Regardless of the type of heating system or cooling equipment in your home, there are a number of steps you can take to improve efficiency. These simple changes can save money on utility bills while also improving your home’s comfort levels and indoor air quality.
If you’re considering installing a new HVAC https://www.eheatcool.com/ system or replacing your existing one, opt for high-efficiency models certified by the ENERGY STAR program. These systems use less energy to provide premium performance and often come with extended warranties for peace of mind.
Air Filters
One of the most effective ways to lower your heating and cooling costs is by keeping air filters clean. These filters sift through bacteria, dust, and debris in the air before it enters your home, ensuring that your system does not have to work as hard to circulate clean air. Regularly changing the air filter will help your system last longer as well, increasing its overall efficiency.
Heat Pumps
In addition to being energy efficient, heat pumps are environmentally friendly as well. These systems move heat from the outside air to the inside of your home using electricity, rather than burning fossil fuels. Depending on the climate where you live, a heat pump may be the best choice for your home.
Boilers
While furnaces are more common than boilers in homes across the country, boilers offer a unique way to warm up your house with less energy. In order to compare boilers, it’s important to consider their AFUE ratings. These are similar to the HSPF and SEER ratings, but take into account an entire season of different outdoor temperatures for a more accurate depiction of how well the boiler functions in your home.
A higher AFUE rating will mean that more of the natural gas you pay for is actually warming your house, rather than being wasted in the exhaust or combustion process. In some cases, you may be able to find a boiler with an AFUE of 90% or higher, which is very efficient indeed.
The most popular way to warm your home is with a residential gas furnace. While older gas furnaces can be very inefficient, newer models are equipped with innovative technologies that make them highly energy efficient.
In fact, newer furnaces have a better AFUE rating than many air conditioners. If you’re shopping for a new gas furnace, look for the ENERGY STAR certification.