Your HVAC system is the biggest consumer of energy in your home. That’s why the quest to lower your energy bills and minimize your carbon footprint begins with heating and cooling. How do you ensure you have the most energy efficient HVAC system? Here are a few things to look for.
Signs of Inefficiency
The clearest indicator that your system is inefficient is higher energy bills. You do what you can to conserve, but your energy consumption is still going up. Likewise, if your system seems to run constantly or it repeatedly turns itself on and off, it’s wasting energy.
There are also environmental cues. If your home seems too humid, has hot and cold spots, or is just generally uncomfortable, it’s a sign your system isn’t doing its job and is instead wasting energy.
Efficiency Indicators
How do you get the most energy efficient HVAC system for your home? First, check the rating. AC and heat pump efficiency is indicated by the SEER rating, aka the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, which tells you how much cooling the unit produces for the amount of energy it consumes in a given season. ACs in Ohio must have a minimum SEER rating of 13, but to ensure a truly energy efficient HVAC, look for a rating of 16 or higher.
Furnace efficiency is indicated by the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, which measures how much of the fuel burned is utilized as heat and how much is given off as exhaust in an average year. The minimum AFUE for a gas furnace is 80%, but to maximize efficiency, look for one rated 90% or above.
The clearest indicator of energy efficiency, though, is the blue Energy Star logo. Energy Star appliances use less energy compared to similar models — without sacrificing performance or features. Furthermore, if the price is higher, it’s guaranteed to make that money back for you in reduced energy costs within a reasonable time period.
For help ensuring the most energy efficient HVAC system for your home, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services. We provide the best heating and cooling solutions Dayton has to offer.
