Once winter is underway and the temperatures dip, your heating system starts a marathon that lasts for months. Most customers feel the sting of higher energy bills as soon as they turn off the heat. However, you do not have to settle for a cold building or an empty wallet. There are several ways to help your HVAC system work much less while still keeping your space comfortable. By focusing on how heat moves through your building, you can stop wasting energy and start feeling the difference in every room. Here are some tips that can help during the months you are not using your AC.
The Magic of Ceiling Fan Direction
When many people think of ceiling fans, the sweltering heat of summer comes to mind. However, you can also use them to enhance comfort in the winter. Because heat naturally rises, the warm air in your building is out of reach while your feet freeze. Most fans have a small toggle switch on the motor housing that allows you to change the direction of the blades. Set it to spin clockwise at a very low speed. When you do this, the fan will push the warm air down to the floor. This can enhance your comfort without significantly increasing your energy bills.
Sealing the Hidden Gaps and Leaks
Your HVAC system does best at regulating the temperature in your space when the envelope is secure. If there are leaks anywhere that allow air to escape, this negatively impacts efficiency. Go near doors and windows to see if you feel any air drafts. If you do, this lets you know where conditioned air is escaping. Seal up these cracks with weatherstripping or caulk and use door sweeps to keep air from escaping through the bottoms of doors.
Harnessing Natural Solar Heat
The sun is a free source of heat that works well even during the coldest days of the year. Open the curtains for the windows on the south side of your house. This allows the sun to provide warmth that will last even after the sun goes down. When night falls, close the curtains immediately to prevent heat loss.
Keeping the Airflow Clear and Clean
When you are running your HVAC system, you must maintain optimal airflow. To do this, change filters regularly and make sure all vents are free of any obstructions, such as rugs, curtains, and furniture. Without proper airflow, your system must work harder, which will increase energy bills and strain system components.
These tips can help enhance HVAC efficiency, ensuring you’re ready for the warmer months. An inspection from an HVAC professional can also catch problems that may be lurking beneath the surface this winter. For commercial HVAC repair and inspection services in Wilmington, NC, call NC Quality Air.
