Energy costs in Pierce County, especially across Tacoma and Puyallup, have prompted many homeowners to look for affordable ways to keep their homes comfortable year-round. Your HVAC system plays a direct role in both your monthly expenses and your daily comfort. With that in mind, here are five simple, locally relevant habits that will make a noticeable difference in your HVAC system’s efficiency without requiring major investments or disruptive upgrades.
1. Change Your Air Filter Consistently
One of the most effective and often overlooked ways to enhance your HVAC efficiency is to change your air filter every 1-3 months. When filters in your furnace or central AC become clogged with dust from Tacoma’s rainy winters or pollen-heavy springs, airflow decreases and your system has to work much harder. Regular filter changes:
- Help maintain ideal airflow.
- Protect system components from dust and debris.
- Improve indoor air quality by trapping particulates common to the South Sound area.
Providers like furnace companies often offer annual maintenance plans that include filter replacement as part of their service, helping you avoid reduced efficiency and premature wear.
2. Keep Air Registers and Vents Clear
Furniture placement can inadvertently impede airflow throughout your home. In neighborhoods in Puyallup or University Place, older homes often have vents located in less convenient spots. To maximize your system’s efficiency:
- Leave at least six inches of clearance around vents and return grilles.
- Avoid blocking airflow with rugs, drapes, or furniture.
- Periodically check for dust buildup and vacuum as needed.
Proper airflow ensures all rooms maintain a consistent temperature, reducing the workload on your system and keeping your utility bills reasonable.
3. Optimize Thermostat Settings, Especially During Peak Seasons
Energy savings can be achieved by simply adjusting your thermostat to suit seasonal needs. In the mild, damp winters of Tacoma, lowering the thermostat by a few degrees at night or when you are away can reduce heating loads without sacrificing comfort. In the warmer months, air conditioning companies recommend setting your AC to about 78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away. Investing in a programmable or smart thermostat makes these adjustments effortless by:
- Scheduling temperature setbacks during work hours or vacation.
- Integrating with your smartphone for remote control.
- Learning your schedule and preferences over time.
These settings help your system operate only when needed, reducing unnecessary energy use that is common during Western Washington’s fluctuating weather.
4. Schedule Regular Professional Maintenance
Annual maintenance is critical, especially given our region’s mix of coastal dampness and cold snaps. Technicians from furnace and air conditioning companies check and clean important system components, identify early signs of wear, and verify safe, efficient operation. During a tune-up, specialists will:
- Clean indoor and outdoor coils to reduce energy draw.
- Inspect and tighten electrical connections, a priority when dealing with electric panels for safety.
- Test thermostat functions for proper response.
Routine inspections can extend your system’s lifespan and help prevent sudden breakdowns during a winter freeze or summer heatwave.
5. Improve Your Home’s Insulation and Seal Air Leaks
No matter how efficient your HVAC system is, it can only perform as well as the building envelope allows. In older South Puget Sound homes, gaps around windows, doors, and ducts are common culprits for wasted energy. Homeowners can:
- Seal gaps and cracks with weatherstripping or caulk.
- Add insulation to attics, floors, or crawlspaces.
- Check for leaks around the electric panel and other penetrations.
Addressing these trouble spots reduces heating and cooling demand, keeping conditioned air inside and maximizing the impact of every dollar spent on home comfort.
Ready for Greater Comfort and Savings? Contact the Local Experts
If you want to start building these habits or need guidance on maximizing HVAC efficiency, All Seasons Inc. can help. Serving Tacoma, WA and the neighboring communities, All Seasons Inc. offers trusted HVAC, electrical, and air quality services. Discover how a little attention today can yield comfort and savings through every season in the Pacific Northwest. Contact us at 253-879-9144 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation today.
