Summer is fast approaching, and with rising temperatures comes rising energy bills, as you rely on your HVAC system to keep your home cool. Even the best HVAC systems can falter during peak summer months because they exert more effort and use extra energy to perform at the level needed. Keeping an eye on your home’s HVAC will not only help you save on electric bills but also extend the life of your unit. To help, here are five tips to minimize the strain on your HVAC system during the summer.
HVAC Basics
HVAC stands for “heating, ventilation and air conditioning,” or commonly referred to as central air. It’s the different systems (that work in uniform and share a single ventilation network) that circulate air between the inside and outside spaces in your house to improve indoor air quality.
The thermostat tells the HVAC what to do by monitoring the air and temperature inside your house, therefore providing the heat or air conditioning needed.
Tip #1: Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat will modify temperatures for you when you are absent from home or asleep. It can be programmed manually or there are smart ones that can learn your temperature preferences over time. Even fancier ones can detect your presence with motion sensors, factor in local weather reports, and can be managed from an app on your phone. This way your HVAC system won’t waste energy and run air conditioning when it’s not needed.
Tip #2: Let Air Circulate Freely
There’s an old myth that says your air conditioning will work faster and keep your home cooler for longer if you close all of the interior doors. This is untrue because your HVAC system requires a balance between the air it takes in and pushes out, which means you want to keep interior doors and registers (the floor vents in every room) open. If a door or register is closed it acts as a barrier and extra stress is added to your HVAC system as airflow is altered.
Tip #3: Check Your Windows
Poorly sealed windows (and doors) require your HVAC system to work harder and less efficiently as air leaks. Take the time to check for drafty windows in your home and caulk any and all leaks you find to stop cool air from escaping. Otherwise, your air conditioning will continuously be strained to create more.
Tip #4: Replace HVAC Air Filters
One of the simplest things you can do to take care of your HVAC system is replacing its filters regularly. Air filters trap dirt and dust from blocking your vents, which would restrict air circulation. You should replace your filters every few months, or twice a year at minimum. Clean filters ensure a smooth flow, are cost effective and increase HVAC safety. If your filters are dirty, the air flow slows and your HVAC system has to work harder and run longer than usual.
Tip #5: Reduce Sunlight
On extremely sunny and hot days, you can aid your HVAC system by helping block sunlight streaming in through your windows that will raise the temperature inside. Make sure all of your windows are closed if your air conditioning is on, and draw all shades and curtains for added protection. Planting some trees outside specific windows to provide further shade is an exterior option if your house gets a lot of direct sunlight.
Need More Help? Call the Experts!
At Ashton, we are your local Vancouver and area professionals for all your HVAC system and cooling needs. Call us today to book an estimate and find out how we can help you.
