4 Ways HVAC Systems Are Becoming More Efficient

Did you know the typical household spends over $2,000 annually on energy bills? Just as appliances and window designs have become more energy efficient, HVAC systems have followed suit to help homeowners save.

In recent years, several changes have been made to help you achieve a more comfortable home using less energy. Here are some of the ways HVAC systems help reduce your carbon footprint.

Newer Systems Use Less Energy

The Department of Energy has found that newer models and components with an Energy Star rating can reduce costs by as much as 35 percent. However, a full system replacement isn’t always necessary to achieve more efficient performance.

Rather, a more economical approach involves retrofitting air conditioners and heating equipment that’s at least 10 years old. To modify your existing system, start by replacing the compressor with a newer part, then add a combination of fan controls, demand-controlled ventilation and air side economizers.

Programmable Thermostat and Controls

Programmable features allow you to control the temperature pattern in your home. Oftentimes, this means lowering the heat during the day when the house is empty or at nighttime, when everyone is asleep. The result places less strain on your home’s HVAC system and ultimately decreases the amount of long-term energy use.

At the same time, you’re able to tailor temperatures to your personal comfort level and daily schedule. Homeowners can save an estimated $200 a year when using a programmable thermostat.

System and Ductwork Sizing

Believe it or not, bigger systems are not always more effective and might actually waste energy. Whether you live in an apartment or multi-story house, your HVAC unit and ductwork need to be appropriately sized. Before selecting a new system, consult with a professional.

Ductwork can have a similar effect. If it’s too narrow, air flow is reduced and your HVAC system has to work harder to cool or heat your home. However, wider ducts don’t mean air is delivered sooner. The air stagnates or dissipates in the ducts, so the HVAC system goes into overdrive to reach the desired temperature.

More Efficient HVAC System Designs

A handful of energy-efficient HVAC designs have emerged over the past decade, including:

• Ductless or Mini-Split Systems: Remove the ductwork entirely with multiple compressors and a thermostat for individual indoor units. The result eliminates potential air leaks, reduces the distance air has to travel and allows homeowners to create temperature-controlled zones.
• Variable-Speed Systems: Feature a compressor that operates at more than one rate which, uses less energy and places less moisture into the air. As such, because parts like the fan and compressor never shut off, your home remains at a comfortable temperature and the system tends to last longer.
  Geothermal Heating & Cooling: Bypasses central heating and air for a heat pump, which cyclically moves air between your home and the soil outside. Not having to act as its own heat source lessens the amount of energy a geothermal heating system uses.

If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s HVAC system, explore your options with MJ Fahy & Sons. To learn more, contact us today.