Your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy users in your home. In Sonoma County, where summers can be hot and dry and winters bring damp, chilly nights, homeowners rely on their heating and cooling systems year-round. The good news? With a few smart steps, you can keep your home comfortable and save money on your energy bills. At Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we’ve put together our top tips to boost HVAC efficiency.
1. Change Air Filters Regularly
Dirty filters block airflow and force your system to work harder, which increases energy use.
- Check filters every month during peak seasons.
- Replace or clean them at least every 60–90 days.
- If you live near wildfire-prone areas or along Highway 101 with heavy traffic, you may need to change filters more often to maintain indoor air quality.
2. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat learns your schedule and adjusts heating and cooling automatically. By raising the temperature a few degrees when you’re away in summer — or lowering it while you sleep in winter — you can cut energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Pro tip: BayREN offers energy rebate programs for Northern California homeowners upgrading to smart thermostats and other energy-saving improvements.
3. Schedule Seasonal Tune-Ups
Preventive maintenance keeps your system efficient and helps avoid costly repairs. A professional tune-up includes:
- Checking refrigerant levels in your AC.
- Cleaning coils and blower components.
- Inspecting and tightening electrical connections.
- Testing furnace burners and safety controls.
Routine maintenance is especially important in Sonoma homes where dust, pollen, and even wildfire smoke can strain HVAC systems.
4. Seal Leaky Ductwork
Leaky ducts can waste up to 30% of the air moving through your system. That’s conditioned air (and your money) escaping into attics or crawl spaces. Professional duct sealing ensures every bit of heating and cooling makes it into your living spaces.
5. Adjust Thermostat Settings Seasonally
- Summer: Set your thermostat to 78°F when home and higher when away.
- Winter: Aim for 68°F when home and lower while sleeping or out.
These small adjustments can make a big difference on your utility bill while keeping your home comfortable.
6. Improve Home Insulation and Air Sealing
Even the best HVAC system can’t keep up if your home isn’t holding in conditioned air. Add insulation to attics and walls, and seal gaps around doors and windows. This not only saves energy but also keeps your system from running constantly during Sonoma’s hottest and coldest days.
7. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Equipment
If your system is more than 10–15 years old, it may be time to consider replacement. Today’s HVAC systems — including [high-efficiency air conditioners] (INSERT FINAL URL HERE), [furnaces] (INSERT FINAL URL HERE), and [ductless mini-splits] (INSERT FINAL URL HERE) — are designed to deliver comfort with significantly lower energy use.
Local tie-in: Many Napa and Santa Rosa homeowners also explore heat pumps, which can provide both heating and cooling in one efficient system.
Save Money and Stay Comfortable with Jazz
Improving your HVAC efficiency doesn’t just save money — it helps your system last longer and makes your home more comfortable year-round. Whether you need a seasonal tune-up, a thermostat upgrade, or advice on replacing an older system,Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing is here to help.
Call Jazz Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing today to schedule your HVAC service and start saving on energy bills this season.