On March 10, we’ll all be adjusting our clocks ahead one hour as Daylight Saving Time takes effect. It’s interesting how a single hour can make such a big difference in everyone’s sleeping habits and daily activities. It’s not all bad, though; DST can actually be beneficial, especially to your heating and air conditioning systems. Air Quality shares a look at how this benefit works.
Preparing for Daylight Saving Time
Nearly everyone sets their alarms the night before DST kicks in, but you can prepare for it as early as a week before. This gives your body clock time to gradually adjust, so your body won’t be as stressed on the day itself. Your computers, alarm systems and phones should automatically update themselves, but analog clocks and those on your stove and microwave will have to be manually adjusted.
DST and Your HVAC System
Most smart HVAC systems automatically adjust to DST, so your pre-set heating and cooling schedule should automatically follow. If not, you’ll need to update your thermostat to follow these new hours. DST means there will be more daylight, an extra hour where the warmth from that light lingers and reduces the amount of heating necessary to keep your home comfortable. An extra hour may not sound much, but when you add it up, that’s about 30 heating hours per month you’ll be saving until the summer months begin. In addition to this savings, there will be less stress put on your HVAC system.
Optimizing Your HVAC System
These strategies work best with programmable thermostats, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy savings with non-programmable ones. You’ll just have to be diligent with your adjustments, which will have to be done manually. Making sure the furnace is clean and well-maintained will also help to optimize your HVAC system. The filters should be cleaned or replaced, which you can do on your own. Insulation issues, on the other hand, particularly on the exterior walls and ductwork, should be addressed by a professional.
We Can Help You Optimize Your HVAC System for DST
To learn more about how to optimize your heating and air conditioning system before Daylight Saving Time begins, call Air Quality today at 408-920-3910. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve San Jose and surrounding areas.