How To Determine HVAC Efficiency With Degree Day Calculations

Degree days can be used by homeowners to estimate their upcoming utility bills as well as provide more in-depth information about what their energy costs go toward.  They can also be used to determine when a homeowner uses more energy than other times of the year.   

Each day of the year is assigned a certain number of degree days based on the day's average temperature.  By taking the difference between the average and a standard baseline of 65 degrees, you will get the number representing your heating and cooling needs.  For example, if the average temperature for the day is 75, you subtract 65 from 75 to get 10 cooling degree days. To determine, heating degree days, just subtract the average temperature from the 65-degree baseline.  

Once you start to look at the sum of degree days over the course of different time periods, you will begin to notice trends and patterns that indicate when you use more energy.  This will help you come up with strategies that can help you reduce your energy consumption during the times you typically start using more.  This, of course, will allow you to save money each month on your utility bills.  

HVAC professionals also use this information not just by looking at changes from month to month, but from year to year as well.  This helps them predict climate changes that will affect how they're able to deliver the best results for customers in their area.  You can use this same information to save money without having to sacrifice your comfort.  

Degree days are especially useful when installing a new air conditioning system in your home.  Determining the size of your new unit is especially important; there are many long-term implications that are greatly affected by this decision.  Looking at the degree days can be a good indicator of how much energy your home will require to stay comfortable.  Knowing your heating and cooling needs will lead to a properly sized air conditioner.  

For more information on degree days and how they can help you, contact Comfort Services today.  We have been serving businesses and residential homeowners throughout the Midlands since 1976.