Energy Efficiency in HVAC - the Wave of the Future

One of the hottest current topics with homeowners and business owners alike is attaining an energy efficient home. Of course, HVAC – especially energy efficient heating – is the single most important consideration in new construction.  Or when upgrading an existing structure for optimum heating and energy efficiency.

Get the Best Efficiency From Your HVAC System

Annual inspection and routine maintenance are the best ways to keep your HVAC system in optimum condition, operating efficiency. An existing HVAC system can be serviced and “tuned up” to yield better energy efficiency by giving attention to the following parts of the system:

• Routine replacement of air filter – a furnace air filter can quickly become soiled and plugged with contaminants from outside air. The result is reduced air flow. The hvac unit must work harder to maintain set temperature; energy is wasted in the process. Filters should be checked and replaced (with the proper size filter) at least once per month.
• HVAC coils – dirty or clogged evaporator coils (indoor cooling coils) can cause reduced system efficiency, excessive system operating temperatures, and water leakage; which can lead to compressor failure. Clogged condenser coils (outdoor coils) can cause excessive operating temperatures and put pressure on the system, drastically impairing energy efficiency.
• Belts, pulleys, and bearings – loose belts and worn pulleys can reduce air flow, resulting in decreased energy efficiency and premature wear or damage to blower units and bearings. Additionally, inadequate lubrication of these elements can decrease efficiency and cause premature failure of moving parts. Necessitating a call to the local HVAC technician, incurring costly HVAC repair.
• Condensation pans, traps, and drain tubes – can become clogged, causing leakage and damage.
• HVAC ductwork – a leaking or plugged HVAC duct can reduce airflow, affecting overall energy efficiency.
• HVAC control and electrical system – a worn or damaged HVAC part such as a relay, contact, or motor starter can impair the function of the system and reduce efficiency. Simple loose wiring connections can have the same effect.

An poorly calibrated HVAC thermostat can cause ambient room temperature fluctuation of 4º to 8ºF; causing the heating system to run harder in order to “catch up” to the set temperature.

Of course, a programmable thermostat offsets this type problem; lowering fuel costs and conserving energy at the same time.

How to Install a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats automatically lower temperature when a building is unoccupied. And then automatically increases room temperature when in use. This results in substantial energy savings for any home or business.

Installing a 7day programmable thermostat is an excellent way to quickly and easily increase efficiency of an existing HVAC system. Follow the directions below:

1. Remove mounting screws on the old thermostat; take it loose from the wall.
2. Remove wires from unit terminals. Thermostat wires have a standard color code.
3. Carefully attach the appropriate wires to the new thermostat following the color code according to manufacturer installation instructions.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions to securely mount unit to the wall. Note: most units are battery powered; make sure a fresh battery is installed.
5. Following the instructions, program the unit to automatically decrease and increase temperature settings according to your desired weekly schedule.

Air Conditioning; an Important Part of HVAC

While most modern HVAC systems include air conditioning components, many homes have a stand alone air conditioning system; such as a central air conditioner. Smaller dwellings might require just a window air conditioner to get the job done.

When it comes to air conditioning, the best maintenance or repair plan is the same as for heating; prevention. Routine maintenance and cleaning will avoid most problems and repairs.

• Turn air conditioning on in the spring before the season starts to allow ample time for obtaining service if necessary. Make sure the system is drawing sufficient outside air. Obvious problems might include forgetting to remove covers, or objects stacked near the unit for winter. Clear obstructions away from the unit, especially leaves or other debris.
• Change filters often; plugged filters reduce air flow and cause the evaporator to ice up. Replace disposable filters, electronic or electrostatic filters may be cleaned and re-used.
• Make sure the thermostat is set to the air conditioning mode; a/c will not come on if it is left in the heating mode.
• Using a garden hose to clean an air conditioner is not recommended because of the danger of electric shock or shorting of components.
• Once these steps have been taken and the unit does not come on or function properly, it may be best to call an HVAC contractor for air conditioner repair.

An HVAC company usually performs all aspects of HVAC maintenance, including HVAC trouble shooting, central heat and air services, and stand alone air conditioning repair, as well as HVAC installation for residential HVAC or commercial HVAC applications.

Locate a Professional

Simple maintenance tasks such as replacing filters and cleaning out drain pans or coils can easily be undertaken by homeowners. A thorough annual inspection of the HVAC system should be done by a reliable HVAC service - to detect small problems before they become big problems. By keeping your HVAC system clean and properly maintained, it will give you efficient, trouble-free service for many years to come.

To locate a reliable HVAC contractor, and HVAC company, or air conditioning technician, homeowners and business owners all over America are turning to HandyAmeriican.com where the task is fast, easy, and free!

Homeowners or business owners sign up without cost or obligation whatsoever, and post their HVAC project online, where it is immediately visible to reliable service providers in their locality, 24/7. Local contractor members also receive immediate e-mail notification of new project postings within their area of expertise, and provide competitive bids in days, even in just hours from project posting.

Project owners can view company profile pages, references, customer feedback, licensing/insurance/certification information, and recent project photos from each potential contractor. Then make an informed hiring decision, or hire no one at all – there is no obligation whatsoever.

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