10 Ways to Lower Energy Costs at Home

While energy prices continue to rise, you might be looking for suggestions on reducing your usage and saving money. Your home will become more energy efficient even if you make large investments like new windows or a high-efficiency HVAC system, but you can now reduce your energy costs with almost no upfront costs. How? Follow the links to continue reading.

1. check the HVAC air filter

Check the filter once a month and replace it as soon as it becomes dirty or three months after installation, whichever comes first. A new filter pays for itself by increasing the HVAC system's efficiency, ensuring enough airflow, and preventing it from being too hot. Your home should feel cozier and have better air quality after getting a new filter.

2. Adjust your thermostat to save money on energy

Maintain an indoor temperature of 70 degrees or less during the winter and 77 degrees or more during the summer. Then, dress seasonally suitable to ensure your comfort.

3. Add an electronic thermostat.

If you still have an old manual thermostat, consider upgrading to one that is programmed. The energy savings from using this type of thermostat allow it to pay for itself quickly. It allows you to arrange setback periods while you're away from home or asleep. Automated temperature recovery may save money without compromising comfort; for even more chances to save, seek a smart Wi-Fi thermostat that you can manage remotely.

4. Plan yearly HVAC maintenance.

Preventative maintenance yields a high return on investment. First off, it reduces your energy expenditures, which saves you money. After all, a tuned-up HVAC system runs more efficiently than one that hasn't. You also reduce the likelihood of equipment failures and the costs connected with them. In addition, your equipment will likely last a few more years if you take good care of it today.

5. Find and repair air leaks

Air leaks can occur wherever two building components are connected. Try to locate and remedy these leaks to maintain a comfortable home environment and reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems. Here are some suggestions:

• Replace the worn-out weather stripping if your windows and door seals are tighter than they should be.

• Repaint the caulking in the cracks around windows and doors to stop air leaks.

• Add expanding spray foam to the areas around ducting, electrical, plumbing, and other wall, ceiling, and floor penetrations.

• Close the fireplace damper if there isn't a fire.

6. Take full advantage of solar heat gain

The summer months should be spent preventing solar heat gain. A simple solution is to drape reflecting drapes over the windows in the afternoon. Additionally, if your budget permits, you can plant trees on your home's south and west sides. Deciduous trees allow the sun to freely heat your land in the winter while providing shade in the summer.

7. Reduce water use.

Use the following advice to conserve this precious resource and reduce your water usage:

• Instead of taking long baths, take quick showers.

• Aerate the faucets and install low-flow showerheads.

• While shaving and brushing your teeth, turn off the water.

• As soon as possible, fix running toilets, dripping faucets, and burst pipes.

8. Turn Off Electronic Devices

Connect power strips to computers, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and other electronics. So, when not in use, you may easily turn them off by flipping a switch. When not in use, unplug chargers for your phone and other gadgets to prevent "phantom" energy consumption.

9. Change every lightbulb in your home.

Are there any incandescent lights left in your house? To cut your lighting costs by around 70%, swap them out with LEDs. Bulb replacement costs decrease since LEDs are roughly 25 times more durable than incandescent lights.

10. Treat appliances with care.

The energy hogs in the house are the appliances. Utilize one of these tips to reduce expenses:

• When operating the heater or air conditioner, close the doors and windows.

• The water heater should be turned down to 120 degrees before being wrapped in an insulating blanket.

• Washing machines and dishwashers should only be used for full loads.

• Disable the heated-dry function on the dishwasher.

• Hang your items to dry outside if you can.

• When heating food, especially in the summer, use the microwave rather than the stove or oven.

• If your energy provider increases electricity prices during "peak times," try to utilize any equipment during off-peak hours.

Reduce Your Home's Energy Costs with Help

Many cost-saving techniques are used in your home's plumbing, heating, and cooling systems. Contact the HVAC Repair Guide Experts if you require assistance implementing these suggestions. We also offer affordable installation and replacement services and assistance with maintenance and repairs. Due to the available financing alternatives, you may also be able to finance pricey upgrades. Call your neighborhood HVAC Repair Guide Experts' office as soon as possible for more information about our services or to request an estimate.