This time of year can get downright H-O-T in Virginia. As the sultry haze of summer blankets the land, it’s time to face the inevitable: fanning the ice tray just isn’t cutting it anymore. You’ve put this day off as long as you can, but the sweat stains on the couch tell you it’s time to throw in the towel and flip on the AC.
Fortunately, your HVAC system doesn’t have to be an energy vampire. Regular maintenance – as well as a few simple measures around the house – can cut costs, save energy, and increase the life span of your home furnace. Here are a few easy, practical tips for getting the most out of your HVAC unit.
Change/clean your air filter
There are all sorts of pollutants in the air – mold, bacteria, pollen, and various allergens are constantly being filtered by your HVAC unit’s air filter. If you have a plastic or metal framed reusable filter, be sure to clean it once a month by running cold water over it, then letting it air dry. This will keep your air clean, and greatly increase the filter’s lifespan. After several cleanings, however, it’s time to change it out. Depending on pets, allergens, or general air quality, this should happen at least every 6 months. More common are the cardboard framed disposable filters. Replace 1″ thick filters every 3 months, and the 4-5″ filters annually.
When replacing a used filter, be sure to pay attention to the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV rating). This rates filters on a scale 1-16, and ensures maximum efficiency from your filter (https://www.hvacmaintenance.net/what-is-merv-rating/).
Consider a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save you big bucks. First off, make sure your thermostat is set to “auto”, rather than “on”. This simple measure will keep the fan from running excessively and wasting power. Set the fan at a higher temperature when no one is around (keeping your pets in mind, of course). And if you’re replacing a thermostat, consider investing in one with WiFi controls, enabling you to make adjustments from your smartphone from anywhere.
Schedule an annual tune-up
Whether you prefer to check and repair the system yourself or call on the expertise of a professional, proper maintenance is important in making sure your HVAC unit is running at maximum efficiency. Cleaning coils and air ducts, repairing leaks in the supply duct, inspecting dampers, and checking belts and fans are all important steps in regular maintenance. To ensure a properly-running furnace throughout the season, be sure to have such maintenance performed before flipping your system on for the summer. Depending on where your HVAC unit came from, check the warranty for potential tune-ups (https://www.hvacmaintenance.net/).
Check doors and windows
Proper insulation is crucial! Across the US, enormous amounts of energy are being wasted due to poorly insulated homes. Check the area around windows and doors for cracks, as well as any other gaps that might allow air to escape. Foam sealant works great for larger gaps; for smaller cracks, try caulking. Both are cheap, easy to use, and can be painted over. For old or heavily damaged windows, consider installing storm windows to help trap in the air. Damage to the floor, ceiling, or walls may require wood or fiberglass paneling. These simple steps could save you a bundle on your next electric bill.
Consider additional resources
- Does your home have ceiling fans? If so, a low-running fan keeps the cool air circulating, while using very little energy. The amount of energy most fans use is negligible compared with how much they can save.
- Awnings and drapes can add much-needed shade to windows receiving lots of sunlight.
- Consider planting trees and shrubs around your house to help absorb the heat of the sun.
- If you have an attic, make sure it is properly ventilated. A ridge vent or an attic fan can help cool air circulate, thus saving energy.
- Lights, computers, and various other electronics produce excess heat. Turning them off when not in use will ease the demand on your cooling unit – not to mention saving that much more energy!
Let’s face it: that gentle breeze blowing in through the screen door is only getting warmer. When the time comes to flip on your HVAC system, don’t succumb to those feelings of dread and guilt – these energy-conserving tips can save you a bundle on your monthly utility bill. The earlier the better! Put these ideas into practice early in the season, and enjoy a cool, energy-efficient house throughout the summer.
Chris Long has been a Home Depot store associate in the Chicago suburbs since 2000. Chris writes for the Home Depot website and provides advice to homeowners on home improvement topics ranging from furnace repairs to HVAC systems.