The most effective way to reduce your environmental impact at home is to start with your HVAC equipment. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that half the energy consumed by homeowners is used to keep their living space comfortable. Most homes use a single forced-air heating and cooling system, so it’s easy to cut energy consumption without reducing comfort.
Keep the Air Filter Clean
Dirt and dust can reduce the performance of your HVAC system by covering parts and reducing airflow through the blower compartment. The air filters in forced-air systems keep airborne particulates from entering the blower and changing it frequently will cut down on the amount of energy it uses. When your filter is clogged, airflow slows down through the system, taking a longer time to reach the thermostat’s setting.
Tend the Outdoor Condenser
When using your cooling system, keep the outdoor condenser clean and make sure nothing is blocking the airflow it requires to lose the heat from your home. Hosing off the condenser’s coil and preventing a grass buildup will improve its overall performance.
Have It Professionally Serviced
Having your HVAC system professionally serviced annually can make an environmental impact at home by cutting energy consumption. Your technician will bring your system back to the manufacturer’s specifications as much as possible, increasing overall efficiency.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
Even if you’re home routinely, you can cut energy consumption by installing a programmable thermostat that remembers when to change the temperature based on your occupancy and sleeping schedule.
Upgrade With an Energy Star System
When your HVAC system needs to be replaced, opt for a high efficiency system that carries the Energy Star or Most Efficient label. This system may cost more initially, but you’ll save energy dollars and the environment each time you run your system.
To learn more about lowering your environmental impact at home, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve been providing top-notch HVAC services for homeowners in Lorain for more than 35 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about home environment and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area