We can all benefit from saving a few bucks where we can. An easy way to do this is by identifying energy inefficiencies in your home. Upgrading your HVAC system or putting in a smart thermostat, for example, gives you more control over your HVAC equipment, contributing to a more energy-efficient home and lower monthly energy bills.
Keep reading to learn about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home enhancements.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you still use an older thermostat and access it manually, consider taking a step toward the future by installing a smart, or Wi-Fi, thermostat – which comes with a number of features to assist with energy efficiency.
The functionality homeowners enjoy the most is being able to access their smart thermostats from wherever with their smartphone or other smart device. For instance, if you forget to adjust your thermostat before taking a vacation, you can simply use your smartphone and make any needed adjustments.
Like a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat allows you to set up a schedule for your home’s temperature based on the time of day and day of the week so you’re not spending energy on an empty house. Smart thermostats also have the capability to watch your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient modifications. They can even create monthly energy reports that illustrate how much energy you’re using and when so you can make changes to cut costs.
If you’re wondering how to get a free smart thermostat, talk to your utility company to learn if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats available.
2. HVAC Tune Ups
Sadly, some homeowners often forget about having their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this might not seem important, ignoring maintenance can result in a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan.
When performing an HVAC maintenance service, a heating and cooling technician is going to examine your HVAC system, clean necessary components, and catch minor flaws before they produce bigger, more expensive repair issues. Maintenance keeps HVAC systems functioning at optimal condition, which means less energy is needed to heat and cool your home. This could also help with your energy bills, prolong the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and lead to fewer repairs.
We recommend two HVAC tune ups every year – one in the spring before summer and another during the fall before the arrival of cold weather.
3. Getting rid of Your Old, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Regretfully, like any appliance, HVAC systems have a shelf life and inevitably need to be replaced. Newer heaters and cooling products are much more efficient than units manufactured just over a decade ago. Fortunately, local HVAC companies like Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces can offer professional services such as furnace installation in Alliance.
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can last around 15-20 years. If your systems are within that timeframe, it is often be a good idea to replace them early to prevent premature equipment failure that can leave you cold and uncomfortable on a cold winter night. If your equipment is around 15 years old and has a problem that needs an expensive repair, it’s definitely time to replace the system. As reported by the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a new HVAC system can sometimes save you between 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recoup some of the costs of buying a new system.
A professional HVAC technician can help you identify the most energy efficient HVAC system on the market. In general, try to find HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, which means the equipment fulfills strict guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. LENNOX HVAC systems can be some of the most efficient systems on the market, featuring both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is intended for heating systems and illustrates how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, meanwhile, is used to calculate the energy efficiency of cooling systems.
Call a reputable HVAC provider like Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces for air conditioning installation in Alliance.
4. Use Energy-Efficient Air Filters
If you’re looking for new HVAC filters, consider that not all air filters are the same. Certain air filters are far more effective than others, contributing to lower energy bills and cleaner indoor air.
The effectiveness of HVAC air filters is rated by their Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV rating. The MERV scale ranges between 1-20; the higher the number, the more effective the filters are. It’s worthwhile to note, though, that high-efficiency air filters can actually impede airflow too much based on the type of HVAC system you have. It’s worthwhile to study the owner’s manual before purchasing a filter to determine the best option for your system.