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The performance of HVAC systems directly affects a space’s energy use and overall comfort. Staying on top of necessary maintenance like filter changes and coil cleaning can significantly reduce energy bills and increase system longevity. Improving HVAC performance can also create more pleasant household and even lead to better indoor air quality. There are many ways to enhance the efficiency of HVAC systems—some of them are simple, while others require expert help.
Upgrade to a Variable Speed HVAC System
One of the single most significant improvements you can make to achieve better heating and cooling is switching to a variable-speed system. Variable-speed HVAC systems vary their speed according to a space’s precise needs. That means the system runs more efficiently, using only the energy required to produce a cozy and comfortable indoor environment. And because the system won’t cycle on and off so much, it will experience less wear and tear. Over time, this results in fewer cooling and heating repairs and replacements.
Install Smart Thermostats for Precise Temperature Control
Smart thermostats are one of the cheapest HVAC system improvements you can make. These devices provide precise temperature management via the use of sensors and algorithms. You can even use the programmable features to automatically adjust the temperature to a more efficient level when your house is empty.
Smart thermostats not only offer greater comfort and savings on energy, but you can also control them remotely. This means you can tweak settings from any location, even when you’re not home. The vast majority of smart thermostats also measure energy consumption. You can use data-driven information, such as temperature setpoints, peak use hours and occupancy metrics, to further optimize the HVAC to achieve better efficiency.
Optimize Airflow With Proper Duct Sealing and Insulation
High-performance HVAC systems require high-performance airflow. If there are any leaky ducts, this will cause a tremendous loss of energy and put immense strain on the HVAC. Sealing is the best way to take care of duct leaks. It keeps air from escaping, ensuring the conditioned air reaches the desired parts of the house.
In addition to sealing, good duct insulation will help keep HVAC costs low. Insulated ducts avoid losing conditioned air by keeping temperatures stable while the air passes through them. Regular duct sealing and other ductwork services are especially important for systems with extended duct runs as well as ducts in attics and poorly ventilated rooms.
Invest in Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) Systems
Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems do a great job at boosting HVAC efficiency. These setups work by moving heat and moisture between the incoming and outgoing air streams to reduce the workload on the HVAC. Simply put, ERV units precondition air before it enters the house, saving your HVAC system energy from having to heat or cool the air. They are also ideal for creating more comfortable spaces because their fresh air delivery and enhanced humidity control produce cleaner air. A lot of houses use them in places where ventilation, air quality, and moisture control are critical, like rooms where older residents sleep or in baby nurseries.
Implement Regular Preventative HVAC Maintenance
HVAC experts agree that scheduling regular maintenance for heating systems and ACs is the best way to help them perform better. The number of times to schedule maintenance varies from one household to the next. Small homes can often get by with one annual maintenance visit. Larger houses may need to schedule anywhere from two to four visits a year. This is because the larger the space, the harder the HVAC must work to keep the building comfortable. Homes with pets, smokers, or more intensive heating and cooling needs may also need to schedule more frequent HVAC maintenance. These houses tend to have HVAC systems that have to work harder to control the indoor environmental conditions.
Routine tune-ups by professionals ensure small problems receive attention before they turn into costly repairs. During a maintenance visit, a technician will check refrigerant levels, clean coils, replace filters, calibrate the thermostat and more. This allows the system to operate with optimal efficiency at all times. You’ll not only have a more pleasant house but also lower energy bills and a longer-lasting HVAC system.
Utilize Zoning Systems for Targeted Heating and Cooling
Zoning systems give you enhanced and more precise control over your home’s temperature. When you split up the house into zones, you can heat or cool the room in areas where people are most active. This makes it easy to avoid wasting energy on empty rooms. Zoning systems are particularly beneficial for houses that have guest rooms and other spaces that don’t need day-to-day heating and cooling to the degree that other rooms do.
Implement a Demand-Controlled Ventilation System
Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) controls how much air flows depending on the occupancy of the space. They do this by reading CO2 levels or via the use of occupancy sensors and then regulating the ventilation accordingly. As a result, the HVAC doesn’t have to run 24/7. For houses with rooms that you tend to be in and out of throughout the day (e.g., home offices, kitchens or play rooms), DCV systems can save significant amounts of energy.
Install Window Films to Reduce Solar Heat Gain
Window films decrease solar heat transfer, which is particularly useful in hot climates. They do this by absorbing UV radiation and sunlight, which keeps indoor temperatures cool and allows the HVAC to operate less. Their ability to save energy can go a long way in reducing cooling expenses. Window films also shield furniture and equipment from the sun, prolonging the lifespan of your belongings.
Invest in High-Performance Insulation
The ductwork in your home isn’t the only thing that benefits from good insulation. If you invest in proper insulation for the walls, roofs and floors, you’ll have a well-insulated house that holds more heated or cooled air. This will decrease energy waste and put less stress on the HVAC system. Quality insulation can also help you create more peaceful rooms and spaces by reducing noise and improving overall comfort.
Use Economizer Controls to Take Advantage of Outdoor Air
Economizer controls let your HVAC system use good weather-related conditions (cool air or low humidity) to its advantage. If the outside temperature is cool, the economizer will cool the building by drawing in air that’s naturally available from the outside environment. This means the air conditioner won’t have to kick on as much, which saves energy and money. Economizer controls are particularly helpful in the warmer seasons and at night when the weather is chillier.
Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors
Gaps around windows and doors let air escape, making HVAC systems work harder than they need to. Having a professional seal these gaps will ensure a stable indoor climate that makes it easier for your home to remain comfortable. Getting rid of air drafts will also help the HVAC unit last longer and work more efficiently.
Atticman Heating and Air Conditioning, Insulation is a go-to provider of HVAC services in Sacramento, CA. Our highly trained experts can help with HVAC repairs, maintenance and installations. We also offer other residential HVAC services, including whole-house fans, ductwork, insulation, and more.
Call Atticman Heating and Air Conditioning, Insulation today to learn more unique tips for improving the efficiency of your HVAC system in Sacramento.
