7 Ideas for a Greener and More Energy-Efficient House 

Making homes more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient is a terrific idea, especially in light of the recent Earth Day celebration and the widespread spring cleaning trend. With just a few easy, low-cost adjustments, homeowners may be able to reduce their monthly energy costs by 20% or more. Here, the experts in home efficiency offer advice on how to begin saving right now.

1. Set up an intelligent thermostat 

A smart thermostat is an excellent way to lower carbon emissions in a house and save energy bills by 12% to 23%. How do they accomplish that? Smart thermostats do more than remember when switching the system on or off is best. Certain clever smart thermostats may identify alterations in household activities and consumption trends. Additionally, they can be remotely controlled to notify homeowners of changes affecting their energy costs. 

2. Get a tune-up for your heating and cooling system. 

Another environmentally responsible step is to schedule an air conditioning system tune-up before the summer heat arrives. A system that operates at peak efficiency reduces dependency on fossil fuel energy sources, and it will assist homeowners in avoiding significant repairs at the busiest time of year for HVAC professionals. 

During a tune-up, the device's operating system is tested and adjusted, and all of the major components are cleaned. The external condenser has to be cleaned and inspected, in addition to the refrigerant levels and air filters being changed. 

"Now is a great time to take advantage of an HVAC professional's expertise during your tune-up," stated Lisa Lange. We welcome inquiries from clients regarding thermostat settings, air filter replacement schedules, and any other concerns they may have regarding the energy efficiency of their residences.

3. Increase the Insulation 

Adding insulation to a home is one green suggestion that could help save up to 20% on energy bills. Air leaks through basements, crawl spaces, and attics in many houses. Inspecting the attic insulation may be necessary if a room is draughty and has problems maintaining a constant temperature. Cold floors may also indicate an inadequate amount of insulation in the basement. In addition, these worries raise energy usage, which raises carbon emissions. 

Lange says, "Many homeowners are surprised to learn that their home is under-insulated, but it's quite common." You may soon realize the utility cost reductions from this option, much like with a smart thermostat. You will also find solace in the knowledge that lowering your emissions contributes to enhancing our environment. 

4. Verify if the home is airtight. 

The home's windows, ducting, light sockets, and weather stripping around doors are vulnerable to leaks, heat gain, or loss (no one wants hot air to sneak in during the summer). Let Earth Day serve as a gentle reminder to make minor repairs in these areas of the house to make them greener. According to Lange, replacing outdated weather stripping and caulking around windows are two low-cost, reasonably simple projects that will ease the strain on HVAC systems and the electrical grid.

5. Examine a Zoning System for Energy 

A licensed HVAC specialist creates a home's comfort zoning system by determining the zones according to each location's layout, solar exposure, and energy consumption. The HVAC specialist may then create a system that balances energy economy and comfort by evenly distributing air throughout the house. These systems may require ducting modifications as well as numerous thermostats. They can significantly lower a home's greenhouse gas emissions, saving consumers over 30% on their energy bills, and significantly increase comfort when used with a smart thermostat. 

"How often do we heat or cool an empty room during the day? According to Lange, these systems are the best option since they prevent significant energy waste, which occurs frequently.

6. Invest in energy-saving light bulbs 

Should a homeowner's budget not permit significant renovations, switching to energy-efficient LED light bulbs from conventional incandescent ones is an inexpensive, environmentally responsible choice that can significantly influence the environment. Most LED lights have a seven-year lifespan and consume 90% less energy than conventional bulbs.

7. Utilise Solar 

There may never be a better moment to install solar on a home, with federal tax credits of up to 30% available to reduce the cost of a system. These high-quality energy-producing systems can significantly lower a homeowner's overall carbon footprint and save an average of roughly $60,000 throughout their lifetime. 

"Our program is the greatest in the nation. Our professionals will create an energy-saving strategy to maximize the performance of your system and demonstrate that you are directly improving the environment, according to Lange. 

For additional information on increasing a home's energy efficiency, contact HVAC Repair Guide now.