Managing energy usage can be tough, especially this year. Saving money and living comfortably is quite difficult to balance. All you need is optimization. Managing your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC) through effective operation and maintenance will help you conserve energy.

What Are Energy-Efficient HVAC systems

HVAC systems exist within almost every commercially used unit or space and ensure heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Keeping the HVAC system in good shape will guarantee that it performs well, protecting you from extreme cold during the winter and keeping the house cool during the summer.

8 Recommended Practices for Optimizing HVAC Systems

HVAC maintenance and management should focus on the following eight areas to improve HVAC energy efficiency:

1. Maintain daily, seasonal thermostat settings 

Programmable thermostats provide reasonable comfort levels at various times throughout the day and year by regulating air currents and temperature. The pre-set schedule allows heating or cooling to keep temperatures within specific blocks of time. Adjusting the temperature in empty rooms can save you up to 10% on energy costs.

2. Correctly specify and size your system

Purchase an appropriate HVAC compressor and chiller size for your facility. Consider the temperatures your facility will need throughout the year when choosing your system. A large apparatus in small areas will run at optimal speed and consume large volumes of power, while a small appliance is placed under strain on a larger site, decreasing comfort.

3. Automate where possible 

Providing appropriate amounts of heating and cooling can be achieved by automatically controlling the speed, output, and runtime of HVAC equipment such as fans, chillers, and compressor motors. For example, an Ohio college used a variable air valve installed in its air system. As a result, the school spent approximately 25% less on electrical bills during the year due to this and other programmable energy features. 

Variable-speed fans, blowers, motors, and other components have improved the energy efficiency of HVAC systems. Variable speed features have been incorporated into air conditioners and thermal equipment over the last decade to make them more cost-effective and efficient. Having the correct settings and preventing motors, fans, and operational components from running at their maximum designed speed always leads to efficiency. Variable speed control is still effective for heating and cooling.

4. Establish set points for equipment

Adjust equipment set points accordingly to achieve desired comfort levels and ensure they don’t work too hard. It is common for systems to deliver more air than is needed and are not set correctly, which results in a reduction in energy efficiency. As a result, they consume more energy to produce a more significant heating or cooling effect than is required. Energy savings can be achieved by implementing calculated set points.

5. Establish proper boundaries for your system 

Heating and cooling can be controlled to designated spaces by managing system boundaries to save 20% on energy costs in HVAC systems. Open warehouses may have open doors and entrances in between seasons, whereas at other times, they may be sealed, heated, or cooled. Garages and loading areas can also be customized.

To determine what settings should be applied, when, where the boundaries lie, and how airflow from ductwork should be directed, an energy audit or commission for energy conservation in new buildings requires that system boundaries be defined. 

6. Set HVAC operation for seasonal changes   

The chiller water supply should be raised to a level that meets the required temperature settings and levels to conserve energy. To achieve the desired comfort level and consume less power, you can control the temperature of the cooling water to your chiller within the manufacturer’s guidelines depending on the system’s configuration. This can be a huge energy saver as the compressor does not have to work as hard while maintaining the desired comfort level. When the season changes, you may only need to adjust the thermostat to achieve notable energy savings.

7. Regular HVAC maintenance is vital

Implement a disciplined, time-based HVAC maintenance schedule and record data promptly. Develop HVAC maintenance checklists that include:

  • Be sure to schedule seasonal maintenance before using this HVAC maintenance checklist. During the fall, you should replace your humidifier wick filter. Your unit needs different maintenance depending on the season. You should turn off the water supply to your furnace humidifier in the spring when you do not need heat. The humidistat should be set to 40% relative humidity in the fall before turning the water back on. It is essential to review your HVAC energy saving every fall and spring to determine if there are any issues. If your old unit has outdated problems, you can buy a new one. Having a professional look at your system before the busy season begins is vital. Many problems occur during the summer and winter when your system works overtime. Their schedule might not permit them to come to your location otherwise. 
  • Make sure you check your HVAC size. It is common for contractors to install oversize units. ACCA recommends installing a smaller unit that can handle the load. Larger equipment reduces energy efficiency, increases utility bills, and reduces air conditioner longevity.
  • Change air filters regularly and ensure thermostat set points are correct. To achieve optimal HVAC efficiency, replace filters, and clean coils to minimize overheating, and wear on components must be determined. A thermostat assessment can detect faulty operations or poor set points that cause constant energy consumption. Thermometers that are faulty need immediate replacement.
  • Regularly check for refrigerant leaks. Leaks reduce the efficiency of the system, reducing its effectiveness. If not fixed, the system’s capacity may be compromised, and permanent damage may result. A leak in the system may overwork compressors when the units aren’t capable of delivering power and efficiency. HVAC longevity and efficiency can be ensured by carefully assessing leaks in the unit and the system.
  • Ensure that all drain connections and drip pans are in good working order. If the condensate lines become clogged, excess moisture can leak into drip pans, causing numerous problems. In addition, water accumulation increases the chance of fungal growth.
  • Check your HVAC unit’s physical unit as part of your HVAC maintenance checklist. Make sure no debris is blocking your system’s filters or coils outside. Debris can impact your unit’s airflow and affect its ability to function properly. Check your system’s vents and registers as well.
  • You can reduce your HVAC maintenance costs by checking your AC filters every three months. Mold, dust, and dander can clog your AC filters within a few months, so it is important to replace them regularly.
  • Don’t forget to check your HVAC coils when cleaning them. The coils ensure the unit is working effectively and reliably. 
  • Your refrigerant lines should also be checked as part of your HVAC maintenance checklist. If a line breaks, your energy bill may increase. 
  • Your HVAC ducts should be sealed and insulated. By reviewing your ducts, you can improve your system’s efficiency.
  • Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are working at all times. Carbon monoxide can cause death or injury if not working.
  • Changing your home’s temperature can help you save money in the summer and winter. It will help you save money. By not working overtime, your system will be more efficient. 
  • Check for bent fins. You can adjust the fins using a dinner knife if you see any crushed or bent fins the next time you use this HVAC maintenance checklist. 

8. Download the HVAC contract

HVAC contracts bind an HVAC company to its clients. An HVAC contract ensures proper office maintenance and working conditions. By checking the system and repairing issues before they become emergencies, HVAC services will keep your home at a comfortable level. The Lawrina HVAC contract template makes it easy to fill in the information and get your ready-to-go contract in a few clicks.

You can ensure optimal HVAC system performance, lower energy consumption, and suitably meet the needs of your facility and its inhabitants by following this eight-step approach.

Ultimate Checklist with Best Practices

This ultimate HVAC maintenance checklist ensures your heating and cooling system runs efficiently all year long. Want to make sure your heating and cooling system is running properly? 

You can reduce your home’s energy consumption and save money by following this HVAC maintenance checklist.

Conclusion

Regular HVAC system maintenance will help you save money and extend its lifespan. You won’t have to pay for expensive replacements because you didn’t spot the problem in time.

This detailed checklist ensures you keep your HVAC system energy efficient, and hiring professionals to replace and maintain all components doesn’t hurt.