We can all benefit from saving money here and there. One of the easiest ways to do this is by making some energy-efficient changes throughout your home. Upgrading your HVAC system or installing a smart thermostat, for example, provides more control over your HVAC system, resulting in a more energy-efficient home and savings on your monthly energy bills.
Keep reading to read about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home enhancements.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you still use a round-dial thermostat and access it manually, try taking a step toward the future by installing a smart, or Wi-Fi, thermostat – which contains a number of features to make your home more energy efficient.
The feature homeowners like the most is having the ability to control their smart thermostats from anywhere by using their smartphone or other smart device. As an example, in situations where you forget to change your thermostat before taking a vacation, you can simply use your smartphone and make any needed adjustments.
Similar to a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat allows 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 feature the capability to understand your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient corrections. They also create monthly energy reports that illustrate how much energy you are using and when so you can make changes to reduce costs.
If you’re wanting to know how to secure a free smart thermostat, ask your utility company to find out if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats offered.
2. HVAC Tune Ups
Unfortunately, many homeowners often forget to keep their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this might not seem like a huge deal, ignoring maintenance will sometimes produce a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan.
During an HVAC maintenance service, the technician will evaluate your HVAC system, clean necessary components, and identify minor flaws before they create bigger, more expensive repair issues. Maintenance can keep HVAC systems running in optimal condition, which means they use less energy to heat and cool your home. This could also reduce 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 frigid weather.
3. Upgrading Your Aging, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Annoyingly, like any appliance, HVAC systems don't last forever and ultimately need to be replaced. New heaters and cooling products are much more effective than units sold just over a decade ago. Luckily, helpful HVAC companies like Woody's Sudden Service Inc can offer professional services such as furnace installation in Manassas.
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can last around 15-20 years. If your systems are within that period of time, it might be a good idea to replace them early to prevent untimely equipment failure that can leave you cold and uncomfortable if it’s a cold winter night. If your HVAC system is about 15 years old and has a problem that needs an expensive repair, it’s usually time to replace the unit. Per the U.S. Department of Energy, getting a new HVAC system can save you approximately 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recoup some of the costs of putting in a new system.
A professional comfort technician can help you determine the most energy efficient HVAC system for your needs. For the most part, seek out HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, meaning the equipment meets firm guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. LENNOX HVAC systems are some of the most efficient systems available, offering both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is used for heating systems and illustrates how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, in the meantime, is used to measure the energy efficiency of air conditioning systems.
Contact a reputable HVAC provider like Woody's Sudden Service Inc for air conditioning installation in Manassas.
4. Use Energy-Efficient Air Filters
If you’re looking for new HVAC filters, keep in mind that not all air filters are capable of providing the same results. Specific air filters are far more efficient than others, contributing to lower energy bills and a cleaner home environment.
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 worthwhile to note, though, that high-efficiency air filters can sometimes impede airflow too much based on the type of HVAC system you installed. It’s beneficial to read the owner’s manual before buying a filter to determine the right one for your system.