The start of a new year serves as a watershed moment that instills in people a renewed drive for personal growth and positive change. As you set your resolutions, consider adding a few that will save money on your bills, improve your health, and benefit the planet. The best part about these three aspirations is that you can achieve them by enhancing the efficiency of your HVAC system. Here’s how to get started.
Be Mindful of Thermostat Settings
You can use your thermostat to improve your energy efficiency without sacrificing comfort. To get the most out of it, align your settings with the season. For example, during warmer months, set your thermostat to 78°F while you’re home and 85°F when you are away. 78°F provides a cozy indoor ambiance without putting excess pressure on your HVAC system. On the other hand, a setting of 85°F helps control humidity, reduces the risk of mold growth, and makes it easier for your system to return to a comfortable temperature when you get back.
For cold months, aim for 68°F when home and awake and 58°F while asleep or if the house is empty. Don’t turn off your heating system completely in winter when no one is home. Doing so can lead to issues like frozen pipes, which may burst and cause costly damage. Additionally, your system will consume more energy trying to raise indoor temperatures from dangerously low levels back to a comfortable range.
Another effective strategy is to keep your thermostat set to “AUTO” mode rather than “ON.” In “AUTO” mode, the fan operates only during active heating or cooling cycles. In contrast, “ON” mode keeps the fan running continuously. While this can improve air circulation, it also leads to significantly higher energy consumption and unnecessary wear on your system.
Regular Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance is the cornerstone of an efficient HVAC system. A new year’s inspection will ensure that all components are in optimal condition and operating at peak performance. If they find any parts to be worn or underperforming, your technician can recommend replacements tailored to your system’s specifications.
A comprehensive HVAC tune-up includes cleaning dirty components, lubricating moving parts, checking for leaks, tightening electrical connections, testing system controls, and assessing overall efficiency. Besides improved performance, you’ll also benefit from longer equipment lifespan, fewer mid-season breakdowns, better indoor air quality, and enhanced safety.
The best part is that most systems only need one professional maintenance a year. However, if your system is old, consider scheduling two tune-ups for optimal reliability and efficiency.
Replace or Clean Air Filters
Dirty air filters force HVAC systems to consume excessive energy. Other than boilers, HVAC systems rely on forced-air circulation to keep homes comfortable. This means they must pull air through return vents, filters, and ductwork to the indoor coils for heating or cooling, then push the conditioned air back out through supply vents. This process is already energy-intensive, so adding a barrier, like clogged filters, that impedes the smooth flow of air will make the system work even harder.
The general rule of thumb is to inspect and change HVAC filters every three months. However, every home and environment is different, so this schedule can vary based on your needs. For example, if you have multiple pets or live in a highly polluted environment, such as near a construction site, the appropriate filter replacement frequency would be every 20 to 45 days. Also, holiday seasons may warrant frequent filter changes due to increased foot traffic, more frequent cooking, decorations, and time spent indoors. Allergy or asthma sufferers might also benefit from more frequent filter changes.
To stay proactive, set calendar reminders for monthly filter checks. If it is dirty, change it immediately. Keep spare filters on hand to avoid delays.
Moreover, consult with your HVAC technician for personalized recommendations based on your system and living conditions. Remember, frequency also varies depending on the type of filter your system uses.
Consider a Smart Thermostat
If your system still uses an old, manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a modern smart thermostat. Smart thermostats offer precise temperature control, minimizing energy wastage while maximizing comfort. They learn your habits, adjust settings automatically based on occupancy, and allow remote access via smartphone apps.
AI-integrated models can even factor in real-time weather forecasts, indoor humidity levels, and energy pricing to optimize performance hour by hour. Some models take things further by adjusting preheating or precooling schedules based on anticipated temperature swings to keep you comfortable without overworking your system.
But that’s not all. Smart thermostats provide energy reports so you can tell exactly when and where your HVAC system was inefficient. They can also alert you to failing components or unusual system behavior, allowing for early intervention before things get out of hand.
It’s important to note that you can’t simply purchase any smart thermostat off the shelf. Compatibility matters. Some HVAC systems require specific thermostat models that support their wiring configurations, voltage requirements, and control logic. Installing an incompatible thermostat can lead to erratic performance or even system damage. Consult a licensed technician to inspect your HVAC system and recommend the smart thermostats you can use.
Other important considerations include WI-FI connectivity and app compatibility, ease of use, multi-zone support, integration with your broader home ecosystem, and warranties. More importantly, let a qualified technician install it for you. Thermostat placement and installation integrity are crucial to the performance and efficiency of your HVAC system.
Upgrade Your System
The new year presents the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a more efficient HVAC system. In fact, all modern HVAC systems offer significantly better energy efficiency than their predecessors. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) continually update standards to encourage the adoption of high-efficiency models that reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
Still, when looking for an upgrade, prioritize ENERGY STAR® certification, high ratings, and advanced features that enhance efficiency. ENERGY STAR® certification indicates that your system meets strict efficiency, durability, and performance guidelines set by the EPA. Higher ratings promise better energy savings over time. Meanwhile, advanced features, such as zoning capabilities, allow you to condition different areas of your home independently. For example, you can set the temperature in your living spaces at 68°F, while keeping the basement and other unused areas at 58°F.
Also, consider units with variable-speed compressors. They can adjust heating or cooling output based on real-time demand, rather than cycling on and off at full capacity.
Contact TCS Heating and Air Conditioning for More Information
If you’re looking to repair, tune-up, or replace your HVAC system in New Britain, call TCS Heating and Air Conditioning for professional, personalized service. We are a family-owned and -operated heating and air conditioning company with a trusted track record dating back to 1976. Our team of experts goes above and beyond for our clients with seasonal offers, such as 0% financing for qualifying individuals, free estimates, and discounts on various services. We also prioritize your complete satisfaction with every job.
Call TCS Heating and Air Conditioning today for professional HVAC system services in New Britain.
