As summer approaches, your need for a reliable air conditioner increases. An efficient HVAC system will not only get you through the hottest days of the season, but it will also keep your energy costs manageable. Below are several tips to boost efficiency before the summer hits.

How to Increase Your HVAC’s Efficiency

1. Upgrade Equipment

Older HVAC units are less efficient than newer models, either from worn parts or outdated technology. If your equipment is more than a decade old, consider investing in a new ENERGY STAR® system with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating between 14 and 18. This measurement is the cooling output divided by the total electric energy input during the same season and shows how efficient a system is.

2. Use Programmable Thermostats

Automate your cooling system by utilizing a programmable thermostat. When you set your temperatures, your system will automatically turn on and off at specific time frames. You will not have to worry about turning it on or forgetting to turn it off, and there is no energy waste when the home is empty.

3. Change or Clean Air Filters

Your HVAC system has a filter that catches dust, dirt, and other particles. Over time it will clog, and your unit must work harder to send air through. Clean reusable filters or change out disposable ones monthly, so airflow is uninhibited.

4. Insulate Rooms

Any area that releases air will reduce your home’s efficiency, but insulation will keep your air conditioning inside where you need it. Make sure walls, attics, and crawlspaces have sufficient insulation, as well as seal all gaps and cracks around window and door frames.

5. Call for Maintenance

Have a professional inspect your HVAC system annually to ensure components are working. Contractors will inspect and clean each area, and if there is an issue, they can perform maintenance to save you a more significant problem down the line. Regular support keeps parts in top shape, which maintains efficiency over the years.

If you need help getting your HVAC ready for summer, trust Dousman LP Gas. Located in Waukesha County, WI, for more than 37 years, the family-owned gas company offers an array of services, including furnace maintenance and propane gas delivery, to ensure you have the necessary fuel for your property. To learn more about their options, call (262) 965-2679. Visit the website for more on their HVAC repairs and installations.