How to Improve Your HVAC System’s Energy Efficiency

Finding ways to improve your heating and cooling system’s energy efficiency is a win-win for the environment and your wallet. From optimizing your thermostat to staying on top of maintenance, a few little changes can make a big difference.

Optimize Temperature Settings

One of the easiest ways to improve your HVAC system’s efficiency is by adjusting your thermostat. You may be surprised at how much you can save by turning it up or down a few notches, depending on the season.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates homeowners can save up to 10% on their energy bills by adjusting the thermostat by 7-10°F for eight hours a day while they are away at work or sleeping.

If this sounds daunting, start slow. Even a one-degree change for an 8-hour period can save about 1% on heating and cooling costs.

Switch to a Smart Thermostat

The type of thermostat you have also affects your system’s efficiency. Smart thermostats, for example, allow you to preset the temperature to more efficient settings while you’re away. And if you forget to set a schedule, you can automatically change settings from your smartphone – no matter where you are.

Some smart thermostats use AI to learn your temperature preferences over time and make automatic adjustments. The added cost of installing a smart thermostat can pay off over time in terms of savings, sustainability, and convenience.

Perform Regular Maintenance

A clean, well-maintained HVAC system reaches your desired temperature faster and uses less energy. Maintenance should ideally be performed twice a year – once before heating season and again before cooling season.

Maintenance ensures all your system’s components are operating properly and efficiently. It also includes cleaning crucial components such as coils, burners, and condensate drain lines.

Change the Air Filter Regularly

If you shrug at the idea of changing your system’s air filter, you’re risking potential damage to the system and reducing efficiency. Air filters clogged with dirt, dust, and other contaminants restrict airflow into the system. This causes the unit to work harder, leading to longer cycles, higher energy bills, repairs, and a reduced lifespan.

Replace your air filter every 1-3 months, or according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Seal Air Leaks

Inspect for air leaks around doors, windows, and other openings, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping – an easy DIY task for most homeowners. Preventing conditioned air from escaping eases the load on your HVAC system.

Ensure Proper Ductwork

Air ducts can leak as much as 20-30% of conditioned air due to tears, leaks, or improper installation, forcing your system to run longer cycles. That’s like watching your hard-earned money go down the drain!

Seal ductwork with mastic tape, and consider adding insulation if ducts run through unconditioned spaces like attics, crawl spaces, or garages. This prevents heat loss or gain and boosts efficiency.

Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a low-cost way to help control indoor temperatures when you use them wisely. In summer, set them counterclockwise to create a cooling downdraft, allowing you to raise the thermostat without losing comfort. In winter, switch them to clockwise at a low speed to push warm air down.

Just remember – ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Make sure to turn the fans off when no one is around.

Close Curtains and Blinds

It may be tempting to open curtains on a sunny day. However, sunlight streaming in can quickly increase indoor temperatures, causing your AC to work harder to cool your home. Blocking the sunlight, especially during peak hours, can lower energy bills and extend your system’s lifespan.

Upgrade to a More Efficient HVAC System

In certain cases, replacing your HVAC system is the best way to improve efficiency. According to ENERGY STAR, upgrading to a new system can save about $140 a year in energy costs.

Signs it might be time for a new HVAC unit include:

• Age. Most HVAC systems last about 15 years. Once they surpass this age, they tend to become less efficient and break down more frequently.
• Rising Energy Bills. If your energy bills suddenly spike without any change in usage, the system may be losing efficiency and struggling to maintain the desired temperature.
• Frequent Repairs. While an occasional repair is normal, constant repairs indicate the system is nearing the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced. Consider putting the repair money into the cost of buying a new system.
• Comfort Issues. Older systems often struggle to heat or cool homes evenly, creating hot and cold spots around the house.
• Poor Air Quality. Aside from providing cooling, your air conditioner also balances humidity levels. If you notice excessive humidity, mold, or mildew, your AC unit may be struggling to remove moisture from the air.