When is the last time you had your heating and cooling system serviced? Do you know if it is performing at top speed? Even if your A/C is cranking this summer, there may be some ways in which you are still losing money. Installing and maintaining the proper heating and cooling system in your home can save you thousands of dollars a year.
What are the Signs I May Need Repair?
HVAC systems should have regularly scheduled maintenance at least once a year, but bi-yearly is best for the warm and cold seasons in Middlesex County. If you are in between check-ups and you suspect your unit is not performing properly, there are a few warning signs to look out for.
- The furnace or boiler is constantly running
- The system is making strange noises
- Your energy bill seems incredibly high
- Your system is more than a decade old
- The unit is leaking
- The hoses are in disrepair with cracks or leaks
- The external air compressor is damaged
If you see signs of any of these, it is best to call us immediately and we can send someone out. Allowing these issues to fester will only drain your pocket and lead to costly repairs—or inevitably, an entire replacement.
Energy Assessment
If you are still unsure of whether you need a new HVAC system, an energy assessment will help determine just how efficiently your unit is running. A home energy auditor is anyone who can come out and assess how much energy you are using/losing depending on how your home’s systems are running.
The auditor will look at things like framing, insulation, construction, sealing, and vents. If it is your HVAC system identified as the culprit, one of our trained professionals can come out to assess if you need to repair or replace the unit.
Saving Money
In addition to keeping your heating and cooling system totally maintained, there are some other ways in which you can save money. This typically includes choosing the right type of equipment for your budget and environment.
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) on an HVAC system will determine the efficiency. The higher the SEER model, the more expensive the equipment is. However, SEER models can also help you save on energy throughout the seasons and are beneficial for a green and sustainable environment.
Modulation
The speed at which your HVAC system runs can additionally determine the cost. Also known as modulation, variable speed A/Cs are cheaper to run. The energy used to power the air conditioning changes by the heat inside, so the system keeps an even temperature throughout the house. Hi-velocity systems can rid your house of humidity in minutes.
Humidity
Perhaps the biggest culprit of waste, humidity can suck the energy right out of a room. Certain HVAC units are designed to control the levels of humidity to keep your home cooler. Therefore, you’re not cranking it up when it’s simply too wet in the air.
The easiest way to save thousands on your HVAC system is to not allow it to go into disrepair in the first place. Scheduling yearly assessments can help you stay on top of things. If you are still unsure, an energy assessment will tell you exactly where and how you can save additional cash on your home heating and cooling system.
Ultimately, it may come down to equipment. If you want to save the most on cost, in the long run, you may have to initially pay more up front. Efficient systems are costlier but they run for longer and at top performance.
If you are unsure about how to proceed in saving thousands on your HVAC system., give us a call at 978-433-5373. We can help you brainstorm and send someone out to chat and take a peek.
