Keeping Your HVAC Systems Efficient

Owners of high efficiency air conditioning and heating systems can sometimes be surprised when the actual amount of money saved by installing these appliances falls short of predictions and expectations. After all, the fact that the appliances are billed as “high efficiency” means that they should save you money all by themselves – beyond what might be found in, say, a government sponsored database of incentives for installing energy-efficient equipment.

In theory, that’s correct. In reality, though, there are a number of other things that you can do to get the greatest savings out of your energy efficient heating and cooling systems:

First, start with the thermostat. You should ensure that this critical control unit is shielded from anything that could wind up giving it an erroneous reading—such as a nearby drafty window or vent. And always make sure that the thermostat is not installed on an exterior wall where outside temperatures could affect its accuracy.

If you have a programmable thermostat, regularly review your settings so that your heating and cooling units aren’t working overtime when you’re gone for a few days. Consider setting temperatures above or below daytime levels when you go to bed for the night. In particular, turn down the heat to compensate for the body heat that you’ll be keeping under the covers overnight. And then prompt the system to heat up the house within 20 to 30 minutes of your anticipated wake-up time. You’ll also want to adjust the thermostat when you have more people in the home, as all of that body heat will have an effect on indoor temperatures.

You can also take some practical steps with windows and curtains to prevent warm or cold air from escaping – or the sun from heating up your home through your uncovered windows. Aim air conditioner vents upward for the best air circulation, as cold air tends to settle toward the floors of rooms. And use screening and landscaping – without compromising airflow -- to keep your external A/C unit from baking in the sun during the day.

You can find more tips for HVAC energy efficiency here.