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 installing a smart thermostat, for example, provides more control over your HVAC equipment, contributing to a more energy-efficient home and savings on your monthly energy bills.
Read on to read about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home enhancements.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you still use an older thermostat and control it manually, try taking a step toward the future by installing a smart, or Wi-Fi, thermostat – which comes with numerous features to make your home more energy efficient.
The functionality homeowners like the most is having the capability to access their smart thermostats from anywhere through their smartphone or other smart device. As an example, if you forget to adjust your thermostat before going on vacation, you can simply use your smartphone and make any needed adjustments.
Just like a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat enables you to schedule your home’s temperature determined by the time of day and day of the week so you’re not spending energy on an empty house. Smart thermostats also have the capacity to understand your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient corrections. They also provide monthly energy reports that show how much energy you’re using and when so you can make modifications to save money.
If you’re curious about how to get a free smart thermostat, ask your utility company to find out if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats available to you.
2. HVAC Tune Ups
Unfortunately, some homeowners often forget about having their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this may not seem like a problem, inadequate maintenance could produce a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan.
When performing an HVAC maintenance service, the technician should examine your HVAC system, clean important components, and pinpoint minor flaws before they create bigger, more expensive repair issues. Tune ups keep HVAC systems functioning at optimal condition, which means less energy is used to heat and cool your home. This will reduce your energy bills, prolong the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and contribute to fewer repairs.
We recommend two HVAC tune ups each year – once in the spring before summer and another during the fall before the arrival of cold weather.
3. Getting rid of Your Worn-Down, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Unfortunately, like any appliance, HVAC systems can't run forever and inevitably need to be replaced. Newer heaters and cooling products are much more efficient than models sold just over a decade ago. Luckily, local HVAC companies like AC Sales can handle professional services like furnace installation in Lafayette.
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can last approximately 15-20 years. If your systems are within that timeframe, it can be a good idea to replace them early to minimize the risk of untimely breakdowns that can leave you cold and uncomfortable on a cold winter night. If your HVAC system is around 15 years old and requires an expensive repair, it’s usually time to replace the unit. Per the U.S. Department of Energy, getting a new HVAC system could save you about 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recover some of the costs of putting in a new system.
A professional comfort technician can help you find the most energy efficient HVAC system on the market. In general, seek out HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, which means the equipment meets rigid guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. LENNOX HVAC systems are some of the most efficient systems on the market, boasting both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is for heating systems and measures how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, meanwhile, is used to measure the efficiency of air conditioning systems.
Get in touch with a reputable HVAC provider like AC Sales for air conditioning installation in Lafayette.
4. Use Energy-Efficient Air Filters
When you’re looking for new HVAC filters, keep in mind that not all air filters are the same. Some air filters are far more efficient than others, resulting in lower energy bills and a clean home.
The performance of HVAC air filters is illustrated 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 relevant to note, though, that high-efficiency air filters can actually restrict airflow too much depending on the type of HVAC system you installed. It’s worthwhile to study the owner’s manual before getting a filter to find the ideal model for your system.
