We can all benefit from saving a few bucks where we can. One of the simplest ways to do this is by identifying energy inefficiencies in your home. Upgrading your HVAC system or adding a smart thermostat, for example, offers more control over your heating and cooling system, leading to a more energy-efficient home and savings on your monthly energy bills.
Continue below to learn more about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home improvements.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you still use a round-dial thermostat and control it manually, think about taking a step toward the future by installing a smart, or Wi-Fi, thermostat – which comes with numerous features to improve your home's energy efficiency.
The function homeowners like the most is having the ability to access their smart thermostats from anywhere with their smartphone or other smart device. For instance, when you forget to use your thermostat before taking a vacation, you can just take out your smartphone and make any needed adjustments.
Just like a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat allows you to set up a schedule for your home’s temperature based on 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 understand your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient modifications. They also provide monthly energy reports that demonstrate how much energy you’re using and when so you can make adjustments to cut costs.
If you’re wondering how to get 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, lots of homeowners often forget to have their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this may not seem like a problem, a lack of maintenance will sometimes result in a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan.
With an HVAC maintenance service, a heating and cooling technician is going to inspect your HVAC system, clean necessary components, and identify minor flaws before they create bigger, more expensive repair issues. Maintenance keeps HVAC systems working at optimal condition, which means less energy is needed to heat and cool your home. This could also reduce your energy bills, increase the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and contribute to fewer repairs.
We recommend two HVAC tune ups annually – one in the spring before summer and one in the fall before the arrival of cold weather.
3. Upgrading Your Worn-Down, Inefficient HVAC Equipment
Annoyingly, like all appliances, HVAC systems have a shelf life and inevitably need to be replaced. Modern heaters and cooling systems are much more energy efficient than equipment produced just over a decade ago. Thankfully, helpful HVAC companies like Farnell Mechanical, Inc. can handle professional services like furnace installation in Auburn and Opelika.
Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can run for around 15-20 years. If your system is within that span, it might be a good idea to replace them ahead of time to avoid untimely equipment failure that can leave you cold and uncomfortable if it’s a cold winter night. If your system is around 15 years old and requires an expensive repair, it’s usually time to replace it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing a new HVAC system could save you between 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recoup some of the costs of installing a new system.
A professional comfort technician can help you determine the most energy efficient HVAC system for your needs. In general, 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 can be some of the most efficient systems around, boasting both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is intended for heating systems and measures how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, in the meantime, is used to quantify the energy efficiency of cooling systems.
Call a reputable HVAC provider like Farnell Mechanical, Inc. for air conditioning installation in Auburn and Opelika.
4. Use Energy-Efficient Air Filters
If you’re looking for new HVAC filters, remember that not all air filters are the same. Some air filters are far more efficient than others, contributing to lower energy bills and cleaner indoor air.
The performance 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 important to note, however, that high-efficiency air filters can sometimes restrict airflow too much depending on the type of HVAC system you installed. It’s beneficial to study the owner’s manual before purchasing a filter to find the best option for your system.