5 HVAC strategies to keep your money in your pocket

This article was written for our sponsor, Newcomb and Company

When trying to save money, look to your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, which, especially when running inefficiently, can be an energy (and cash) guzzler.

"Traditional heating and cooling systems in North Carolina may be all electric — heat pumps — or involve a combination of a gas furnace for heat with an air conditioner, which is electric," said Patrick Downs, residential sales manager at local HVAC business Newcomb and Company. "Some homes may heat via a boiler or hydronic type system as well."

HVAC systems account for 12% of household energy costs every year, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. To help cut those costs, here are a few tips.

Schedule regular maintenance

"HVAC systems need regular maintenance done by a reputable and trusted company," said Downs. Skipping maintenance could lead to mechanical failures in the heat of summer or on cold winter days, which could mean large repair bills.

A technician should check your air conditioner in the spring and fall. Maintenance could include flushing coils, vacuuming blower compartments, checking refrigerant levels, checking the drain pan and voltage, and tightening loose wires.

Keep your unit clean

Your HVAC system uses a replaceable filter to remove large particles from the inside air and keep your system clean, so Downs recommends knowing where air filters are located and be sure to change them regularly.

Fortunately, filters are relatively inexpensive, and you can buy a few to have on hand, especially if you need to replace them regularly. Certain conditions may make homeowners want to change air filters more frequently, including running the system continuously, having pets, or if someone in the house suffers from allergies.

"Filter changes are generally pretty easy," Downs said.

Additionally, Downs recommends keeping the outdoor unit clean — but skip the strong cleaners.

"Be careful using any cleaning products," Downs said. "Most must be diluted."

Regular filter changes and cleaning will save you money in the long run, as your unit will last longer and break down less often.

Program your thermostat

Once you’ve figured out the right temperature for your house, avoid the temptation to constantly fiddle with the thermostat.

"Use a digital, programmable thermostat, and only make small adjustments as needed," Downs said. "Keeping setpoints of around 75 degrees in the summer and 68 or so in the winter may reduce energy costs."

The harder your unit has to work, the greater the expense and the worse the wear and tear will be. Lowering the number of hours it runs per day will extend its life and cost you less money.

Consider short and long term costs

When parts of your HVAC system inevitably break down, you’ll be faced with the choice to repair or replace the affected parts.

"When repairs are needed, make sure to gauge things like the cost of repair, the age of the system — in warranty or out — how long they plan to remain in the home to determine if it’s better to replace the system versus repair it," Downs said. "That can possibly save money and headaches in the long run."

Ask for referrals

When you have HVAC problems, it’s time to call the professionals.

"I cannot recommend enough to consult a reputable and trusted company should they have any issues or concerns," Downs said.

Ask for referrals, and then call several companies for quotes. While it may be easy to eliminate a very high quote, be careful about very low quotes, too — not all companies offer the same level of service or quality, and cheap work may cost you more over time.

Newcomb and Company has been providing high quality HVAC services to the Raleigh area since 1954.

"We often work with second, third, and sometimes fourth generation customers, as our goal is to build long standing relationships and provide excellent service and care to those customers," Downs said. "Having worked in the business for over a decade, we also pride ourselves on employee retention, which is generally a struggle in the HVAC and trade-related industries. We have many employees who have worked here for 10, 20, or even 35-plus years."

This article was written for our sponsor, Newcomb and Company