Updated: February 27th, 2025

How to Improve HVAC Energy Efficiency Before Colder Days Arrive

As winter approaches in Des Moines and the surrounding Midwest, homeowners must confirm that their HVAC systems operate at peak efficiency. Iowa winters bring frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, and freezing winds, making a well-functioning heating system essential for home comfort.

However, an inefficient HVAC system can lead to higher energy bills, reduced indoor comfort, and costly emergency repairs when it is overworked. Proper HVAC maintenance helps homeowners reduce heating costs, extend the lifespan of their heating systems, and improve indoor air quality.

At Bell Brothers, we specialize in HVAC energy efficiency solutions. We provide expert tune-ups, preventative maintenance, and energy-saving upgrades to help homeowners stay warm while minimizing energy waste. Following these seven energy efficiency tips, you can keep your home comfortable and lower your winter utility bills before the coldest days arrive.

Learn more: Recommended Thermostat Settings for Summer and Winter

7 Ways to Improve Your Home’s HVAC Energy Efficiency

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

A professional HVAC inspection verifies that your system is running smoothly before winter sets in. A licensed HVAC technician will inspect essential components, including:

Heat exchanger: A cracked heat exchanger can lead to carbon monoxide leaks, posing serious health risks.
Blower motor: Dust buildup or malfunctioning parts can reduce efficiency and airflow.
Electrical connections: Loose or damaged connections can lead to power failures or system breakdowns.

Scheduling an annual HVAC inspection helps catch minor problems before they become major repairs. Regular maintenance prevents costly emergency breakdowns, ensuring your furnace or heat pump can handle the demands of an Iowa winter.

Schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment now to keep your system running efficiently this winter.

2. Replace or Clean Furnace Filters

Your furnace filter is critical in maintaining airflow and indoor air quality. A clogged or dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, consuming more energy and reducing overall efficiency. To maximize performance:

Replace disposable filters every 1-3 months.
Clean reusable filters regularly to remove dust and debris.
To improve air quality and HVAC performance, consider upgrading to high-efficiency filters (HEPA or MERV 13+).

A clean filter reduces energy waste, improves air circulation, and helps extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. For more essential maintenance tips, check out our guide on the importance of HVAC maintenance and how it keeps your system running efficiently year-round.

3. Check & Seal Ductwork for Air Leaks

Did you know that up to 30% of heated air can be lost due to leaky ductwork? Cracks, holes, and poorly sealed joints allow warm air to escape, forcing your system to work harder to maintain indoor comfort.

To improve efficiency:

Inspect ducts for visible gaps, holes, or disconnected sections.
Seal leaks with metal tape or mastic sealant (avoid duct tape, which degrades over time).
Insulate exposed ducts in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces.

Sealing and insulating ductwork ensures more heated air reaches your living spaces, reducing energy waste and heating costs.

4. Optimize Thermostat Settings

A properly programmed thermostat can lead to significant energy savings without sacrificing comfort. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends:

Setting your thermostat to 68°F while awake.
Lowering the temperature by 7-10°F at night or when away for extra savings.
Upgrading to a smart thermostat to automate temperature adjustments.

Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust settings automatically, helping homeowners optimize HVAC performance while reducing energy costs.

5. Clear the Area Around Outdoor Units

If your home relies on a heat pump, keeping the outdoor unit clear of obstructions for optimal airflow is important.

Maintain at least two feet of clearance around the unit.
Remove leaves, snow, and debris to prevent overheating.
Check for ice buildup during freezing temperatures, which can reduce efficiency.

A heat pump that has unrestricted airflow operates more efficiently, reducing strain on the system and lowering winter utility bills and helping with hvac energy efficiency.

6. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Safety

A well-maintained furnace should never produce unsafe carbon monoxide (CO) levels, but an aging or faulty system could pose a silent but deadly risk. Protect your household by:

Installing carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and living areas.
Testing detectors monthly and replacing batteries once a year.
Replacing old detectors every 5-7 years for continued protection.

CO poisoning is a serious risk during the winter months, especially in tightly sealed homes. Regular HVAC maintenance helps prevent CO leaks, keeping your home safe and warm.

7. Improve Home Insulation & Weather Stripping

Even the most efficient heating system won’t perform well if your home is poorly insulated. Heat loss through windows, doors, and walls forces your furnace to work overtime, increasing energy costs.

Seal gaps around windows and doors with weather stripping or caulk.
Upgrade insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces to reduce heat loss.
Use thermal curtains or window insulation kits to block drafts and retain heat.

Better insulation helps your home maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the workload on your HVAC system and lowering your heating bills.

The Benefits of an Energy-Efficient HVAC System

Investing in HVAC energy efficiency offers a range of benefits:

Lower Utility Bills: Reducing energy waste leads to lower heating costs.
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Clean filters and sealed ducts help prevent dust, allergens, and pollutants from circulating in your home.
Extended HVAC System Lifespan: Preventative maintenance reduces strain on your system, helping it last longer and perform better.

Reduced Environmental Impact: An energy-efficient HVAC system lowers your carbon footprint, making your home more eco-friendly.

Schedule an Energy Efficiency Tune-Up with Bell Brothers

Scheduling an annual HVAC inspection helps catch minor problems before they become major repairs. However, if you’re experiencing a heating system failure or urgent issue, Bell Brothers offers 24/7 emergency heating and cooling services to restore comfort to your home as quickly as possible.

Our preventative HVAC maintenance allows homeowners to avoid costly breakdowns, improve home comfort, and save on winter heating costs. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch service and energy-efficient solutions to keep Des Moines homes warm all season.

Are You Ready to Save on Energy Bills and Stay Warm All Winter?

Improve your home’s HVAC energy efficiency today with Bell Brothers’ expert services. Schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment now and make certain your heating system is ready for the coldest days ahead. Don’t wait for the first freeze—call Bell Brothers today to schedule your HVAC tune-up and enjoy a warm, efficient, and cost-effective home this winter!