Late summer is a good time to make sure your HVAC system isn’t wasting energy after months of heavy cooling. Even small issues like a dirty filter, a blocked return vent, or the wrong thermostat setting can make your system work harder than it needs to. Before cooler weather arrives in Chambersburg, our team at Premier HVAC Services has tips to help you improve efficiency and know when your system needs service before heating season.
How to Improve HVAC Efficiency Before Fall
Dirty air filters can quickly reduce your HVAC efficiency, and changing them can significantly improve airflow. Make sure supply and return vents are open, and move away any furniture, rugs, curtains, and storage boxes. If your home is empty for part of the day, you can also adjust the temperature instead of cooling an empty house to the same setting you use when everyone is home. A programmable or smart thermostat can make those changes automatically. Your outdoor unit also needs some attention. Remove leaves, grass clippings, weeds, and other debris from around the condenser so it has room to release heat.
Does Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Save Energy?
Closing vents in rooms you don’t use seems like an easy way to lower your energy bill, but it can make your HVAC system work harder. Most central heating and cooling systems are designed to move a specific amount of air through the ductwork. If you close off too many vents, you could increase the pressure inside the system and reduce overall airflow. The extra pressure can also strain your blower and cause uneven temperatures throughout your home.
Why Does My AC Run More When It’s Humid?
High humidity can make your home feel warm, even if the temperature hasn’t changed. That can lead to longer AC run times or make you want to lower the thermostat. Your AC also has to remove moisture from the air as it cools, so humid conditions make the system work harder. If your home still feels sticky or clammy after the AC has been running for a while, check the indoor humidity level instead of lowering the thermostat.
Ongoing humidity could mean airflow problems, short cycling, improper system sizing, or another issue that is affecting efficiency. Before fall, schedule HVAC maintenance, and we’ll take a look at what’s going on with your system and whether an HVAC issue is contributing to the excess humidity.
Can Leaky Ductwork Increase Your Energy Bill?
Yes, if cooled air escapes through loose connections, gaps, or damaged ductwork, your HVAC system will run longer to deliver enough cool air to your living spaces. All of that wasted airflow can lead to higher energy bills, uneven temperatures, or rooms that never seem to stay comfortable. Before fall hits, pay attention to rooms with consistently weak airflow or areas that are warmer than others. Our team can also inspect ductwork running through your basement, attic, or crawl space for disconnected sections, damaged insulation, or obvious gaps around joints.
Our team helps homeowners in Chambersburg, PA, keep their heating and cooling systems running efficiently through every season.
If your HVAC system has been working hard all summer, contact us at Premier HVAC Services to schedule maintenance before heating season begins.