As we approach Earth Day, it's the perfect time to start thinking about how you can make your homes how you can work towards a more sustainable home. You’ll be impressed by the variety, and having so many potential solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Request a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. During the audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and go over things with you before offering opinionso on the best improvements. This specialized evaluation helps you learn just where energy is wasted and how our proposed improvements can provide lasting benefits.
2. Update Your Home's Insulation
Adequate insulation is an essential, and maybe underrated option for full-spectrum comfort while also fine-tuning your home’s average energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, helping to prevent heat loss in the winter and keeping cool air indoors during the summer.
However, most homes would still benefit from adding more insulation. Incorporating additional insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can greatly boost energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy loss that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, regardless of high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
If that wasn’t good enough, insulating the ductwork around unfinished spaces such as attics or crawl spaces reduces heat transfer into them. Sealing off these inefficient parts of your home is a great example of how a little effort can go a long way.
4. Consider the Benefits of a Programmable/Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and especially a smart thermostat, enables homeowners to customize their heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats improve energy costs and stop waste. Smart thermostats can also offer benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
And speaking of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should plan routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can perform inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems operate efficiently.
By tackling repair issues right away and keeping internal clean,we can help protect your HVAC system and may even prolong its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners more precise control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning separates different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, improving comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help with providing consistent temperatures in your home while minimizing the workload on the HVAC system.
7. Think About Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners ready to take the next step, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems utilize variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to offer superior performance while using less energy.
Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces is Here to Make Your Home More Sustainable
Looking to turn your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces at 308-762-1613 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also enjoy a more comfortable and more efficient home. We’re proud to make the most of this year’s Earth Day creating a greener future, one household at a time.