10 Energy Saving Tips

Energy bills can add up quickly. This is especially true in the middle of the summer or winter months when your HVAC is running non-stop. While you need your AC and furnace running to maintain a comfortable internal temperature, there are ways to cut down on energy consumption and save money at the same time. In fact, here are 10 energy-saving tips to consider:

1. Invest In a Smart Thermostat.

This is a small upgrade but one that has the potential to pay you back instantly. Programmable thermostats allow you to adjust your home’s temperature so the AC isn’t running as hard while you’re out (same with the furnace). A smart thermostat takes this a step further. The smart thermostat can learn your tendencies. It can even detect if someone is in the house and adjust accordingly. You can even control your HVAC system with your mobile phone. Many smart thermostats come with energy usage information and give you tips on how to alter your heating and cooling to maximize monetary savings.

2. Swap Out Light Bulbs.

If you haven’t yet, now is the time to swap out your old bulbs for new LED lights. These often use only a tenth the energy as older bulbs do. So each bulb you swap out can save you several dollars every year. Multiply this by all the bulbs you switch and it can represent a savings of a few hundred dollars annually.

3. Set Your AC To 78.

78 is the optimal summer temperature for your house in order to keep it cool while also saving money. By changing the settings on your thermostat from 74 to 78 you’ll see a noticeable difference in your energy bill throughout the summer.

4. Use Smart Power Strips.

Even if you turn off your appliances and electronics when not in use, these devices still pull electricity. This is known as a phantom current. Basically your television, computer, cell phone charger, and just about any other electronic device pulls energy when not in use. This can really add up (gaming systems are even worse, as a PlayStation or Xbox will use a considerable amount of energy even when “off”). With a smart power strip, the device will completely shut off the power running from the outlet, preventing these devices from tapping into the energy.

5. Choose Energy Efficient Appliances.

If you’re in the market for new appliances, make sure to buy Energy Star efficient appliances. These can cut energy consumption by up to 40 percent.

6. Consider Home Insulation.

When going through energy saving tips you’ll find the biggest money saving suggestions come in the form of a home renovation. Give a contractor a call and see where new home insulation can make a difference.

7. Weatherize Your House.

Check around windows and doors, then fill in cracks. You should consider new weather stripping as well.

8. Upgrade your HVAC.

If you’re running old HVAC equipment, you’re paying way too much money to run the AC or furnace. Now is the time to give the team at Airco Service Inc. a call to see just how much money an HVAC upgrade can save you.

9. Energy Efficient Windows.

Glass is not energy efficient. However, energy efficient windows can help reduce heat loss during the winter and cool air loss during the summer.

10. Have a New Roof Installed.

This is likely the most expensive energy saving tip, but you lose more treated air through the roof than anywhere else in the house. A new roof can also improve property value.

By following these 10 energy saving tips, you’ll see a nice drop off in your utility bills. However, if you’re looking for ways to improve the efficiency of your home’s HVAC system, including a new AC, system maintenance, or other improvements, make sure to give the team at Airco Service Inc. a call. Whether you have questions or you’re ready to book a service, Airco Service is here to help.