As we get closer to 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 possible solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Investing in eco-friendly HVAC not only benefits the environment but also contributes to cost savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
An easy way to start planning your 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 look for any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and go over things with you before suggesting improvements. This detailed evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how our proposed improvements can provide lasting benefits.
2. Update Your Home's Insulation
Adequate insulation is an essential, if surprisingly underrated option for a complete sense of comfort while also optimizing energy use. Insulation strengthens your home’s temperature barrier, preventing heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
Unfortunately, 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. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Damage to the home’s ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy waste that lower HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and avoid future wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any damage as securely as possible.
Additionally, insulating the ductwork in 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, enables homeowners to tailor their heating and cooling schedules in line with their daily routines and preferences. By learning how to maintain these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats improve energy costs and stop waste. Smart thermostats also provide benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
In fact, regular HVAC maintenance is one of the most beneficial investments you can make for ideal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should schedule routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can perform inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to ensure their HVAC systems function seamlessly.
By dealing with repair issues more quickly and keeping internal clean,we can help support your HVAC system and may even extend its life span.
6. Use Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Better Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners greater control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning enables different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, optimizing comfort and energy usage. And to support the zoning system’s airflow, even adjusting fan settings can help with providing consistent temperatures in your home while minimizing the actual wear and tear 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 always a great choice. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to provide superior performance while requiring less energy.
LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Ready to transform 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 not only reduce 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.