As energy rates continue rising, you are probably on the lookout for ways to cut back your usage and save money. Even though larger investments like replacing the windows or installing high-efficiency HVAC systems can help make your home more energy efficient, you can cut energy costs sooner with virtually no up-front investment. Here’s how you do that.
Check the filter once a month and change it when it seems dirty, or every three months, whichever occurs first. The cost of a new filter can pay for itself by boosting efficiency, guaranteeing proper airflow, and preventing the HVAC equipment from overheating. Your home should feel more comfortable and have cleaner indoor air with a new filter in place.
Maintain the temperature at 70 degrees or cooler during the winter and raise it to 77 degrees or warmer over the summer. Then, dress for the season to help you stay comfortable.
If you still have an old manual thermostat, upgrade to a programmable model. This affordable replacement pays for itself quickly in energy savings by allowing you to program setback schedules while you’re away from home or asleep. Automated temperature recovery means you save money without ever losing your sense of comfort. Keep an eye out for a smart Wi-Fi thermostat you can adjust remotely for even more opportunities to save.
Preventative maintenance offers a great return on investment. For starters, it pays you back by reducing your energy bills. After all, a well-maintained HVAC system runs better than a poorly maintained one. You also reduce the risk of malfunctions and the required repair costs. Additionally, your heating and cooling is able to run for a few years longer when you care for it today.
Air leaks can form wherever multiple building materials are found. Locate and seal up these leaks to keep your home comfortable and minimize the strain on your heating and cooling. Here are some tips:
In the summer, your goal is to block solar heat gain. Closing reflective curtains over the windows through the afternoon is a simple way to do this. If your budget allows, you could also plant trees on the south and west sides of your home. By looking for deciduous trees, you can enjoy cooling shade over the summer while still enabling the sun to heat your home for free in the winter.
Conserve this limited resource and lower your water bills with these tips:
Plug computers, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles and other electronics into power strips. This way, you can turn them off with the flip of a switch when not in use. Additionally, unplug cell phone chargers and other adapters when you don’t need them to avoid small amounts of “phantom” energy usage.
Do you still have old incandescent bulbs at home? Swap them out with LEDs to save up to 70 percent on your lighting bills. Bulb replacement costs also go down since LEDs live about 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
Appliances are the power hogs of the home. Save money with these tips:
Many cost-cutting measures relate directly to your home heating, cooling and plumbing systems. If you need help implementing these tips, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We offer affordable maintenance and repair work, alongside cost-effective installation and replacement services. Additionally, with financing options available, even big upgrades will match your budget. For more details about our services or to request an estimate, please contact your local Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office today.
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