We all know that an HVAC system can drive up the electric bill. But did you know there are ways your HVAC system can actually save you money? No, it’s not as simple as shopping around for the best deal or taking advantage of factory rebates or dealer promotions, although those ways certainly work. Here are four ways your HVAC system can save you money.
Use a Clean Air Filter
Cleaning or replacing your air filter regularly helps your HVAC system run more efficiently. It also saves you money in the health department. A dirty air filter can become a breeding ground for bacteria, black mold, and other fungi. This in turn can cause health problems ranging from dry eyes and a runny nose to Legionnaires’ Disease, a rare form of pneumonia that can be fatal.
Try a Ductless HVAC System
Image via Flickr by Mike Linksvayer
Leaks in an HVAC system ducts can cause health problems from unfiltered air getting into the house. They also can be an entry point for vermin, who can play havoc with your house’s wiring or ductwork (fun fact – a rat can chew through iron, copper, and cement). Finally, your HVAC system has to work overtime to compensate. But this problem can be avoided by using a ductless or hybrid HVAC system.
A ductless HVAC system is exactly what it sounds like – a system that does not rely on a singular network of ducts. Instead, it zones your house into different areas, allowing you to independently control the temperature in each zone. The advantages of this include an ability to save energy – and therefore money – by not wasting energy on unoccupied spaces.
Use Smart Technology
You can save money with smart technology because it allows you to keep your house at a consistent temperature, even if you’re not there. A smart thermostat increases energy efficiency and allows you to regulate the temperature to your desired level. A bit of advice – the Department of Energy calculates that you save 3 percent on cooling expenses for each degree above 72. For the warmer months, 78 degrees is recommended, and estimated to save you 10 percent.
Boost Energy Efficiency
This can be done with smart technology, keeping up to date on maintenance, and by knowing your HVAC system’s SEER number. SEER is short for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Most older HVAC units have a SEER of 10, but modern ones must have a minimum of 14. While the higher the number the better, this does not mean that a larger HVAC system is better.
You should determine your recommended BTU, or British thermal unit – that’s a measurement of the heat required to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Your HVAC unit should not exceed 15 percent of your recommended BTU for air conditioning, 40 percent of your recommended BTU for heating, and 25 percent combined for a heat pump.
Know When to Call a Technician
You should also know the signs of poor air conditioning efficiency, which include weak air flow, warm air coming through the vents, and poor indoor air quality. Call an HVAC technician if you experience any of these problems.
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Hi Crystal,
Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas with us. We all worry about reducing the power consumption of our HVAC system. Today, I think I have found a solution. Here are 4 ways the HVAC system can help you save money. Number 1. Use a Clean Air Filter 2. Try a Ductless HVAC System 3. Use Smart Technology, 4. The HVAC system can save you money by increasing energy efficiency. I am glad for your solution!!!
Thanks
Harvey
Thanks for sharing such an amazing cost-cutting technique with us. It was really helpful.
Good one.. smart technology really helps to control and manage the heating and air conditioning at home.
Hi Crystal,
Excellent tips! There are many ways that an HVAC system can save you money on your energy bills. One way is by using a programmable thermostat to control the temperature in your home. This can help to reduce energy usage when you are not home, as the thermostat can be set to automatically lower the temperature during these times. Another way is by regularly maintaining and servicing your HVAC system to ensure that it is running efficiently. This can help to prevent costly repairs and can also help to improve the overall performance of the system. Additionally, upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system can also save you money on your energy bills, as these systems use less energy to heat and cool your home. Finally, sealing and insulating your home can also help to improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, as it will prevent warm or cool air from escaping your home.
One of the great advantages of an air-to-air heat pump Luftvärmepump is their ability to function as both a heating system and a cooling system. This makes them useful all year round. During the summer, they can reverse the process and cool down the indoor space by instead removing excess heat and releasing it into the air outside. This is especially welcome during the hot summer months in Sweden when temperatures can rise significantly.