‘Tis the season for cutting carbs, calories…. And energy consumption. In addition to all those New Year’s resolutions tailored toward prolonging your health and happiness, don’t forget the health and happiness of your heating and cooling system, the most costly and energy glutinous appliance in your home.
Five New Year’s Resolutions for Cutting HVAC Costs
- Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
(It’ll go great with that new smart phone.)
Independent review has confirmed smart thermostats can save you 20% over antiquated old non-programmable models. Operable via smartphone, today’s latest models learn your behavior (most with little to no programming) using sensors, and can be controlled from any location from the couch to your vacation hotel suite. High-tech home? Integrate your smart thermostate with Google Home or Amazon Echo home automation tech for voice-operable use. - Regularly Clean/Replace HVAC Air Filters
(It’s easier than shaving your legs.)
Dusty, filthy, clogged home air filters force your system to work harder to achieve the same result, robbing efficiency. When was the last time you changed yours? Mark it on your calendar for cleaning/replacing at least every 3 months, more if you have allergies/asthma, pets, kids, or are renovating your home. - Schedule Your Tune-Ups
(They’re less invasive than your annual well-visit.)
Your doctor (and your health insurance) like you to get a checkup at least once a year. Because stuff happens that’s easy to overlook, and your HVAC is no different. Avoid inconvenient HVAC emergency service and costly repair issues, scheduling a fall/spring tune-up on your calendar before you and your family will depend on the system for protection against weather extremes. This inexpensive maintenance reduces system wear-and-tear and vastly improves efficiency and comfort. While you’re at it, schedule your annual hot water heater service as well. - Give Your System an Upgrade
(Your annual savings could quickly add up to the cost of a new smartphone.)
While many fail to balk at upgrading a $1,000 cell phone (semi)annually, they swoon at the thought of upgrading their HVAC system. But today’s best Energy Star HVAC systems are surprisingly affordable, using 30-50% less energy than systems just 10 years old – and unlike your cell phone, come with manufacturer warranties up to 20 years! Protect your pocketbook and the planet, updating your home with the latest in reliable and efficient home comfort technology. Health problems? Consider indoor air quality HVAC add-ons such as HEPA filtration and UV light air purifiers to safeguard your health against high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) bacteria, viruses, mold, pet dander, pollen and other allergens. - Seal Leaks
(Because you don’t want to air condition the whole neighborhood.)
Leaks can sabotage your HVAC system like holiday cookies to your New Year’s dietary goals. Seek out and seal leaks around doors, windows, baseboards, and plumbing, which can be the equivalent of a window constantly left open. And don’t neglect ductwork leaks, which cost the average HVAC system energy losses of 30%.
Plan for success with the help of H&H Heating & Air Conditioning. Together we can help you achieve a safer, happier, greener and more energy efficient New Year.
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Looking for optimal efficiency in your next HVAC system? 
temperature preferences, programming itself and switching the system off if no movement is detected for 2 hours. Once activity is detected, your HVAC system is again reactivated. Like the Honeywell, all settings can be overridden at the device or remotely via Apple or Android app via your properly registered thermostat account. Connected to your home’s Wi-Fi network for quick, convenient adjustments and programming or voice operable via Amazon Alexa, a green leaf on the NEST screen denotes the perfect balance between temperature and energy savings, with easily accessible energy usage reports denoting efficiency.
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