You can depend on Clifford's HVAC for all of your home and commerical HVAC needs.
Your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy users in your home. The good news? A few small changes in how you use and maintain your system can make a big difference in both comfort and energy costs. Unfortunately, many Alabama homeowners unknowingly develop habits that not only waste energy but also put unnecessary strain on their air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps.
At Clifford’s HVAC, we’ve seen these mistakes time and again. Here are the top energy-wasting habits to avoid.
When it’s hot outside, lowering your thermostat to 60°F won’t cool your home any faster. Instead, it makes your system run longer than necessary. The same goes for raising the heat in the winter.
Better habit: Set your thermostat to a comfortable, steady temperature (around 68–70°F in winter, 74–76°F in summer) and let your system work efficiently.
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and waste energy. This also leads to more wear and tear.
Better habit: Check filters monthly and replace them every 1–3 months depending on usage and allergy needs.
Running your HVAC without tune-ups is like driving a car without oil changes—it’s only a matter of time before problems show up. Neglected systems lose efficiency year after year.
Better habit: Schedule professional maintenance at least twice a year (spring for AC, fall for heating).
Furniture, rugs, or even closed vents can disrupt your system’s balance, making it push harder to heat or cool your home.
Better habit: Keep vents clear and open throughout your home for proper circulation.
Leaky ductwork, poor insulation, or gaps around doors and windows let conditioned air escape. That means your HVAC is paying to heat or cool the outdoors.
Better habit: Seal leaks, insulate attics, and ask about duct sealing to maximize efficiency.
Leaving your HVAC running full blast—even when you’re not home—burns unnecessary energy.
Better habit: Install a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust settings when you’re away or asleep.
Older HVAC units are less efficient, often costing hundreds more per year in energy bills compared to modern systems.
Better habit: If your system is over 12–15 years old, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency SEER2-rated model for long-term savings.
Breaking these bad habits will not only reduce your energy bills but also extend the life of your system. If you’re ready to improve efficiency and comfort in your North Alabama home, Clifford’s HVAC is here to help.