During the coldest and hottest weeks in Jefferson City, your heating and cooling system is an essential ally in keeping your home comfortable. However, it’s also your worst enemy when trying to lower your energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your HVAC system could make up nearly half of the energy you use.
That large draw of energy makes your HVAC unit a good place to start changing your energy habits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or want to lower your energy bill, there are plenty of ways—big and small—to adapt how your heating and cooling system consumes energy.
Change Your Air Filters
The air filters in your HVAC system are vital to maintaining your home’s air quality. They help capture a variety of debris—including dust, dirt and other small particles—and prevent them from polluting your space. However, dirty filters impact even more than the air quality. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a dirty filter can lower air conditioner efficiency by up to 15 percent. Switching out your air filter routinely keeps your system from using an unnecessary amount of energy. Replace one-inch pleated filters once a month. Remember, filters could need more frequent attention if your HVAC system is in constant use, is around dusty conditions, or you have pets inside. Contact Stieferman Heating Company Inc to find out what frequency of filter change is appropriate for your system.
Schedule Routine HVAC Service
If you want your HVAC system to work as efficiently as possible, routine maintenance is significant. While it’s spring, have an HVAC professional review your air conditioner and clean its coils, check refrigerant levels, adjust system controls and more. In the fall, have them come back to check up on your furnace and make adjustments before the winter weather sets in later. Consistent maintenance ensures your equipment is ready to operate exactly as it was supposed to—with peak efficiency. Stieferman Heating Company Inc technicians are qualified to help your system get back on track.
Switch Out Your Thermostat
Lowering that utility bill can be as simple as adjusting the temperature in your home while you’re asleep or gone. The closer your home’s temperature is to the conditions outside, the lower your energy bill can be. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to take drastic measures every day. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends lowering or upping (depending on the season) your temperature by simply resetting your thermostat when you are asleep or away from the home.
You could make these adjustments on your own each day, but a programmable thermostat automates the process. These thermostats allow you to set a schedule for your HVAC system and automatically adjusts the temperature in your home to reach that goal. A smart thermostat takes your control a step further, often allowing you to adjust the temperature wirelessly from almost anywhere. Chat with Stieferman Heating Company Inc to see if either of these options are a good fit for you.
Review Your Equipment
Out-of-date HVAC equipment can be a burden on your energy bill each month. Whether they’re no longer operating efficiently, are the incorrect size for your home or lack the energy efficiency new systems provide, there’s a good chance your system is costing you extra money if it’s more than 10 years old.
When you’ve decided it’s time to look for a replacement system, Stieferman Heating Company Inc can help you out. We’ll help you get to know different efficiency ratings and pick a system that will work for your needs.
If you have more questions about watching your energy costs, need to book maintenance or want to discuss new system options, the team at Stieferman Heating Company Inc in Jefferson City is prepared to guide you. Call us at 573-635-3547 or schedule an appointment online.