As we get closer to Earth Day, it's the perfect time to start thinking about 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 bigger 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. During the audit, local HVAC experts evaluate your home's energy usage and look for any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before recommending improvements. This detailed evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how these improvements can offer lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Having enough insulation is a crucial, and maybe underrated option for full-spectrum comfort while also fine-tuning your home’s average energy use. Insulation acts as a barrier, helping to prevent heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
Unfortunately, most homes would still benefit from adding 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
A leak in your home’s ductwork is a major source of energy loss that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To recoup these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
If that wasn’t good enough, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces reduces 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. Investing in a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to customize their heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines and preferences. By gradually optimizing these temperature settings based on your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and minimize waste. Smart thermostats can also offer benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
And speaking of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is perhaps the most effective decision you can make for peak system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should plan routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can conduct inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to ensure their HVAC systems operate efficiently.
By addressing repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean, you can help protect 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 provide homeowners greater control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning allows different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, improving 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 lessening the workload on the HVAC system.
7. Think About Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners looking for major improvements, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems utilize variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while requiring less energy.
Total Assurance AC & Heating is Here to Make Your Home More Sustainable
Ready to transform your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Total Assurance AC & Heating at 361-217-7080 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 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.
