Summers can be really hot in Hampton, Virginia, and the surrounding areas, so air conditioning bills tend to be high. Here are some ways you can make your HVAC system more efficient that will also help you to save money and help protect the environment.
Clean Your Ductwork
Dirt, dust, pollen, mold, and other contaminants can build up in your ductwork over time, and then your HVAC system spreads them through the rest of your home. Cleaning your ductwork removes obstructions so you avoid wasting energy and suffering inconvenient breakdowns.
To check your ductwork, take the air register off one of your vents and touch the side of the duct with your finger or a clean cloth. If you wipe away lots of dirt or dust, then you should have your ducts cleaned. This is not something you need to do often. It is mainly important in cases where your environment is particularly dusty, if you have persons in the home with serious respiratory illness, you’ve had recent construction or the home is old and the ducts have never been cleaned.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
You can set a programmable thermostat to increase the temperature indoors when you are away from home or even asleep. You can set it to be lowered again about half an hour before you return home or wake up. Some models allow you to access them from the convenience of a mobile device or computer. If you have a large house, choose a programmable thermostat with a zoning system for control over specific rooms in the home. This will ensure that you never spend money cooling unoccupied spaces.
Maintain Your System
Spring is a perfect time to give your system a tuneup to keep it at peak efficiency. Your outdoor HVAC unit needs at least two feet of space around it for good airflow, so you should trim any plants nearby and get rid of any leaves, grass clippings, or other debris on top of the unit. You should also check your air filter once per month and change it at least every three months to save energy.
Kearney & Sons Heating & Air Conditioning has over 35 years of experience, and we specialize in energy-efficient HVAC design. We can help you with all your heating and air conditioning needs, including installation, maintenance, and repair. Call us anytime at 757-269-9589.
