Upgrading your appliances to Energy Star-rated options is one way to reduce your energy consumption and annual utility bills. Other options include using the right size furnace and scheduling a timely air conditioning repair to keep your system operating optimally. You can also replace old appliances with new programmable energy-saving models that feature modern technology. Here are four energy-efficient appliances to upgrade:
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Heat Pumps
Upgrading your heat pump and air handlers to energy-efficient models can reduce your heating and cooling expenses. Heat pumps work by transferring heat rather than generating it, making them energy-efficient options. Choose a modern unit with heavy-duty insulated compressors, sound blankets, and shaft defrost for quiet operation.
You can also find pumps with built-in filter dryers to keep contaminants off and alert diagnostics that monitor your system’s operation. Units with dual-system motors can adjust automatically to maintain peak efficiency. You can also upgrade your air handlers, which work in partnership with the heat pumps for steady airflow. Hybrid heat pumps and water heaters also tend to be more energy-efficient than traditional systems.
AC Units
Scheduling timely inspections and air conditioning repair services can keep your system running at peak performance. If you have an old AC unit that breaks down often, repair and maintenance costs can become a concern over time. Such systems require an upgrade to a modern energy-efficient model that can help you save more on cooling costs. Choose new models with higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings for more efficient cooling.
Pair your AC unit with smart programmable thermostats to enhance temperature regulation. Smart thermostats allow you to schedule energy use, optimizing on and off cycles to reduce cooling needs when no one is home. Work with a reputable HVAC company that offers maintenance programs, including routine filter changes, coil cleaning, and component repairs.
Efficient Furnaces
Your furnace keeps your home warm during cold seasons but will increase utility bills when you don’t have the right unit. Upgrading to a model with a variable-speed blower motor may reduce energy consumption. The motors adjust airflow to match your demand, resulting in more optimal heating. Choose a furnace with a higher Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. A higher AFUE rating means almost all of the fuel is converted into heat to reduce waste.
You can also find hybrid systems featuring a heat pump and a furnace. The heat pump keeps the temperature comfortable during the hot seasons when you don’t need the furnace operating at its peak. Your heat pump also supplies the heat during spring and fall before temperatures start to drop, after which the furnace takes over. Choose furnaces with two-stage or modulating gas control to optimize consumption and reduce waste.
Ductless Mini Splits
A ductless mini-split system offers flexibility and efficiency in heating and cooling individual rooms. The systems don’t require ductwork and reduce heat loss associated with ductwork. Thanks to the inverter-driven compressors, you can heat and cool specific rooms and achieve more regulated temperature control. Inverter technology allows the system to adjust and maintain required temperatures, reducing on-and-off cycles that cause energy waste.
Look for features such as wireless remote control, multiple modes, and auto swing. A wireless remote allows you to program and operate the unit. Multiple modes offer cooling, dehumidification, and heating with sleep mode, turbo mode, 24-hour timer, or auto operation. Other features include enhanced filtration, defrost control, and auto restart.
Find Quality Air Conditioning Repair Today
Upgrading to smart energy-efficient appliances allows you to optimize energy consumption based on your needs. Proactive repairs and maintenance are also necessary to keep your system functioning properly. Contact an HVAC company today to find out more about heating and air conditioning repair, upgrade, and maintenance services.
