How to Boost HVAC System Efficiency 

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is responsible for maintaining comfort and indoor air quality for homes in the West and the Southwest parts of the country.

However, a neglected, overworked, or inefficient system can lead to higher energy bills and frustration. 

Carrier Cooling Center can help you find an HVAC professional you can trust to boost system efficiency and help you save money on utility costs. Our online directory gives you the best selection of Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers in Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, Texas, and California. Click our Find A Dealer link for professional HVAC services near your home. 

Regular Maintenance

Improving HVAC efficiency starts with maintenance. Annual tune-ups ensure your HVAC system runs consistently, smoothly, and efficiently. 

You can count on a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer to maintain your HVAC system by cleaning components, checking for leaks, replacing air filters, and lubricating moving parts. Maintenance prevents breakdowns, improves energy efficiency, and extends your HVAC system’s lifespan.

Smart and Programmable Thermostats

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) says you can save up to 10 percent annually on heating and cooling costs by merely turning your thermostat back 7° to 10° Fahrenheit.

Manually adjusting a standard thermostat can be inconvenient. With a programmable thermostat, you can set temperature schedules based on your daily routine. For example, you can program the thermostat to adjust the temperature when you leave home or go to bed.

Buy a smart thermostat that connects to your home Wi-Fi, and you can control it through a smartphone app. If you forget to program your thermostat or want to change its settings, Wi-Fi capability allows you to adjust it from anywhere.   

Some smart thermostats even learn to change the temperature setting based on your daily routine, temperature preferences, and home occupancy patterns without programming. Smart and programmable thermostats save energy, lower utility bills, and are more convenient than manual thermostats.

Seal and Insulate

Proper insulation and sealing are essential to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Insulate your attic, walls, and floors to prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.

Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and ductwork to prevent air leaks and improve energy efficiency. These actions will reduce the workload on your HVAC system and lower your utility costs.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment

Consider replacing an HVAC system that is outdated or inefficient with a high-efficiency unit. Energy-efficient furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Look for equipment with the ENERGY STAR® certification that qualifies it for tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Through 2032, you can take a tax credit for qualifying energy-efficient HVAC equipment, appliances, and other home improvements. Get up to a $600 credit for eligible furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners and up to $2,000 for an air-source heat pump. Credits for solar paneling and geothermal systems are 30 percent of the project cost and have no cap. 

Improve Airflow

Optimized airflow throughout your home is essential for maximizing HVAC efficiency. Avoid obstructing the air supply and return vents with furniture, curtains, or other objects. Keep registers open and clean debris off air vent registers and grilles. Install ceiling fans to help circulate air more effectively and reduce the workload on your HVAC system. 

Consider a Zoning System

A zoning system divides your home into separate temperature zones. A zone might consist of one or more rooms or entire floors. Each zone has a thermostat, allowing you to set different temperatures from zone to zone. Each thermostat signals a control panel that tells dampers placed strategically in your ductwork to open or close to achieve desired temperatures. 

One of our Carrier Cooling Center directory members can assess your home and ductwork and offer a zoning solution that suits your heating and cooling needs. HVAC zoning customizes comfort, reduces energy waste, and saves you money on utility bills. It is especially beneficial for homes with several stories, rarely used rooms, and south-facing areas with large windows. 

Reach Out Today

Implement one of our efficiency-boosting, energy-saving strategies today. Find a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer in ArizonaIdahoNew MexicoNevadaTexas, or California through our Carrier Cooling Center directory by clicking our Find A Dealer link.