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ENERGY TIPS

12 Ways to Increase the Efficiency of Your HVAC Unit

Introduction to HVAC Efficiency:

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are the heart of your home’s climate control. Whether it’s keeping your living room warm and toasty during winter or ensuring your bedroom stays cool on a sweltering summer day, HVAC systems play a crucial role in keeping you comfortable year-round. Beyond comfort, they also help keep you safe from extreme outdoor temperatures, providing a stable indoor environment during heatwaves or cold snaps.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for nearly half of the energy usage in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most households. When your system runs more efficiently, it requires less energy to deliver the same level of comfort, which means you save money on your utility bills and reduce your household’s carbon footprint.

Improving your HVAC system’s energy efficiency can lead to significant savings by cutting down on unnecessary power consumption. However, many homeowners face challenges with older or poorly maintained HVAC units.

If your system is outdated, you might notice inconsistent temperatures throughout your home, or worse, see your energy bills rise steadily every month. These are clear signs that your HVAC system may not be running as efficiently as it could.

In this guide, we’ll show you several effective ways to optimize your system’s performance, increase comfort and save on energy costs—all while reducing your carbon footprint.

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12 Ways to Boost HVAC Efficiency and Savings

Keeping your HVAC system running efficiently is essential not only for maintaining comfort but also for saving money on your energy bills. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to optimize your system’s performance and improve its efficiency.

Let’s explore 12 effective strategies to help you get the most out of your heating and cooling setup.

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1. Routine Checks Can Save You Money

One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost the efficiency of your HVAC system is through routine checks. Regularly inspecting and cleaning components like air filters and coils ensures your unit operates optimally. Clear the area around your unit and remove fallen leaves, branches, vegetation and cobwebs. Set reminders to change your air filters once every 90 days or monthly if you have pets.

Neglecting these tasks can lead to accumulated debris, which can obstruct airflow and force the unit to use more energy to maintain your family’s comfort. Checking your unit regularly can also help you catch and address small issues before they turn into major repairs, saving you even more money in the long run.

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2. Proper Maintenance Can Boost HVAC Efficiency

Consistent, long-term maintenance is key to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and extending its lifespan. While routine checks address immediate needs, regular professional maintenance ensures that your unit stays in top condition year after year.

Proper maintenance involves more than just cleaning; it includes tasks like checking refrigerant levels, tightening electrical connections and lubricating moving parts. When these components are regularly maintained, your system can function smoothly and efficiently.

According to Energy.gov, well-maintained HVAC systems not only perform better but can also last several years longer than units that receive minimal upkeep. Regularly scheduled maintenance can help avoid emergency breakdowns, which can be both inconvenient and expensive to fix.

To maximize your HVAC system’s efficiency and longevity, consider setting up a maintenance schedule with a professional technician. Annual or bi-annual tune-ups can identify potential issues early, ensure optimal performance and keep your home comfortable year-round.

🧑‍🔧Savings Tip: EPB customers can get back $50 for hiring a certified contractor to service your HVAC system. See What Qualifies. 

3. Seal Those Ducts To Save Energy and Dollars

Ductwork plays a crucial role in distributing conditioned air throughout your home, but even small leaks can lead to significant energy wastage.

According to EnergyStar®, an average home loses about 20% to 30% of the air moving through the duct system due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. This means your HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, which drives up your energy bills.

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Sealing ducts is one of the most effective ways to improve your system’s efficiency. When ducts are properly sealed, conditioned air is delivered where it’s needed without escaping through gaps or cracks. This ensures your home stays comfortable, and your HVAC system doesn’t have to compensate for lost air by running longer or more frequently.

Not only does sealing ducts save energy—it can also help improve indoor air quality. Leaky ducts can draw in dust, mold and other contaminants from unconditioned spaces like attics and crawlspaces, which then circulate throughout your home. By sealing the ducts, you can minimize these issues and ensure cleaner, healthier air inside your living space.

For maximum efficiency, consider having a professional perform a duct inspection and sealing. This may involve applying mastic sealant or metal-backed tape (foil tape) to areas with visible leaks, as well as insulating ducts that run through unconditioned spaces.

These steps can drastically improve your HVAC system’s performance, allowing you to save on energy bills while maintaining a comfortable home environment year-round.

🧑‍🔧Savings Tip: If you’re an EPB customer, you can get back $300 for hiring a qualified professional to seal, repair or replace your ductwork. See What Qualifies.

4. Upgrade Your HVAC Unit to The Latest Technology

HVAC technology has come a long way over the years. Modern units are designed with energy efficiency at their core, often outperforming older models in both performance and energy conservation.

Newer HVAC systems are equipped with features such as variable-speed motors, smart thermostats and enhanced heat exchangers that allow them to regulate temperature more precisely, use less energy and maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

While upgrading your HVAC system may require a higher upfront investment, the long-term savings can quickly offset this cost. According to Energy.gov, replacing an older, inefficient system with a high-efficiency unit can reduce heating and cooling bills by up to 30%.

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Advanced features like programmable thermostats allow you to set precise temperature schedules, ensuring the system only operates when needed and helping to minimize energy consumption throughout the day.

Additionally, newer units often come with better warranties and longer lifespans, which means you’ll save on maintenance and repair costs in the long run. For homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for a while, investing in the latest HVAC technology can lead to substantial energy savings, increased comfort and more resale value for your home.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends considering factors like the unit’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating and heating efficiency when shopping for a new HVAC system.

Units with a higher SEER rating provide more efficient cooling, which translates to lower energy bills. Plus, advanced systems can often integrate with other energy-saving measures, such as home weatherization efforts, to maximize efficiency. By upgrading your HVAC unit, you’re not just investing in better comfort but also making a smart financial decision that can yield returns for years.

🧑‍🔧Savings Tip: If you decide to purchase a new HVAC unit, check with your local utility provider for incentives and rebates. EPB customers can get rebates of $800 or more for replacing an older HVAC system. See What Qualifies. 

5. Insulate Your Home for Consistent Temperatures

Proper insulation is one of the most effective ways to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. By acting as a barrier between your living space and the outdoors, insulation helps to keep warm air inside during the winter and cool air inside during the summer.

This reduces the workload on your HVAC system and leads to significant energy savings.

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Tips for Effective Insulation:

  • Focus on key areas. Make sure to insulate attics, walls, floors and crawl spaces. These are the main areas where heat loss or gain can occur.
  • Choose the right R-value. The R-value measures how well insulation resists heat flow. A higher R-value provides better insulation. Choose the appropriate R-value based on your climate and specific area of the home.
  • Seal gaps and cracks. Insulation works best when combined with air sealing. Seal any gaps around windows, doors and ducts to prevent drafts and enhance the effectiveness of your insulation.
  • Add floor insulation. Insulating floors, especially over unheated spaces like basements or crawl spaces, can prevent cold air from leaking into heated rooms.

Properly insulating your home not only boosts comfort but also enhances the efficiency of your HVAC system. By reducing the workload on your unit, you’ll see lower energy bills and a longer lifespan for your heating and cooling equipment.

🧑‍🔧Savings Tip: For extra savings, check with your energy provider for incentives or rebates. EPB customers can get back up to $800 per home for insulation upgrades. See What Qualifies.

6. Install Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors for HVAC Efficiency

Installing energy-efficient windows and doors is a powerful way to boost your HVAC system’s efficiency. These upgrades help minimize heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, losing and gaining heat through windows accounts for 25–30% of residential heating and cooling costs.

Energy-efficient windows and doors are designed to minimize the amount of heat that passes through, using materials like multiple panes of glass, low-emissivity or low-e coatings and insulated frames. This prevents unwanted heat from entering during summer and escaping during winter, which can help reduce your energy costs.

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While energy-efficient doors and windows may have a high upfront cost, the long-term savings from reduced energy bills can quickly offset this expense. Windows with a low U-factor and high solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) are especially beneficial in colder climates, while those with lower SHGC help in warmer regions.

Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors is an effective way to keep your home comfortable year-round, reduce your carbon footprint and see noticeable savings on your energy bills.

🧑‍🔧Savings Tip: Some regions offer rebates or tax credits for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades, making it more affordable to install new windows and doors.

7. Boost Efficiency with More Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a simple yet effective way to enhance your HVAC system’s efficiency. By circulating air throughout your home, fans help distribute conditioned air more evenly, improving comfort and reducing the workload on your HVAC unit.

The key to using a ceiling fan to improve the efficiency of your HVAC unit is to think of it as a supplemental tool. The fan will help the room feel more comfortable so that you can set your thermostat to a more cost-effective setting without sacrificing comfort.

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Tips for Saving Energy With Ceiling Fans

  • Switch the direction of your ceiling fan based on the season. Use the counterclockwise setting for summer and the clockwise setting for winter.
  • Turn off your fans when you’re not in the room. Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms, so remember to turn them off when you leave.
  • Use energy-efficient ceiling fans. Look for EnergyStar® certified fans to optimize energy savings.
  • When you turn on the fan, adjust your thermostat. Set your thermostat to a more cost-effective temperature to make the most of your fans’ cooling or warming effects.

8. Leverage Landscaping as Nature's Insulation

Energy-efficient landscaping can act as natural insulation for your home, reducing the strain on your HVAC system. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, strategically positioned trees can reduce your household energy usage by up to 25%.

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Benefits of Strategic Planting:

  • Safety Tip: Before you plant a new tree, research the maximum height it can reach in adulthood. Then, position the tree at least that far away from your home, power lines and other structures. This minimizes the damage it can do if it falls during a storm.
  • Windbreaks in Winter: Dense evergreen trees and shrubs can help shield your home from wind so that it’s easier to heat in colder months.
  • Shade in Summer: Deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides of your home provide cooling shade during hotter months.

9. Implement Zoning Systems for Tailored Comfort

One way to improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency is to divide your home into “zoning” systems. An HVAC zoning system uses a series of automatic dampers installed in your ductwork to control the flow of air to different areas of your home. These dampers open and close as needed to redirect heating or cooling to specific zones, allowing you to adjust temperatures more effectively.

For example, dampers might close off airflow to unused rooms downstairs, enabling your system to cool the upstairs more efficiently.

With zoning, you can control how much energy your home uses to heat or cool, reduce utility costs and enjoy a more comfortable living environment—all without overworking your HVAC system.

How Zoning Works:

  • Targeted Heating and Cooling: Dampers direct conditioned air where it’s needed, preventing energy waste in unoccupied areas.
  • Separate Temperature Control: Each zone has its own thermostat, so you can set custom temperatures for different parts of the home based on usage.
  • Adaptable Comfort: Zoned systems respond to factors like room occupancy, sun exposure and time of day, making heating and cooling more efficient and tailored to your needs.

Benefits of an HVAC Zoning System:

  • Lower Energy Costs: By focusing heating and cooling on specific zones, you can reduce energy consumption and save on utility bills.
  • Extended HVAC Lifespan: Zoning reduces the strain on your system by avoiding overuse, helping it run more efficiently and last longer.
  • Smart Control Options: Many zoning systems integrate with smart thermostats, allowing you to adjust settings remotely or schedule changes throughout the day.

Tip: For the best results, consult an HVAC professional when designing a zoning system. They can assess your home’s layout and recommend zones that maximize energy efficiency and comfort.

How Zoning Improves Efficiency and Comfort:

  • Targeted Heating and Cooling: Zoning enables your HVAC system to deliver conditioned air only where it’s needed, preventing overheating or overcooling. This targeted approach can lead to energy savings of 21-42% and reduce system wear, which prolongs its lifespan.
  • Separate Temperature Control: Each zone has its own thermostat, allowing you to customize temperature settings based on room usage. For example, bedrooms can stay cooler at night, while living areas remain comfortable during the day.
  • Adaptability to Different Needs: Zoned systems can adjust heating and cooling based on sun exposure, room occupancy, and even time of day, making your HVAC system more efficient and responsive.

Benefits Beyond Comfort:

  • Reduced Energy Consumption: By only heating or cooling specific areas, zoning can significantly lower energy costs. It also allows the HVAC system to run more smoothly, requiring fewer repairs and extending its lifespan.
  • Remote Control and Programmability: Many zoning systems come with smart thermostats that can be controlled remotely, giving you flexibility to adjust settings even when you’re not home.

🧑‍🔧Savings Tip: When designing a zoning system, it’s a good idea to hire an HVAC expert who can help identify the best zones based on your home’s layout and your comfort needs.

10. Size Can Impact HVAC Efficiency and Savings

When it comes to HVAC systems, size is crucial. An improperly sized unit can lead to inefficiencies, excessive wear and higher energy bills. An oversized unit may heat or cool a space too quickly, leading to frequent on/off cycling, poor humidity control and uneven temperatures. Conversely, an undersized unit will struggle to maintain comfort, running continuously and overworking itself, which can shorten its lifespan.

To ensure the HVAC system is appropriately sized, a professional assessment is essential. This process often requires an advanced analysis of your home, using factors like home size, insulation, climate zone and more to determine the right unit size for your needs. Professional installers can also help with considerations like sun exposure, insulation levels and ductwork to optimize performance and energy savings.

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Tip: Always consult with a certified HVAC professional to avoid undersizing or oversizing your unit. If you’re an EPB customer and you need help with HVAC sizing, you can schedule a free consultation with our EPB Energy ProsSM by chat, over the phone or in person. Schedule Now.

11. Boost Air Quality and Efficiency with Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring your HVAC system operates efficiently. Effective ventilation helps fresh air circulate throughout your home, removing pollutants, allergens and excess moisture that can lead to poor air quality or damage to your HVAC system.

Without adequate ventilation, stale air can build up, increasing the concentration of dust, pet dander and even harmful gases like carbon dioxide.

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How to Improve Ventilation and Air Quality:

  • Install Exhaust Fans: Exhaust fans in areas like bathrooms and kitchens can help remove moisture, odors and airborne contaminants, preventing mold growth and keeping your home’s air fresher.
  • Add Vents or Ventilation Systems: Ensure your home has sufficient vents to allow air to flow freely between rooms. For larger spaces or homes with limited natural ventilation, consider a whole-house ventilation system to bring in fresh outdoor air.
  • Use Air Purifiers: Portable or HVAC-integrated air purifiers can remove airborne particles, such as dust, pollen, and bacteria, enhancing your home’s air quality.
  • Schedule Regular Maintenance: Keeping your HVAC system’s filters clean and checking ductwork for blockages ensures proper airflow and prevents unnecessary strain on your system.

Improving ventilation not only promotes a healthier living environment but also reduces the workload on your HVAC system, extending its lifespan and enhancing its efficiency.

12. Schedule Your Comfort to Save Money and Energy

You can save up to 10% annually on heating and cooling costs by adjusting your thermostat settings strategically. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, turning your thermostat back 7–10°F from its usual setting for about eight hours a day can significantly reduce energy use. This approach works especially well in milder climates, where the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is smaller.

Tips to maximize savings without sacrificing comfort:

  • In the Winter: Set your thermostat to around 68°F to 70°F while you’re home and awake, and lower it when you’re asleep or away. This reduces heat loss and minimizes energy use.
  • In the Summer: Keep your house warmer when you’re away and adjust the thermostat to the highest comfortable setting when you’re home to reduce cooling costs. Maintaining a higher interior temperature also helps control humidity.
  • Use a programmable or “smart” thermostat: Simplify this process by using a thermostat that automatically adjusts temperature settings based on your schedule to help you avoid discomfort.

Avoid the common misconception that it takes more energy to reheat or re-cool your home after a setback. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, keeping your home at lower temperatures in the winter or higher temperatures in the summer for extended periods reduces the overall energy lost to or gained from the surrounding environment.

With thoughtful thermostat management, you can enjoy a more efficient home, lower energy bills, and year-round comfort.

Crafting a Future of Comfort and Efficiency

Optimizing your HVAC system is one of the most effective ways to create a comfortable, energy-efficient home. From reducing energy costs to prolonging the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment, every small adjustment can make a big difference. Here’s a recap of the key strategies we’ve discussed to help you get started:

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  • Set reminders to routinely check your HVAC system and change your air filters.
  • Schedule seasonal tune-ups with an HVAC service to maximize your energy  efficiency, increase the lifespan of your system and avoid costly repairs.
  • Check your air ducts for leaks and make sure they’re sealed.
  • Upgrade your HVAC unit, if necessary, to a modern, energy-efficient model.
  • Insulate your home’s ceilings, floors and walls where needed.
  • Install energy-efficient doors and windows to maintain stable indoor temperatures and minimize heat transfer.
  • Use fans to maintain comfort while setting your thermostat to a more efficient setting.
  • Strategically landscape your home to block cold wind in the winter and add cooling shade in the summer.
  • Create HVAC zoning systems to reduce energy waste and enhance comfort.
  • Make sure your HVAC system is properly sized to avoid inefficiencies and unnecessary wear.
  • Add ventilation and air purifiers to reduce strain on your system.
  • Use a programmable or smart thermostat that automatically adjusts to a more efficient setting while you’re asleep or away.

Each of these strategies plays a vital role in improving your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. By investing in these simple yet impactful changes, you can enjoy more savings, enhanced comfort and a healthier living environment.

Not sure where to start? If you’re an EPB customer, you can schedule a free consultation with the EPB Energy Pros℠ by phone, chat or in person. We’ll answer your energy questions, make recommendations on which tasks to prioritize first and help you find all the ways to save—at no cost to you. Schedule Now.

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