As warmer days approach, many homeowners will begin to see higher energy bills due to the costs of air conditioning. However, while HVAC systems do use a fair amount of power to keep your home comfortable, there are several ways you can increase the efficiency of your unit. To save on cooling costs and reduce wear and tear, practice these steps with the help of an HVAC contractor.

How to Maximize the Efficiency of Your HVAC System

1. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clean

The condenser unit located outside your home can accumulate debris, dirt, and other buildups. When these enter your system, they can strain the components and impede efficiency. To clear away grime, turn off your unit and genty use a lint-free cloth.

2. Change Your System’s Filter

Your HVAC filter collects dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne pollutants. Yet, when filters reach their capacity, contaminants can start seeping into the system, causing sluggishness and other performance issues. Change your filter seasonally, or ask your HVAC contractor to recommend an appropriate schedule based on your home’s unique needs.

3. Bump the Temperature Slightly

If you tend to keep your home especially cool in the summer, see if you can find comfort at a slightly higher temperature. You could reduce the strain on your HVAC system and save up to 10% on cooling costs by increasing the temperature seven to eight degrees from your normal setting for eight hours a day.

4. Get a Programmable Thermostat

You don’t need to air condition your house when you’re not in it, but it’s more enjoyable to come home to a cool environment. For this reason, consider having an HVAC contractor install a programmable thermostat. That way, you can set your air to kick on before you get home, so your system will only have to work during a briefer window of time.

5. Limit Excess Heat

Consider the ways you might be producing excess heat in your home. For example, try to keep the lights off and the shades drawn during the day to reduce heat from any light sources. Also, avoid running heat-generating appliances, such as dishwashers, ovens, and dryers, during the hottest days.

Whether you want to install a programmable thermostat or you need a new HVAC system, Thomaston Oil can help. Serving residents throughout Connecticut since 1986, these HVAC contractors offer comprehensive heating and cooling services, as well as affordable plans to keep your systems running their best year-round. Find out more about their services online, or call (860) 283-4878 to speak with a team member about your needs.