If there’s anything that we can agree on when it comes to what all homeowners want, it’s to spend as little money as possible on their household needs, right? Especially when it comes to utilities. If there’s any way to reduce those bills, we’re always looking for them!
Homeowners may not realize though, that there’s a lot they could be doing to increase their energy efficiency and reduce their utility bills, without sacrificing comfort. Read on to learn more!
HVAC Efficiency
This is where we’re going to start, because this is what it all comes back to. Your HVAC systems actually account for about half of all your home’s energy use, so making sure these systems are in good shape and that you’re using them correctly is vital if you want to save money. So, how can you do that?
Schedule Maintenance
Preventive maintenance allows our professionals to comprehensively inspect, clean, and adjust the components that need it inside your air conditioner. This reduces repair needs by up to 85%, protects the systems’ 10-15 year lifespan, and helps the equipment retain up to 95% of its original efficiency rating.
Set the Thermostat to a Reasonable Temperature
Most people are comfortable at 78°F. Setting it lower than this during a hot day doesn’t help your home cool down faster, it just keeps your air conditioner running longer and probably gets your home colder than you even really wanted it to begin with.
Use Ceiling Fans and Close Blinds/Shades During the Hottest Part of the Day
This helps to better distribute the cooled air so that you don’t have to set your thermostat as low. Therefore, you’re using your air conditioner more efficiently by default, and your ceiling fans don’t use nearly the energy that your AC motors and compressor do.
Windows and Doors
Did you know that Sunset Air installs and services windows and doors? Did you also know that your windows and doors could absolutely contribute to poor energy efficiency and poor indoor air quality?
The thing is, old windows or doors let drafts in and out. They don’t provide adequate insulation against heat transfer, and therefore during the summer heat can get in, and during the winter the heat from your furnace can escape out.
You should look into replacing your windows and doors every decade or so, sometimes even sooner depending on the type of materials used and any storm or weather damage. Reach out to our team for specific guidance for your home!
Upgrade Your Electrical Panel
More and more homeowners are electrifying their homes–that is, adding more electrical components to their home such as entertainment centers, computers, gaming consoles, and even electric vehicles.
Your current electrical panel might not be able to handle this demand, and it might be time to upgrade your electrical panel. This will help you use that energy more efficiently, and will ultimately help you save money.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team with any questions you might have.
For quality HVAC services, window and door installations, and more, contact Sunset Air today!
