Tips to Help Reduce Your HVAC Costs
The average residential HVAC system consumes roughly 45% of an entire home’s energy consumption, meaning that roughly half of the energy bills are solely coming from the heating and cooling system. During the height of the Florida summers and winters, HVAC systems are pushed even harder, costing more money. Fortunately, there are steps that the average homeowner can take to maintain Ideal Conditions on the interior of the home, reduce operating costs, and lower energy bills.
Use Ceiling Fans Throughout Your Home
On average, an HVAC unit will use one hundred times more energy per hour than a single ceiling fan, set on medium speed. Consider properly placing and utilizing ceiling fans, especially when the weather is mild. Consider using ceiling fans only when rooms are occupied, as a constantly running ceiling fan can add as much as $7/month to the power bill.
Use Programmable or Smart Thermostats Set on “Auto”
Use caution in assigning temperatures within the home. For every degree (up or down) that the HVAC system must operate to obtain, an increase of roughly 8% more energy per hour is needed. The Florida Public Service Commission suggests keeping residential thermostats set to 78oF during the summer months, and 68oF in the winter months. For example, setting a thermostat to 70oF in the summer, versus 78oF, the energy consumption and operating costs nearly double!
Effective Use of Window Coverings During the Summer Months
Blinds, shutters, shades, and certain kinds of curtains can do much to keep the heat out, allowing the AC unit to operate less. Keeping window coverings applied during the summer days are primarily quick and inexpensive solutions to reducing heat gain.
Sealing Leaks Around Access Points
Leaks in your ducts or around your doors and windows can force your HVAC system to work harder. Calling a professional to find and repair leaks in your ductwork or near your doors and windows can save you a lot of money in the long run. It’ll also reduce your carbon footprint.
Change HVAC Air Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system play an important role in keeping indoor air clean and free of dust, but they also ensure optimal airflow throughout the entire HVAC system. For best results, be sure to change the filter regularly.
Maintain Your HVAC systems Annually
Regular HVAC maintenance saves you money by identifying problems before they require fixing. Keeping your HVAC system running efficiently equates to saving money on energy bills. In fact, studies show that regular maintenance of your HVAC system can reduce energy costs by 5-40%.
HVAC/Energy Audits
Contact the experts at Ideal Conditions. We can perform an entire HVAC system inspection, identify issues/leaks with ductwork, and design a maintenance plan to keep your unit in peak operating condition. Call us any time at (904) 379-8762 or use the online contact form available through our website.