It happens to the best of us. You go out of your way to do something you think will have long term benefits only to find out that your actions are in fact doing the exact opposite of what you intended. Operating your A/C is no different. While there are numerous actions people can take to enhance HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) efficiency, it’s important to note that some practices might inadvertently reduce the effectiveness of their system. Word of mouth advice and hacks are constantly swirling around which is why we decided to put together a list of 10 common things people do that actually reduce the effectiveness of your system.
- Closing or blocking vents: Closing vents or obstructing them with furniture or other objects disrupts the proper airflow in the system, leading to imbalanced temperatures and strain on the HVAC unit.
- Neglecting regular maintenance: Failing to schedule routine maintenance, such as filter changes and professional inspections, can result in reduced efficiency due to dust buildup, clogged filters, and other issues.
- Setting extreme temperature differentials: Constantly adjusting the thermostat to extremely high or low temperatures forces the HVAC system to work harder, reducing its overall efficiency.
- Overusing space heaters or portable air conditioners: Relying heavily on space heaters or portable air conditioners can strain the HVAC system by creating temperature inconsistencies and overloading the electrical circuit.
- Blocking outdoor units: Blocking the outdoor unit, such as the condenser or heat pump, with vegetation, fences, or other objects restricts airflow and hampers the unit’s ability to exchange heat effectively.
- Ignoring insulation and sealing: Inadequate insulation and air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork allow conditioned air to escape, leading to energy wastage and reduced HVAC efficiency.
- Ignoring solar heat gain: Failing to address solar heat gain through strategies like shading windows or using reflective coatings can cause the HVAC system to work harder to cool the space, reducing efficiency.
- Running bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans excessively: Excessive use of exhaust fans can create negative pressure in the house, leading to the HVAC system pulling in unconditioned air from outside, reducing its efficiency.
- Closing interior doors: Closing interior doors restricts the proper airflow and return air circulation within the home, causing imbalances in temperature and reduced HVAC efficiency.
- Improper thermostat placement: Placing the thermostat near heat sources, direct sunlight, or in drafty areas can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, causing the HVAC system to cycle unnecessarily and impacting efficiency.
It’s crucial to strike a balance between energy-saving practices and maintaining the optimal functioning of the HVAC system. If in doubt, consult with a qualified HVAC professional to ensure you’re implementing efficiency measures correctly.
Ready to have your air ducts cleaned?
For a professional air duct cleaning, look no further than Power Vac America. With over 30 years of experience, our licensed and certified technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and adhere to the highest standards in air duct cleaning, including the use of high-powered vacuums, brushes, and anti-fungal treatment agents to improve air quality and ensure that you breathe clean and healthy air. We are NADCA certified and licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TACLA28012E).
For more information on our process, follow this link or call for a quote at 713-645-4611: