As we approach Earth Day, it's the perfect time to start planning how you can make your homes greener and more efficient. There are more options than ever, and having so many potential solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to bigger savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Request a home energy audit
An easy way to start planning your eco-friendly HVAC system is to request a professional home energy audit. Over the course of an audit, local HVAC experts evaluate your home's energy usage and identify any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and review things with you before offering opinionso on the best improvements. This specialized evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how our proposed improvements can offer lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Having enough insulation is an essential, and maybe underrated option for a complete sense of comfort while also addressing things causing excessive energy use. Insulation acts as a barrier, working to stop heat loss in the winter and retaining cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, most homes could use more 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 lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is an often overlooked source of energy waste that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, regardless of high-efficiency equipment. To mitigate these losses and avoid future wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician check ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
Additionally, insulating the ductwork around unfinished spaces such as attics or crawl spaces reduces 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
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, enables homeowners to customize their heating and cooling schedules in line with their daily routines and preferences. By learning how to maintain these temperature settings in response to your usage habits, these thermostats also optimize energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or delivering helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
On the topic of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for peak system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should arrange for routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can carry out inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to ensure their HVAC systems run smoothly.
By dealing with repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,your technician will help support your HVAC system and may even prolong its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings offer homeowners more precise 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. And to support the zoning system’s airflow, even adjusting fan settings can help keep consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the strain on the HVAC system.
7. Think About Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners eager to upgrade, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is always a great choice. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to offer superior performance while requiring less energy.
Home Comfort Heating & Air Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Home Comfort Heating & Air at 763-276-0617 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can reduce not only your environmental impact but also enjoy a more comfortable 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.
