How To Make Your HVAC System More Eco-Friendly
According to the US EIA (Energy Information Administration), the average U.S. household utilizes at least 50% of the energy they consume to power their heating and cooling system. It does not help that power costs just keep increasing during the last 10 years. Plus, it is expected to increase further in 2021, according to Statista. Homeowners must use a more eco-friendly heating and cooling system in their home to keep overall energy use down. The HVAC system should have an excellent energy efficiency rating and be in good working condition.
Is It Possible for Your HVAC to Go Green?
Contents
- 1 Is It Possible for Your HVAC to Go Green?
- 1.1 Replace An Old & Outdated HVAC System
- 1.2 Use A Programmable Thermostat
- 1.3 Take Advantage Of Natural Lighting
- 1.4 Consider HVAC Zoning
- 1.5 Check For Proper Installation Of Your HVAC System
- 1.6 Get Regular Heating and AC Maintenance
- 1.7 Get the Proper Insulation for Your Home
- 1.8 Schedule An Inspection Of Your Ductwork
- 1.9 Use Your Landscaping To Your Advantage
- 1.10 Conclusion
- 1.11 Call R.F. Ohl For Superior HVAC Solutions
HVAC systems can be environmentally friendly equipment. You only need to know how to start. Here’s how:
Replace An Old & Outdated HVAC System
Older HVAC systems are simply no longer as energy-efficient as they used to be. This is because, over time, age and regular use can cause wear-and-tear. Components of the HVAC system also start to break down and some amount of corrosion might set in. These result in the reduction of the energy-efficiency of your HVAC unit.
When this happens, you really have two choices: keep the old system and pay for higher energy costs or invest in a new system to enjoy lower energy costs. Newer HVAC systems are designed to be energy-efficient – something you can gauge by checking their SEER or AFUE rating. An HVAC system with a high rating will perform excellently in terms of energy efficiency so you save more on power costs over the long term.
Use A Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat makes it easier to control your environment and enjoy lower energy costs. Programmable or smart thermostats can be programmed to maintain a certain indoor temperature when the house is occupied and change it to a preferred temperature when no one is at home. This is a great way to go green because your HVAC system does not have to work at a high capacity all the time just to keep a comfortable indoor temperature. Temperature changes can actually help reduce the amount of energy consumed and a programmable thermostat can help you become more eco-friendly.
Take Advantage Of Natural Lighting
The sun is your ally when you want to be more environmentally conscious. Check the position of your house, particularly its windows. If you have west- or south-facing windows, you know that there is more light and heat coming in through these areas. During winter, keep the curtains, shades, or blinds open. In summer, simply close the curtains or install a protective film.
Consider HVAC Zoning
Another way to be greener with your HVAC system is to use HVAC zoning. Zoning allows you to divide your home into different zones. These zones can be cooled or heated independently at different temperatures. That way, you and other family members can enjoy customized temperatures based on your preferences. You could even turn off the heat/cold in a specified area that is unused, such as a bedroom or guest room. If you have a room that receives several hours of direct sunlight, you could make the necessary adjustments in your HVAC system so that the room is cooled or heated appropriately. You might also want to consider a ductless HVAC system. Not only is this system eco-friendly but it is also very efficient. Ask your local HVAC contractor how a ductless HVAC unit can benefit your home.
Check For Proper Installation Of Your HVAC System
An energy-efficient HVAC system is a green system but if it is not installed properly, it still will not work well. If you want to avoid efficiency issues, make sure that there are no problems with installation. For example, the refrigerant in your cooling system must be measured precisely and not over-or under-pressurized. An issue with the refrigerant level will cause an efficiency problem with your system, which means it will fail at cooling your home and removing humidity from your indoor space. The right level of refrigerant must be maintained and other elements should also be well-calibrated to ensure that your system works well. This is why you should only have your HVAC system installed and serviced by a reputable HVAC contractor.
Get Regular Heating and AC Maintenance
Ideally, you should have your HVAC system checked and maintained at least once every year. A good rule of thumb to follow is to schedule HVAC maintenance before the summer months and before the winter months. Make sure only a reputable and licensed HVAC contractor inspects, cleans, and tunes up your HVAC system to keep it efficient for years to come.
Get the Proper Insulation for Your Home
Insulation plays a key role in keeping your home comfortable and green. The US DOE (Dept. of Energy) estimates that areas in a home that do not have proper insulation consume about 30% of your energy use. Schedule an audit from a licensed HVAC expert so any spots that do not have proper insulation can be identified. Very often, problem areas can be fixed using weatherstripping and caulking, while other areas will need a professional fix. By ensuring that proper insulation is installed, you are assured that your HVAC system will be working at the optimum level.
Schedule An Inspection Of Your Ductwork
Your HVAC ductwork system is not perfect. Over time, damage may occur and cause the system to leak. This will affect how efficiently your HVAC system will work. After all, the air that flows through the ductwork and out of the vents should be unrestricted. Leaks cost money because they force your HVAC system to work harder. To do so, the system has to consume more energy. Fix the leaks and you get to enjoy a green HVAC system in your home.
Use Your Landscaping To Your Advantage
If you have trees in your yard, you can use them to help keep the temperatures indoors at a comfortable level, especially during the summer months. Trees provide a natural shade, blocking the light and heat from the sun. You can then enjoy a cooler home and will not need to use your AC system frequently. This way, you conserve energy and reduce the cost of your energy consumption.
Conclusion
Many American homeowners want a green approach for many reasons. Some homeowners want eco-friendly systems to meet regulations. Others prioritize reducing costs and saving energy. Some homeowners also want to focus on reducing their carbon footprint. Whatever your reason may be, consider starting with your HVAC system. Having a high-efficiency system installed can be an investment that will ultimately help you save on energy costs.
Call R.F. Ohl For Superior HVAC Solutions
If you need help or guidance regarding the installation and upkeep of your HVAC system or just need some advice about what to do to save on energy consumption, call R.F. Ohl for recommendations. R.F. Ohl is the leading HVAC service provider in the Poconos and the Lehigh Valley.
Our certified, professional technicians can offer a wide range of HVAC services, from installations and repairs to tune-ups and replacements. We offer the most competitive service costs that will ensure your comfort, reduce your energy consumption costs, and improve your home’s energy efficiency. All of our work comes with a guarantee. Call today for an in-home estimate at no cost.
Click here to contact us today or give us a call at (610) 377-1098 if you have any questions.