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As the weather cools down and the leaves begin to change, now is the time to get a professional residential energy audit or follow some do-it-yourself checkpoints to ensure your HVAC system does not leave you out in the cold this winter. Since about half of the energy used in your home goes towards heating and cooling, evaluating your system prior to the winter months could save you money in the long run.
Top 3 tips to save money on your HVAC system:
Change your air filter regularly
Air filters need to be changed more frequently during winter and summer when the HVAC system is working the hardest. At a minimum filters should be changed every 3 months. However, if it looks dirty then change it. Dirty filters slow down air flow and waste energy as the system works harder to get air through the filter.
Install a programmable thermostat
Using a programmable thermostat can save about $180 per year in energy costs. With various types of programmable thermostats on the market be sure tofind out which one is right for your home.
Seal your heating and cooling ducts
Ducts move air from furnaces, central air conditioners, or heat pumps to living spaces. If not sealed properly, these ducts will waste a huge amount of energy as they transport air through the space. Sealing and insulating your heating and cooling ducts can make your system run more efficiently and drastically reduce leaks.
Whether you're looking to get an energy audit, become a Home Efficiency Consultant or are already a Green Home Inspector, Fall is the time to make sure everyone's HVAC system is ready for the winter months.
