Throughout the coldest and hottest moments in Georgetown, your heating and cooling system is an essential ally in keeping your home comfortable. However, it’s also your worst enemy when trying to lower your energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your HVAC system could account for nearly half of your energy usage.
That hefty draw of energy makes your HVAC unit a perfect place to start adjusting your energy habits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or want to lower your energy bill, there are several ways—big and small—to manage how your heating and cooling system consumes energy.
Switch Out Your Air Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system are critical to keeping up your home’s air quality. They help capture a variety of debris—including dust, dirt and other small particles—and block them from polluting your house. However, dirty filters impact even more than the air quality. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a dirty filter can decrease air conditioner efficiency by up to 15 percent. Changing out your air filter routinely keeps your system from using an unwarranted amount of energy. Replace one-inch pleated filters every month. Remember, filters could need more frequent attention if your HVAC system is in constant use, is around dusty conditions, or you have pets at your home. Call Miller Climate Control LLC to find out what frequency of filter change is correct for your system.
Schedule Timely HVAC Service
If you want your HVAC system to work as efficiently as possible, routine maintenance is a must. While it’s spring, have an HVAC expert assess your air conditioner and clean its coils, check refrigerant levels, adjust system controls and more. In the fall, have them return to check up on your furnace and make adjustments before the cooler weather sets in later. Consistent maintenance makes sure your equipment is ready to operate exactly as it was supposed to—with peak efficiency. Miller Climate Control LLC professionals are qualified to help your system get back on track.
Switch Out Your Thermostat
Lowering that utility bill can be as stress-free as adjusting the temperature in your home while you’re asleep or not at home. The closer the house’s temp is to the conditions outside, the lower your energy bill can be. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to take extreme measures each day. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends lowering or upping (depending on the season) your temperature by simply resetting your thermostat when you are asleep or gone.
You could make these adjustments manually each day, but a programmable thermostat automates the process. These thermostats allow you to select a schedule for your HVAC system and automatically regulates the temperature in your home to match it. A smart thermostat takes your control a step further, often allowing you to adjust the temperature wirelessly from almost anywhere. Chat with Miller Climate Control LLC to see if either of these options are a good fit for you.
Upgrade Your Equipment
Out-of-date HVAC equipment can be a burden on your energy bill during the year. Whether they’re no longer working efficiently, are the incorrect size for your home or lack the energy efficiency new systems have, there’s a likelihood your system is costing you extra money if it’s more than 10 years old.
When you’ve determined it’s time to look for a replacement system, Miller Climate Control LLC can help you out. We’ll help you understand different efficiency ratings and select a system that will work for your needs.
If you have more questions about monitoring your energy costs, need to arrange maintenance or want to discuss new system choices, the team at Miller Climate Control LLC in Georgetown is ready to guide you. Call us at 512-937-2001 or schedule an appointment online.