Is My Current Unit Efficient? < Return
Did you know that:- For every $100 you spend to heat or cool your home with a base system, you would spend considerably less using a higher efficiency system?
- Your heating and air conditioning typically account for more than 40% of your home's annual energy costs?
Heating and cooling systems are somewhat like cars. It's true that most any car can get you to work. It's also true that you will use more or less gas depending on the type of car you choose to drive in. Your little hybrid is likely to use less gas than your gas guzzling SUV.
Heating and cooling systems are similar in that they too can get the job done pretty much regardless of which unit you purchase. However, the amount of money you will spend on your energy bill will vary depending on the system you choose.
With the right system, your indoor comfort system is one of the only parts of your home that can actually pay for itself while also providing the comfort you need. Do you know if your current system is as efficient as it could be?
Measuring Efficiency
Each part of your system has a different unit of measuring its efficiency. Cooling efficiency is measured by "SEER" (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) while the heating efficiency of heat pumps is measured by "HSPF"; (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) and the heating efficiency of gas furnaces is measured by "AFUE" (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). Gas furnaces also use electricity, and variable speed motors can save even more money by reducing the electricity needed to operate the furnace. Although different systems have different efficiency ratings, the most important thing to understand is that the higher the efficiency rating, the greater the savings.
There are also other factors that will contribute or detract from your energy efficiency.
Maintenance of Proper Humidity Levels
When cooling during the warm humid months, you will feel more comfortable at a higher temperature if the humidity level in your home is kept between 40 and 60%. This will reduce the load on your equipment and can save 10 - 15% in cooling costs. The best way to reduce and control humidity in your home is with a variable speed indoor unit and a thermidistat control.
Conditioning Occupied Rooms Only
Zoning and programmable thermostats can control your equipment according to your family's lifestyle and daily occupancy schedule. This allows you to eliminate the wasted energy of conditioning areas in your home that are unused or unoccupied. Do not attempt to zone your home by manually closing your grills as this can damage your system and cause more inefficiency.
Regular Maintenance of Your Equipment
Regularly scheduled professional maintenance is also crucial to maintaining your system's maximum efficiency. Keeping your equipment clean by using a Simpson Triple Protection Air Filter or an Air Purifier will help maintain your systems optimum performance too. Schedule your maintenance today.
