Ways to Save on Electric and Gas Bills
October is here, but just because it’s the season of all things scary, that doesn’t mean you have to be afraid of your utility bills. Xenia Heating and Air has several tips and tricks to share with you that will not only help you save money but will also assist you in conserving the planet’s natural resources in order to save energy as well. More and more people these days are becoming environmentally conscious as they realize that not only is it good for Mother Earth, it’s good for the wallet as well.
Here are some of the best ways to cut down on energy use and save money, courtesy of your friends at Xenia Heating and Air:
Take Advantage of the Energy Star Difference
In the early 1990s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) partnered with the US government to comprise a list of instructions for creating an energy-efficient home with appliances and products that are good for the environment. These items include central air conditioning units, furnaces, smart thermostats, et. A home’s HVAC system is responsible for approximately half of its total energy usage. By utilizing Energy Star designated products, it is possible to make an impressive dent in both energy waste and high utility bills.
Have Your HVAC System Inspected and Cleaned
Once a year, preferably just prior to turning on your system for the season, schedule a professional inspection of your entire HVAC system. A fully trained technician will go over every component, checking for any existing damage and any signs of issues that could create problems later on. You can also have your system professionally cleaned at this time so that it is ready to provide you with A1 service all year long.
Pay Attention to Details
Mark your calendar for the entire season so that you will remember to change your HVAC’s filter on a regular basis. Many a technician has reported making a repair visit only to discover that had the air filter been changed properly, there would have been no need of his services. If a filter is neglected and becomes completely clogged with
debris, this can cause damage to your entire HVAC system – and to your wallet when repairs or replacements are necessary.
Keep Vents and Ducts Clear
If your home’s airways are blocked by furniture, appliances, curtains, etc., then airflow will be hampered and your system will work even harder to circulate air. Along with increased energy bills caused by the added work this can also cause the system’s motor to overheat and break down, leading to costly repairs that could possibly mean having to purchase a whole new HVAC system.
Keep Out The Elements
Windows are huge culprits when it comes to allowing drafts to find their way inside your home and run up your utility bills. Use weatherproofing kits, available at hardware stores and most department stores, to seal windows and unused doors to keep the cold air out and the warm air in. Heavy, lined drapes are also helpful in keeping out the elements, not just in the wintertime but in the summer as well. They can be closed against the sun on hot days, insulating your home and keeping it cool so that your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.
Save Smarter With Smart Tools
Wouldn’t it be great to have your thermostat do the work for you, adjusting the temperature in your home whenever necessary all on its own? Installing a programmable thermostat will do just that. Day or night, even when you aren’t home, this brilliant little device will save you money and conserve energy without being told to. Programmable thermostats can cut energy costs by $100 a year. Imagine saving money while you sleep!
Along with these HVAC-related tips for cutting your home’s energy bills, here are some more ideas that will put money in your pocket and cut down on energy waste:
– Choose light-emitting diode, or LED, light bulbs and do away with the outdated incandescent kind. LED bulbs use less energy than the older bulbs (up to 25% less), and they have a lifespan that is an impressive 12 times that
of incandescent bulbs, so you won’t be spending money on replacement light bulbs all the time.
– Use motion detectors and automatic timers in your home to turn off lights whenever they are not being used. Use a power strip to plug in TVs, video game consoles, etc., so they can be turned off quickly and easily with a single switch.
– Set the temperature on your hot water heater no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
As we head into the cooler months, let the fully-trained, friendly experts and staff at Xenia Heating and Air help with all your HVAC needs. Call us today at 937-708-8451 or visit us on the web at xeniaheatingandair.com.