As we approach Earth Day, it’s a great opportunity to start planning how you can make your homes greener and more efficient. You’ll be impressed by the variety, and having so many possible 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. Request a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an 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 note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and review things with you before suggesting improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how these improvements can provide lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Proper insulation is a crucial, and maybe underrated option for total comfort while at the same time optimizing energy use. Insulation acts as a barrier, working to stop heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, most homes would still benefit from adding more insulation. Adding more insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can greatly boost energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a major source of energy waste that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To recoup these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
As another benefit, insulating the ductwork around unfinished spaces such as attics or crawl spaces helps prevent 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. Consider the Benefits of a Programmable/Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to customize their heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines and preferences. By learning how to maintain these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats improve energy costs and minimize waste. Smart thermostats also provide benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
And speaking of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is perhaps the most effective decision you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should arrange for routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can perform inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to ensure their HVAC systems run smoothly.
By addressing repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,we can 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 provide homeowners more precise control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning allows 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 workload on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners looking for major improvements, 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 offer superior performance while requiring less energy.
H & H Service Company Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Ready to transform your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact H & H Service Company at 717-220-4502 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 cleaner 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.
