Winter Energy Efficiency Tips for Your HVAC System

With winter on the way, you might be eyeing your energy bills with dread. The freezing months often bring an increase in electricity or natural gas costs, depending on what fuel source you use to heat your home and hot water. But don’t panic—with an appropriate approach, you can manage your winter energy efficiency and save a pile of cash. Here’s how to adjust your HVAC system to keep your home pleasant without emptying your wallet.

Arrange Fall Furnace Maintenance

Your heating and cooling system is like a car—it functions easier when well-maintained. Scheduling annual preventative maintenance before winter arrives improves your system’s efficiency and can save you up to 5% on energy costs. Apart from helping your HVAC equipment function more efficiently, this regular check can detect any potential issues. Identifying and addressing these problems early prevents disruptions during the heating season and more costly repair bills mid-season.

Consider Replacing Your Current Furnace

If your furnace is more than 10 years old and frequently failing, it may be time for an upgrade. Antiquated systems can be a substantial financial burden, costing you more in energy and repairs than the cost of replacement in the long run. Replacing your furnace with a high-efficiency Energy Star®-certified system can lower your energy costs by as much as 40%. Plus, you’ll enjoy a more consistently cozy indoor environment when your heating equipment meets today’s standards.

Fine-Tune Your Thermostat

Remember those warm summer days when you adjusted the thermostat to 78 degrees to save on costs? Well, that setting won’t do you any favors in the chilly winter season. Modify your thermostat for the season by configuring it to 70 degrees or  lower. Every degree you lower the temperature can save you as much as 3% on your heating bill.

Moreover, invest in a smart programmable thermostat you can set and leave alone. These Wi-Fi-enabled devices permit you to modify your home’s temperature from anywhere. The most advanced learning models make automatic adjustments based on your habits, helping you be cozy while saving energy when you’re away or sleeping.

Switch Out the Air Filter

A furnace air filter influences how efficiently your HVAC system functions. A dirty, clogged filter forces your furnace and air conditioner to work harder to circulate air, escalating energy consumption. To stop this from happening, check the filter monthly and replace it every 1-3 months as a budget-friendly and straightforward way to improve winter energy efficiency.

Check Your Air Registers

The little details count. Quickly dusting your supply and return registers removes hair, dirt and other blockages that restrict airflow. Once clean, be certain that your curtains, rugs and furniture aren’t blocking the vents. Keeping the path clear for warm air to circulate makes a substantial improvement in your home’s comfort and energy usage this winter.

Eliminate Drafts in Your Home

Even slight drafts can put excessive strain on your heating and cooling system. Carry out a sweep of your home to identify and seal any air leaks. These are easiest to detect on cold, windy days that suck the heat out through gaps and cracks. Apply weatherstripping and caulk around doors and windows, and apply spray foam around plumbing, vents and wiring penetrations to halt costly air leaks in their tracks.

Add More Insulation in Your Home

The attic is the simplest place to add insulation to an existing home. Additional insulation on the attic floor means reduced heat loss through the ceiling, making it easier for your HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature. But insulation isn’t only for your attic—you can also insulate pipes, ductwork and electrical outlets on exterior walls to enhance energy efficiency.

Think About Zoning

If your home has multiple levels or wings, you could benefit from using a zoned HVAC system. This involves installing dampers in the ductwork and installing multiple thermostats that allow you to independently control the temperature in various zones of your home. You might heat the ground floor during the day and the upstairs bedrooms at night, conserving energy by only paying to heat specific areas of your home when you need them.

Choose a Humidifier

Winter air is typically extremely dry. You might address this with tabletop humidifiers throughout your home, but there’s a better way. Install a whole-house humidifier to work alongside your furnace. Moist air feels warmer than dry air, so a whole-house humidifier promotes a warmer interior without cranking up the thermostat.

Choose Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for Winter Prep in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re looking to boost your home’s winter energy efficiency in Fort Lauderdale, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is here to assist. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, long-lasting solutions to all your comfort challenges, backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

If you’re not thoroughly pleased with our service, you can depend on us to make it right. Call 954-736-4314 today so the team at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can make a significant difference in your life and sense of comfort in the colder season.

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