If you are like many homeowners, you are wasting energy without even realizing it. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to make your home more energy-efficient. Here are five tips to conserve energy this fall.
Seal Leaks
Your home likely has air leaks that allow conditioned air to escape, unnecessarily increasing your energy costs. Although this tip is most effective during the summer, it can help save energy in the fall, too. The Department of Energy recommends several steps to seal leaks, including adding weatherstripping around windows and doors, and caulking air leaks where wires and plumbing come through ceilings, floors, and walls. Be sure to check your dryer vent, too.
Try Tech-Free Tuesdays
If possible, encourage your family to shut down devices and try activities that do not involve electricity. Turn off the TV and play a board game, or tell stories by candlelight. Pop up a tent in the backyard and go camping without leaving home. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables that do not require any cooking. By limiting use of technology, and electricity, every Tuesday for a month, or a season, the savings can really add up.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
When used properly, a programmable thermostat can help you save a significant amount of money on your heating and cooling costs without sacrificing your comfort. A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust your HVAC system based on a schedule. Having your thermostat automatically bump up a few degrees when you leave the home, or while you sleep, ensures you do not forget to adjust it, which ultimately saves energy and money.
Keep Your HVAC Clean and Maintained
Proper HVAC maintenance extends the lifespan of your heating and cooling system and reduces energy costs. According to an HVAC energy efficiency maintenance study conducted by CALMAC, most residential HVAC systems are not at optimal efficiency due to dirty, unmaintained condenser and evaporator coils. An unmaintained HVAC system or heat pump can use at least 20 percent more energy than a properly maintained system.
Take Advantage of the Cooler Weather
Although Florida stays warm all year, temperatures can dip in the fall and winter months. On a pleasant day, there is no need to run the air conditioning at full capacity. Set the temperature a few degrees higher, or try turning it off completely and opening a window to let in some fresh air. Better yet, spend a day outside and avoid the need to use energy in the home entirely.
Contact Air Tech of Central Florida for Your Fall HVAC Check-Up
One of the most cost-effective things you can do to extend the life of your HVAC system and reduce your energy costs during the fall is scheduling regular maintenance. Air Tech of Central Florida will ensure your HVAC system is at peak performance by checking and cleaning the components of your system and performing any necessary repairs before they become bigger problems. Contact Us today for your annual fall tune-up.
Author Bio:
Luigi Ferraro
Specializing in residential and commercial HVAC services, Air Tech offers a wide range of solutions to meet the heating and cooling needs of their customers. Their team of skilled technicians is trained to handle the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems with expertise and precision.
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