How to Improve HVAC Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a top concern for Chicago homeowners seeking to reduce the cost of home comfort. Improving HVAC efficiency doesn’t necessarily mean an expensive system replacement. The team at ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling & Electric has put together our top 10 tips for improving HVAC energy efficiency to help Chicagoland residents achieve cost-effective home comfort all year long.

Top Tips for Improving HVAC Energy Efficiency

Use fans to improve airflow

In the summer, run fans counterclockwise to create a cooling downdraft, and in winter, rotate the fans in reverse at low speed to evenly distribute warm air collected at the ceiling. It’s important to note that running fans in the summer is only effective when someone is present in the room. Otherwise, you’ll just be wasting energy, since fans don’t proactively cool rooms.

Free solar energy hacks

Take advantage of free solar energy by opening up blinds during the winter to welcome the sunshine and warm up the home. In the summer, keep the blinds drawn and curtains closed to keep the heat at bay and take a load off your HVAC system.

Break old thermostat habits

Setting and forgetting the thermostat is a common mistake that homeowners make. Try stepping outside your comfort zone one degree at a time: In the summer, increase the thermostat temperature by one degree and decrease by one degree in the winter. Keep the trend going to find the true comfort threshold and start reaping the energy savings.

Change air filters regularly

Air filters must be changed and cleaned at least once per month. Not only will this improve airflow for HVAC systems and decrease the effort necessary to maintain comfort levels, but it will also help reduce the number of airborne contaminants throughout the home to improve indoor air quality.

Increase home insulation

Proper home insulation is one of the best ways to protect against unwanted thermal transfer and improve HVAC efficiency. This prevents air from escaping heating and cooling systems, so units don’t have to work harder than necessary to keep homes comfortable.

Manage appliance use wisely

Heat-producing appliances such as dryers and ovens can wreak havoc on a home’s comfort level. Especially in the summer, ensure these appliances are used at the coolest points of the day to help reduce the workload for heating and cooling systems.

Trim plants and clean gutters

Plants and gutters are prone to collecting moisture. When excess moisture enters into an HVAC system, it can cause the systems to malfunction. Decrease this risk by keeping plants trimmed and gutters cleaned around exterior units.

Strategically place HVAC units

If an exterior unit is present, make sure it’s placed in the shade to prevent system overheating due to excessive sunlight exposure.

Consider programmable thermostats

Optimize the time of day HVAC systems operate by installing a programmable thermostat. These thermostats will help reduce energy use when no one is present in the home, helping to significantly reduce energy expenses.

Schedule pre-season checkups

The most effective method to ensure HVAC efficiency is keeping up with routine maintenance and pre-season checkups. Contact your trusted heating and cooling expert to schedule maintenance and catch repair needs early to avoid mid-season system failure when you least expect it!

Energy Efficiency is Easy as Calling ABC

At ABC, we are dedicated to providing Chicago residents with reliable, affordable comfort solutions all year round. Have questions about improving energy efficiency in your home? We have the answers! Contact our team to get started with improving your HVAC systems’ energy efficiency today.