The Energy Star program helps homeowners choose energy efficient systems and appliances for their homes. However, even the most powerful cooling and heating system will not perform at optimum efficiency unless you address a few issues first.
The first thing you need to focus on is properly sealing all of your ducts. Ducting that is not properly sealed could be a bigger energy waster than having an outdated system in the first place. While it is important to catch as many gaps and holes as you can throughout your home, make sure that you focus first on any ductwork that runs through the spaces that are not vented and temperature controlled. These might include the:
- Attic
- Basement
- Crawl space
- Garage
Making ducting airtight can be done with special duct sealant or a metal backed tape. Both will create a seal that locks the air inside so that it is only coming out of your vents.
Once your ducts are sealed, move forward with having your new Energy Star-qualified system installed. An improper installation can also greatly reduce the efficiency of the unit as well as shorten its life span. Hire a licensed and experienced contractor who understands the importance of proper installation methods, and you will not experience these problems.
Finally, proper maintenance must be performed if you hope to continue enjoying optimal performance from your energy efficient HVAC system. Check and change the air filter regularly. If you check it every month, it will never get to the point where it is affecting the quality of your Energy Star system’s output. You should also have your HVAC equipment tuned up annually by a professional.
Contact the pros at Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning to make all of these processes easier on you. We have been trusted for 80 years with serving the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts.