Expert Advice from the Wichita Area HVAC Pros
If your energy bill has been creeping higher, you’re not alone. Homeowners in Wichita and the surrounding areas often wonder why their heating and cooling costs seem to spike—especially during those hot summers and freezing winters. Your HVAC system plays a big role in energy efficiency, and with a few smart adjustments, you can keep your home comfortable and lower your energy bill.
Why Is My Energy Bill So High?
There are several reasons why your utility bill may be higher than expected:
- Dirty or clogged air filters – When your filter is full of dust and debris, your HVAC system has to work harder to push air through.
- Poor insulation or air leaks – Gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork let conditioned air escape, making your system run longer.
- Aging or inefficient HVAC equipment – Older systems lose efficiency over time and may struggle to keep up with temperature demands.
- Thermostat settings – Keeping your thermostat too high in winter or too low in summer can drive up energy usage.
- Lack of regular maintenance – Neglecting annual tune-ups can lead to inefficient performance and costly repairs.
How Can I Lower My Energy Bills?
Lowering your energy bills doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. Small changes like adjusting your thermostat, maintaining your HVAC system, and sealing air leaks can make a big difference.
1. Change Your Air Filters Regularly
A dirty air filter is one of the simplest yet most common culprits behind high energy bills. Change your filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and household factors like pets or allergies.
2. Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat adjusts the temperature automatically based on your habits, helping you save money without sacrificing comfort. Set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter when you're not home.
3. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation
Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Proper insulation in your attic and walls helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing strain on your HVAC system.
4. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up twice a year—before summer and winter—to ensure peak performance.
5. Consider an HVAC Upgrade
If your system is more than 10-15 years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Modern high-efficiency units use less energy to heat and cool your home, leading to long-term savings.
6. Use Ceiling Fans to Help Circulate Air
Ceiling fans help distribute warm or cool air more effectively, reducing the burden on your HVAC system. In summer, set them to rotate counterclockwise for a cooling effect; in winter, reverse the direction to push warm air down.
7. Keep Vents and Ductwork Clean
Blocked or dirty vents make it harder for air to flow efficiently. Make sure furniture isn’t obstructing vents, and have your ducts cleaned every few years to remove dust buildup.
Energy Saving FAQs
In summer, aim for 78°F when you’re home and 85°F when you’re away. In winter, keep it around 68°F when you’re home and lower it slightly when you’re sleeping or out.
Check the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating for cooling and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for heating. Higher ratings mean better efficiency. If your system is over a decade old, a new high-efficiency unit may be worth considering.
No, closing vents can actually make your system work harder, leading to inefficiency and potential damage.
If your system needs frequent repairs, struggles to maintain a comfortable temperature, or causes high energy bills, it might be time for an upgrade.
On Time Heating and Cooling is Here to Help with Lowering Your Energy Bills near Wichita, KS
If you’re unsure whether your system is running efficiently, consider scheduling a professional inspection with a trusted HVAC company in Wichita. A little preventative maintenance now can lead to big savings down the road!
Call On Time HVAC at 316-721-5055 and get expert help with lowering your energy bills in the Wichita area or contact us online to scheule your HVAC service appointment.
