Seal the Ductwork
One of the major components of any HVAC system, the ductwork delivers cooled or heated air from your furnace or heat pump and distributes it throughout your home. If your home feels cozy and warm in the winter, you might not give the ductwork a second thought. In reality, however, the ductwork can become riddled with cracks and holes, or be affected by bad seals. As a result, the average home can lose 20 to 30 percent of the energy generated by the HVAC system to leaky ducts.
Leaky ducts can be sealed with metal tape or mastic sealant. Adding insulation to any ductwork installed in unconditioned areas can go a long way toward preventing the loss of conditioned air.
Change the Air Filter
HVAC systems rely on air filters to keep dust, dirt, and debris from out of the system and your home. Since air filters capture dust and dirt with every air cycle, they can get clogged quickly, especially during periods of heavy use.
Change the air filter every one to three months to prevent dirty air filters from slowing down your heating system. Clogged filters can also force the unit to work harder to force air through your home. This can result in wear and tear on your system, an increase in energy consumption, and a reduction in your indoor air quality. If anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma, be sure to get the right filters and change them regularly in order to improve indoor air quality.
Adjust the Thermostat
In many homes, the thermostat is the key to heating efficiency. You can save 10 percent on your utility bill simply by turning the thermostat back about 10 degrees at night when you are sleeping, or during the day when you are away from home. If you have a manual thermostat, you know how challenging it can be to remember to adjust the device when you leave for the day and how chilly your home can be when you return.
For most homeowners, the answer is replacing a manual device with a smart or programmable thermostat These devices allow you to set your heating schedule ahead of time, so you can save energy automatically. Smart thermostats even allow you to change settings on the go and provide you with energy reports so you can save even more.
Schedule Preventive Maintenance
To keep your heating system efficient, make time to perform regular maintenance. Along with replacing the air filter regularly, make sure all wall, ceiling, or floor vents are open and unobstructed. It is important to make sure no items block air vents, thereby lowering the heating system’s efficiency.
In addition to these basic checks, schedule preventative maintenance for your heating system. Checking fluid levels, cleaning interior parts, and calibrating the system are all tasks best left to a Green Apple professional. Call your local Green Apple service technician to schedule a maintenance visit twice per year.
Upgrade an Outdated System
If your system is more than 10 years old and is no longer efficient, it might be time to replace your outdated furnace or heat pump. New heating systems with Energy Star labels meet national standards for efficiency, so you can rest assured that they will help you save energy for years to come. Be sure to consult with your Green Apple HVAC professional so that you purchase the right size and model heating system for your home. Green Apple Mechanical are the experts you can trust. We have been serving the New Jersey area for years with professionalism and expertise. Customer service and care are always our number one priorities. Call today toll-free at 888-611-7191 if you have any questions or concerns regarding any of your HVAC needs.
