We can all benefit from saving a few bucks here and there. An easy way to do this is by making some energy-efficient changes throughout your home. Upgrading your HVAC system or adding a smart thermostat, for example, offers more control over your HVAC system, contributing to a more energy-efficient home and lower monthly energy bills.
Keep reading to read about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home improvements.
1. Try a Smart Thermostat
If you still use an older thermostat and access 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 capability to control their smart thermostats from anywhere they want through their smartphone or other smart device. For instance, when you forget to use your thermostat before going on vacation, you can just take out your smartphone and make the necessary adjustment.
Similar to a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat enables you to set up a schedule for your home’s temperature according to the time of day and day of the week so you’re not spending energy on an empty house. Smart thermostats also feature the capability to watch your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient adjustments. They even provide monthly energy reports that illustrate 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, talk to your utility company to learn if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats offered.
2. HVAC Tune Ups
Unfortunately, some homeowners often forget to keep their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this may not seem like a huge deal, ignoring 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 will examine your HVAC system, clean necessary components, and identify minor issues before they lead to bigger, more expensive repair issues. Maintenance can keep HVAC systems functioning at optimal condition, which means less energy is needed to heat and cool your home. This could also lower your energy bills, prolong the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and contribute to fewer repairs.
We recommend two HVAC tune ups each year – one in the spring before summer and another in the fall before the arrival of cold weather.
3. Getting rid of Your Aging, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Regretfully, like every appliance, HVAC systems don't last forever and inevitably need to be replaced. New heaters and cooling products are much more energy efficient than units manufactured just over a decade ago. Luckily, helpful HVAC companies like Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC can perform professional services like furnace installation in Ellsworth.
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can run for around 15-20 years. If your system is within that span, it can be a good idea to replace them ahead of time to avoid untimely breakdowns that can leave you cold and uncomfortable if it’s a cold winter night. If your system is approaching 15 years old and has a problem that needs an expensive repair, it’s definitely time to replace the unit. As reported by the U.S. Department of Energy, getting a new HVAC system can sometimes save you approximately 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recoup some of the costs of installing a new system.
A professional HVAC technician can help you determine the most energy efficient HVAC system available. For the most part, look for HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, meaning the equipment satisfies firm guidelines made by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. LENNOX HVAC systems can be some of the most efficient systems around, featuring both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is for heating systems and illustrates how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, meanwhile, is used to calculate the efficiency of cooling equipment.
Get in touch with a reputable HVAC provider like Walter's-Eaton's Electric, Plumbing, Heating & AC for air conditioning installation in Ellsworth.
4. Switch to More Energy-Efficient Air Filters
When you’re looking for new HVAC filters, remember that not all air filters are capable of providing the same results. Specific air filters are far more successful than others, resulting in lower energy bills and a cleaner home environment.
The efficiency of HVAC air filters is illustrated 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 relevant to note, though, that high-efficiency air filters can in fact restrict airflow too much according to the type of HVAC system you have. It’s important to read the owner’s manual before purchasing a filter to find the best option for your system.
