10 Ways to Reduce Your Home Energy Costs

You may be searching for advice on reducing your usage and saving money while energy costs keep rising. Even though big purchases like new windows or a high-efficiency HVAC system will make your home more energy efficient, you can now cut your energy costs with almost no upfront costs. How? Read on.

1. Verify the HVAC air filter

Every month, check the filter and change it when it looks unclean or after three months, whichever comes first. By making the HVAC system more efficient, making sure there is enough airflow, and keeping it from getting too hot, a new filter pays for itself. With a new filter, your home should feel cozier and have healthier air inside.

2. Modify your thermostat to save energy

During the winter, maintain a temperature of around 70 degrees or lower, and boost it to 77 degrees or higher in the summer. Then, dress appropriately for the season to keep yourself comfortable.

3. Install an electronic thermostat.

Upgrade to a Smart thermostat if you still use an outdated manual model. This type of thermostat allows you to schedule setback periods while you're away from home or asleep, which quickly pays for itself through energy savings. You may save money with automated temperature recovery without sacrificing comfort; for more chances to save, look for a smart Wi-Fi thermostat that you can control from a distance.

4. Arrange yearly HVAC upkeep

An excellent return on investment is provided by preventative maintenance. To begin with, it saves you money by bringing down your energy costs. After all, an HVAC system that has been tuned up operates more effectively than one that hasn't. Additionally, you cut down on the possibility of equipment breakdowns and associated expenses. Additionally, if you take good care of your equipment now, it will probably last a few more years.

5. Locate and fix air leaks

Anywhere two building elements are joined, air leaks could happen. Try to identify and fix these leaks to maintain a comfortable home environment and lessen the load on your heating and cooling systems. Here are a few pieces of advice:

• If the seals around your windows and doors are tighter than they are, try replacing worn-out weatherstripping.

• To stop air leaks, re-caulk the crevices around windows and doors.

• Around electrical, plumbing, ductwork, and other walls, ceiling, and floor penetrations add expanding spray foam.

• When there isn't a fire, close the fireplace damper.

6. Make the most of solar heat gain

It would be best to block solar heat gain throughout the summer. A straightforward approach is to cover the windows with reflective curtains in the afternoon. If your budget allows, you can also plant trees on your house's south and west sides. If you choose deciduous trees, they will give you shade in the summer and let the sun heat your property freely in the winter.

7. Conserve water

Use these suggestions to save this vital resource and cut back on your water usage:

• Take short showers rather than extended baths.

• Install aerated faucets and low-flow showerheads.

• Turn off the water while shaving and brushing your teeth.

• Fix dripping faucets, running toilets, and leaking pipes as quickly as possible.

8. Switch Off Electronics

Plug-in power strips with PCs, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and other equipment. In this manner, you may quickly turn them off when not in use by flicking a switch. While you're at it, unplug chargers for your phone and other devices while not in use to reduce "phantom" energy usage.

9. Replace all of your lightbulbs.

Are there any remaining incandescent bulbs in your home? Replace them with LEDs to reduce your lighting costs by about 70%. Because LEDs last nearly 25 times longer than incandescent lights, bulb replacement prices also go down.

10. Use appliances properly.

The home's biggest energy consumers are appliances. Use one of these pieces of advice to cut costs:

• Keep the windows and doors closed when using the furnace or air conditioner.

• Lower the water heater's setting to 120 degrees, then covers it with an insulating blanket.

• Use only full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine.

• Turn off the dishwasher's heated-dry setting.

• When you can, hang your clothes outside to dry.

• Instead of using the stove or oven to heat food, use the microwave, especially during the summer.

• Try to use any appliances during off-peak hours if your energy company charges more for electricity during "peak times."

Get Aid to Reduce Your Home's Energy Costs

Your home's plumbing, heating, and cooling systems involve many cost-cutting strategies. If you need help putting these tips into action, contact the HVAC Installation and Repair Guide Experts. We also provide maintenance and repair assistance and cost-effective installation and replacement services. Additionally, you may afford even expensive upgrades thanks to the financing options offered. For more information about our services or to get a quote, please call your local HVAC Installation and Repair Guide Experts office right away.