Heating System Tips for Energy Efficiency in Richmond, VA

Do your heating bills just seem to keep going up in Richmond, VA? Does it seem like you’re paying more while getting less comfort? Try these foolproof tips to help maximize the energy efficiency of your heating system this winter.

Start the Winter Season With a Tune-Up

Neglecting routine heater maintenance is like driving your car without changing the oil or checking the brakes. Both may keep running — at least for a while — but their performance is bound to suffer eventually. In the case of your heating system, seasonal maintenance promotes balanced airflow, minimizes efficiency-stealing friction, and keeps key components properly calibrated. Booking annual heater tune-ups will ensure superior energy efficiency throughout the winter months. You can also do your part by regularly changing your HVAC filter and cleaning your vents and registers.

Optimize Your Comfort Settings

If you’re like most people, you probably leave your thermostat untouched even when you’re asleep or away from home. That means you’re likely paying to heat empty, unoccupied space for hours each day. By simply turning down your temperature setpoint during these periods, you can boost energy efficiency by up to 10%. Of course, making these adjustments manually can be a bit tedious. Instead, why not give yourself the gift of smarter HVAC controls? A smart thermostat can automatically adjust to your daily schedule, delivering warmth when you need it and saving energy when you don’t.

Manage Your Home’s Humidity Levels

Humidity. During the summer months, it’s the bane of our existence here in Central Virginia. In the winter, however, it can actually be surprisingly helpful. In essence, water vapor allows air to store heat energy more effectively. By increasing the humidity level in your home, you’ll feel warmer even if the air temperature hasn’t changed. That’s why a high-quality humidifier is an excellent companion to your heating system. Not only can it keep you more comfortable, but it can protect against the adverse effects of dry air as well.

Still struggling with poor performance and high heating bills? Your local Trane Comfort Specialist has the solution. Call Americool Heating & Cooling, Inc. for affordable, ultra-efficient heating system upgrades installed by certified service technicians.