Is your home energy efficient? Energy efficient homes can lower monthly utility bills, increase your home’s comfort, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming.
According to the EPA, the average household spends over $2,200 a year on energy bills. Nearly half of those costs are attributed to a home’s heating and cooling. Smart decisions about your home’s heating and air conditioning systems can help significantly reduce your home’s monthly energy usage. This can result in lowered utility costs, reduced greenhouse emissions, and improved overall comfort.
Regularly Change Your Air Filter
Air filters should be checked on a monthly basis to ensure the optimal performance of your home’s heating and cooling systems. If left unchanged, a dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder – resulting in higher energy costs. A dirty filter can also cause dust and dirt to build up in your home’s central air system, which can lead to expensive repairs or even system failure. At a minimum, the filter should be changed every three months.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats help reduce the amount of wasted energy used to heat or cool a home. Ideal for those who are away from home for a set amount of time, programmable thermostats allow for your home’s temperature to change throughout the day based on a pre-programmed schedule. Those who use programmable thermostats see an average savings of $180 a year in energy costs.
Yearly HVAC Maintenance
Similar to how regular oil changes help extend the life of your car’s engine, your home’s HVAC system also needs regular maintenance to ensure its efficiency.
Your home’s air conditioning should receive a tune-up at least twice a year – once in the spring and once in the fall. Even if your unit has never malfunctioned before, regular maintenance can prevent major repairs down the line. A licensed HVAC professional, such as Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning, can provide a check-up to your A/C system to evaluate and clean your system.
HVAC Replacement
The age of your HVAC equipment should be taken into consideration when evaluating your home’s energy efficiency. If your system is older than 10 years and has been recently experiencing severe issues, you may want to consider replacing it. Newer, more efficient units incorporate recent technologies and advancements in energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy costs. According to the EPA, systems that have qualified for the Energy Star program have saved households an average of $115 a year in energy costs.
Regardless of the issue a professional HVAC contractor, such as Avis Plumbing & Air Conditioning, should be consulted to help find the best solution for your home. A licensed A/C professional will be able to evaluate your home’s current system and provide information on the best methods to reduce your monthly energy costs.
Avis Plumbing and Air Conditioning Inc. provides round the clock service, including emergencies, 365 days a year. Located in Cape Coral, Florida, Avis services all of Southwest Florida, including Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples, and more. Give Avis a call at (239) 481-1511 or (239) 542-4421 to schedule your next service today!
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