As we get closer to Earth Day, it's a great opportunity to start thinking about how you can make your homes more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. There are more options than ever, and having so many potential solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to bigger savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. Over the course of an audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and go over things with you before recommending improvements. This detailed evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how these improvements can bring lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Proper insulation is a vital, and maybe underrated option for total comfort while also optimizing energy use. Insulation acts as a barrier, helping to prevent heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, most homes don’t have enough insulation. Incorporating additional insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can significantly improve energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
A leak in your home’s ductwork is an often overlooked source of energy loss that lower HVAC system efficiency, regardless of high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and avoid future wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician examine ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps or cracks as securely as possible.
If that wasn’t good enough, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces helps prevent heat transfer into them. Sealing off these inefficient parts of your home is a great example of how a little effort can go a long way.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to tailor their heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines and preferences. By gradually optimizing these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats also optimize energy costs and minimize waste. Smart thermostats also provide benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or delivering helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
On the topic of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should arrange for routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can perform inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to ensure their HVAC systems run smoothly.
By addressing repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean, you can help protect your HVAC system and may even extend its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners greater control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning allows different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, improving comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help keep consistent temperatures in your home while minimizing the workload on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners eager to upgrade, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems utilize variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to provide superior performance while requiring less energy.
Central Heating & Plumbing is Here to Make Your Home More Sustainable
Looking to turn your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Central Heating & Plumbing at 724-401-1843 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can reduce not only your environmental impact but also enjoy a cleaner and more efficient home. We’re proud to make the most of this year’s Earth Day creating a greener future, one household at a time.