Your HVAC system accounts for a large chunk of your energy bills. If there is an issue with your furnace, it can cause your utility bills to climb even higher. On the other hand, if you keep your system well-maintained and take extra measures to make your home more efficient, you can save energy and your money. B&L Ott can help you accomplish this task. Check out the tips below to improve your HVAC efficiency and contact B&L Ott near Reading, PA if you need more help.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
One of the best ways to save energy is to have B&L Ott install a programmable or a smart thermostat for you and then to use it. When you have a programmable thermostat, you barely have to touch your thermostat. All you have to do is set a schedule once and then the thermostat will continue to follow that routine until you change it.
If you want to save energy, you can program your thermostat to turn back during the day while no one is home and have it return to a comfortable temperature right before you return. Just turning your furnace down a few degrees during the day can make a significant impact. It is worth noting that you should not turn your thermostat down too far. If you lose too much warm air, your furnace will have to work harder to replace the lost heat and use the extra energy anyway.
Check Your Filter and Air Flow
A clogged filter or dusty air ducts can block the air and prevent it from entering your Berks County home. When this happens, your furnace compensates by staying turned on earlier and using more energy. This decreases your HVAC system’s efficiency and costs you more. Be sure to change your filter regularly and have B&L Ott clean your air ducts every 8-10 years to help avoid these issues.
You will also want to make sure your air vents are not blocked by furniture and that your ceiling fan is rotating the right way. During winter they should slowly rotate clockwise to help evenly distribute the air in your home.
Make Sure Your Home Is Properly Insulated
There are many places in your home that warm air can leak out of during winter. Some of the main places include the doors, windows, attic, and basement. If you want to save energy and keep your home running efficiently, be sure to invest in good windows and doors that are properly sealed. You will also want to properly insulate your attic and basement if they are not connected to your HVAC system. Curtains or blinds can also help you keep the warm air in.
Let the Sun Warm Your Home During the Day
While winter is usually cold and you want to keep your doors and curtains closed, there is a warmer day every now and then. If the sun shines in and it feels warm, try opening your curtains or main door (if you have a screen door) and let the sun naturally warm your home. It’s free and more energy-efficient.
Schedule Maintenance with B&L OTT
Over time, wear-and-tear can take a toll on your furnace. Eventually, parts can become damaged or break completely. When this happens, it will decrease your efficiency and it can take a toll on your other parts as well. However, if you schedule maintenance with B&L Ott twice per year, you can keep your HVAC system clean and good shape. This way it runs efficiently and saves you more money over time.
Upgrade Your Old System
How old is your current HVAC system? Is it in good shape or has it been needing more repairs lately? If your system is at or near 15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Newer systems are more efficient and can help you save more over time. If you need help figuring out if you should replace your current system and what new system to replace it with, B&L Ott can help. Contact us to learn more about our System Replacement Planning services.
