Your California Guide to Saving Money on Cooling and Heating

In sunny California, our winters are kind, but that doesn’t mean you can’t save money and energy on heating and cooling. By following these seasonal temperature control tips, you can keep your home cozy during the rainy days and cool during sunny seasons.

Hot Weather Tips:

  1. Regular Filter Changes: During hot summer months, your HVAC system works overtime. Ensure its efficiency by changing air filters every 1-2 months. This keeps the air flowing smoothly, reduces strain on the system, and maintains cool indoor temperatures.
  2. Programmable Thermostats: Invest in a programmable thermostat. They allow you to preset temperature changes based on your schedule, so your HVAC system isn’t running full blast when no one’s home.
  3. Sealing Leaks: Seal any gaps or leaks in your home’s insulation and around windows and doors. This prevents cooled air from escaping and hot air from entering, reducing the strain on your HVAC system.
  4. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular HVAC maintenance, preferably before the hottest months. Professional maintenance ensures that your system is clean and operating at optimal efficiency.
  5. Consider Zoning: If possible, install a zoning system to cool specific areas of your home, reducing energy waste when no one is in the room.

Cool Weather Tips:

  1. Programmable Thermostats: The same thermostat that helps in the summer is equally helpful in the winter. Set lower temperatures when you’re asleep or away to reduce heating costs.
  2. Ceiling Fans: Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans to clockwise. This pushes warm air down, keeping you cozier without raising the thermostat.
  3. Weatherstripping: Replace or reinforce weatherstripping around windows and doors. This prevents drafts and keeps warm air inside.
  4. Curtains and Drapes: Open curtains during the day to let in natural heat, and close them at night to trap warmth inside.
  5. Efficient Heating: If your HVAC system uses a furnace, make sure it’s running efficiently. Have it inspected for proper combustion and venting, and consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model if yours is outdated.

A mild winter on the West Coast is no reason to neglect HVAC efficiency, so be sure to implement these smart heating and cooling tips to enjoy energy savings all year. At Earth Air Systems, we’re here to assist with maintenance, upgrades, and expert advice tailored to your specific HVAC needs.

DIY HVAC Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is vital for the comfort of your home. While professional HVAC technicians are essential for major repairs and inspections, there are many DIY HVAC maintenance tasks you can tackle to ensure your system runs efficiently and avoids costly breakdowns.

1. Changing Air Filters

Regularly changing your HVAC system’s air filters is one of the easiest and most effective DIY maintenance tasks. Dirty or clogged filters can restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and increasing your energy bills. Check your filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and filter type, and replace them when they’re dirty.

2. Cleaning Vents and Registers

Ensure that vents and registers are clear of obstructions like furniture, curtains, or rugs. Blocked vents disrupt airflow, making your HVAC system less efficient and reducing your home’s comfort. Periodically vacuum and wipe down vents to remove dust and debris.

3. Checking for Leaks:

Inspect your HVAC system for any visible leaks in the ductwork, refrigerant lines, or the furnace itself. Leaks can reduce system efficiency and should be addressed promptly. If you find leaks, consult a professional technician for repairs.

4. Lubricating Moving Parts

Your HVAC system contains many moving parts that require lubrication to reduce friction and extend their lifespan. Refer to your system’s manual for guidance on which parts need lubrication and how often. Be sure to use the recommended lubricants.

5. Cleaning Condenser and Evaporator Coils

Dirty coils can hamper your HVAC system’s ability to cool or heat your home effectively. Turn off the power to your system and carefully clean the coils using a soft brush or a coil cleaner as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Calibrating the Thermostat

Calibrate your thermostat to ensure it accurately reflects your desired indoor temperature. An improperly calibrated thermostat can lead to temperature fluctuations and increased energy consumption.

7. Testing the Safety Controls

Test the safety controls of your furnace and air conditioning unit to ensure they shut down properly in case of a malfunction. Safety controls protect your home from potential hazards, so their proper functioning is crucial.

8. Insulating Ductwork

Inspect your ductwork for any gaps or leaks and seal them with appropriate duct tape or mastic sealant. Well-insulated ducts prevent energy loss and help maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home.

9. Checking Refrigerant Levels:

If you have a central air conditioning system, monitor the refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant levels can reduce cooling efficiency. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, contact a professional HVAC technician.

10. Scheduling Professional Inspections

While these DIY maintenance tasks are valuable, they don’t replace the need for professional inspections. Schedule annual HVAC inspections with a licensed technician to address potential issues, clean components, and ensure your system operates efficiently.

DIY HVAC maintenance empowers you to take proactive steps in keeping your HVAC systems in top shape. By following these tips and incorporating regular professional inspections, you can enjoy a comfortable home, energy savings, and peace of mind, all while extending the life of your HVAC system. Remember that safety is paramount, so exercise caution and consult professionals when needed for more extensive repairs and troubleshooting.