3 Tips to Lower Energy Bills with HVAC Maintenance
Have you ever noticed how much your energy bills go up during the hot summer and bitterly cold winter? Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable, but that hard work can use up a lot of energy.
The good news? There are simple things you can do to lower your energy bills with HVAC maintenance. Our HVAC experts in Howard County walk through three easy tips that any homeowner can do to help you save money on your HVAC energy bills.
Ready to get started? If you need more help, contact ASC HVAC for a quote for Maryland heating and cooling.
Tip 1: Change Your Air Filters Regularly
One of the easiest and most effective ways to lower your energy bills is by changing your HVAC air filters. When your filters get clogged with dust, dirt, and other particles, your system has to work extra hard to push air through. This uses more energy, which increases your bill.
How often should you change the air filter?
A good rule of thumb is to check the filter every month and change it at least every three months. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, you might want to change it more often.
Why is this important?
Clean filters allow air to flow smoothly, meaning your HVAC system won’t have to run as long to keep your home at the perfect temperature. This little task can make a big difference in your energy usage, and it’s super easy to do yourself! You may not think the dust and dander that gets clogged can limit air flow that much, but the amount is surprising. Do your home a favor and check your air filter today.
Tip 2: Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Just like your car needs regular oil changes to run smoothly, your HVAC system needs regular check-ups to keep it in top shape. Scheduling professional HVAC maintenance at least once a year helps your system run more efficiently, which can lower your energy bills. By keeping ahead of dangerous repairs and replacing parts before they break, you’ll be surprised how much smoother your HVAC system runs – and how much longer it’ll last.
What happens during HVAC maintenance?
A certified HVAC technician will come to your home and perform a full inspection. They’ll clean important parts, check for any issues, and make sure everything is working the way it should. If you work with the same HVAC company, HVAC maintenance and repairs will be kept in a log, so they can track how well your HVAC unit is performing.
How does this save money?
When your system is running efficiently, it uses less energy. Plus, regular maintenance can catch small problems before they turn into big, expensive repairs. You may not be aware that a part is working harder than it should or that a line has a small leak, but regular maintenance will catch and repair these issues before they become bigger problems.
Tip 3: Use a Programmable Thermostat
Have you ever left the house with the heat or air conditioning blasting, even though no one is home? That’s a lot of wasted energy! A programmable thermostat can help you avoid this by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home or sleeping. The best part is that you select between programmable thermostats that can stick to a schedule (including work days and weekends) or you can upgrade to a smart thermostat, that senses when more people are home and adjusts accordingly – you don’t have to do a thing.
How does a programmable thermostat work?
You can set your thermostat to change the temperature at different times of the day. For example, you can program it to lower the heat or air conditioning while you’re at work, and then turn it back up just before you get home. That way, you’re not wasting energy when you don’t need it, but you still come home to a comfortable house.
How does a smart thermostat work?
A smart thermostat will use advanced technology to program your thermostat based on your habits. You can control it from an app on your phone and set the heating and cooling from wherever you are – turning it off after you’ve left and turning it on when you come home early. Plus, some models will detect when you are home and turn the system on without you needing to do a thing, and it can be optimized for energy efficient usage.
How does upgrading my thermostat save money on energy bills?
By using a programmable thermostat, you can save a lot on your energy bills without having to remember to constantly adjust the temperature yourself. Some models have an eco-mode built in, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature while conversing energy. You can set it and forget it and watch the energy bills drop.
Bonus Tip: Seal Up Any Drafts or Leaks
This isn’t directly about your HVAC system, but it can help a lot! If you have drafts around windows or doors, your HVAC system has to work harder to keep the temperature where you want it. Sealing up those gaps with weatherstripping or caulk can keep the warm or cool air inside, so your system doesn’t have to run as much.
Find ways to get temperature-controlled curtains, window sheets for the winter, and seals around loose gaps. Small changes make a big impact on your energy bills.
Small Changes Make a Big Difference, Start HVAC Maintenance Today
Lowering your energy bills doesn’t have to be hard. By changing your air filters, scheduling regular maintenance, and using a programmable thermostat, you can keep your home comfortable without breaking the bank. These tips are easy to follow, and they’ll save you money in the long run. Plus, when your HVAC system is running smoothly, it’ll last longer, which means fewer expensive repairs down the road. It’s a win for your wallet and your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is HVAC maintenance important?
Regular maintenance keeps your system running efficiently, which helps lower your energy bills. It also catches small problems early, preventing costly repairs later on.
How much money can I save by using a programmable thermostat?
You can save around 10% a year on heating and cooling by using a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re not home or sleeping.
Can I do HVAC maintenance myself?
While you can do simple tasks like changing filters, it’s a good idea to have a professional perform a full inspection and cleaning at least once a year.
What’s the best time of year to schedule HVAC maintenance?
The best time for maintenance is in the spring or fall, before the heavy heating and cooling seasons. This ensures your system is ready to work efficiently when you need it most.