7 Tips on How to Save on HVAC Costs

Household budgets are on everyone’s minds, year-round. You try to see what corners you can cut to save a few pennies, so of course you look at one of the largest chunks of the household budget—your home comfort system, where as much as half of your home’s energy usage is sucked up.

Here are seven tips on how you can save on your heating and air conditioning:

• Change your air filters regularly—air filters should be changed at least every three months, but during periods of use, it’s recommended to change them every month. A dirty air filter will restrict the air flow, thus making your system work harder (which will waste energy). This will also help prevent early system failure or expensive repair jobs.
• Routine maintenance—yearly tune-ups of your system will help continue efficiency and accurate energy use.
• Programmable thermostats—If you are away from home during set periods of time during the day, throughout the week, a programmable thermostat will allow you to set temperatures for while you’re away and you’re home, with potential savings of $180 a year.
• ENERGY STAR products—If your HVAC equipment is more then 10 years old, consider replacing it with an ENERGY STAR unit, which can save you approximately $115 a year (depending on your region).
• Shade—Using solar screens, or mesh-like window screens, can prevent about 70 percent of solar energy before it gets into your house, particular for horses facing east and west. Also investing in landscaping around the home to increase natural shade (including around your outdoor unit) will help cut the amount of solar energy being soaked into your home.
• Air circulation—Investing in fans (ceiling, column or box fans) can help circulate the air, keeping temperatures down.
• Seal it—Make sure doors, windows and any other slight cracks are shut and properly sealed. Ensure your duct work does not have any leaks, which decreases air efficiency.

And, as always, contact your professionals at Fountain Hills Air for an evaluation and see how you can save more money this year!