How Can I Increase the Efficiency and Lifespan of My Heating System?

Keeping your HVAC system performing at its best for as long as possible is vital for both your comfort and your wallet. Although every HVAC unit has a replacement date – typically 15 to 20 years from its initial installation – you can push it off and maximize your system’s lifespan by utilizing a few tricks of the trade.

How to Determine Your HVAC System’s Base-Level Energy Efficiency

You can find your HVAC system’s average energy efficiency level at the back of the unit on the energy guide sticker. This sticker lists its scores on certain energy rating scales, including AFUE, SEER and HSPF.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings indicate how efficient a heating system is at converting fuel into heat. A heating system with optimal efficiency will have an AFUE rating of 90 percent or higher.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is used to rate how efficiently your system uses that converted heat, while SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) gauges the efficiency of your system’s cooling abilities.

Both measure how efficient your system is at heating and cooling your home respectively, with a higher rating indicating better energy efficiency. In Texas, the minimum SEER rating for new air conditioners is 15, but more efficient units can have ratings up to 20 or higher. On the other hand, the state’s minimum for HSPF is 8.8, with the highest rating possible being 10.

Aside from ratings, the size of your HVAC system is another essential component of an HVAC system’s efficiency. An oversized system can lead to short cycling, reducing efficiency and causing premature wear and tear, while one that’s too small may overwork itself to meet the demands of you and your family, depending on the size of your home.

Our professional technicians have years of experience outfitting HVAC systems and can recommend the type and size of system that would fit your home best.

Tips to Maintain Your Heating System’s Efficiency

Regular Maintenance. Neglecting to maintain your HVAC system is one of the primary causes of premature wear and tear. One of the best ways to ensure your system keeps running at top efficiency is to schedule a routine maintenance visit. This includes inspecting, cleaning, changing air filters and tuning up all components to ensure everything is in optimal condition so your system isn’t working harder than it needs to deliver peak temperature control performance.

Our professionals offer flexible scheduling and are available to operate on your system quickly so you can have your house back to a comfortable temperature as soon as possible.

Proper Insulation. Effectively insulating your home can minimize heat loss and prevent your HVAC system from straining to compensate for the heat deficit.

Sealing Ducts. A leak in your ducts can cause heated air to hemorrhage into spaces you don’t want to heat, like attics. Our technicians will inspect and seal your ducts to ensure the warm air reaches its intended destination.

Programmable Thermostats. Install a programmable thermostat to create heating schedules that match your daily routine, so your system is only running when it needs to, reducing energy consumption.

Zoning Systems. Zoning systems can allow you to focus your heating and energy expenditures in occupied rooms, reducing your system’s workload and your monthly electric or gas bills.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades. If your HVAC system is outdated, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model with higher AFUE or SEER ratings. Newer systems are designed to be more efficient and eco-friendly.

When Should I Just Replace My HVAC System?

Even with rigorous and meticulous upkeep, replacement is inevitable. If your system is outdated, wasting energy or frequently requires progressively more expensive repairs, it might finally be time to throw in the towel.

The team at Tom’s Mechanical Inc. will replace your HVAC system promptly with our hassle-free HVAC installation service so you and your family can have a powerful and reliable heating system sooner.

HVAC Replacement Has Never Been Easier for Arlington Residents

At Tom’s Mechanical Inc., our technicians are always ready to help with 24/7 emergency services. We’ll repair or replace your HVAC unit whenever works best for you and get the job done right the first time. To schedule a free system inspection or an HVAC replacement or installation estimate, call (817) 277-4493 or contact us online.