Summer is here and now is the perfect time to start thinking about ways to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency. With the hot temperatures looming, you’ll want to make sure your home is running as efficiently as possible. This will save you money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Let’s explore some easy and affordable ways to make your home more energy-efficient this summer.
Upgrade to LED light bulbs
One of the easiest ways to make your home more energy-efficient is by replacing your incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. This saves you money on your energy bills and reduces waste. Plus, LED bulbs emit less heat, which can help keep your home cooler in the summer months.
Install a programmable thermostat
Another easy and affordable way to increase your home’s energy efficiency is by installing a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. This means you can adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule. That helps you save money on your energy bills by only cooling your home when you’re there to enjoy it.
Use ceiling fans to keep cool
Ceiling fans are an excellent way to keep your home cool during the hot summer months without relying on your air conditioner. By circulating the air in your home, ceiling fans can help you feel up to 4 degrees cooler. Plus, ceiling fans use much less energy than air conditioners so you can save money on your energy bills.
Seal air leaks
Air leaks around your windows and doors can allow cool air to escape from your home. This forces your air conditioner to work harder to keep your home cool. By sealing these leaks with weatherstripping or caulk, you can prevent cool air from escaping. This reduces the amount of work your air conditioner has to do to keep your home cool.
Install window treatments
Installing window treatments can help keep your home cool by blocking out the sun’s rays during the hottest part of the day. By keeping your home’s interior shaded, you can reduce the amount of heat that enters your home. This makes it easier to keep your home cool without relying on your air conditioner.
Upgrade to a more energy-efficient air conditioner
If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it may be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. Newer air conditioners are designed to use less energy while providing the same level of cooling as older models. This saves you money on your energy bills in the long run. Look for air conditioners with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating for the most energy-efficient cooling.
Schedule regular HVAC maintenance
Finally, regular HVAC maintenance can help ensure that your air conditioner is running as efficiently as possible. A professional HVAC technician can inspect your system for any issues that may be reducing its efficiency, such as dirty filters or clogged coils. By addressing these issues early on, you can prevent more significant problems down the road and keep your energy bills low.
Compliments of Virtual Results