Have you ever wondered.. Surely to goodness when a dentist gets a toothache, they have some ideas on how they could have prevented it in the first place, secondly what the problem is and finally, how to treat it. Physician, heal thyself. The same goes with your HVAC technician. So here are a few tips that an HVAC technician should share with you. If you can help with cutting your own energy costs, not only are you making your life more comfortable, you may be helping your HVAC provider in the end run as well. Get to KNOW your parts. Calling something a thingamjig isn’t all that helpful. At your next HVAC service, ask to book a few extra minutes to have your technician break down the essential components for you; evaporating coil,refrigerant tubes, heat pump and condensing unit. Ask for a Manual J audit. This is a free square footage evaluation that supplies you with the correct BTU’s you should be running on. Do you know where all your emergency shut off valves are? You will after asking your HVAC technician.Take photos before and after a monthly filter exchange. Do you know HOW and what kind of filter to use? Inexpensive and sold in bulk, you should switch them every 4 to 6 weeks. Take more photos of the entire system from time to time just to have as back up should you notice something awry and in need for a check out if not, repair. A photo can help your HVAC technician notice any worry spots. If you have the technology, take advantage of the smart phone thermostat feature app. Don’t ignore your attic fan and only use your ceiling fan when in that room. The savings from that alone will add up quickly. Don’t just keep your floor and other vent locations free of being blocked by televisions ,furniture or low hanging drapes, keep them away from the actual thermostat as well as any added heat will cause it to misfire into cool mode to compensate for the rise in internal temp. Consider moving your external heating/cooling system out of the direct sunlight and periodically check it for rust, bent fan blower blades or signs of damage after bad weather. Ask your HVAC technician where any sealing or caulking could be checked as well. Oh….if you are a renter, seriously consider asking your landlord to attend the few minutes you ask the HVAC technician these questions. It makes for easier relationships all around and keeps everyone on the same service page. Energy efficiency is everyone’s responsibility, and your home HVAC provider may have some of the answers for you.