As we approach Earth Day, it's the right time of year to start planning how you can make your homes more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. There are lots of great options, and having so many potential solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Investing in eco-friendly HVAC not only benefits the environment but also contributes to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
The best way to start your journey to an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. Over the course of an audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and go over things with you before recommending improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you learn just where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can offer lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Adequate insulation is a crucial, if surprisingly underrated option for total comfort while simultaneously fine-tuning your home’s average energy use. Insulation strengthens your home’s temperature barrier, working to stop heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
However, most homes would still benefit from adding 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 improve energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy waste that lower HVAC system efficiency, even with high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician examine ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
As another benefit, 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.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to tailor their heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines and preferences. By gradually optimizing these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats also provide benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or sending helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
In fact, regular HVAC maintenance is perhaps the most effective decision you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should schedule 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 more quickly and keeping internal clean,your technician will help safeguard your HVAC system and may even increase its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings give 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. And to support the zoning system’s airflow, even adjusting fan settings can help maintain consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the actual wear and tear 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 highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to provide superior performance while requiring less energy.
Age Heating & Cooling Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Age Heating & Cooling at 208-603-2210 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.
