How to Reduce Energy Bills: 7 HVAC Adjustments to Slash Your Energy Bills This Summer

If your energy bills have been climbing, especially on those scorching or freezing days, you are definitely not alone. I faced the same issue last winter when our bill unexpectedly shot up. Heating and cooling account for a large portion of your home’s energy use—about half, according to ENERGY STAR. That can lead to hefty monthly expenses. The good news is that you can learn how to reduce your energy bill with a few straightforward changes to your HVAC settings while still staying comfortable.

In this post, I will walk you through 7 simple HVAC adjustments you can make today to reduce energy use and save money. I tested these energy-saving tips myself and saw a noticeable difference. By adjusting our thermostat by just a few degrees while we slept, our monthly bill went down. It was not a dramatic drop, but it made a difference. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, setting your thermostat 7°-10°F lower for eight hours a day can cut your annual energy costs by up to 10%.

These HVAC tips are practical and effective. They can help make your home more efficient, save you money, and keep you comfortable. It worked for us, and I hope it helps you too.

Change Your Thermostat with the Weather to Save Energy

Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature while managing energy bills can be tough. Adjusting your thermostat can make a big difference. Here’s how to set it for each season to stay comfortable and save energy.

Thermostat Settings for Each Season

To balance comfort and energy savings, adjust your thermostat based on the season:

Season	When You’re Home	When You’re Away
Summer	75-78°F (24-26°C)	80-82°F (27-28°C)
Spring/Fall	70-72°F (21-22°C)	75-77°F (24-25°C)
Winter	68-70°F (20-21°C)	65-67°F (18-19°C)

• Summer
  • When You Are Home: Set the thermostat between 75-78°F (24-26°C). This range will keep your home cool without making your air conditioner work too hard.
  • When You Are Away: Raise the temperature to 80-82°F (27-28°C). Letting your home warm up while you are away helps reduce energy use.
• Spring/Fall
  • When You Are Home: Set the thermostat to 70-72°F (21-22°C). This temperature is usually comfortable and efficient.
  • When You Are Away: Adjust it to 75-77°F (24-25°C). With milder weather outside, you can comfortably raise the temperature a bit and still save energy.
• Winter
  • When You Are Home: Set the thermostat to 68-70°F (20-21°C). This keeps your home warm without significantly increasing your heating costs.
  • When You Are Away: Lower it to 65-67°F (18-19°C). Cutting back a few degrees when you are not active or at home helps save on heating expenses.

PLEASE NOTE: These settings are general suggestions. Adjust them based on your comfort and local conditions to find what works best for you.

Using Your Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fans can help you stay comfortable and save energy:

• In Hot Weather: Set the fan to spin counterclockwise. This creates a breeze that helps cool the room, so you can raise the thermostat setting a bit.
• In Cooler Weather: Change the fan’s direction to clockwise. This helps circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling, making the room feel more even in temperature.
• Maintenance: Keep the fan blades clean and check for any unusual noises or vibrations. This will help the fan run smoothly.

Troubleshooting Your Thermostat

If your thermostat is not working properly, try these steps:

1. Check Batteries: If your thermostat uses batteries, replace them. Dead batteries can cause issues.
2. Power Cycle: Turn off the power to the thermostat at the breaker for a few minutes, then turn it back on. This can often fix minor issues.
3. Consult the Manual: Look at the user manual for troubleshooting tips or error codes. It often provides solutions for common problems.
4. Contact a Professional: If these steps do not resolve the issue, get in touch with an HVAC technician. They can handle more complex problems.

Managing Heat and Humidity

To stay comfortable in hot and humid weather:

• Wear Light Clothing: Choose loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help your body manage heat.
• Use a Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier can remove excess moisture from the air, making your home feel cooler and reducing the workload on your air conditioner.

Upgrade to a Smart or Programmable Thermostat 

Upgrading your thermostat is a smart move to boost your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system’s efficiency, lower energy bills, and increase comfort. Let’s break down the two leading options: programmable and smart thermostats, so you can choose the best fit for your home.

Programmable Thermostats: The Reliable Workhorse

Programmable thermostats are a practical choice for those who value efficiency and simplicity over advanced features. They have long been a staple for homeowners looking to manage their heating and cooling systems in a cost-effective manner without needing the latest high-tech innovations.

• What they do: These thermostats allow you to pre-set temperatures for different times of day and days of the week. You create a custom heating and cooling schedule tailored to your routine.
• The upside: Expect to save up to $180 a year.
• Ideal for: Households with consistent schedules, where wake-up times, work hours, and sleep schedules remain fairly constant.
• How they work: They diligently follow your pre-programmed schedule, adjusting temperatures accordingly.

Additional Considerations:

• Ease of Use: Most programmable thermostats come with user-friendly interfaces that make it easy to set and adjust your schedules.
• Variety of Options: There are different types of programmable thermostats available, including 7-day, 5+2 day, and 5-1-1 day models, which offer various scheduling options to match different lifestyles.
• Installation: Many programmable thermostats are designed for easy installation and can be set up by the homeowner. However, for those unfamiliar with electrical work, professional installation might be preferred.

Smart Thermostats: The Intelligent Upgrade

Smart thermostats are revolutionizing the way we manage home climate, blending comfort with cutting-edge technology to deliver an unparalleled experience. These advanced devices are designed to optimize your home’s temperature settings while offering significant energy savings and enhanced convenience.

• What they do: These thermostats learn your preferences and adjust temperatures automatically. They can also be controlled remotely via smartphone apps and often integrate with other smart home devices.
• The upside: Anticipate saving around 8% on heating and cooling costs, which translates to roughly $50 a year.
• Ideal for: Busy households with varying schedules, tech-savvy individuals who appreciate remote control, and those seeking the most energy-efficient option.
• How they work: They employ occupancy sensors, geofencing, and learning algorithms to optimize temperatures based on your habits and presence.

Benefits You’ll Enjoy with Either Choice

Upgrading to a modern thermostat, regardless of which option you choose, offers a range of significant advantages:

1. Energy Savings:
   • Efficient Temperature Control: Advanced thermostats are designed to maintain a more consistent and accurate temperature compared to manual ones. This precision helps to avoid the overuse of heating and cooling systems, which in turn reduces energy consumption.
   • Smart Scheduling: Many modern thermostats allow you to create customized heating and cooling schedules based on your daily routines. This means that your system only works hard when needed, cutting down on unnecessary energy use.
   • Remote Access: With Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats, you can control your home’s temperature from anywhere using a smartphone app. This feature allows you to adjust settings on the go, ensuring that you don’t waste energy when you’re away from home.
2. Longer HVAC Lifespan:
   • Optimized Operation: Advanced thermostats help regulate your HVAC system’s operation more efficiently by preventing it from cycling on and off too frequently. This lessens the strain on the system, reducing the likelihood of mechanical issues and extending its overall lifespan.
   • Reduced Wear and Tear: By maintaining a stable temperature and reducing the number of start-stop cycles, modern thermostats minimize the wear and tear on HVAC components. This can lead to fewer repairs and a longer time between maintenance services.
   • Preventative Maintenance Alerts: Some high-end thermostats offer diagnostic capabilities and can alert you to potential issues with your HVAC system before they become serious problems, helping you to address minor repairs before they lead to major malfunctions..

Installation Tips: Where and How

1. Choosing the Ideal Location:

• Wall Selection: The placement of your thermostat is crucial for accurate temperature readings and optimal performance. Select an interior wall that is centrally located in your home to ensure even temperature distribution. Avoid walls that are directly exposed to sunlight, as this can cause the thermostat to misread the temperature. Additionally, keep it away from drafts, such as those from windows or doors, and from heat sources like radiators or lamps. These factors can lead to inaccurate temperature readings and inefficient heating or cooling.
• Height Placement: Install the thermostat at eye level, ideally 4-5 feet above the floor. This height allows for a more accurate reading of the average room temperature and helps avoid interference from heat sources or cold drafts that could affect the thermostat’s performance.

2. Smart Features:

• Companion App: If you choose to install a smart thermostat, make sure to download the corresponding companion app. This app will allow you to control your thermostat remotely, set schedules, and monitor energy usage from your smartphone or tablet. Many smart thermostats also offer integration with home automation systems, which can further enhance your control and convenience.
• Additional Features: Explore advanced features such as learning capabilities that adjust settings based on your preferences and usage patterns, or energy-saving modes that optimize your system’s efficiency. Understanding these features can help you maximize the benefits of your smart thermostat.

3. DIY vs. Professional Installation:

• DIY Installation: If you have experience with basic electrical work and are comfortable handling wiring, installing a thermostat yourself can be a straightforward task. Most thermostats come with detailed instructions and installation guides. Ensure that you turn off the power to your HVAC system before beginning the installation to avoid any electrical hazards. Double-check the wiring diagrams and connections to ensure everything is properly aligned.
• Professional Installation: If you are uncertain about handling electrical components or if your HVAC system has complex wiring, it’s advisable to consult a professional HVAC technician. A certified technician can ensure that the thermostat is installed correctly and calibrated for optimal performance. They can also address any potential issues with compatibility or system integration.

4. Additional Resources:

• Installation Guides: For more detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips, refer to comprehensive guides such as “How to Install a Smart Thermostat.” These resources provide step-by-step instructions and visual aids that can assist you through the installation process.
• Manufacturer Support: Check the manufacturer’s website for additional resources, such as instructional videos or customer support options, which can offer guidance and answer specific questions you may have during installation.

Your Decision: Smart or Programmable?

The best thermostat for you depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If you prefer a simple, set-it-and-forget-it approach and have a predictable schedule, a programmable thermostat is a reliable choice. If you’re tech-savvy, want remote control, and desire a thermostat that adapts to your habits, a smart thermostat is the way to go. For further research on choosing the right thermostat for your needs, you can check out resources like “6 things you should do before you upgrade to a smart thermostat.”

Feature	Programmable Thermostats	Smart Thermostats
Operation	Based on a fixed schedule you set.	Adjusts automatically based on your habits and external conditions.
Ideal For	Homes with consistent daily routines.	Homes with variable schedules or those seeking advanced energy management.
Savings	Achieved through preset temperature changes.	Enhanced by learning algorithms and real-time adjustments.

Whichever option you choose, you’re making a wise investment in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.

Regular Air Filter Replacement

Taking care of your HVAC system is key to saving energy and keeping your indoor air quality high. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you maintain your system:

Change Air Filters Regularly

Replace your air filters every 30-60 days. If you have pets or allergies, you might need to change them more often. Dirty filters can block airflow and cause issues like “Error 1” (airflow problems) or “Error 2” (high-pressure problems). Changing filters regularly prevents these issues, helps your system work efficiently, and can reduce your energy bills. For more on the importance of air filters, check out Energy Star’s guide on air filters.

Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance

Get a professional to inspect and service your HVAC system once a year. They can find problems like refrigerant leaks or compressor issues that you might not notice but that can affect performance. Catching these issues early helps avoid expensive repairs and keeps your system running well. Learn more about the benefits of regular HVAC maintenance from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Clean Vent Covers and Ducts

Dust and debris can build up in vent covers and ducts, blocking airflow. Clean these parts regularly to avoid problems and error codes related to pressure. Keeping everything clean ensures better air flow and maintains your system’s efficiency. For tips on cleaning your HVAC system, see The Home Depot’s HVAC cleaning guide.

Inspect and Seal Ductwork Leaks

Check your ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps. Leaks can cause error codes like “Error 3” (air distribution issues), which can affect your heating or cooling. Sealing leaks improves air distribution and reduces energy waste, which helps lower your utility bills. For information on sealing ductwork, refer to The Department of Energy’s guide on duct sealing.

Benefits of Regular Air Filter Maintenance

• Clean filters ensure proper airflow and reduce the risk of issues related to airflow restrictions. This means lower energy use and reduced utility costs. Explore how air filters impact efficiency on Consumer Reports.
• Keeping your system well-maintained helps prevent high energy use, leading to lower bills. An efficient system is both cost-effective and better for the environment. For more on how HVAC maintenance affects energy bills, read Energy Star’s tips.
• Regularly changing filters helps reduce airborne contaminants, improving the air quality in your home. This also helps avoid issues related to air quality and creates a healthier living environment. Learn more about indoor air quality from the EPA.
• Regular maintenance and clean filters prevent wear and tear, extending the life of your HVAC system and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements. For tips on extending your HVAC system’s lifespan, see HVAC.com’s advice.

Seal Air Leaks in Ductwork 

Here’s a straightforward guide to finding and fixing air leaks in your ductwork, which can boost your HVAC system’s efficiency and comfort.

1. Detect Drafts:
   • Check your ductwork, especially around joints and connections. Use your hand or a piece of tissue paper to feel for drafts where air might be escaping. This guide on detecting air leaks provides more details on spotting leaks.
2. Use a Smoke Pencil:
   • A smoke pencil or smoke stick can help you locate leaks. Move the smoke pencil along the seams and connections of your ducts. If you see the smoke moving away from the duct, you’ve found a leak. For more information on using smoke pencils, visit This article on detecting duct leaks.
3. Seal Leaks:
   • For a quick fix, apply duct tape over small leaks. Make sure the tape covers the entire area and adheres well. Learn more about using duct tape effectively in This guide on duct tape use.
   • For a more lasting repair, use mastic sealant. Apply it with a brush or spatula over seams and joints, smoothing it out to create a strong seal. Detailed instructions can be found in This article on mastic sealant application.
   • Use duct sealing compounds for a durable solution. Follow the product instructions for the best results. For more about different sealing compounds, check out This resource on duct sealing.
4. Engage a Professional:
   • If you have complex leaks, significant damage, or areas that are difficult to reach, consider hiring a professional HVAC technician. They have the expertise and tools to handle these issues effectively. This guide on hiring HVAC professionals can help you find the right expert.

Benefits of Sealing Ducts:

Sealing your ductwork can address common issues like high energy bills and uneven temperatures. Here’s how it can make a difference.

• Improved HVAC Efficiency:
  • Sealing ducts helps air flow properly through your HVAC system, reducing its workload and improving its performance. For more on HVAC efficiency, see This article on improving HVAC performance.
• Better Indoor Comfort:
  • Fixing leaks helps maintain even temperatures throughout your home, reducing drafts and avoiding hot or cold spots. Learn more about improving indoor comfort in This guide on home comfort.
• Reduced Energy Consumption:
  • By sealing leaks, you use less energy to heat or cool your home. This can lead to lower energy bills and a smaller environmental footprint. For more details on energy savings, visit This page on energy efficiency.

Use Ceiling Fans to Supplement Heating and Cooling 

Ceiling fans are a practical tool for managing indoor temperatures and reducing energy costs. Here is how to use ceiling fans effectively throughout the year:

Summer:

1. Set Fan Direction:
   • Locate the Direction Switch: Find the small switch on the fan’s motor housing. Energy.gov provides guidance on how to locate and use this switch effectively.
   • Set to Counterclockwise: Flip the switch so the blades spin counterclockwise. This pushes air downward and creates a breeze that helps cool the room without changing the thermostat setting.
2. Adjust Thermostat Setting:
   • Raise the Thermostat: Increase your thermostat setting by a few degrees. For example, if it is set to 72°F, try raising it to 75°F. The fan’s airflow will make the higher temperature feel more comfortable, which can help reduce cooling costs. 

Winter:

1. Reverse Fan Direction:
   • Locate the Direction Switch: Find the switch on the fan’s motor housing. Consumer Reports offers tips on reversing fan direction and other fan features.
   • Set to Clockwise: Flip the switch so the blades spin clockwise. This helps move warm air from the ceiling back into the room, improving heat distribution.
2. Adjust Thermostat Setting:
   • Lower the Thermostat: Turn down your thermostat setting by a few degrees. For instance, if it is usually set to 68°F, lower it to 65°F. The fan’s circulation of warm air will make a lower setting feel comfortable, which can help reduce heating costs. 

Additional Tips:

• Use Fans with HVAC Systems: Ceiling fans should complement your HVAC system. They help with air circulation, making both heating and cooling systems more efficient. Check out HVAC.com for more on how fans complement HVAC systems.
• Choose the Right Size and Placement:
  • Select the Right Size: Ensure the fan is appropriate for the room size. Larger spaces may need bigger or multiple fans for effective air movement. The Home Depot offers advice on choosing the right size fan.
  • Place Fans Wisely: Position fans to improve airflow throughout the room, which enhances comfort and efficiency.
• Maintain Your Fans:
  • Clean Blades: Regularly clean the fan blades to prevent dust buildup, which can affect performance. For cleaning tips, visit Bob Vila.
  • Check Operation: Periodically inspect the fan to ensure it runs properly. Address any issues promptly to keep it in good working condition. This Old House provides tips on maintaining ceiling fans.

Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance 

For homeowners focused on energy efficiency, keeping your HVAC system in good condition is key to saving on energy bills and avoiding costly repairs. Regular maintenance ensures that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operates effectively. Here’s why maintaining your system is important and how you can schedule it properly.

Benefits:

1. Prevents Breakdowns and Costly Repairs:
   • Regular maintenance helps identify and address problems before they turn into major issues. By addressing wear and tear or leaks early, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and reduce repair costs.
2. Addresses Minor Issues Before They Escalate:
   • Technicians check for small issues such as clogged filters or faulty thermostats during maintenance. Fixing these issues early prevents them from becoming more serious and expensive problems.
3. Ensures Efficient Operation:
   • A well-maintained HVAC system operates more efficiently. Tasks such as cleaning or replacing filters, lubricating parts, and calibrating thermostats help the system use less energy, lower utility costs, and maintain consistent temperatures.
4. Protects Your Investment in Home Comfort:
   • Regular maintenance helps keep your HVAC system in good condition, which maintains your home’s comfort and value. Preventing early failures ensures you get the most out of your investment.
5. Enhances Indoor Air Quality:
   • Maintenance improves indoor air quality by keeping filters and ducts clean. This helps reduce pollutants and allergens, benefiting everyone, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues.
6. Improves System Safety:
   • Technicians check for safety issues such as gas leaks or electrical problems during inspections. Addressing these risks helps prevent dangerous malfunctions and ensures safety.
7. Increases System Longevity:
   • Regular maintenance extends the life of your HVAC system. By keeping all parts in good condition and addressing minor issues early, you avoid early replacements and ensure reliable performance for years.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Scheduling HVAC Maintenance:

1. Find a Qualified HVAC Technician:
   • Look for HVAC service providers in your area.
   • Verify their licenses and certifications.
   • Read customer reviews to ensure they offer reliable service.
2. Contact the HVAC Company:
   • Reach out by phone or visit their website.
   • Inquire about their maintenance services and packages.
   • Request a quote to understand the costs involved.
3. Set Up an Appointment:
   • Choose a date and time that works for you.
   • Confirm the appointment to ensure it is correctly booked.
4. Prepare for the Visit:
   • Clear the area around your HVAC unit to allow easy access.
   • Ensure the space is free from obstructions and hazards.
5. During the Maintenance Visit:
   • Allow the technician to perform a thorough inspection and complete necessary tasks.
   • Ask for a summary of the work done and any additional recommendations.
6. Review the Report:
   • Review the technician’s report on your system’s condition.
   • Follow up on any recommended repairs or additional services.
7. Follow Up:
   • Schedule any needed repairs or follow-up services.
   • Set reminders for future maintenance.

Quick Tips:

• Look for Local Deals: Check for discounts or special offers from HVAC companies.
• Replace Filters Regularly: Change air filters every 1-3 months to keep your system running efficiently and improve air quality.
• Keep Vents Clear: Ensure HVAC vents and registers are not blocked to allow proper airflow.
• Monitor Performance: Watch for unusual noises or changes in performance and report them to your technician.
• Maintain a Service Log: Track all maintenance and repairs to monitor your system’s performance and plan future services.

Optimize Ventilation by Keeping Vents and Registers Clear 

To manage your energy bills and keep your home comfortable, make sure that your HVAC system is running efficiently. Here is a practical guide to help you maintain good ventilation and avoid common issues. First, regularly change your air filters to ensure that your HVAC system is not working harder than necessary. Additionally, schedule routine maintenance with a professional technician to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. By following these steps, you can optimize comfort and costs in your home while maintaining a well-functioning HVAC system.

Steps to Guarantee Optimal Airflow

1. Regular Inspection and Cleaning:
   • Inspect Vents and Registers:
     • Check all vents and registers around your home regularly.
     • Remove any dust or objects that might be blocking airflow.
   • Clear Blockages:
     • Ensure vents are not obstructed by furniture, curtains, or other items.
     • Remove any dust or debris that could restrict airflow.
   • Clean Vent Covers:
     • Dust and vacuum vent covers as part of your routine cleaning.
     • For a deeper clean, take off the covers, wash them with soapy water, and let them dry before putting them back. This article provides tips on cleaning vent covers effectively.
2. Maintain Ductwork:
   • Clean Ducts:
     • If you notice dust or unusual odors coming from the vents, it might be time to schedule a professional duct cleaning.
   • Inspect for Leaks:
     • Check your ductwork for any leaks or gaps that could affect efficiency.
     • Seal any leaks with duct tape or mastic sealant to keep the airflow steady. This resource explains how to seal duct leaks.
3. Furniture and Object Placement:
   • Arrange Furniture:
     • Make sure furniture does not block any vents or registers.
     • Avoid placing large items in a way that could obstruct the airflow. Read more on proper furniture placement for airflow.
   • Use Vent Covers:
     • Install vent covers in unused rooms to redirect airflow to where it is needed.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Higher Energy Bills:
  • If you notice your energy bills going up, check for blocked vents. Make sure all vents are open and free of obstructions to help your HVAC system run more efficiently. Understand how blocked vents can impact your energy bills.
• Strange Noises:
  • Listen for unusual sounds coming from vents. Check for blockages and ensure all components are secure.
  • Common Noises:
    • Banging or Clanging: This could mean there are loose or damaged parts in the ductwork. Find out more about fixing noisy HVAC systems here.
    • Whistling: This often happens when airflow is restricted, possibly due to blockages or high fan speeds. Learn more about the causes of HVAC whistling noises.
• HVAC Error Codes:
  • Check Vents and Registers:
    • Look for anything that might be causing error codes.
  • Common Error Codes:
    • Error Code E1 or E2: These usually indicate problems with airflow or sensors. Clear any blockages and check airflow. See common HVAC error codes and what they mean.
    • Error Code E3 or E4: These often involve temperature sensors or thermostat issues. Clean sensors and check that the thermostat is working correctly. Here’s a guide on HVAC sensor and thermostat issues.
  • Clean or Replace Air Filters:
    • Clogged filters restrict airflow and make your HVAC system work harder. Replace or clean filters regularly. Learn about air filter maintenance and replacement here.

Additional Considerations

• Seasonal Maintenance:
  • Inspect your HVAC system before the heating or cooling seasons begin. Check out this seasonal maintenance checklist for your HVAC system.
• Smart Thermostats:
  • Consider installing a smart thermostat. It can help manage your home’s temperature more efficiently by adjusting based on your schedule. Explore the benefits of smart thermostats here.
• Air Quality:
  • Use air purifiers or dehumidifiers to improve indoor air quality and support HVAC performance. Find more information on improving indoor air quality.

Conclusion

To sum up, applying these seven HVAC adjustments will improve your system’s energy efficiency and help lower your utility bills. These changes are straightforward and will provide clear benefits to both your comfort and your budget. Start implementing these steps today to see noticeable results. For more tips on saving energy, subscribe to our blog. If you need personalized advice, consider reaching out to a professional HVAC technician.