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How to Save Energy in HVAC Systems

February 27, 2023

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential for providing comfort in homes and businesses. However, they also account for a large portion of energy consumption. 


According to the U.S. Department of Energy, HVAC systems typically consume more than 50% of the total energy used in buildings each year. Therefore, it is important to take steps to reduce HVAC energy consumption whenever possible in order to save money on utility bills and help protect the environment from unnecessary pollution caused by burning fossil fuels for heating or cooling purposes. 


In this article, we will discuss how you can lower your HVAC energy bills with simple tips that will not only benefit your wallet but also do your part in reducing our collective impact on the planet’s climate change crisis.

Repairman in uniform installing the outside unit of air conditioner close up

Simple Energy-Saving Tips for HVAC Usage


Adjust Thermostat Settings 

One of the easiest and most effective ways to save energy with your HVAC system is to adjust the thermostat settings. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home or office in order to maximize efficiency. This means setting the thermostat at a lower temperature in winter and a higher temperature in summer. 


In order to maximize energy savings, you can set your thermostat for lower temperatures at night or when no one is home during the day. Programmable thermostats make it easy to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the day and year. 


Seal Air Ducts

Another easy way to save energy with your HVAC system is by sealing any air leaks in the ducts. Air leaking out of an unsealed duct will increase your HVAC usage and lead to higher utility bills. Sealing air leaks can be done quickly and easily with a tube of caulk or some mastic sealant, or you can hire a professional to do the job for you.


Replace Air Filters Regularly

Replacing air filters in your HVAC system on a regular basis is important to ensure that the air inside your home or office stays clean and healthy. It also helps keep your energy bills down by allowing more air to flow through the system, which reduces energy consumption. Most air filters should be replaced every three months or so to keep your HVAC system running efficiently.


Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are an efficient way to circulate air throughout a home or office and make it feel cooler without using extra energy. Fans can be used to supplement cooling provided by your HVAC system, allowing you to set the thermostat at a slightly warmer temperature while still achieving the desired level of comfort. 


Upgrade To Energy Efficient HVAC Systems

If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more energy efficient model. Today’s HVAC systems are up to 40% more energy-efficient than their predecessors, which can make a big difference in how much you pay for heating and cooling each month.

Advanced Energy-Saving Tips for HVAC Usage


Install a Programmable Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home or office based on set schedules. Programmable thermostats allow you to take advantage of natural temperature fluctuations throughout the day, such as lower temperatures at night and higher temperatures during the day when people are usually away from the building. 


Implement Zoning Systems

Zoning systems allow you to control separate areas of your home or office independently, allowing you to adjust temperatures in different rooms according to the specific needs of that area. This can help reduce energy consumption since you don’t have to heat or cool a large portion of the building unnecessarily. If certain parts of the building aren't occupied as often, you can set the temperatures in those areas to a lower level.


Conduct Regular Maintenance and Tune-Ups

Regularly scheduled maintenance and tune-ups of your HVAC system will help ensure that it is running as efficiently as possible. This means cleaning or replacing air filters, inspecting ducts for leaks, and checking the temperature settings to make sure they are set properly.

Repairman checking an outside air conditioner unit close up

Benefits of Energy-Efficient HVAC Usage


Lower Energy Bills

The primary benefit of energy-efficient HVAC usage is lower energy bills. Taking steps to reduce how much energy you use for heating and cooling can make a big difference in how much you pay each month.


Improved Comfort Levels

Making sure your home or office stays at an optimal temperature range will help ensure that occupants are comfortable throughout the year. Energy-efficient HVAC usage will help maintain a consistent temperature, leading to greater comfort levels and improved indoor air quality.


Reduced Carbon Footprint

When you use energy more efficiently with your HVAC system, you also reduce how much carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere. This helps to protect the environment and can help combat climate change.


Extended HVAC Lifespan

Using your HVAC system in an energy-efficient manner will help extend how long it lasts. Proper maintenance, tune-ups, and regular filter changes can help reduce how often you need to repair or replace the unit.


Improved Indoor Air Quality

Properly functioning HVAC systems will help ensure that the air inside your home or business is clean and fresh. This is especially important for those with allergies or asthma, as a well-maintained HVAC system can help reduce how much pollen, dust, and other allergens are circulating in the air. Additionally, taking steps to reduce how much energy you use to heat and cool your living or working space can help to improve air quality by reducing how much smoke, fumes, and other pollutants are released into the atmosphere.


Another way to help improve energy efficiency in the home is to work with insulation companies in Kansas City.

Suburban Heating & Cooling Can Help You Save Energy


By taking the time to implement simple energy-saving tips for HVAC usage, you can save money while also reducing your carbon footprint and improving indoor air quality. Installing a programmable thermostat, implementing zoning systems, insulating your home or office, and conducting regular maintenance and tune-ups are all effective ways to reduce how much energy you use for heating and cooling each month. 


We hope this post has provided some useful insight into how to reduce HVAC energy consumption in an efficient manner. Take action today by putting these strategies into practice so that you can start saving on your monthly bills! Start by calling Suburban Heating & Cooling to schedule your service. We'll have your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently for years to come. 

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