Spring is a time of renewal, and as the weather warms up, it’s a great opportunity to refresh your home’s energy efficiency. One of the key areas to improve your home energy conservation is your HVAC system, as heating and cooling typically account for a significant portion of a home’s energy usage. Here are five tips to help you conserve energy and save money during the spring months:
1. Schedule HVAC Maintenance
Before the summer heat sets in, it’s a good idea to have your HVAC system serviced by a professional. This can help ensure that it’s running efficiently and can identify any potential issues that could lead to costly repairs down the line. These experts can assess your unit’s condition and give you a birds-eye view to know how their solutions can work for your unit.
2. Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is an effective home energy conservation upgrade – it allows you to set the temperature of your home based on your schedule. Doing so ensures you’re not wasting energy heating or cooling an empty house. Set it to reduce energy usage when you’re asleep or away from home, and program it to start cooling or heating your home before you return.
Here are some specific temperature settings in Fahrenheit that you can consider for your programmable thermostat:
- When You’re Away: Set the temperature to around 78°F in the summer and 68°F in the winter. This can help save energy while you’re not at home.
- When You’re Asleep: Lower the temperature by about 4-8°F from your usual setting. For most people, a comfortable sleeping temperature is between 60-67°F.
- Before You Return: Program the thermostat to start cooling or heating your home to your preferred temperature about 30 minutes before you return. This way, you’ll walk into a comfortable environment without wasting energy while you’re away.
3. Open Windows for Natural Ventilation
On mild spring days, take advantage of natural ventilation by opening windows and letting in fresh air. This can help reduce the need for air conditioning and improve indoor air quality. You can also install exhaust vents to improve airflow inside your home.
4. Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans can help circulate air and make a room feel cooler, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting without sacrificing comfort. Make sure your ceiling fan is set to spin counterclockwise in the spring and summer to create a breeze effect.
5. Seal Air Leaks
Inspect your home for air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. This can help prevent cool air from escaping in the summer and warm air from escaping in the winter, improving energy efficiency year-round.
Ready to improve your home energy conservation with a system that’s efficient and reliable? Count on A-1 Heat & Air Conditioning Inc. HVAC technicians. With decades of experience and knowledge, we provide the best solutions that will solve your unit problems in no time. Call us today at (407) 290-9517 or fill out this contact form to get an estimate.