Extreme weather can cause your energy bills to spike, especially if your HVAC system is working overtime. However, there's something you can do about it. Homeowners in Crystal, Minnesota, can easily reduce energy expenses and reduce wear on their HVAC system by using effective energy-saving HVAC practices. From scheduling a fall or spring HVAC tune-up to DIY HVAC maintenance, these small things can help you stay comfortable and lower expenses.

Here, the professionals at GV Heating & Air will offer their best heating and cooling tips for HVAC energy efficiency to help you reduce energy bills without compromising comfort.

1. Schedule for Seasonal HVAC Maintenance

Of all the energy-saving HVAC tips for residents, one that often makes the biggest impact is seasonal HVAC maintenance. Scheduling expert furnace maintenance in the fall and air conditioning maintenance in the spring ensures these systems are in top shape and ready for the winter and summer seasons. It's also a good time to identify and address any signs of inefficiency, worn-out parts or brewing problems—saving you from unnecessary breakdowns and potentially lengthening your heating and cooling equipment's lifespan. 

2. Use Programmable Thermostat Settings to Your Advantage

Programmable thermostats offer multiple ways to reduce electricity use. In summer, set your thermostat to automatically adjust upward when you're out of the home. In winter, set the temperature to drop slightly when no one is home and warm back up when you get back. Even a few degrees can make a noticeable difference.

Push your savings up a notch with a smart thermostat. One of the many smart thermostat benefits is their ability to learn your routines and automatically adjust your heating and cooling settings. This means smart thermostats can increase your energy efficiency—with minimal effort on your part.

3. Prevent Energy Waste By Eliminating Air Leaks in Your Home

Air leaks around windows, doors and in old ductwork allow heated or cooled air to seep out of your home. Work with a qualified professional to find out if you need duct sealing and insulation services. Repairing or sealing air ducts, adding insulation and stopping airflow leaks all help prevent energy waste by allowing your HVAC system to work less in order to keep your home comfortable.

4. Complete Basic DIY HVAC Maintenance

In addition to hiring a professional for routine HVAC maintenance, you can reduce energy bills by performing these home HVAC maintenance tips:

  • Remove debris like sticks, dried leaves and plants from around your outdoor AC unit in spring
  • Wipe down the fins of the outdoor AC unit in spring
  • Follow a consistent HVAC air filter replacement schedule: Check your system's filter monthly, changing it if it’s clogged or every 90 days
  • Ensure air vents and registers are uncovered
  • Review your temperature schedule, ensuring it's on cool mode in summer and heating mode in winter

5. Replace Aging, Failing Units with Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems

Boost energy efficiency by installing modern high-efficiency HVAC systems. Consider opting for ENERGY STAR®-rated HVAC equipment, which operates more efficiently than un-rated units. When selecting cooling equipment, check for a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. Not sure what SEER means? The simplest SEER rating explanation: the higher the SEER, the more efficient the system. The same is true with AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, which rates efficiency in heating equipment. The higher the AFUE, the more efficient the system. These numbers are important because energy-efficient HVAC systems can significantly reduce energy bills and boost comfort throughout the year.

Work with GV Heating & Air to Prevent HVAC Energy Waste All Year

When it comes to comfort and energy efficiency GV Heating & Air is the HVAC company Crystal, Minnesota, locals trust for their furnace, AC, heat pump and more. From seasonal HVAC tips like these to heating and cooling installation, we provide reliable service all year. Call 763-535-2000 today for Crystal, Minnesota, HVAC service you can trust.