How to Optimize Your HVAC System for Maximum Efficiency During Summer (Part 2)

With the summer equinox coming we understand your HVAC air conditioning system may be working hard to maintain cool and comfortable air in your home. Just recently the United States encountered its first heat wave of the season. With such high temperatures you may be concerned about your monthly energy bills. In part 2 we’ll continue to give tips on how to optimize your HVAC system for maximum energy efficiency this summer. We hope that these tips keep your home cool and your energy bills lower. 

1. Use Fans

When using your air conditioning system it may help reduce costs by using fans. This can help keep your home cool by recirculating air creating a wind-chill effect. This allows you to keep your thermostat at a slightly higher temperature. Just remember to keep fans off when not using a room or space. 

2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment

If your HVAC system is old and inefficient it might be time for an upgrade. Newer more energy-efficient models have SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) higher energy efficiency ratings. This means that these systems will be able to save on energy costs long-term, because they use less energy to cool your home. While the initial costs may be more, it will save you costs in the long-term. 

3. Insulate Your Home

Having your home properly insulated can keep your home cool longer, reducing the need for your HVAC system to work as hard. You may want to contact an insulation professional if you are concerned about your home's insulation, have higher than normal energy bills, or feel some spaces aren’t keeping cool. A professional can check insulation levels in your home and add more if and where it is needed. 

4. Close Blinds and Curtains

During the day there may be parts of your home that let in sunlight like windows and doors. Blocking light can help keep your home cooler during the day. This prevents your home from heating up faster and reduces the need for your HVAC system to cool your home. Reflective and blackout curtains reduce the most amount of light reducing energy use. 

5. Use a Dehumidifier

If humidity levels are high your home or space may feel warmer than it actually is. With higher humidity you may feel the need to turn the thermostat temperature down to maintain cooler air. Which, in turn, means you’re using more energy. Especially if you live in a high humidity area. Using a dehumidifier can be useful for reducing humidity levels in your home. Keeping you from needing to turn the thermostat down, which saves energy. 

Conclusion

By following these tips you can optimize your HVAC air conditioning system for maximum energy efficiency. For more tips check out (Part I) of this article, which is already posted. If you have any questions from a professional and registered HVAC technician contact us at Air-Mart AC & Heating. At Air-Mart we can address your cooling needs and work with you to maximize energy efficiency with your HVAC system.