As winter weather starts to hit its peak, you may wonder what you can do to try to keep your home a little warmer and save money at the same time. HVAC systems are one of the most valued and neglected components of the house, so when it gets down into the teens you may find yourself wanting to show your unit some extra love.
Filters
When I look at homes the first thing that I look to when an HVAC unit is not working like it should is the most commonly neglected item… The air filter. While the air filter is essential for keeping clean air in the home, it can wreak havoc when it becomes dirty and overdue for a change. When caked with dust and other dirty particles it limits the airflow. This causes extra work on your system, and also limits the amount of warm air that blows in your house. The big question is how often to replace it. Some people say every month, some say every 3 months, and some say every 6. The truth is that it depends on your house, the amount of dust and dirt it accumulates, and the size and amount of returns you have. The best advice I can give is to start keeping an eye on it monthly, and if it looks dirty, replace it.
Maintenance
Another quick fix to look at is one that I see sometimes on inspections. This doesn’t cost much to fix, but will increase the efficiency of your split central air system. If you have a split system you may have noticed the copper supply lines that run from the outdoor unit to inside the house, and the larger of the two lines being covered with pipe insulation. Sometimes the insulation will disintegrate. Consider getting some replacement rubber pipe insulation (most likely a 3/4 inch size will fit) and replace it if damaged. No your energy bill will not drop by any significant number, but it will help prevent weathering of the refrigerant lines, and slightly increase efficiency.
Thermostats
The final big item to save some money this winter has to be the largest debate among HVAC professionals, engineers, energy auditors, and tech salesmen since their inception, the programmable thermostat. Some swear by them and some swear at them. I however believe the truth lies in the middle as this debate is consumed by opinion and fact. I had one HVAC professional explain his view one day, and that is the one I have decided to adopt and share with you. He explained that it depends on your house and system. If you have a well sized system and a well insulated, more efficient house then is probably beneficial. However, for those that have a house that is challenged to keep a constant temperature, it differs. For these homes you may not benefit from a programmable thermostat. He noted that the amount of work the unit would have to do to recover from a less desirable temperature from the day would outweigh the energy savings.
This week I pose the question to you, what are your thoughts on programmable thermostats? Have you had success? Did you get one and dislike it?