The Benefits of Upgrading to an Energy-Efficient System
North Carolina is deep enough into the south to have that certain accent, and humidity in the summer! Homeowners across the Ashville, North Carolina area are like homeowners everywhere: They want comfort but with the most energy-efficient HVAC system possible.
Why? Because an energy-efficient HVAC system today consists of the most advanced technology available. This reduces energy usage while increasing efficiency and not scrimping on comfort. Energy-efficient HVAC systems use improved insulation materials and have better airflow management, along with automated temperature control. All of this together is what makes them energy efficient.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Energy-Efficient HVAC System?
In addition to the cost savings by using less energy, other benefits an energy-efficient HVAC system will provide are:
- Improved Comfort
An energy-efficient HVAC system will have variable speed compressors. This sets the system up to cycle off/on less. This is a money saver that controls the humidity and keeps your home comfortable with improved airflow that cools and heats every room in the house evenly.
- Quieter
The energy-efficient HVAC systems today are built with new technology that absorbs the clanking, rattling, and rumbling sounds of the older HVAC systems.
- Environment
The energy-efficient HVAC systems today use less electricity, resulting in reducing the need for carbon-intensive power plants and producing less carbon dioxide emissions. They are more conservative today, abusing less of our natural resources.
How Much Energy is Saved with an Energy-Efficient HVAC System?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, based on your location, replacing your current cooling and heating system with an energy-efficient HVAC system can save you as much as 50% with an electric-powered system and 10% with a gas-powered system.
Are There Different Kinds of Energy-Efficient HVAC systems?
The HVAC system in your home is an essential component for keeping your family comfortable. It is also the most expensive component and uses a high level of energy to operate. With an energy-efficient HVAC system, this standard energy-utilizing appliance eases the strain on the bank account and eases the impact on the environment.
What Types of HVAC Systems are Best Suited for Different Climates?
Depending on where you live, the age of your home, and the climate, the best energy-efficient HVAC system can vary. Calling a professional HVAC company will be better able to provide you with the best choice.
Currently, the best energy-efficient HVAC system for heating is with a heat pump system, either an air force or geothermal. A surprise to many, a heat pump system is also the most energy-efficient HVAC system for cooling too.
What are the Differences Between Energy-Efficient and Conventional HVAC Systems?
If you’re not sure about making the move to upgrade your current HVAC system to an energy-efficient HVAC system, here are some points to consider:
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is an industry tool to rate the efficiency of the system. The higher the SEER rating, the higher the energy efficiency. All units manufactured today are required by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to be SEER rated at 14 or higher, whether it is energy efficient HVAC system or not.
- Innovativeness
Most new energy-efficient HVAC models on the market today come with a variety of features in addition to being energy efficient. Some energy-efficient HVAC systems have variable speed adjusters that help you improve the efficiency while it runs. High energy efficient models are better at regulating the humidity level in homes, and with the on/off cycling, it makes for a money saver!
What Maintenance is Required for an Energy-Efficient HVAC System?
The basic knowledge you need to keep your energy-efficient HVAC system operating a full capacity is to replace the air filter every 30 days. When the filter is clogged, the system can’t circulate the air and becomes bogged down.
Additionally, you need to keep the condenser coil and evaporator coil cleaned. Both will accumulate dirt and dust over time, which will slow the system down. Keep them clean and clear of any debris. Last but not least, have a professional inspection of your energy-efficient HVAC system every year. With this professional inspection, they will keep the system clean and all moving parts oiled as needed.
Dollar For Dollar
In addition to the benefits that we’ve reviewed here, in many cases, you can get government incentives to install an energy-efficient HVAC system. There are often tax credits to be taken on your end-of-the-year tax filing too.
And keep in mind, while this is a sizeable investment to your home, your biggest investment, it is one that will give you the most ROI. Should you be considering placing your home on the market, anything you can have added to your home that is energy efficient is an attraction for potential home buyers.