7 Factors That Impact HVAC Efficiency in Your Home

As the weather begins to warm up, it’s time for homeowners to think about enhancing their HVAC systems. Spring is an ideal time to schedule maintenance before the summer heat and increased service calls start. This article will explore some key factors that impact HVAC efficiency and how you can lower your energy bills by maintaining your heating and cooling systems.

Insulation

Proper insulation improves your HVAC system’s efficiency and helps regulate the temperature throughout the home. Good insulation also decreases energy costs and can make your environment more comfortable for you and your family. You can reduce drafts and uneven temperatures by weatherstripping your windows and doors and adding insulation to the attic.

Ductwork

Ductwork is a significant part of any HVAC system. The ducts must be intact and tightly sealed to ensure they don’t leak air.

If you’re having ductwork installed for the first time, the installer must choose the right size. If the original contractor overestimated the size, your system might benefit by having smaller ductwork retrofitted within parts of the existing ductwork to ensure the proper airflow throughout your home.

HVAC Maintenance

Proper HVAC maintenance will lower home energy costs and improve the air quality in your Wallace, NC, home. Regular maintenance on your HVAC system will decrease energy bills by helping your system work smoothly without additional strain and run time.

Dirty parts and filters may reduce airflow and cause the system to run longer while trying to reach the set temperature. It’s important to remember that there are many measures you can take to decrease the energy use of your HVAC system; regularly cleaning or replacing air filters is one of the most effective things you can do.

Thermostat Settings

The settings on your thermostat are essential to maintaining and lowering your home’s energy consumption. You can reduce your energy consumption by setting the thermostat lower than average at home and raising it as needed during the warmer months. With an energy-efficient thermostat, you can rely on unique features, such as a programmable mode and a seven-day option, to pre-set different temperatures when you expect to be out of the house.

Age

The age of your system affects how efficiently it operates. Even with regular maintenance tuneups, components show wear. When this happens to a ball bearing, it’s a cheap and easy replacement; however, if the compressor fails in an older, unwarranted system, it’s probably time to upgrade to a new model.

Size of Your HVAC System

Installing the right-size HVAC system can mean better energy savings and more comfort in your home. Systems that are too large or too small for your home will not be operating at total efficiency. If they’re too small, the system will constantly run, trying to reach the set temperature; if they’re too large, they act too quickly to heat or cool an area and will continually cycle on and off, which uses a lot of energy.

Manufacturer’s Efficiency Rating

Finally, HVAC systems have energy efficiency ratings, and the higher the number, the more efficient the appliance. You can find the rating on a tag, in the owner’s manual or online. The most efficient systems cost more, but you’ll save money on your utility bills.

Air conditioners have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), and furnaces have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. If you have an older system, compare its energy rating with the newer models. The improvement might surprise you.

We provide residential and commercial HVAC services. If you need help installing or upgrading your HVAC system in Wallace, NC, contact Gideon Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule an appointment.

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