4 Tips for Saving Money on a New HVAC System
It’s finally time to replace that old HVAC system. This is also your opportunity to maximize the money savings on this new system – after all, about half of the energy used by the average homeowner goes to heating and cooling. In addition to working with your contractor to find the most efficient HVAC unit you can afford, there are other ways to squeeze out the most savings once that new system is hooked up. Consider these tips for saving money on a new HVAC system.
1. Programmable thermostat. The less your HVAC system works, the lower your monthly utility bill. A programmable thermostat can reduce the amount of time the system is cooling your home by turning up the thermostat when no one is home. For example, there’s no reason to keep your home chilled when everyone is away at school or work. A programmable thermostat allows you to change the settings on your HVAC system several times a day. In fact, many thermostats make it possible to adjust your HVAC system from across town or even across the country. Left on that big business trip without turning up the thermostat? No worries. You can make that adjustment with the help of a smart phone or computer.
2. Change the air filter. An HVAC system that is clean and properly maintained will operate at top efficiency. Make sure you know where the filter is in your system and keep plenty of spares. On average, the air filter should be changed at least every three months. However, with heavy use, your filter could need to be changed before then. Regularly changing out the filter also prevents a buildup of dust and dirt that can that can lead to issues that could require additional maintenance or repairs.
3. Yearly maintenance. Have a technician come out at least once a year to check out your system – even if there are no issues that you are experiencing. In the same way your car will run smoothly and last longer with regular maintenance, your HVAC system also will reach optimal performance with regular maintenance. In addition, yearly maintenance can uncover small problems before they become air conditioning emergencies.
4. Seal your ducts. It’s fairly common for dust, dirt and moisture to occasionally accumulate in the ductwork of your HVAC system. However, by paying a little extra to have the ducts sealed and insulated, it’s possible to increase the efficiency of your system by as much as 20 percent, according to experts. This is particularly important for ductwork that runs through crawlspaces, unheated basements and attics.