As Earth Day comes up, it's the right time of year to start thinking about how you can make your homes more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. You’ll be impressed by the variety, and having so many possible solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Adopting greener HVAC solutions not only benefits the environment but also contributes to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Schedule a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to request a professional home energy audit. As part of the audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and identify any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and go over things with you before recommending improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you learn just where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can bring lasting benefits.
Adding More Insulation Can Boost Home Energy Efficiency
Adequate insulation is an essential, if surprisingly underrated option for a complete sense of comfort while simultaneously optimizing energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, helping to prevent heat loss in the winter and retaining cool air indoors during the summer.
Unfortunately, most homes don’t have enough insulation. Incorporating additional insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can significantly improve energy efficiency for lower 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 mitigate these losses and prevent any more wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician check ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps or cracks 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.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Choosing a programmable thermostat, and especially a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to personalize their heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings in response to your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
On the topic of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for optimal 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 run smoothly.
By addressing repair issues right away and keeping internal clean,we can help safeguard your HVAC system and may even prolong its life span.
6. Use Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Better Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners more precise control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning separates 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 keep consistent temperatures in your home while reducing the actual wear and tear on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners eager to upgrade, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems employ variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while using less energy.
Myers Furnace Company Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Looking to turn your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Myers Furnace Company at 816-249-1619 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.