HVAC efficiency refers to how efficiently an air conditioner or heater works. The efficiency of HVAC is measured by the amount of heat transferred to the air, measured in cubic feet per minute or CFM. An HVAC system’s efficiency can be improved through many different techniques such as replacing older or worn air conditioners, upgrading to a more energy efficient model, changing to a new condenser, or by cleaning and maintaining the unit. It is important to note that the efficiency rating for an air conditioning unit is not the same as the rating for an HVAC system. There are differences between HVAC and AC systems.
HVAC efficiency helps homeowners and business owners save money on their heating and cooling bills. Not only does it help save energy, but it also reduces a homeowner’s carbon footprint. HVAC efficiency also reduces pollutants released into the atmosphere. Energy-efficient air conditioning units provide comfortable indoor temperatures and improve indoor air quality. Improved HVAC efficiency has led some companies to name their products “green.”
A high efficiency HVAC rating decreases the amount of power needed to cool or heat a space. In the summer months, an HVAC system that operates at full capacity can save a household’s electric bill by up to 20 percent. An energy-efficient cooling system reduces the demand on hot water and reduces the amount of electricity used for heating water.
Improved HVAC efficiency results in higher utility bills for consumers and higher levels of comfort and satisfaction in homes. Inefficient heat pump systems lose heat faster than conventional systems, leading to increased energy usage. The refrigerant used in many heat pumps leaks or is lost through leaky connections. A high efficiency HVAC rating reduces this risk and saves on energy consumption.
Improved HVAC efficiency also reduces pollution caused by excess heat in the winter months. Cooling and heating losses account for more than half of residential energy consumption. Air conditioners and window fans extract cool air from the inside of a room and send it outside through open windows and doors. Excess indoor temperature causes damage to roofing materials, attic insulation, cabinets, drywall, and electrical equipment. A high efficiency HVAC rating ensures greater protection against heat and cold extremes.
While homeowners can’t always do much to improve their HVAC system, they can take steps that reduce their impact on the environment and their own wallets. Properly maintained, a typical HVAC system can last 20 years or longer, making it an investment well worth the cost. When shopping for a new HVAC system, check the energy consumption and heating and cooling efficiency ratings. Make sure the model you choose has been certified by an accredited HVAC ratings agency.
When the temperature drops, people often turn up their heating and cooling systems to try to make it bearable. But as they do, they may notice that their HVAC system isn’t quite as efficient as it was when they left it on all day, especially during the winter months. Turning down the thermostat a few degrees can make a big difference. If you work harder, work smarter, turn down the thermostat a few degrees at night and while you’re awake, you’ll save more on your heating and cooling bills. Similarly, if you’re sleeping, leave your HVAC system on a low mode. This will not only save you money during the summer months but will also reduce the amount of energy used during the winter months.
Your HVAC equipment is one of the biggest causes of greenhouse gas emissions, so it’s important that you take measures to reduce its impact on our environment. Both cooling and heating efficiency are affected by various environmental factors, such as air quality, daylight hours, weather patterns, and construction materials. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a way to improve your HVAC equipment’s environmental performance. It just takes a little bit of research and a bit of imagination to achieve great results.
