8 Helpful Tips on How to Improve HVAC System Efficiency

According to research, HVAC systems account for about 50% of the energy used in residential homes. That’s a significant amount of energy consumption, which is why it’s important to make sure your HVAC system is as efficient as possible.

There are a number of ways you can improve HVAC system efficiency in your home, and we’ve outlined eight helpful tips below. Keep reading for helpful advice on how to make your HVAC system work better for you.

1. Schedule HVAC Maintenance Regularly: A well-maintained HVAC system will run more efficiently than one that isn’t. Schedule HVAC maintenance at least once a year, preferably in the spring or fall when weather conditions are milder. This will help ensure your HVAC system is running at peak efficiency when you need it most.
   During HVAC maintenance, a technician will clean the system and check for any repair needs. This preventative maintenance can save you money in the long run by catching small problems before they become big ones.
   It’s also essential to change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can make your HVAC system work harder than necessary, reducing efficiency and wasting energy. Check it every month, and change it as needed for air conditioning efficiency.
2. Use A Programmable Thermostat: If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, now is the time to invest in one.
   A programmable thermostat can save you money on your energy bill by allowing you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you can set the temperature to be lower when you’re away from home or asleep and higher when you’re awake and at home.
   Programmable thermostats are easy to use and can make a big difference in HVAC system efficiency. If you’re not sure which type of programmable thermostat to buy, ask your HVAC technician for recommendations.
3. Upgrade To A More Efficient HVAC System: If your HVAC system is more than 15 years old, it’s probably time for an upgrade. HVAC technology has come a long way in the past few years, and newer systems are much more energy-efficient than older ones. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient HVAC system could save you money by lowering your energy bills.
   When shopping for a new HVAC system, look for one with an Energy Star label. This label means the system meets strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Energy Star-labeled HVAC systems are available in various types and sizes, so you should be able to find one that’s a good fit for your home.
4. Add Insulation: Insulation is important for HVAC system efficiency because it helps keep heat in your home during the winter and out of your home during the summer.
   If your home isn’t well-insulated, heat can escape through cracks in walls and ceilings, and cool air can leak in. This makes your HVAC system work harder than necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature, which wastes energy and increases your energy bill.
   There are various insulation types available, so you should be able to find one that’s suitable for your needs. If you’re not sure which type of insulation to choose, ask your HVAC technician for advice.
   Adding insulation is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to improve HVAC system efficiency. It’s a project you can do yourself though you could opt to hire a professional to do the job for you. Adding insulation is an easy way to improve HVAC efficiency, and it can also help you save money on your energy bill.
5. Seal Air Leaks: Another way to improve HVAC efficiency is to seal any air leaks in your home. These leaks can let heat escape in the winter and cool air leak in during the summer, making your HVAC system work harder than necessary.
   To find out if you have any air leaks, do a visual inspection of your home or hire an energy auditor to do a more thorough assessment.
   Once you’ve found the air leaks, seal them with caulk, weather-stripping, or another type of sealant. This is a quick and easy fix that can make a big difference in HVAC efficiency.
6. Trim Plants Around the Outdoor Unit: If your HVAC system has an outdoor unit, make sure the area around it is clear of plants and other obstacles. These items can block airflow and make your HVAC system work harder than necessary. Saving energy involves ensuring your system is clear of any plants and debris that could block it.
   Trim any plants within two feet of the outdoor unit, and remove any debris such as leaves or twigs that could block airflow. This simple task can improve HVAC efficiency and help your system last longer.
7. Clean Your Drain Line: If your HVAC system has a condensate drain line, it’s important to keep it clean. A clogged drain line can cause water to back up into your HVAC system, which can damage it and reduce efficiency.
   To clean your drain line, pour a cup of bleach into the drain once a month and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, flush the line with clean water.
   Cleaning your HVAC system’s condensate drain line is a quick and easy way to improve efficiency and prevent costly repairs.
8. Make Use Of Curtains And Blinds: Curtains and blinds can be used to improve HVAC system efficiency in two ways. They can help keep heat in your home during the winter, and they can block sunlight from coming into your home during the summer. This helps reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, which means your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
   Hang curtains or blinds over windows that get direct sunlight during the day. For added insulation, choose curtains or blinds made of heavy fabric. Moreover, you can improve HVAC efficiency by closing curtains and blinds when you’re not home during the day.