Summer in Edgewater means high temperatures and high energy bills. Homeowners are always looking for ways to stay comfortable without spending a fortune. There are many ways to improve your home's energy efficiency and save money.
Smart Ways to Lower Your Home Energy Bill
Your HVAC system offers the most significant potential for savings, as heating and cooling your home typically account for more than 40% of total residential energy consumption.
Upgrading to a more energy-efficient system or making simple adjustments like regular maintenance and thermostat optimization can significantly reduce energy bills and carbon footprint.
1. Buy a Smart Thermostat
One of the most effective ways to improve home energy efficiency is to install a smart thermostat. These devices are relatively affordable and may even qualify for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit program.
Smart thermostats automatically adjust heating and cooling settings based on your preferences and habits. While performance varies, smart thermostats save homeowners about 8% on yearly heating and cooling costs.
2. Maintain Your HVAC System
Keep your home comfortable and healthy by maintaining your HVAC system.
- Remember to change the air filter every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and filter type.
- Additionally, schedule annual tune-ups with a qualified technician to ensure your system runs efficiently and effectively.
Regular maintenance can improve your home's energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and maintain indoor air quality.
3. Use Natural Lighting and Your Blinds
Harness the power of nature to enhance your home's climate control and reduce reliance on your HVAC system.
- During winter, open your curtains and blinds to invite the sun's warmth into your living spaces. This provides a natural and cost-effective, passive heat source.
- Keep your curtains and blinds closed in the summer to block out the sun's rays and maintain a cooler indoor environment.
- During milder weather, open windows to allow cool breezes to circulate and refresh your home. When temperatures drop for the season, close windows tightly to prevent heat loss and keep your home cozy.
Read more: How to Improve Indoor Air Quality on a Budget
Invest in a More Energy-Efficient Home
When it’s time to replace HVAC equipment or appliances, prioritize energy efficiency by considering these major upgrades. Your Advanced Air Home Services technician can help you make energy-efficient home improvements more affordable by identifying the best options to save money and claim relevant rebates or tax credits.
Upgrade to a Heat Pump
Heat pumps are a popular choice for Edgewater homeowners looking to lower their energy costs. By switching to a heat pump, homeowners can save an average of $370 annually. These savings can be significantly higher when replacing outdated and inefficient systems.
Don’t Overlook Insulation
Home insulation degrades over time and becomes less effective. If you have an older home and it's been a while since you've checked your insulation, having it inspected by a trusted contractor is a good idea. They can assess whether you'd benefit from adding or replacing insulation in areas like your attic, basement, crawl spaces, or even the main level of your home. This will reduce energy waste and save you money.
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The average US home's energy use has been steadily rising due to factors like larger house sizes and increased reliance on electronic devices and appliances. While the typical home uses around 899 kilowatt-hours (kWh) monthly, this can fluctuate significantly depending on climate, house size, and HVAC settings. Annually, this translates to approximately 10,500 kWh, but this figure can vary widely based on individual household characteristics and behaviors.
Improving Home Energy Efficiency in Daytona Beach, St. Augustine, and Beyond
Improve your home’s energy efficiency and avoid unexpected HVAC problems with the help of Advanced Air Home Services, your trusted Edgewater and Daytona Beach area home energy efficiency experts. Contact us today to address your home’s energy efficiency needs!
Contact us online or call 386-260-2330 to schedule an appointment!