of technical procedures and DOE standards. Understanding its many ins and outs requires specialized training that’s just not practical for most homeowners to participate in. Luckily, there are still a few simple tips you can follow on your own to improve your system’s efficiency.
Our HVAC experts at Air Products & Services have been in the industry for over 40 years, and we’ve listed a few handy efficiency tips that will help you save energy when heating and cooling your home.
Use Programmable Thermostats
Heating and air conditioning make up about 40% of all energy consumption in an average American household. According to the DOE, adjusting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees up in the summer and down in the winter for at least 8 hours every day can cut your energy use by up to 10%. Unfortunately, it’s easy to forget to do this without a programmable thermostat.
Automatic thermostats or smart thermostats can also contribute to a holistic AC troubleshooting system by allowing you to actively monitor temperatures, even at times when you’re away. Some models can even operate over wi-fi, allowing you to control your system remotely.
Insulate and Seal Your Air Ducts
Air ducts perform an important role in any HVAC system, but most homeowners tend to neglect their ductwork when it comes to maintenance and efficiency. Poor sizing, sealing and placement all contribute to potential heat loss, resulting in higher energy costs.
Make sure your ducts are installed properly by entrusting their care only to professionally-certified AC repair and installation contractors. Ductwork maintenance should also be regularly handled by trained specialists to keep registers unblocked, dampers free-flowing and all ducts connected and insulated.
Look for the ENERGY STAR® Label
As far as energy efficiency is concerned, having an ENERGY STAR-certified unit will always give you more savings than non-certified alternatives. However, this doesn’t necessarily narrow down your shopping list much, so it pays to understand the different standards used in efficiency ratings and what it means for your home.
Learn more about making your home’s HVAC system more energy efficient by contacting our experts at Air Products & Services. Call us at (818) 989-2030 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate or schedule a visit today. We serve Tarzana, CA, and surrounding areas.