You depend on your home’s cooling and heating system to keep your family comfortable throughout the year. While getting a tuneup from an HVAC technician can help keep your home in its comfort zone, a few simple practices will further improve your household energy efficiency and reduce the need for repairs. Here are a few simple tips you can try yourself.

3 Tips to Improve Home HVAC Efficiency

1. Change the Air Filter

Cooling and heating systems use air filters to keep dust and other airborne contaminants out of the equipment and your home. Over time, however, dust buildup on the filter can make it harder for your HVAC unit to draw in the air it needs to operate, which will decrease efficiency.

To avoid this problem, you should replace your air filters every two to three months. Households with pets or individuals with problematic allergies or asthma should replace cooling and heating system filters monthly.

2. Adjust the Blinds & Curtains

Windows can be a major source of energy loss, but they can also work to your advantage. During the winter, open the blinds or curtains during sunny daylight hours to let in warmth and sunlight. In the summer, keep your windows covered to block excess heat. This will help you control indoor temperatures in a cost-free way.

3. Invest in Smart Controls

Today’s options for temperature control go well beyond a basic programmable thermostat. Timing automation systems and occupancy sensors allow for temperature adjustments based on the time of day or current occupancy. Many modern systems even allow you to control temperature settings from your smartphone so you can maximize efficiency no matter when or where you are.

When you need care for your cooling and heating systems, count on Alan’s Mechanical Services to keep things running smoothly. Serving St. Clair County, AL, for over 25 years, this licensed, bonded, and insured HVAC contractor will get the job done right. To learn more about their services or to request a free estimate, call (205) 338-1480 today.