Summer is right around the corner and with extreme heat it gets expensive cooling your home. With some guidance from our technicians at Mason Heating and Air, here are 10 tips and tricks to lower your utility bill this summer.
Windows
As popular as old-fashioned windows have become, it can be very expensive to keep up with the trends. Older windows unfortunately do not defend your house as properly as more modern windows do. Panes are sheets of glass which are located inside windows to help protect temperatures from entering or leaving the household.
Air Flow
In order for your HVAC system to work properly, air flow must be properly balanced. Airflow is a measure of the amount of air that enters and exits your HVAC system. It is best to have a professional air balance to affirm your equipment is as orderly as possible.
Dehumidifier
Being located in the mid-western part of the country we experience quite a bit of humidity. Not only can dehumidifiers help keep your home cool without overrunning your HVAC system but they can also decrease your house’s chances of mold, dust mites and mildew keeping your air quality cleaner.
Fans
Ceiling fans or room fans, both help with circulating air flow in the home. By rotating counterclockwise or clockwise, the fan’s blades increase air flow and the air is pushed into the places where we eat, relax and sleep.
Ductwork
Ductwork sizes matter. Having too small or too large of air ducts could cause uneven air patterns or even shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. Small ducts will increase static pressure on your HVAC system which causes the blower motor to increase labor which could potentially wear your equipment out faster. Larger air ducts unfortunately cause an irregular airflow which causes the home to feel either too hot or too cold in some areas leaving folks uncomfortable.
Insulation
Without proper insulation, running your HVAC system is going to drain your bank account trying to keep your house cool. Insulation could prolong the life of your equipment. Not only will your HVAC system run more quickly, it will also reduce the work your equipment will have to do. The insulation will keep your equipment from having air leakage or uneven temperatures.
Air Filters
Clean air flow is very important especially inside a place somewhere you eat, sleep and relax. Air filters are meant to trap dust, dirt and pollen grains. If air filters are not changed routinely, they can cause negative drawbacks such as decreasing the flow of air in the house, burning the blower motor out or overheating the HVAC system causing a complete failure.
Thermostats
Upgrading your thermostat could make a huge difference in your household. Newer thermostats have the ability to learn your home’s heat load, unlike older thermostats. Older thermostats are sensible and if the temperature goes above what it was originally set, the air conditioner will turn on. Also, be mindful where your thermostat is located. If the thermostat is located in a sunny, warm area of the house or by the HVAC system it may detect a false reading, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime.
Routine Maintenance
For HVAC systems to run the most efficiently, routine maintenance is mandatory. Our technicians at Mason Heating and Air say this could benefit your HVAC system by expanding the life span of your equipment, preventing costly repairs and improving the quality of air being produced through your home.
Upgrade Your HVAC System
Do yourself a favor and consider the option of upgrading your HVAC system. The benefits outweigh the disadvantages by far and could make a difference in your wallet. The older your HVAC equipment is, it is more probable an expensive breakdown will take place. HVAC technology is constantly growing and improving which will help to decrease energy costs and protect your home from unavoidable repairs.
Call us today to help optimize your home for summer!
Looking to become more energy efficient and to save money? Call Mason Heating & Air at 513-496-2477, or schedule an appointment right now by clicking here!