Do you feel your HVAC system is not as efficient as it could be? You may find that your heating or cooling bills are steadily increasing or that your system does not seem to be able to keep up with the heat or the cold like it used to. In some cases, if your system is not completely outdated or in need of repair, you may be able to do a few things to improve its efficiency.
However, in other cases, it makes sense to upgrade it to a more energy-efficient system that will save you money in the long run.
Here are some ways to increase your energy efficiency and when to consider HVAC replacement.
Ways to Improve Your HVAC Efficiency
If your HVAC system is still relatively new and in good shape, you may be able to increase its efficiency by doing the following:
- Have your system maintained regularly. Regular maintenance includes cleaning the condenser coil, changing air filters, and thoroughly checking the system for issues. This should be done by an HVAC professional.
- Seal ductwork. Some homes lose efficiency not because of the HVAC system but because of insufficient sealing of ductwork. Sealing ducts can sometimes improve efficiency by as much as 20%.
- Increase insulation. If your home is not properly insulated, you will lose both heat and cool air, causing your HVAC system to work harder.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats provide precise temperature control and can help ensure that you are not heating or cooling your home when it’s not necessary.
When to Consider HVAC Replacement
In some situations, your best bet to increase energy efficiency is to hire a professional to do HVAC replacement. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to upgrade:
- Your AC system or heat pump is more than 10 years old. Newer ENERGY STAR systems will likely save you as much as 20 percent on cooling and heating costs if you have this old of a system.
- Your furnace is more than 15 years old. An ENERGY STAR furnace could save you as much as 15% on heating costs.
- Your system needs frequent repairs. If you feel like you’re calling an HVAC repairman all the time, it’s likely that your system is not running efficiently and needs to be replaced.
- Your energy bills are going up. If you’ve tried all the tips suggested to increase efficiency and your bills are still going up, it’s probably time to consider HVAC replacement.
- Your home is not comfortable. Do you and your family always feel that your home is either too hot or too cold no matter how much you adjust the thermostat? This is a sign that your system is not running efficiently and a replacement is needed.
Choosing an HVAC Replacement Company
Replacing your HVAC system can make your home much more comfortable and save you money on your monthly energy bills. If you’ve decided it’s time for a replacement, find a reputable HVAC company by asking around for referrals, reading online reviews watching for companies with a majority of 5-star reviews, and by calling companies to ask questions and to request a quote. Additionally, comparing your current rates with bounce energy rates can give you insights into how different energy plans might affect your overall utility costs. When you choose a reputable company, you can have peace of mind that your new system will be energy-efficient and serve your family well for years to come.