With the dog days of another South Carolina summer upon us, your home’s air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. Here are some smart energy tips to help increase your comfort while managing your electric bill.
Get a tune-up. An annual or semiannual heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system tune-up is the best way to keep everything operating in peak condition. Be sure to ask the contractor to inspect the ductwork as well. An HVAC system that operates at optimum performance will provide the comfort you expect, plus you’ll be using energy wisely. As a reminder, your HVAC system generally accounts for up to 50 percent of the total electric bill each month.
Consider an upgrade. If your HVAC unit is on its last leg and you’ve been contemplating installing a new system, why wait? The good news is today’s air conditioners and heat pumps are even more energy efficient than their predecessors. If replacement is in your future, be sure to look for a contractor who understands building science and will run a computer-generated load calculation for your home. The software used by HVAC professionals removes any guesswork and accurately sizes the unit required to heat and cool your home. A properly sized system provides optimum comfort while using less energy to operate.
Change the filter. Clogged filters inhibit proper airflow and can cause premature wear and tear on your system. I suggest changing them monthly or, at a minimum, every three months. Mark the replacement date on the filter, and put a reminder on the calendar. Be sure to ask your HVAC professional if you plan to use HEPA or heavy-pleated filters to make sure they will work with your system.
Stop the leaks. If you have a fireplace or woodstove, make sure to close the damper. An open damper is similar to having an open window. Why pay to cool and dehumidify the air, only to let it escape through the chimney?
Check the windows. Speaking of windows, if your home has double-hung (windows that open at both top and bottom) construction, make sure both top and bottom sashes are closed and locked. If left unlocked, it’s not uncommon for the top sash to drop or open at the top. Don’t forget to check for air leaks around all doors and windows while you’re at it. If you can see daylight or feel air flowing through the seam, fill the gap with weather stripping or caulk.
Upgrade your insulation. If you have an older home, some insulating products are prone to settle. Have an insulation contractor inspect the insulation level in your attic. If necessary, an additional layer of cellulose insulation applied over the existing insulation will thwart unwanted heat gain in the summer and keep your home warmer in the winter.
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