Proper HVAC Maintenance can Preserve the Planet (and Save You Money)
It’s hard to believe that just 50-60 years ago, central heating and air conditioning systems were starting to appear on the scene. How spoiled we have become since then! My wife lived for 2 years in third world country where the temperatures were sweltering – and of course there was no A/C. We are surely fortunate to have air conditioned and heated homes! But those HVAC units come with a price tag. Besides being expensive to purchase, they are one of the biggest consumers of energy in you home.
Just a like a car, to keep your HVAC unit running at peak efficiency, it is important to have it tuned up from time to time. By properly cleaning the units and correcting any service issues, the HVAC unit can heat and cool you home more easily – saving you money.
As an added bonus, some power companies are even paying you – yes you heard me correctly – PAYING YOU to get your HVAC unit tuned up. For example, Progress Energy in North Carolina is offering a $45 rebate for having your HVAC unit maintained. I recently had mine serviced for $95. That’s only $50 after rebate.
(Be sure to have the service person sign the rebate form before they leave.)
Another way to ensure your HVAC system is giving you the most bang for your buck is to have a home performance (or energy) audit. During an audit, the auditor may use a pressure pan or duct blaster fan to test for air leaks in the HVAC system ducts. Leaking ducts can be a significant cause of energy loss, and decreased comfort. Depending on the size and location (crawl space or attic, for example) of the leaks, homes can also experience air quality issues. Sealing these leaks can be an easy and effective improvement to any home!
