HVAC Maintenance Can Help Save Money

Proper HVAC maintenance can help ensure your home is energy efficient and you don't have an increase in the monthly utility bill. Saving money allows for you to exert your money other places and not have to worry about investing in a new unit any earlier than necessary.  

CLEAN OR CHANGE THE AIR FILTERS

With increased airflow, energy efficiency goes up. A regular replacement of the air filter also increases the efficiency and lifespan of the Air Conditioning and Heating System. Changing the filters once in every three months can increase the lifespan of the whole Air Conditioning System.A clean filter ensures an increased airflow into the HVAC unit that results in the proper performance of the whole system and cuts down the AC bill. 

CHECK THE THERMOSTAT

Check the thermostat constantly to ensure that the settings are standard. Setting the thermostat too low increases the AC bill, whereas setting it as high as 70 degrees can cut the overall utility bill by 3 percent. It is important to always ensure that the settings are not accidentally altered, for example switching the AC on when one needs heat and switching it off when one needs air. A programmable thermostat saves one the trouble of adjusting the temperatures each time when leaving the house. Having a programmable thermostat that automatically sets high temperatures during the day or when one is working can cut the AC bill.

USE CEILING FANS

When cooling your home, use ceiling fans since they circulate cool air throughout the entire house. Ceiling fans that rotate in a counterclockwise manner ensure fast cooling in a room. It is also important to only cool or heat occupied rooms. Cooling or heating empty rooms increases the AC bill and shortens the lifespan of the system. Ensure that wardrobe doors and AC vents that open up to empty rooms are closed before cooling the house.

ENSURE REFRIGERANT LINES ARE INSULATED

Refrigerant lines should be insulated properly to increase the efficiency of the whole system. Regularly, check these lines to ensure they are properly insulated. In case of any damage, trained personnel should repair the lines.

CHECK THE CIRCUITS AND ENSURE POWER IS TURNED ON

Having HVAC switch near the light switch or looking like a light switch can cause problems in a home. It can be put on and off accidentally and consequently reduce or increase temperatures in that area. For this reason, it is important to confirm the connections and turn on power appropriately. Ensure there is a circuit breaker or a disconnect switch that can be used in case of an electric fault or overheating to avoid blowing the fuse.

ENSURE THE PANEL SWITCH IS TIGHT

A loose panel can result from an electric fault whereby it is used as a safety measure. In case the panel switch is not attached properly or removed, it can be tightened or reattached by an individual not necessarily a professional. It is also advisable to ensure a gas furnace is running. It may be cut off by the relevant company as a safety measure in case there is leakage or by mistake. However, a red tag on the meter or a locked valve may attract a professional from the utility company.