Improving the efficiency of your HVAC system can dramatically reduce both your carbon footprint and your home energy costs. Many of these efforts can also have a very positive impact on your overall indoor air quality by removing many particulates and potentially harmful pollutants including mold, cigarette smoke, cleaning products, pet dander, and dust among many other things. Following are three tips to help you achieve remarkable gains in each of these areas.
Have A Programmable Thermostat Installed
One of the easiest ways to improve the overall efficiency of your home or office HVAC system is by installing a programmable thermostat. With these units, you can lower or raise the indoor temperature according to your schedule and needs. This way, the unit won’t be turning on to heat or cool the property while it remains vacant. Consumers can even use these thermostats to established their preferred indoor temperatures at specific times of the day. With programmable thermostats, you can easily avoid problems with energy waste. For larger properties, there is also the option of installing zoning systems in which each zone is controlled by its own programmable thermostat.
Upgrade Your HVAC Filter
If your HVAC system does not have a high-functioning, built-in, air filtration system, you can always install a compatible air purifier. This secondary unit will help remove things like mold spores, dirt, smoke, and chemical contaminants to create a cleaner and fresher-smelling environment overall. Ozone generators and air ionizers are special, ambient, air purification units that can additionally emit sanitizing agents as needed. These are ideal in clean rooms, in medical and dental practices, and in homes with chronically ill residents or people with compromised immune systems. If installing a secondary air filtration system is not a feasible option, you can always take steps to improve the efficiency of your existing HVAC filter. To start, make sure that this component is diligently cleaned or replaced every two to three months. Moreover, if the current filter does not have an airtight fit, you may even want to consider upgrading your HVAC air filter housing. In many furnaces, this will often eliminate unpleasant rattling noises as well as improve the indoor air quality.
Inspect Your Attic Insulation And Add More As Needed
Sometimes, the best way to improve the efficiency of HVAC systems is by simply creating a more airtight and better-insulated environment. Over time, attic insulation has a tendency to become compacted and can lose much of its overall effectiveness as a result. You should check your attic for insulation leaks annually. Water damages can occur as the result of roof leaks that will ultimately lead to problems with mildew and mold if left unchecked. As such, be sure to inspect for signs of recent leaks. In addition to verifying that your existing insulation is in good condition, you should also consider the benefits of adding more. This will limit your energy costs and create a quieter, and far more comfortable living environment all-around. Generally, when existing attic insulation falls below or just at the floor joists, additional insulating materials are required.
