How Can I Manage My Energy Costs?

During the coldest and hottest moments in Abilene, your heating and cooling system is an important ally in keeping your home comfortable. However, it’s also your worst enemy when trying to lower your energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your HVAC system could make up nearly half of your energy usage.

That big draw of energy makes your HVAC unit a good place to start changing your energy habits. Whether you’re looking to shrink your carbon footprint or want to lower your utility bill, there are several ways—big and small—to manage how your heating and cooling system uses energy.

Change Your Air Filters

The air filters in your HVAC system are vital to upholding your home’s air quality. They help collect a variety of debris—including dust, dirt and other small particles—and stop them from polluting your home. However, more than just your air quality suffers when your filters are full of debris. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a dirty filter can lower air conditioner efficiency by up to 15 percent. Replacing your air filter consistently keeps your system from using an excessive amount of energy. Replace one-inch pleated filters each month. Remember, filters may need more frequent attention if your HVAC system is in constant use, is around dusty conditions, or you have pets in the house. Reach out to Abilene Air-Tech Inc to find out what frequency of filter change is appropriate for your system.

Schedule Routine HVAC Service

If you depend on your HVAC system to operate as efficiently as possible, routine maintenance is key. Once it is spring, have an HVAC expert review your air conditioner and clean its coils, check refrigerant levels, adjust system controls and more. In the fall, have them come back to check up on your furnace and make adjustments before the cooler weather sets in later. Routine maintenance confirms your equipment is ready to run exactly as it was intended to—with peak efficiency. Abilene Air-Tech Inc experts are trained to help your system get back on track.

Switch Out Your Thermostat

Saving money on your energy bill can be as simple as adjusting the temperature in your home while you’re asleep or not at home. The closer the temp in your house is to the conditions outside, the lower your energy bill can be. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll need to take extreme measures every day. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends lowering or upping (depending on the season) your temperature by just resetting your thermostat when you are asleep or gone.

You could make these adjustments yourself each day, but a programmable thermostat automates the process. These thermostats allow you to select a schedule for your HVAC system and automatically adjusts the temperature in your home to reach that goal. A smart thermostat takes your control a step further, typically allowing you to set the temperature wirelessly from almost anywhere. Talk with Abilene Air-Tech Inc to see if either of these options are a good fit for you.

Upgrade Your Equipment

Out-of-date HVAC equipment can be an issue on your energy bill each month. Whether they’re no longer running efficiently, are the incorrect size for your home or lack the energy efficiency new systems offer, there’s a likelihood your system is costing you extra money if it’s more than 10 years old.

When you’ve come to the conclusion it’s time to look for a replacement system, Abilene Air-Tech Inc can give give you a hand. We’ll help you recognize different efficiency ratings and choose a system that will work for your needs.

If you have more questions about watching your energy costs, need to book maintenance or want to discuss new system selections, the team at Abilene Air-Tech Inc in Abilene is all set to guide you. Contact us at (325) 692-5850 or schedule an appointment online.