A new year is a chance for a fresh start, and a time to implement positive changes to improve your health, well-being, financial status, and enhance your lifestyle. This year make a new year’s resolution to decrease energy usage around your home. In addition to the money you can save you’ll lower your environmental footprint, making this resolution one that is good for the entire planet. Here are some great tips to get you started.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
One of the easiest ways to cut down on the cost of heating and cooling your home is with the installation of a programmable or smart thermostat. Select the type that best suits your family’s schedule:
- 7-day – Best for families who operate on a different schedule each day of the week.
- 5-1-1 day – Choose this type if you have a set schedule Monday to Friday, and varying schedules throughout the weekend.
- 5-2 day – Ideal for those who have one schedule during the week and another on the weekend.
Once installed, set the thermostat to raise and the lower the temperature according to the times you are home and awake, asleep, or away. A smart thermostat is a Wi-Fi enabled device that allows you to adjust the temperature of your home from anywhere you have an internet connection, and some models can even learn your behavior patterns for even greater efficiency.
Upgrade Your HVAC Equipment
HVAC equipment which is greater than 10 years of age, is incorrectly sized, or has been inadequately maintained is likely to use more energy than a new, energy efficient unit. When it comes time to upgrade your heating and cooling equipment, choose ENERGY STAR® certified products which have been proven to use less energy than standard models.
Schedule Routine Annual Maintenance
HVAC equipment which is dirty or neglected can cause unnecessary wear and tear on system components, and require more frequent, costly repairs. Schedule annual maintenance each spring and fall, where a skilled technician will inspect, clean, and tune your equipment and make note of any minor repairs. In addition to prolonging the lifespan of the unit, this vital service helps to keep your furnace or air conditioner operating at peak performance.
Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks around doors, windows, wall outlets, and more allow conditioned air to escape and outside air to enter your home. Test for leaks on a windy day by holding up a piece of tissue paper around vulnerable areas and watching for movement. Seal leaks using caulking or weatherstripping as needed.
Inspect Your Ductwork
A typical home loses between 20 and 30 percent of their conditioned air through leaky ductwork. Inspect visible ductwork and seal damaged areas using high quality duct mastic or foil backed tape.
Add More Insulation
Attic insulation prevents heat transfer between the attic and your living space. An R value between R-30 and R-60 is recommended for the southwest Georgia area.
Choose Harrell King for Professional HVAC Services in Bainbridge and Thomasville, GA
Keep your new year’s resolutions this year, by making a few simple changes around your home to increase your energy savings. Call the experts at Harrell King Heating & Air at 229-243-8040 for professional services including HVAC maintenance, replacement, or repair. Contact us online to schedule an appointment today.
