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1. Put your thermostat on a schedule
Turning the temperature back 7 to 10 degrees for about eight hours a day, like while you sleep or are at work, can save up to 10 percent a year on heating and cooling. A programmable or smart thermostat does it automatically, so you don’t have to think about it. One exception: if you have a heat pump, don’t use a big daily setback unless your thermostat is designed for heat pumps. Not sure what you have? Give us a call and we’ll check.
2. Seal the air leaks
Drafts around windows, doors, attic hatches, and pipe or wire openings let the air you paid to heat or cool slip outside. Air sealing combined with added insulation can save homeowners about 15 percent on heating and cooling costs on average. Caulk and weatherstripping are a cheap place to begin.
3. Add insulation, starting in the attic
The EPA’s ENERGY STAR program reports that most U.S. homes don’t have enough insulation. If you’re tackling both jobs, seal the attic’s air leaks first, then add insulation on top.
4. Get your ducts checked
If your ductwork runs through an attic, crawl space, or garage, even small leaks add up. It’s estimated that a typical home loses roughly 20 to 30 percent of the air moving through its ducts to leaks and poor connections. That’s air you’re paying to heat or cool that never reaches your rooms.
5. Keep your filter clean
A clogged filter makes your system work harder to pull air through. Check it every month and swap it when it looks dirty. Many homes need a new filter every one to three months, so follow the guidance on your filter’s packaging.
6. Schedule regular maintenance
A seasonal tune-up lets a technician spot worn parts, dirty components, and small issues before they turn into expensive breakdowns. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and tends to last longer.
7. Know when it’s time to upgrade.
Older equipment can waste a lot of energy. ENERGY STAR-qualified central air conditioners are about 15 percent more efficient than standard models. If your system is aging and bills keep creeping up, ask us whether an upgrade makes sense. Our guide on repairing vs. replacing can help too.
A quick safety note.
In some homes, sealing leaks can cause appliances like water heaters to backdraft, and a very tight house may need added ventilation. Before any major sealing project, have a professional look at your combustion appliances and airflow.
Want help lowering your bills? AJ’s Appliance Repair and HVAC can inspect your system, check your ducts, and recommend the upgrades that will make the biggest difference for your home. Call 586-789-7876 or fill out our contact form. Serving HVAC customers in Metro Detroit, West and Mid Michigan areas.