Not only does your home’s energy efficiency give you a clue about how efficiently your heating and cooling system is operating, but it gives you a way to save more money. Taking steps to increase your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be a giant, costly project. There are many uncomplicated ways to do it: replacing your furnace filters when needed, using a programmable thermostat and keeping lights and electronics off when you don’t need them.
The efficiency of your HVAC system can be a game-changer when it comes to saving money on energy. The more severe winter and summer months in the Bay Area mean your HVAC system will be working overtime, so now is the time to ensure it’s running efficiently. Your wallet will thank you.
If your air filters are dusty, it’s more work for air to pass through them. This makes your heating and cooling system work harder than it needs to, and your energy efficiency plummets. Not only that, but this hard work can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your system that could result in your replacing it sooner than you’d have to. Plus, clean filters ensure more comfortable, clean air in your home.
When you’re thinking about the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling system, you need to consider its age. In general, newer systems are considerably more efficient. Be sure to take that in consideration when it comes time to make repairs to an older system. The typical lifespan of an HVAC system is 12 to 15 years. So, if your system is getting up there, weigh the cost of repair with the cost of a new system, factoring in any energy rebates and the cost savings you’ll see on your heating and cooling bills.
Try these other steps to make your home more energy efficient:
- Make sure your home is insulated adequately.
- Be on the lookout for air leaks around your doors and windows and seal them and/or add weatherstripping.
- Keep your kitchen and laundry appliances clean, especially where they have ventilation.
Making your home more energy efficient can be no problem, especially when our team at Contra Costa Heating & AC in the Bay Area can help you. No matter if you’re looking for ideas to keep your current system running more efficiently or you’re wanting to replace it, call us at 510-343-9841. We’re ready to help!