We can all benefit from saving a few bucks where we can. An easy way to do so is by identifying energy inefficiencies throughout your home. Upgrading your HVAC equipment or installing a smart thermostat, for example, gives you more control over your HVAC system, resulting in a more energy-efficient home and lower monthly energy bills.
Keep reading to read about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home changes.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you still use a round-dial thermostat and adjust it manually, try taking a step toward the future by installing a smart, or Wi-Fi, thermostat – which includes numerous features to improve your home's energy efficiency.
The feature homeowners appreciate the most is having the ability to access their smart thermostats from anywhere through their smartphone or other smart device. For example, if you forget to adjust your thermostat before going on vacation, you can easily take out your smartphone and make the necessary adjustment.
Similar to a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat allows you to pre-set your home’s temperature based on the time of day and day of the week so you’re not cooling or heating an empty house. Smart thermostats also offer the capacity to understand your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient corrections. They also generate monthly energy reports that demonstrate how much energy you’re using and when so you can make changes to reduce costs.
If you’re wondering how to secure a free smart thermostat, check with your utility company to learn if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats available.
2. HVAC Tune Ups
Sadly, many homeowners often forget to have their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this may not seem like a problem, a lack of maintenance can produce a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan.
During an HVAC maintenance service, a heating and cooling technician should inspect your HVAC system, clean important components, and identify minor flaws before they create bigger, more expensive repair issues. Tune ups keep HVAC systems running in optimal condition, which means less energy is used to heat and cool your home. This can lower your energy bills, increase the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and contribute to fewer repairs.
We suggest two HVAC tune ups annually – one in the spring before summer and one in the fall before the arrival of cold weather.
3. Getting rid of Your Worn-Down, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Annoyingly, like any appliance, HVAC systems can't run forever and inevitably need to be replaced. Newer heaters and cooling systems are much more efficient than models manufactured just over a decade ago. Thankfully, local HVAC companies like Tru Air Systems LLC can handle professional services such as furnace installation in .
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can last around 15-20 years. If your systems are within that span, it can be a good idea to replace them early to minimize the risk of premature equipment failure that can leave you cold and uncomfortable if it’s a cold winter night. If your HVAC system is approaching 15 years old and has a problem that needs an expensive repair, it’s usually time to replace the unit. As reported by the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a new HVAC system can sometimes save you about 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recoup some of the costs of buying a new system.
A professional heating and cooling technician can help you determine the most energy efficient HVAC system on the market. In general, seek out HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, which means the equipment satisfies firm guidelines made by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. LENNOX HVAC systems are often some of the most efficient systems around, featuring both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is intended for heating systems and illustrates how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, in the meantime, is used to measure the efficiency of cooling equipment.
Get in touch with a reputable HVAC provider like Tru Air Systems LLC for air conditioning installation in .
4. Use Energy-Efficient Air Filters
The next time you’re searching for new HVAC filters, remember that not all air filters are created equally. Specific air filters are far more efficient than others, contributing to lower energy bills and a cleaner home environment.
The efficiency of HVAC air filters is rated by their Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV rating. The MERV scale ranges from 1-20; the higher the number, the more effective the filters are. It’s worthwhile to note, however, that high-efficiency air filters can in fact restrict airflow too much based on the type of HVAC system you have. It’s worthwhile to read the owner’s manual before getting a filter to find the ideal model for your system.