Fall is a beautiful season. But with the aesthetic beauty it brings, comes the necessity to run your heating systems, especially when temperatures begin to get chilly. Every homeowner understands that running HVAC systems, like a heat pump or furnace, doesn’t come cheap. As a matter of fact, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that heating (and cooling) make up nearly half of your monthly energy expenses.
With that in mind, we’re sure you want to find out ways on how to minimize your energy consumption and save some cash. Thankfully, Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning—your trusted HVAC company in Blaine MN, gives you four effective tips for you to consider.
Check your chimneys and vents.
If you have a working furnace, call a professional chimney cleaner before using it this season. This step is important because trying to build a fire under a dirty chimney can result in several dangerous situations, like carbon monoxide poisoning.
This season is also perfect for inspecting your dampers and vents to make sure they close tightly and open smoothly. Make sure all vents are functional. Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms usually vent through pipes that extend through the roof or the side of your house. If you turn the fans on and can see the flappers moving on the vent pipes outside your home, then you know they’re working as they should.
Equip your HVAC system with clean filters.
This one may be one of the easiest things you can do to keep your HVAC costs down, but many homeowners fail to clean or replace their air filters and pay the price for their negligence.
When your filter is restricted, it causes your HVAC system to work harder than normal. In some situations, it can also lead to severe damage to the unit itself. Neglecting a dirty filter is one of the most common causes of HVAC equipment failure. But such issues can be easily averted if you simply change your filters regularly.
Clean filters allow you to have a cleaner, safer, and healthier indoor air. They also protect your HVAC system from untimely failure. Moreover, managing your filters will help you save a significant amount on HVAC costs because a clean filter uses less energy and ensures your system has enough airflow. This easy step can help you save up to 15 percent on your monthly energy costs.
Save on hot water.
Your water heater is another major power consumer. So, avoid setting it to a temperature higher than 140 degrees. If you’re going away for an extended period, set the water heater on vacation mode or turn the thermostat down. But keep in mind to adjust the settings when you come back and wait for the water to heat up again.
For more energy savings, wrap your water heater in an insulating jacket, especially if it is situated in a garage, basement, attic, or any unheated part of your home.
Upgrade your home’s insulation.
Speaking of insulation, your water heater isn’t the only thing that needs to be properly insulated. Your entire home needs it. You have to make sure that warm air stays in your home and you feel as comfortable as possible. Therefore, be sure to check your home’s insulation and search for possible damages and leaks where forced air can escape. If you’re uncomfortable performing this task, call a professional who can spot the leaks and seal them off accordingly.
Have a professional fine-tune your HVAC system.
Since your HVAC system is the largest energy consumer in your home, it’s best to make sure it stays in great shape. A qualified technician will ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly. He will perform tasks, including inspection, proper cleaning, lubrication, and calibration.
You may be tempted to DIY these steps. However, if you are not trained to carry out these functions, doing so may do you more harm than good, especially if you don’t have the right knowledge, tools, and experience. So, consider calling a qualified technician. He will ensure your system is well tuned-up and runs as smoothly as possible. This step results in lower energy expenses and longer equipment lifespan.
Ask the HVAC Pros
For more information on saving energy at home, call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning. For over forty years, we have been the go-to contractors of our loyal clients. We are your reliable Columbia Heights heating and air conditioning company.