Heating and Air Conditioning Maintenance Makes for a Happy Home!

Almost half of a home’s energy is consumed by its heating and air conditioning, or HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) system. Typically, 44% of a homeowner’s utility bill will go towards servicing these costs. However, there are steps that you can take to rein in those high bills and start making your home more energy efficient.

1. Check your air filter regularly.
   1. Change it at least every 3 months.
   2. Check it on a monthly basis and, if it already looks dirty, change it.
      1. Dirty filters slow down airflow thereby making the system work harder, which wastes energy.
      2. Clean filters prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system, thus saving you from expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
2. Get a yearly tune-up of your heating and air conditioning system.
   1. Maintenance checklist – what to look for.
   2. Find a RESNET Certified Contractor to do the job right.
3. Install a programmable thermostat.
   1. This can help you save up to $180 a year in energy costs.
4. Seal heating and cooling ducts.
   1. Significant air wastage takes place through ductwork.
   2. Contact a RESNET Certified Duct and Vent Contractor who specializes in doing this type of work.
5. Consider replacing old or worn out heating and air conditioning systems.
   1. Energy efficient ENERGY STAR qualified systems can make a major contribution to reducing your energy bill. RESNET Certified Contractors can guide you as to what to look for and which systems would be suitable for you.
   2. Have a RESNET Certified Contractor install your new HVAC system to ensure the job’s done properly and as efficiently as possible.

There are other things that you can do that could also help bring down your energy costs. Take a tour of the RESNET Interactive House to get some useful tips on how to cut down your energy usage or read case studies and discover how certified RESNET Home Energy Professionals are helping Americans solve their energy problems.