As we approach Earth Day, it's the right time of year to start thinking about how you can make your homes greener and more efficient. There are lots of great options, and having so many potential 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
An easy way to start planning your eco-friendly HVAC system is to schedule a professional home energy audit. During the audit, local HVAC experts evaluate your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and review things with you before offering opinionso on the best improvements. This detailed evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can provide lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Proper insulation is a crucial, if surprisingly underrated option for total comfort while also fine-tuning your home’s average energy use. Insulation acts as a barrier, preventing heat loss in the winter and keeping cool air indoors during the summer.
Unfortunately, most homes would still benefit from adding more insulation. Installing new or supplemental 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 reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy loss that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, regardless of high-efficiency equipment. To recoup these losses and prevent any more wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect 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 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.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Investing in a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, enables homeowners to personalize their heating and cooling schedules in line with their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats improve energy costs and stop waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
In fact, 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 carry out inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems function seamlessly.
By addressing repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,we can help support 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 more precise control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning enables 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 with providing consistent temperatures in your home while reducing the workload on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners ready to take the next step, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is an excellent option. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to provide superior performance while consuming less energy.
Booneville Heating & Cooling Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Booneville Heating & Cooling at 662-269-8716 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.