Looking for ideas on saving energy and lowering your costs on your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system? Did you know that installing an efficient HVAC system can save you up to 35% in energy costs?

Overall HVAC system efficiency is affected by both the efficiency of the equipment itself and the way the equipment interacts with the other components of the HVAC system.

In addition to the variety of energy-efficient HVAC equipment rebates PG&E offers for residential, business and multifamily property customers, there are a number of other opportunities to explore for maintaining your HVAC system to improve operational efficiency and lower costs.

What type of equipment do I have?
There are two types of central air conditioners (A/C) and heat pumps (H/P) typically found in residential homes and small business facilities: split systems and package units. Characteristics of these products are defined as:
 
Split Systems: The condenser and coil are detached in a split system air conditioner. The A/C indoor coil is typically located at the air handler (furnace) and the A/C condenser coil is outside the home.

Package Units: The package unit has the furnace, A/C condenser and A/C evaporative coil, and/or H/P elements assembled together in a single piece of equipment.

If you have a central natural gas furnace that is 15 years or older, this may be an opportunity to increase the efficiency of your split system air conditioner by replacing your furnace with a new unit having a 90%, 92% or 95% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating.

Air Conditioner Refrigerant Charge and Airflow System Check

An air conditioner refrigerant charge and airflow system check is a recommended service that should be performed when HVAC equipment is first installed and during annual system check-ups.

A system refrigerant and airflow tune-up is an analysis of your cooling and duct system. A refrigerant tune-up should be conducted by a licensed heating and cooling contractor to determine if your system is performing to manufacturer specifications. Systems that are properly tuned enhance the performance of your cooling system and are more energy efficient to operate. Once the system has been properly charged with refrigerant and has good airflow across the indoor coil, and assuming there is no damage to the duct system, only basic service such as changing filters and cleaning the outdoor unit annually should be needed to maintain the system operation at peak performance levels.

Duct Testing: Why Is It Important

The ducts that are part of central heating and cooling systems offer one of the best opportunities to increase your energy efficiency, increase your comfort, and manage your energy bills. Studies indicate that
10%-30% of the heated or cooled air is lost - along with the money spent to heat or cool that air - through leaky ducts. Energy loss is not the only concern, however. Duct systems can also involve the comfort of your family, employees, tenants, or customers, as well as your indoor air quality. Testing the ducts will locate leaks or damage and focus repair work in the right areas.

A properly operating heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will help reduce overall energy use - especially during hot summer days when air conditioners are working harder and putting a strain on the electric system. The end result is your system will deliver greater comfort and cleaner air to every room. Properly sized, installed, and sealed ductwork will make your heating and cooling systems significantly more efficient.