Lower Your Utility Bills With These Heating And Air Conditioning Tips

Furnaces and air conditioners are sizeable appliances that use energy, and the energy they use has a direct impact on your utility bills. If you'd like to lower your monthly utility bills, use these tips to reduce how much energy your HVAC systems use.

Replace Outdated Furnaces and Air Conditioners

If you have an older furnace or air conditioner in your home, it's not as efficient as the newer ones that are available. Technological advancements have greatly improved how well HVAC systems run, and today's models consume much less energy than models from years ago. Replacing yours with a newer model will result in substantial savings. When replacing your old HVAC system, look for one that's energy star certified. These models have met specific government criteria and are among the most efficient units available.

Purchase a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats offer convenience while simultaneously reducing your home's energy consumption. Unlike a standard thermostat that must be adjusted manually, a programmable one can be set up to raise and lower the temperature in your home automatically. You can adjust it around your schedule, bringing the home to a comfortable temperature while you're present but letting it drift a little higher (in summer) or lower (in winter) when you're out to save on energy costs.

If you work a full-time job outside the home, this strategy alone can have a substantial impact on your home's annual energy usage. The Department of Energy estimates that homeowners can save up to 10% a year on their energy costs by setting their thermostat back by between 7 and 10 degrees for eight hours a day.

Have Your HVAC System Serviced

Like any mechanical system, your furnace and air conditioning unit need periodic service to make sure they're in good working order. Each unit should be serviced annually, with the air conditioner receiving attention before the cooling season and the furnace before the heating season. The service should include:

  • Replacing the air filter
  • Cleaning out the ducts and vents
  • Checking all mechanical components

Doing these three things will ensure that air can flow freely through the system. Of course, any mechanical issues noted should be addressed.

Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans aren't part of your HVAC system, but they'll help circulate the cool and warm air generated by your air conditioning unit and furnace. Spreading this air throughout your home will reduce how much your units must run to keep the house a consistent temperature.

For more information, contact a company like Arnold Service Co.


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