When it comes to owning a home, utilities are among the highest non-mortgage expenses. So as a homeowner, you may be looking for ways to save on your monthly energy bills. Unplugging appliances when they’re not being used, using LED bulbs, or taking shorter showers are a few common ways homeowners save on their energy bills.
But the REAL savings can be found right in your HVAC system. As you read, you’ll learn how routine HVAC maintenance can save you big bucks on your monthly energy bills.
Does Regular HVAC Maintenance Really Help Me Save Money?
Now you might be thinking, “can’t I save by just using my heater and air conditioner less throughout the year?” Well, while you may save a few dollars here and there by not using your HVAC system to heat or cool your home as often, it doesn’t prevent your system from needing service. Wear and tear is inevitable whether you use your HVAC system daily or weekly.
This means that, though it would come at a slower rate, your system will eventually experience issues, including leaks, short-cycling, or not producing enough heat or cool air. These issues make your HVAC system work harder and use more energy to keep your home comfortable. According to an Environmental Protection Agency report, being even half a pound low on refrigerant can mean up to 20% more energy usage.
Regular HVAC maintenance helps catch and remedy these issues before they become more expensive problems. Alternatively, leaving them unattended can shorten your HVAC system’s life span, lead to frequent expensive repairs, and require premature replacement services.
Benefits of System Maintenance
Apart from saving you a decent amount on your energy bill every month, routine HVAC maintenance also comes with a few other benefits. One of these is reduced repair costs. As we mentioned, regular maintenance helps catch problems before they get worse. Depending on the type of heater and AC unit, repairs can add up to over $600.
Having your HVAC regularly serviced expands its life span. On average, modern heating and cooling units can last between 10 and 15 years. But, with professional maintenance, your HVAC system can operate in peak condition for over 15 years. This optimal performance results in better heating and cooling.
Another significant benefit of routine maintenance is improved indoor air quality. After a while, dust, debris, and other particles get trapped in your heating and AC units. Over time, this makes your home’s indoor air quality up to five times more polluted than the air outside.
Scheduled cleanings and inspections ensure your HVAC systems are cleared out, keeping your air clean and healthy.
Other HVAC Tips To Help Your Wallet
Although we recommend having your HVAC serviced by a professional at least once a year, there are a few things you can do to save money with your HVAC system. One of the simplest ways to save on energy bills is by replacing your HVAC unit’s air filters. It’s recommended to replace your air filters every 90 days to avoid diminishing your unit’s performance.
If you have an HVAC unit that uses an outdoor condenser, dust and airborne particles aren’t the only things that can clog it. Snow storms can cause icicles to form in your condenser, causing eventual unit failure. Other forms of extreme weather can cause other blockages, including twigs, leaves, and dirt. It’s essential to keep your outdoor condenser clear of debris to prevent short-cycling and other forms of unit failure.
Another way to save is with proper energy efficiency. If you live in an area with temperate weather, are soon leaving on vacation, or have a routine lifestyle, setting your thermostat appropriately helps your HVAC only use as much energy as necessary to keep your home comfortable.
Save Big With Professional Maintenance Services in the Carbon County Area
When your energy costs are soaring through the roof, call our experts at Andreas Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. With our twice-a-year HVAC maintenance plans, rest assured your units will be in the most capable hands. When you sign up for a plan, you’ll get routine maintenance services that keep your HVAC working smoothly for years to come, keeping your wallet and home comfortable.
