As energy rates continue rising, you might be on the lookout for ways to reduce your usage and save money. While big-ticket investments like replacing the windows or installing high-performance HVAC systems certainly make your home more efficient, you can cut energy costs today with virtually no up-front investment. Here’s how you do that.
Check the filter once a month and change it when it appears dirty, or every three months, whichever comes first. The cost of a new filter pays for itself by encouraging efficiency, ensuring proper airflow, and preventing the HVAC equipment from overheating. Your home will also feel more comfortable and have cleaner indoor air with a clean filter in place.
Keep the temperature at 70 degrees or lower through the winter and increase it to 77 degrees or higher in the summer. Then, dress for the season to help you stay comfortable.
If you still have an old manual thermostat, upgrade to a programmable model. This kind of thermostat pays for itself quickly in energy savings by allowing you to program setback periods while you’re away or sleeping. Automatic temperature recovery means you save money without ever feeling uncomfortable. Look for a smart Wi-Fi thermostat you can adjust remotely for even greater opportunities to save.
Preventative maintenance offers a good return on investment. First, it pays you back by lowering your energy bills. After all, a tuned-up HVAC system works more efficiently than a neglected one. You also reduce the risk of equipment failures and the associated repair costs. Plus, your equipment is bound to live a few years longer when you take good care of it today.
Air leaks can develop wherever multiple building materials come together. Find and fix these leaks to keep your home comfortable and reduce the strain on your HVAC system. Here are some tips:
In the summer, your goal is to shut out solar heat gain. Shutting reflective curtains over the windows in the afternoon is an easy way to accomplish this. If your budget allows, you could also plant trees on the south and west sides of your home. By selecting deciduous trees, you can enjoy cooling shade in the summer while still allowing the sun to heat your home for free in the winter.
Conserve this limited resource and lower your water bills with these tips:
Plug computers, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles and other electronics into power strips. This way, you can turn them off with the flip of a switch when not in use. While you’re at it, unplug cell phone chargers and other adapters when you don’t need them to prevent small amounts of “phantom” energy usage.
Do you still have old incandescent bulbs throughout the house? Replace them with LEDs to save nearly 70 percent on your lighting bills. Bulb replacement costs also decrease because LEDs last about 25 times longer than incandescent lights.
Appliances are the energy hogs of the home. Save money with the following tips:
Many cost-cutting measures are directly related to your home heating, cooling and plumbing systems. If you need help implementing these tips, reach out to Calverley Service Experts. We offer affordable maintenance and repair service, along with cost-effective installation and replacement services. In addition, with financing options available, even big upgrades will suit your budget. For more details about our services or to request an estimate, please contact your local Calverley Service Experts office today.
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