Peachtree City can get mighty cold during the winter, and if you’re wondering how to lower heating bills without sacrificing comfort this heating season, the two-pronged answer is simple — maintain your HVAC equipment properly and reduce its heating load.

A well-maintained system lasts longer, works better and costs less to operate than one that’s been poorly maintained. Additionally, reducing the heating load results in less wear and tear, while maintaining efficiency and lowering heating costs.

Essential HVAC Maintenance

Performing an annual tune-up is the most important step of HVAC maintenance. This yearly inspection includes a long list of tasks that improve safety and efficiency, extends operating life and helps prevent common (but expensive) problems. Between tune-ups, you should stay on top of these essential tasks:

• Inspect your air filter monthly and replace it with a clean, high quality filter when it’s dirty. A clogged filter restricts airflow, allows dust inside the system and compromises indoor air quality.
• Seal leaky ductwork. Loose joints and other damage typically result in an air loss of up to 40 percent. Use UL-listed metal tape or specially designed mastic duct sealant to seal ducts.
• Insulate ducts in unconditioned areas to keep indoor air warm and prevent mold growth from condensation.
• Keep obstructions away from return and supply registers to ensure optimum airflow and comfort.

Reduce the Heating Load

The less your heating system runs, the more you’ll save in terms of energy costs, repairs and replacement.

• Set back the thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours a day to reduce wear and save up to 15 percent on your heating costs.
• Seal air leaks in the home and shore up attic insulation to a thickness of 15 inches to prevent air loss and to keep your home warmer at a lower energy expenditure.
• Keep the thermostat set no higher than 68 degrees.
• Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans to help redistribute warm air that gathers near the ceiling.

For more advice on how to lower heating bills this winter, please contact Powers Heating & Air in the Fayetteville, Sharpsburg, Senoia, Newnan and Peachtree City areas today.

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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