As we approach Earth Day, it's a great opportunity to start planning how you can make your homes greener and more efficient. There are lots of great options, and having so many possible solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to cost savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
An easy way to start planning your eco-friendly HVAC system is to request a professional home energy audit. As part of the audit, local HVAC experts evaluate your home's energy usage and look for any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before suggesting improvements. This detailed evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can bring lasting benefits.
2. Update Your Home's Insulation
Adequate insulation is a vital, and maybe underrated option for total comfort while simultaneously optimizing energy use. Insulation strengthens your home’s temperature barrier, working to stop heat loss in the winter and retaining cool air indoors during the summer.
However, 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 dramatically boost energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Damage to the home’s ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy loss that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and avoid future wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any damage as securely as possible.
Additionally, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces minimizes 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.
4. Investing in a Smart Thermostat
Choosing 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 learning how to maintain these temperature settings in response to your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and stop waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or sending helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine 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 conduct inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems run smoothly.
By tackling repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,your technician will help protect your HVAC system and may even increase its life span.
6. Use Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Better Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners more room-room-room control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning separates 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 reducing the strain on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners ready to take the next step, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is an excellent option. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to offer superior performance while requiring less energy.
B & B Heating & Cooling is Here to Make Your Home More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact B & B Heating & Cooling at 314-325-7552 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can not only reduce 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.