Do you see dollar signs flash before your eyes every time you adjust the thermostat? Thankfully, staying cool this summer can be more cost-effective than you might think. Here are seven tips for improving your home’s energy efficiency.
1. Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat
Thermostat users typically fall into two categories: those who leave the unit running all day, and those who simply crank it up the minute they get home from work or school. Unfortunately, both of these options overwork the system and can be extremely expensive. Whether you have a set schedule for much of the week or want the option to change settings on the go, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat. These units come in a variety of types and offer countless features and perks. Many are mobile-friendly and can send information directly to your phone or email by syncing with your home’s wireless Internet. In addition, some programmable thermostats can operate by zone, cooling certain areas of your home more or less than others. The ability to control airflow by zone helps keep your HVAC system from wasting energy to cool infrequently used rooms like the guest room, study or storage area.
2. Run Ceiling Fans Counter-Clockwise
To improve downward airflow and create a comfortable breeze indoors during the summer, set your ceiling fans to run counter-clockwise. Depending on the unit, it may also be called the reverse setting or a forward motion. Ceiling fans do not cool a room on their own, but they can help you save on your energy costs. Utilizing ceiling fans allows you to raise the thermostat setting, reducing air conditioning energy consumption.
If your house does not have ceiling fans, consider installing one in your living room or bedroom. Alternatively, box fans call help pull in cool air from open windows at night while standing oscillating fans can create a powerful breeze.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Have you ever realized how much heat conventional light bulbs produce? No matter the current room temperature or thermostat setting, sitting too close to a lamp with standard bulbs can make you feel overheated. This is because standard incandescent bulbs are extremely energy inefficient, generating light while losing most energy in the form of heat. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, 90% of the energy of each bulb is given off as heat. In contrast, energy-efficient light bulbs, or compact fluorescents, use most of their energy to create light and give off very little heat.
As a result, energy-efficient bulbs can help
reduce your air conditioning costs. Because they are low energy and long lasting, they can also reduce electricity bills year-round. Finally, compact fluorescents give off fewer carbon dioxide emissions, making them much more environmentally friendly than conventional light bulbs. Other more energy-efficient lighting options include halogen incandescent and LED light bulbs.
4. Offer Your Air Conditioning Unit Some TLC
When you turn on your air conditioner for the first time each year, do you experience a cloud of dust or slight musty smell? Dust, dirt and other debris in the system can reduce airflow and lower air quality. Also, many homeowners neglect to clean or change their air conditioner filters on a regular basis. Unfortunately, dirty filters can block airflow, reducing your system’s effectiveness. To combat this, schedule a
pre-summer HVAC servicing call. Technicians may:
- Inspect all aspects of your unit, from refrigerant amounts to motor wear and tear
- Measure air flow
- Test for and seal off leaks
- Ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly
- Clean electrical terminals and ductwork
- Perform repairs if necessary
5. Invest in a Tankless Water Heater
The idea of a
tankless water heater may seem like an oxymoron. Where is hot water stored for a hot shower or load of laundry? According to the
U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters work on demand, instantaneously heating water through a heat exchanger coil. Since tankless water heater units do not have to store water, much less energy is lost, with drastically reduced standby heat losses.
In the meantime, you can also help beat the heat by running loads of laundry at cooler water temperatures. Hanging some articles of clothing to air dry instead of running the dryer for every last shirt or dress is another good way to avoid turning your laundry room into a furnace.
6. Install New Windows
Windows are often the biggest culprits of air leaks. Many of the newer, more energy-efficient windows carry a significant up-front cost, but they are a long-term investment worth having. With new windows, you will notice a difference in your home’s ability to retain cool air, which also means lower energy bills as a result. Plus, many upgraded window designs come with unique safety and security features as well as new options for airflow.
If you cannot afford a major upgrade this year, install weather stripping to help produce similar results. Keeping blinds or shades closed on the sunny side of the house is another easy way to help your HVAC system run much more efficiently and effectively.
7. Ask For a Home Energy Audit
If you have implemented some of the tips above but still feel your home is losing energy, consider scheduling a home energy audit. A professional energy auditor will walk through and around your home and may use a variety of tests to identify any cracks, leaks, or other spaces where air may be entering or escaping. Following the inspection, your auditor may identify many different ways that you can help make your home more energy efficient.
Are you ready to install a programmable thermostat or to schedule summer HVAC servicing?
Patriot Air Comfort Systems offers high-quality
products, professionally trained technicians and exceptional customer service. If you're experiencing efficiency issues with your air conditioning unit, we recommend that you schedule a
servicing appointment as there may be a problem that needs addressed by a professional.
