HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) is the largest load in the average household. The electric usage of a central heating and air conditioning system can represent anywhere between 40 and 55% of the average monthly electric bill. Yet, by doing little things, you can not only remain comfortable, but you can also reduce your monthly electric usage.

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Summer
One thing is guaranteed during summers in the South – hot, humid days. With daytime temperatures consistently reaching the mid - to upper 90s and heat indices in the lower 100s, summertime is also a time of high electric bills. Below are some tips to battle the heat and lower your monthly electric bill:

• A well-maintained cooling system will run more efficiently, use less energy and lower energy bills, so clean or replace AC filters monthly or as needed.
• Keep both outdoor and indoor air conditioner coils clean. Dirt build-up on the indoor coil is the single most common cause of poor operating efficiency.
• Ceiling and other fans provide additional cooling and better circulation so you can raise the thermostat and cut down on air conditioning costs. A ceiling fan will actually make your skin feel a couple of degrees cooler.  Plus, a ceiling fan running 24/7 only costs a few dollars monthly to operate.
• Plug energy leaks by caulking and weather stripping all seams, cracks and openings to the outside. You can save 10 percent or more on energy bills by reducing air leaks.

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Reduce the cooling load by effectively shading east and west windows. When possible, delay heat-producing activities such as dish washing until the evening. Close curtains during the day, and install awnings on south-facing windows. Plant shade trees or vines.

Winter
Old Man Winter not only brings frigid temperatures – he can also bring much higher electric bills. By utilizing a few simple tips, you will not only keep Old Man Winter at bay, you will also be more comfortable and feel warm inside knowing you have lowered your monthly electric bill.

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• Each degree makes a difference. Keep your heating system’s thermostat at recommended setting of 68oF. For each degree you raise the thermostat above the recommended setting, you are adding 3 to 4% to your monthly electric bill.
• If your home is drafty, find the sources. Caulk around all windows and weather strip around each door.
• Use the winter sun to your advantage. On sunny winter days, keep your blinds or drapes open to allow the sun to help warm your home. To reduce drafts, draw your drapes or blinds closed when the sun goes down.
• If you have a fireplace but do not use it, keep the damper closed. If left open your fireplace damper is like an open window – allowing heated air to escape your home. This will also keep cold air out from entering your home.
• Consider buying a programmable thermostat. While you are snug in your bed, a programmable thermostat will allow for you to lower your thermostat and reduce the run time of your heating system.

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Heating System
Want more money for the holidays? Look to your heating system. Nowhere is Old Man Winter’s effects felt more than on your monthly heating bills. Heating costs represent about 50% to 60% of your monthly electric bill.

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• A well-maintained heating system will run more efficiently, use less energy, and lower energy bills, so clean or replace AC filters monthly or as needed.
• Have your heating system professionally checked and serviced.
• Don’t block the heating registers. Blocked air vents and registers reduce airflow and make your unit run longer, adding to your monthly bill. If your supply registers are in the floor of your home, make sure they are not blocked by furniture or drapes.
• Hey, it’s not summer anymore, so why dress like it? Pack up the shorts up and dress warmly. This will allow you to keep your thermostat at a lower setting and keep you more comfortable.
• Make sure your ductwork is properly sealed. Cracks in your ductwork can increase your bills significantly. Keep warm air where you want it – in your home.
• Keep dust from accumulating on your supply and return registers.

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Heat Pump Reference Guide