3 HVAC Energy Efficiency Improvements to Make for Summer

The sun is coming out to play, and whether you’re ready to join it or you’re more of the indoor type, summer is heating up. For Texans, that means it’s the season of sky-high energy bills.

Those bills don’t have to be so high if you take the right precautions, though. Any of these HVAC energy efficiency improvements could put you on track to lower bills, a more comfortable home, and a smaller carbon footprint.

1. Get a Fresh Filter

It may be the simplest home repair there is, but replacing your HVAC filter can make a powerful difference. Over time, as your air filter does its job, the debris it captures will stay in the filter.

That debris blocks some of the air from getting through. The more clogged your filter is, the harder your HVAC system must work to cool your home, and that makes the system less efficient.

In general, you should replace your filters once per month. However, your HVAC technician can see how full your filter is and tell you if you need to change it more often.

While you’re at it, get a thorough cleaning for your HVAC system. Ducts, vents, and other areas can accumulate debris, especially if you have pets or live in a dusty area. That debris will also block air and lower your energy efficiency.

2. Consider an Upgrade

This is the priciest route to take, but it could pay off in the long run. It may be time to replace your air conditioner altogether.

Over the years, manufacturers have found and used new ways to make their air conditioning units more energy-efficient. If you have an older unit, chances are that the newer technology is far more efficient.

To be sure you’re making the right choice, bring in an HVAC technician. Ask them to examine your current air conditioner and ask whether a newer one would be more efficient. They can also tell you the specifications to look for when you shop for a new unit.

3. Protect Your Exterior Unit

Some HVAC upgrades deal more with the area around your unit instead of the unit itself. In particular, look at your exterior unit.

If it’s not properly protected, leaves and other debris can get inside. This could lower its efficiency or even cause damage in some circumstances.

Don’t forget to look up. If the sun beats down on your outdoor unit, it will heat it up enough that it requires more energy to cool down the HVAC unit.

For all-around protection, create a fence or another way to protect and cover your air conditioner. Add something above to shade the unit from the sun.

4. Go High-Tech

A programmable thermostat is an upgrade that may be more cost-effective than you realize. Not only are they affordable, but they may save enough energy to pay for themselves.

With a programmable thermostat, you can keep your cooling power to a minimum while no one is home. It’s easy to adjust the programs and their time windows for any season of the year.

Now Is the Time for HVAC Energy Efficiency Improvements

The summer is already hot on our heels (pun intended), but we don’t need it to heat up our energy bills too. The HVAC energy efficiency improvements above can help you stay cool and help your wallet stay cozy this summer.

To get started, contact our HVAC specialists today.