For residents of American Fork, UT, the back-to-school season is a busy time, especially if you have school-aged children. With routines shifting and your home experiencing different usage patterns throughout the day, it’s easy to overlook one key area: your HVAC system.
Paying attention to heating and cooling efficiency now can help you reduce energy bills and improve home comfort throughout the school year. Here are some expert tips to help you do just that.
1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
Late summer and early fall are ideal times to schedule HVAC maintenance. A preseason tune-up ensures your furnace or heat pump is ready before cold weather arrives and technician availability becomes limited. During a tune-up, our technician will thoroughly clean your system, lubricate moving parts, and test performance to identify any potential issues.
Addressing small problems now, before they become major repair needs, helps keep your system running efficiently all winter long. It’s a proactive way to protect your comfort and avoid mid-season breakdowns.
2. Replace Your HVAC Air Filter
Most HVAC systems use a shared air filter for both heating and cooling. These filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, depending on the filter type, household size, and whether you have pets or allergies.
When selecting a replacement, ensure that it matches the dimensions and MERV rating of your current filter. Filters in the MERV 8 to 13 range offer an excellent balance between airflow and filtration. If you’re considering an upgrade, check with our team first, some high-rated filters may restrict airflow and damage your HVAC system if it’s not designed to handle them.
While many homeowners associate air filters with indoor air quality, their primary job is to protect your HVAC equipment by keeping dust and dirt off sensitive components like the blower fan and coils. Clean filters help maintain system efficiency and prolong your unit’s lifespan.
3. Install Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is a simple and cost-effective way to seal air leaks around doors and windows. Adhesive-backed foam strips work well on window sashes and door frames, while door sweeps help block drafts at the base of exterior doors. These small additions can prevent heated air from escaping and cold air from entering, helping your HVAC system work less to maintain comfort.
4. Tighten Your Home’s Air Envelope
Even small gaps in your home’s exterior can compromise energy efficiency. Fall is the perfect time to inspect caulking around windows and door frames. Summer heat can dry and crack caulk, leaving openings that let warm air escape.
For less visible air leaks, take advantage of fall’s windy days. Close all doors and windows, then move a candle or incense stick around likely leak points. If the flame flickers or smoke trails, you’ve found an air leak. Seal it with caulk or weatherstripping, then recheck the area to confirm the fix.
5. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats help reduce energy use by adjusting temperatures based on your daily routine—and they’re especially useful when family schedules change during the school year. You can also control temperatures remotely from your smartphone, which means no more heating an empty house when plans change.
Some models include remote sensors that prioritize comfort in rooms that matter most, such as your kids’ bedrooms or study areas. This fine-tuned control helps reduce unnecessary heating and improve system efficiency.
Important Note: Not all smart thermostats are compatible with heat pumps or multi-stage HVAC systems. If you’re planning to upgrade, our team can help ensure you select a model that works with your equipment.
6. Consider an HVAC Upgrade
If your heating system is outdated, now is a great time to explore more efficient options:
- Heat Pumps: These systems offer year-round comfort by transferring heat rather than generating it. In Utah’s moderate climate, cold-climate heat pumps operate efficiently even when outdoor temperatures drop as low as -15°F, with performance ratings up to 400% efficiency.
- Ductless Mini-Splits: Ideal for homes without ductwork or rooms with uneven heating, mini-splits provide customized comfort and are easy to install.
- High-Efficiency Gas Furnaces: Today’s gas furnaces offer up to 98.5% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). With dual heat exchangers, they maximize energy use and minimize waste, perfect when paired with affordable natural gas rates in Utah.
Our team at Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing can help you choose the best system for your home, and we offer financing options on approved credit.
Your Local HVAC Efficiency Experts
At Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, we proudly serve families and homeowners throughout American Fork. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, a smart thermostat upgrade, or an entirely new heating system, our team is here to help. We install energy-efficient systems from brands like Lennox and provide maintenance and repairs for all HVAC makes and models.
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cold months ahead and stay ahead of rising energy bills. Contact Gunthers Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing today to schedule your service or request a complimentary estimate. We’re dedicated to keeping your family comfortable throughout the year.
