As the summer heat dissipates and we welcome the beautiful colors and crisp, cool air of fall here in Central Illinois, it’s essential to prepare your home for the changing seasons. At Kelso Heating and Cooling, we’re committed to ensuring that your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system runs as efficiently as possible throughout the year, providing comfort while saving energy and money. As the leaves start to fall, it’s an excellent time to optimize your HVAC system for the cooler months ahead. Here are our top energy-saving tips to help you reduce your energy costs this fall:
Perform Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance is critical in preserving the efficiency of your HVAC system. It’s recommended that you schedule a professional tune-up at least once a year. Fall is a great time to do this since your system has just worked hard all summer and will soon prepare for the winter chill. Our HVAC professionals at Kelso can identify any minor issues before they become significant problems, ensuring your system works efficiently, reducing energy use, and prolonging the lifespan of the unit.
Check and Replace Filters Regularly
Clogged or dirty filters make your HVAC system work harder than necessary, reducing its efficiency and increasing energy consumption. A simple rule of thumb is to check your filters monthly and replace them every 90 days, or more often if you have pets or allergy sufferers in your home. This simple task can lower your HVAC system’s energy consumption by 5% to 15%.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
By investing in a programmable or smart thermostat, you can optimize your HVAC system’s operation based on your daily schedule. This means your system will only work hard when it’s necessary, avoiding energy wastage during times when nobody is home. By setting your thermostat back 7°-10°F from its normal setting for 8 hours per day, you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling costs.
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Sealing windows, doors, and any cracks around your home prevents warm air from escaping in the colder months and cool air escaping in the hotter months. This, in turn, reduces the strain on your HVAC system. Adding insulation in your attic and walls can also significantly reduce your heating needs. A well-sealed and insulated home can cut energy costs by up to 20%.
Adjust Ceiling Fans
Many homeowners don’t realize that ceiling fans can be used year-round. In the fall and winter, set your fans to run clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air (which naturally rises) down from the ceiling, making your rooms feel warmer. This simple adjustment can allow you to lower your thermostat setting and save on heating costs.
Consider an HVAC Upgrade
If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Modern HVAC units are far more energy-efficient, and while there is an upfront cost, the savings you’ll make on your energy bills can quickly offset this.
At Kelso Heating and Cooling, we pride ourselves on our dedication to helping homeowners in Central Illinois make the most of their HVAC systems. By following these fall energy-saving tips, you can ensure your home stays comfortable while keeping your energy costs to a minimum. If you need assistance with any HVAC maintenance or upgrades, our team of experts is always here to help. Give us a call today or complete our appointment request form to schedule your fall HVAC maintenance today.
