When it comes to air conditioner efficiency, many homeowners notice that models boasting higher efficiency also come with higher price tags. However, an energy efficient air conditioner can be an invaluable investment in your home. In order to decide if it is a good time to upgrade, it is important to consider a few variables about your current air conditioning system. The type of HVAC unit you have. If you use in-window or room unit air conditioners, you are wasting money every month. A central air system is much more efficient and costs less to run every month. In addition, a central air HVAC system makes the air that circulates throughout your home healthier to breathe by running it through a dehumidifying component before it comes out your vents. If you are still using single room units it is probably time to upgrade to a central air system. The efficiency of your HVAC system. Even if you have a central air system, it may not be as efficient as it could be. Air conditioning efficiency is measured by seasonal energy efficiency ratio or SEER. The SEER indicates the amount of energy the unit needs to produce a certain cooling outcome....
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Updated: May 20th, 2024 During the cool winter months, whether you need a furnace or not is never even a question. However, this important appliance often runs like a hidden beast in your attic without a second thought or care as you mosey through the winter months in the warmth of your heated home. There are some ways to maximize the efficiency of your furnace and ensure its longevity, so consider the following as you attempt to get the most out of your investment: Install a programmable thermostat. This will both reduce wear and tear on your unit by ensuring it isn’t running in overdrive when it doesn’t need to be and will also save you money on your monthly utility bills. Have your ductwork properly sealed and insulated. If air is escaping through the ductwork as it makes its way from the furnace to a given room, your furnace is having to work harder than it needs to in order to heat your home. This additional work costs money in gas and electricity and will also shorten the lifespan of the unit. Change air filters on a regular basis. This allows the air to move through the vent unobstructed...
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Saving money during the winter doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Some of the best ways to save are easy and affordable fixes that you can do yourself. Turn it Down: Turning down the heat is likely the one suggestion that will really make you cringe. It’s bad enough it’s cold outside, so who wants to be cold inside? We understand, but the math may convince you otherwise. For every degree you decrease your home over an 8-hour period, you can save about 1 percent on your energy bill each year. To maximize savings, lower the temperature at night, when you aren’t home or when you aren’t using specific parts of the house. To combat the cold, wear layers and heavier clothing. If you spend most of your time in only one room of your home, keep the overall temperature down and use a space heater. Fix Drafty Windows and Doors: When you have a drafty window, you are literally sending heat out the window. This is costing you major dollars. Fix drafts using inexpensive weatherstripping, caulk, and window insulation to keep the warm air in your house, where it belongs. These small changes can save you 20 percent...
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