Top 10 Energy-Saving Tips to Lower Your HVAC Bills

08/28/2023

Do you find yourself struggling to keep up with rising utility bills? The culprit might be your HVAC system and how you use it!

Over the decades, the technicians at Chancey & Reynolds have helped residential and commercial customers across Knoxville save on utility costs by implementing the latest energy-saving habits and tools. Here’s a list of our top 10 most effective tips to help you maintain comfortable indoor air without breaking the bank.

photo of a digital thermostat and mobile phone controlling thermostat - HVAC Solutions by Chancey & Reynolds

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Regular HVAC maintenance saves money on energy bills and helps you avoid expensive repairs. When an HVAC system is well-maintained, it operates at peak efficiency. This means it can heat or cool your space using less energy.

Schedule routine maintenance with a trusted team of HVAC professionals like Chancey & Reynolds to keep your HVAC system in top shape. Our NATE-certified technicians can service, repair, and maintain all HVAC systems.

2. Use Smarter Thermostat Settings

In the winter, set your thermostat to a lower temperature when you’re home and wear warm clothing. Keep it a bit higher in the summer and use fans to stay cool. Every degree counts when it comes to energy savings.

Also, consider installing a programmable thermostat (or smart thermostat) that allows you to set temperature schedules that align with your daily routine. You can program it to lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep and raise it when you’re at home. It can even automatically adjust to your patterns. This simple step can result in substantial energy savings.

3. Insulate Your Space

Ensure your home or office space is adequately insulated to prevent the treated air from your heating or cooling system from escaping. Proper insulation provides temperature control and comfort by acting as a thermal barrier, preventing heat transfer between the inside and outside. It also improves energy efficiency by reducing strain on HVAC systems and decreasing energy consumption, resulting in cost savings over time.

4. Seal Leaks

It’s important to check for drafts around your doors and windows. These gaps can cause your HVAC-treated air to leak outside, making your system work harder to keep you comfortable. You should seal these gaps using cost-effective solutions like weatherstripping and caulking to prevent air leakage. Closing these gaps can significantly improve your system’s efficiency and save you money on your energy bills.

5. Replace Air Filters

Replace or clean your HVAC filters regularly. Dirty or clogged air filters restrict airflow through your system and cause it to work harder than it should. The more energy your unit uses to compensate for a dirty filter, the higher your bills will be. Different factors impact how often you should be changing your air filters. You should generally replace your air filter every 30 to 90 days.

6. Use Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans help distribute conditioned air more effectively, allowing you to set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter without sacrificing comfort. Even the box or tower fans you might have sitting around can promote greater air circulation and ease the burden on your HVAC.

7. Treat Indoor Air in Zones

Larger homes and commercial spaces may benefit from a zoning system that allows you to divide your space into separate sections with their own thermostat and controls. This approach offers greater control over the temperature in different areas and allows you to heat or cool specific zones to prevent wasting energy on unused spaces.

8. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment

Using energy-efficient appliances is a smart move. They’re designed to use less energy than regular appliances, so you’ll use less electricity overall. Look out for an Energy Star rating, which tells you how efficient they are and how much they cost to run.

To really boost energy efficiency and comfort, consider replacing your old HVAC system with a more energy-efficient one. Chancey & Reynolds can give you the scoop on which type of system is right for you, and that could lead to some serious savings down the line.

9. Cover Your Windows

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows account for up to 30% of a building’s heating and cooling energy loss. By adding an extra layer of insulation, window coverings like insulated curtains and rolling shades reduce the heat that escapes during the winter and the heat that enters during the summer. The right window treatment can reduce the energy needed to heat or cool your space, leading to lower energy bills and a more comfortable indoor environment.

10. Take Advantage of Good Weather

You don’t always need to rely on HVAC-treated air. Give your heating and cooling system a break by using natural ventilation when it’s appropriate. By opening doors and windows on mild to cool days, you’ll save energy and money on your power bill while promoting fresh air circulation throughout your space. 

Trust the HVAC Experts in Knoxville and Lenoir City

Enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient home. Using the tips above, you can take control of your utility costs and support the performance and longevity of your HVAC system.

For professional HVAC maintenance, repairs, and installation services, trust Chancey & Reynolds to keep your system running at its best. We offer free estimates and flexible financing options for those that qualify to ensure that our services are accessible to everyone. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start saving on your energy bills!