Why it’s important

The heating, ventilation and cooling system (HVAC) generally consumes between 40 and 50 percent of the electrical power in a house, so the efficiency of the HVAC system will dramatically effect the overall power draw of the home, and the cost of your bill. AC and heater units can be compared on a multitude of dimensions, but efficiency is one of the most important factors, given what’s happened lately with the cost of gas and electricity.

Tune-up your system with an annual maintenance service

Even a new ENERGY STAR qualified HVAC system, like a new car, will decline in performance without regular maintenance. Ensures that your HVAC unit receives a “pre-season” tune-up before each cooling and heating season. You save energy and money, and your system may last years longer with minimal costs for yearly maintenance fees.

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Tips

Set your air conditioner’s thermostat as high as is comfortably possible in the summer.

The less difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be. Don’t set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner; it will not cool your home any faster and could result in excessive cooling and unnecessary expense.

Set the fan speed on high, except on very humid days.

When humidity is high, set the fan speed on low for more comfort. The low speed on humid days will cool your home more effectively and remove more moisture from the air because of slower air movement through the cooling equipment.

Consider using an interior fan

In conjunction with your window air conditioner, a fan can effectivly be used to spread the cooled air through your home without greatly increasing electricity efficiency.

Don’t place lamps or televisions near your air-conditioner’s thermostat

The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.