There are many factors that impact the efficiency of your HVAC system. Its size, how well maintained it is, the weather, and the temperature at which you’ve set your thermostat all determine how well your heater and air conditioner will function. But did you know that one of the biggest (and often overlooked) factors in HVAC efficiency is your windows?
Do Windows Affect Air Conditioning?
The size, type, and age of your windows have a tremendous impact on how well your air conditioning system cools your home. Inefficient windows lead to inefficient heating and cooling, and opening your windows while running your system can cause both HVAC and health issues.
Do Old Windows Affect HVAC Costs?
Older windows are a huge drain on your wallet. Wood-framed, single-pane windows are particularly inefficient, and the heating and cooling loss they cause accounts for up to a quarter of your energy bill.
Single-pane windows provide little insulation from outdoor temperatures, and wood frames are highly porous, allowing heat and cold to pass through them. This makes your HVAC system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. It will run longer and more often, causing wear and tear, and a decreased system lifespan.
If you aren’t able to replace your windows at this time, ensure that they are fully closed and that cracks in or around the frame are thoroughly sealed. Consider purchasing heavy curtains that will provide a bit of insulation and keep them closed during the heat of the day. Additionally, following these 7 HVAC maintenance tips before the spring and summer months will help you get the most out of your air conditioning.
Can You Open Windows with HVAC?
It’s understandable that you might want to let in some fresh air during the summer months even though your air conditioning is on, but just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Running the air conditioner while one or more windows are open creates inefficiencies that cause excess wear on your system and increase your power bill.
Running the AC while a window is open can cause your system to cycle improperly while it struggles to maintain consistent cooling. This may overload your system and lead to malfunction or serious damage. Leaving a window open with the system on also allows dust, pollen, and humidity into your home, all of which stress your system, clog your filters, and cause health issues. Too much humidity in your home can even lead to mold in your ducts, vents, and elsewhere.
Express C.O.D Keeps Your Home Cool All Summer Long
Professional maintenance is another key component of keeping your HVAC system running at its most efficient. Your air conditioning system should keep your home cool all summer long. To that end, our parent company, Tragar Home Services, has been providing HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair to residents of Nassau and Suffolk Counties for over 60 years. To schedule a sales or service call, call Express C.O.D at (516) 206-3805.
