Home energy efficiency is always a hot topic in Elizabethtown, especially during a scorching summer. As homeowners strive to balance staying comfortable with saving money, now is an ideal time to explore ways to make your home more energy efficient without emptying your wallet. We’ve compiled a few home energy efficiency tips to help address energy waste and lower your monthly expenses.
3 Proven Ways to Lower Your Home Energy Bill
Your HVAC system presents the most significant opportunity to reduce your energy costs. This is because heating and cooling your home typically accounts for more than 40% of total residential energy consumption. By optimizing your HVAC system's efficiency and implementing smart strategies, you can significantly lower your energy bills and create a more comfortable living environment.
1. Get a Smart Thermostat
One of the most effective ways to improve home energy efficiency is to buy 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
HVAC maintenance is critical to maintaining home energy efficiency. Annual tune-ups are essential, and the air filter should be changed every 1 to 3 months to keep the system running smoothly. This will also improve your home’s indoor air quality!
3. Use Natural Heating and Cooling
You can help your HVAC system by using natural light and airflow to regulate the temperature inside your home. Open your curtains in the winter to let the sun warm your home, and close them in the summer to block the sun's heat. Additionally, open windows to let in cool air during warmer months and close them to keep warm air inside when it's cold outside.
Read More: Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Enhance Your Home's Energy Efficiency
Upgrade your HVAC equipment and appliances with energy-efficient options to save money. Rely on our technicians to help you find the most affordable upgrades and identify relevant rebates or tax credits.
Consider a Heat Pump
Many Elizabethtown homes choose heat pumps as a cost-effective way to substantially reduce energy use at home. On average, homeowners who switch to a heat pump save $370 per year, although your savings could be much higher if you’re replacing old, inefficient equipment.
Replace Old Insulation
Home insulation degrades over time and becomes less effective. If you have an older home and haven't inspected your insulation in the past 10 to 15 years, it's probably time to have a contractor assess the condition of your current insulation and recommend updates. Adding insulation in areas like the attic, basement, and crawl spaces will also help reduce energy waste and lower your utility bills.
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The average US home's energy use has steadily risen due to factors like larger houses and increased electricity consumption. While this average is around 899 kilowatt-hours (kWh) monthly and 10,500 kWh annually, a specific home's usage can vary significantly depending on climate, house size, and HVAC settings.
Contact Elizabethtown’s Energy Efficiency Experts
Allen's Air Conditioning—Heating & Duct Cleaning can help you save money on energy bills and stay comfortable all year! Our expert technicians provide cost-effective energy efficiency solutions for area homes and businesses. We're proud to serve Fort Knox, Columbia, and greater Elizabethtown.
Contact us onlineor call 270-946-1525 to schedule an appointment!