As we head into summer, now’s the time to consider upgrading your home-comfort system so that you can increase your energy efficiency and decrease your energy costs. Additionally, you should consider the steps that you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your current system.
Last summer in Indiana, we had 40 days of summer with temperatures over 90 degrees, which was the highest number since 1988. This summer could be as long and hot. If you don’t want to see the same increase in energy bills that you saw last year, consider the following information if you’re upgrading your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system or just looking to make some minor adjustments to your current HVAC performance.
Thermostat settings
You can cut your energy bills by 15 percent or more by revisiting your thermostat:
- Set the baseline temperature at 72, and raise it by one degree every two weeks, as long as you and your loved ones remain comfortable.
- Set your thermostat a bit higher while you’re asleep. Use an efficient fan, and switch to lighter bed linens if you’re uncomfortable for the first few nights.
- Invest in a programmable thermostat, because it will more than pay for itself in the first month if you set it properly.
Heating and cooling equipment
Whether you use a furnace or central air-conditioning (A/C) unit, upgrading to an energy efficient model can save you more than 25 percent on conditioning your interior air, which is by far the highest utility consumer in a home. Here’s some points to consider:
- Select an efficient model that is Energy Star-approved and is right for your needs.
- Size equipment accurately because if the equipment that you buy is too large, it will be very inefficient.
- Have it installed professionally to ensure that you get maximum HVAC performance and efficiency.
Ductwork design
Your duct system may be allowing 25 percent of the air that enters to escape before it is delivered to the desired room, especially if it’s older. Here’s some ductwork troubleshooting steps that you can take:
- Seal all leaks.
- Have a professional redesign a duct system that will cut down on the impact of losing conditioned air.
- Insulate the ducts at all vulnerable spots.
If you’d like to improve the performance and efficiency of your heating, cooling or plumbing systems, contact Mowery Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing. We’ve been providing expert home-comfort service to residents of Indianapolis and the surrounding areas for more than 40 years, and have the knowledge and expertise to help you maximize your HVAC performance.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
Mowery services the Brownsburg, Indiana and the surrounding areas. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!
