If a dramatic reduction in your home’s electric bill is something that would make you deliriously happy, consider addressing your HVAC system to help control energy costs in your Georgia home. Cooling and heating can add up to more than half of your home’s monthly energy use. Decrease your energy costs by increasing your HVAC’s efficiency:

• Maintain your system: Preventative maintenance in the form of an annual tuneup can improve efficiency and comfort. A professional will check and address leaks in refrigerant and ducts, clean and maintain system components, check and adjust airflow, and verify your thermostat is functioning properly.
• Change your air filter: One of the simplest things you can do to help reduce your energy costs is replacing your air filter regularly. Check your filter each month, changing it when it looks dirty, and at least every three months. A dirty filter makes your system work harder, using more energy and resulting in additional wear and tear. It also contributes to poor indoor air quality.
• Upgrade your thermostat: Why waste energy on an unoccupied home? A programmable thermostat allows you to program when (and at what temperature) your cooling and heating systems run, keeping your home comfortable when you’re there and giving your system a break when you’re not.
• Seal ducts: Dirt near seams of ductwork can indicate leaks. Sealing leaks with foil tape or duct sealant and insulating ducts can reduce energy costs as much as 20 percent. Address attic, crawlspace, basement and garage ducts first.
• Consider replacement: Replacing your HVAC equipment with new Energy Star certified products can offer significant savings on your monthly utility bill that can add up over the life of your new equipment. You may also be eligible for federal energy tax credits, as well as various incentives from state or local government, manufacturers and utility companies.
• Ensure proper installation: Should you decide to upgrade, ensure that your technician is certified, licensed and experienced. Improper installation can reduce efficiency by as much as 30 percent, increasing costs and jeopardizing the life of your new system.

If you’re interested in more information on controlling energy costs in your Georgia home, please contact us at Powers Heating & Air. At Powers, we’re dedicated to helping our customers contain costs. We provide experienced, reputable service to Peachtree City and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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