We can all benefit from saving a few bucks where we can. One of the easiest ways to do so is by identifying energy inefficiencies around your home. Upgrading your HVAC system or installing a smart thermostat, for example, gives you more control over your HVAC system, resulting in a more energy-efficient home and more affordable monthly energy bills.
Continue below to read about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home improvements.
1. Look for Smart Home Products Like 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 comes with several features to assist with energy efficiency.
The functionality homeowners like the most is having the ability to control their smart thermostats from anywhere by using their smartphone or other smart device. For example, when you forget to use your thermostat before going on vacation, you can simply use your smartphone and make any needed adjustments.
Similar to a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat enables you to pre-set your home’s temperature determined by the time of day and day of the week so you’re not cooling or heating an empty house. Smart thermostats also have the capacity to watch your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient modifications. They even provide monthly energy reports that demonstrate how much energy you are using and when so you can make adjustments to cut costs.
If you’re curious about how to obtain a free smart thermostat, talk to your utility company to find out if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats available to you.
2. Regularly Scheduled Tune-Ups for Your HVAC System
Unfortunately, lots of homeowners often forget about having their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this might not seem like a problem, ignoring maintenance will sometimes produce a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan.
When performing an HVAC maintenance service, the technician will inspect your HVAC system, clean necessary components, and identify minor problems before they produce bigger, more expensive repair issues. Tune ups keep HVAC systems working at optimal condition, which means less energy is used to heat and cool your home. This could also lower your energy bills, increase the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and lead to fewer repairs.
We encourage two HVAC tune ups every year – once in the spring before summer and one during the fall before the arrival of winter weather.
3. Getting rid of Your Aging, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Unfortunately, like all appliances, HVAC systems have a shelf life and ultimately need to be replaced. New heaters and cooling systems are much more efficient than models produced just over 10 years ago. Luckily, helpful HVAC companies like PS Cool Heat can perform professional services like furnace installation in Highlands Ranch.
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can run for around 15-20 years. If the equipment is within that period of time, it is often be a good idea to replace them early to avoid premature breakdowns that can leave you cold and uncomfortable on a cold winter night. If your equipment is around 15 years old and requires an expensive repair, it’s definitely time to replace the system. Per the U.S. Department of Energy, getting 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 putting in a new system.
A professional HVAC technician can help you determine the most energy efficient HVAC system on the market. As a general rule of thumb, seek out HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, indicating 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 used for heating systems and measures how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, in the meantime, is used to calculate the energy efficiency of air conditioning systems.
Contact a reputable HVAC provider like PS Cool Heat for air conditioning installation in Highlands Ranch.
4. Look for Energy-Efficient Air Filters
The next time you’re looking for new HVAC filters, keep in mind that not all air filters are created equally. Specific air filters are far more efficient than others, leading to lower energy bills and a clean home.
The effectiveness 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 efficient the filters are. It’s important to note, however, that high-efficiency air filters can sometimes obstruct airflow too much depending on the type of HVAC system you have. It’s beneficial to study the owner’s manual before buying a filter to find the ideal model for your system.
