How Can I Reduce My Energy Costs?

January 24, 2019

Throughout the coldest and hottest moments in Payson, your heating and cooling system is an essential ally in keeping your home comfortable. On the other hand, it’s also your worst enemy when trying to lower your energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your HVAC system could make up nearly half of the energy you use.

That big draw of energy makes your HVAC unit a perfect place to start adjusting your energy habits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or want to lower your utility costs, there are plenty of ways—big and small—to adapt how your heating and cooling system expends energy.

Switch Out Your Air Filters

The air filters in your HVAC system are critical to keeping up your home’s air quality. They help catch a variety of debris—including dust, dirt and other small particles—and prevent them from polluting your space. However, when your filters become dirty, it isn’t just your air quality that is affected. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a dirty filter can decrease air conditioner efficiency by up to 15 percent. Changing out your air filter consistently keeps your system from using an unwarranted amount of energy. Replace one-inch pleated filters each month. Remember, filters might need more frequent attention if your HVAC system is in constant use, is by dusty conditions, or you have pets in the house. Contact North Mechanical Heating and Cooling to find out what frequency of filter change is appropriate for your system.

Schedule Timely HVAC Service

If you want your HVAC system to run as efficiently as possible, routine maintenance is a must. While it’s spring, have an HVAC expert assess your air conditioner and clean its coils, check refrigerant levels, adjust system controls and more. In the fall, have them come back to check up on your furnace and make adjustments before the cold weather sets in later. Routine maintenance ensures your equipment is ready to work exactly as it was intended to—with peak efficiency. North Mechanical Heating and Cooling technicians are well-equipped to help your system get back on track.

Switch Out Your Thermostat

Saving money on your energy bill can be as simple as adjusting the temperature in your home while you’re asleep or gone. The closer the house’s temp is to the conditions outside, the lower your energy bill can be. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to take drastic measures each day. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends lowering or increasing (depending on the season) your temperature by simply resetting your thermostat when you are asleep or gone.

You could make these adjustments yourself each day, but a programmable thermostat automates the process. These thermostats allow you to set a schedule for your HVAC system and automatically adjusts the temperature in your home to match it. A smart thermostat takes your control a step further, often allowing you to adjust the temperature wirelessly from almost anywhere. Consult with North Mechanical Heating and Cooling to see if either of these options are a good fit for you.

Review Your Equipment

Old HVAC equipment can be a burden on your energy bill each month. Whether they’re no longer operating efficiently, are the wrong size for your home or lack the energy efficiency new systems offer, there’s a likelihood your system is costing you extra money if it’s more than 10 years old.

When you’ve come to the conclusion it’s time to look for a replacement system, North Mechanical Heating and Cooling can help you out. We’ll help you recognize different efficiency ratings and pick a system that will work for your needs.

If you have other questions about watching your energy costs, need to book maintenance or want to discuss new system selections, the team at North Mechanical Heating and Cooling in Payson is all set to guide you. Reach us at 928-263-8570 or schedule an appointment online.