As we get closer to Earth Day, it's a great opportunity to start planning how you can make your homes how you can work towards a more sustainable home. There are more options than ever, and having so many available solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to cost savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. During the audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and identify any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before suggesting improvements. This specialized evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how our proposed improvements can bring lasting benefits.
Adding More Insulation Can Boost Home Energy Efficiency
Having enough insulation is an essential, if surprisingly underrated option for a complete sense of comfort while at the same time optimizing energy use. Insulation strengthens your home’s temperature barrier, preventing heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
However, most homes could use more insulation. Adding more insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials such as fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can dramatically boost energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Seal and Insulate Your Ductwork to Prevent Energy Loss
Leaky ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy loss that lower HVAC system efficiency, even with high-efficiency equipment. To recoup these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician examine ductwork for leaks and seal any damage as securely as possible.
If that wasn’t good enough, 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.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and especially a smart thermostat, enables homeowners to tailor their heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats improve energy costs and minimize waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
And speaking of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for ideal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should schedule routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can carry out inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems operate efficiently.
By dealing with repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean, you can help support 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 greater control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning separates different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, maximizing 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 minimizing the strain on the HVAC system.
7. Think About Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners ready to take the next step, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is an excellent option. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while consuming less energy.
LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. at 570-648-0748 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.