As we get closer to Earth Day, it's the right time of year 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 potential 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. Request a home energy audit
An easy way to start planning your eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. As part of the audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before offering opinionso on the best improvements. This detailed evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how our proposed improvements can offer lasting benefits.
Adding More Insulation Can Boost Home Energy Efficiency
Having enough insulation is a vital, and maybe underrated option for total comfort while also optimizing energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, working to stop heat loss in the winter and retaining cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, 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 such as fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can dramatically improve energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a major source of energy waste that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To mitigate these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps or cracks as securely as possible.
As another benefit, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces minimizes 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 especially a smart thermostat, enables homeowners to customize their heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings in response to your usage habits, these thermostats also optimize energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats also provide 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 optimal 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 tackling repair issues right away and keeping internal clean,your technician will help support your HVAC system and may even prolong its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings offer homeowners more precise control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning creates different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, improving comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help maintain consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the strain 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 an excellent option. The newest HVAC systems employ variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to offer superior performance while consuming less energy.
Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Ready to transform your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling at 208-561-1226 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 cleaner 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.
