Jimmy Dearborn Explains How to Save Money With Your HVAC System
Four Tips for Saving Money on your HVAC System
Believe it or not, your air conditioner can increase your electricity bill by up to 50%. Having worked for Roth Heating and Cooling for over a decade, Jimmy Dearborn knows how expensive an HVAC system can be if you’re not careful. Luckily, he has multiple ideas on how you can save energy and cut your air conditioning costs. According to Dearborn, you can lessen the impact of your HVAC by making some simple, easy adjustments around your home.
Regularly Clean Your AC Filter
Cleaning your AC filter regularly can significantly reduce your electricity bills. When was the last time you changed your HVAC system’s air filters? Jimmy Dearborn explains that this is easily one of the simplest things you can do to boost your system’s performance. Natural dust and hair accumulation (especially if you have pets) can clog your filter, making your air conditioner use more power to reach the temperature you set. Filters should be cleaned or replaced monthly, and having a supply of filters on hand will allow you to stay on top of it.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, Jimmy Dearborn suggests investing in one. This is because a programmable thermostat will never forget to shut off the system when you’re not home — plus, there are currently models that allow you to manage your home’s temperature from your smartphone, so you can leave it off for most of the day while you are out and then turn it on a half hour before you get home. Jimmy Dearborn explains that the simpler you can make it, the more successful you will be.
Reduce Temperature Difference
Jimmy Dearborn explains that most people will set their air conditioner to very low temperatures in the summertime. However, he suggests setting your thermostat as high as comfortably possible during the summer months, as this will lessen the strain on your system and reduce your overall electricity bill. Reducing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of your home can also help you adjust to the weather outside.
Be Mindful of Appliances
Another step you can take to lower your overall costs is be mindful of the appliances you use in the summertime. Your oven, for example, can cause an inaccurate temperature reading and increase the strain on your HVAC system. Jimmy Dearborn also suggests moving lamps, televisions, and computers away from your thermostat to reduce the likelihood of picking up radiating heat.
Jimmy Dearborn suggests using ceiling fans on your top floor to displace the hot air. As hot air rises, fans will help move the air around the room and help your home maintain an even temperature, which can give your HVAC system a bit of a break. Turning on the ceiling fan can reduce your thermostat by about 4F without making a noticeable difference in temperature.
Lastly, Jimmy Dearborn suggests scheduling regular maintenance on your HVAC system to ensure that it is running smoothly and at full capacity all season long. An annual check-up can help you avoid unwanted costs.