For most HVAC systems they seem to always struggle with the weather here in Michigan. From the cold and icy conditions of a Michigan winter to the sizzling heat that a Michigan summer can bring. Your HVAC system is always under pressure to perform and keep the home at a comfortable level every day. Sometimes it can really put a strain on your HVAC system especially if it is older. That’s why it’s a good idea to implement a few simple HVAC tips that you can do to make the unit perform better and be more energy efficient as well which can save money on energy costs.
Simple HVAC Tips That Can Save Money on Energy Costs in Michigan
There are many different types of HVAC systems that are used in Michigan. Most of the following tips can be applied to almost all types of HVAC systems in Michigan that are used today and used to make it perform better. Although some of the tips will have more of an effect on electrical systems such as air conditioners they will also have an effect on furnaces that are gas powered as well. Most of these tips can be done quickly and are simple so that you can get the most from your HVAC system.
Keep Your Air Filter Cleaned and Change It Regularly
One of the biggest problems with any HVAC system that can cause it to use more energy and not work as well is restricted air flow. When air doesn’t properly flow in and around the unit it can make everything in the system work harder to keep you comfortable. This means that the unit will likely start using more and more energy since everything is under a strain. One of the biggest air flow restrictions is a clogged air filter. The air filter on your home’s HVAC system is designed to trap dust and debris from entering into the unit which restricts air flow even more. The air filter may also take out bad particles and allergens from the air as well. Keeping the air filter changed and cleaned is a must if you want to have as much air flow through the system as possible. Make sure you don’t run the system with an air filter installed even for a few hours. The air filter should be changed each month to allow for the best air flow through your home’s HVAC system.
Keeping the air filter changed and cleaned is a must if you want to have as much air flow through the system as possible. Make sure you don’t run the system with an air filter installed even for a few hours. The air filter should be changed each month to allow for the best air flow through your home’s HVAC system.
Don’t Block Vents or Registers
Although the air filter of the HVAC system is an area that can restrict air flow there is also vents and registers that can block air flow also. Rugs and furniture can sometimes be placed on floor registers or vents which can really cause problems with that particular room . For homes that have a return air system in the floor you’ll also want to take note if you have pets. As the air flows into the floor vent it can be a prime spot for pets to lay. Make sure your pets aren’t laying on the return vent for the HVAC unit. Having pets on this vent can also cause problems because it can suck in lots of pet hair from the pets which can restrict air flow and clog filters prematurely.
Use Ceiling Fans to Help with Air Circulation in the Home
Dropping your thermostat a few degrees in the winter or raising it a few degrees in the summer can have a huge impact on your heating and cooling costs. In the summer time especially one of the best ways to keep air circulating and make the difference much less noticeable is to use ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can circulate air around so that the home remains comfortable even when it’s a few degrees warmer. Plus most ceiling fans have a reverse function which can be used to move warmer air during the winter time and force it to the floor level.
Get an HVAC Inspection at Least Once Per Year
Following these tips will certainly help your HVAC system run better and be more energy efficient but you’ll also want to make sure you get a HVAC inspection and cleaning of your system at least once per year. This type of preventative maintenance on your HVAC system can improve it’s efficiency and you may avoid having a problem with the unit as well.
