No matter what time of year,
most people are constantly looking for ways they can save a few extra dollars
on their monthly utility bills. The good news is, saving energy, and
subsequently saving money, can be relatively easy, especially during the spring
when chilly winter temperatures are finally beginning to subside and you may
not have to rely on your air conditioner quite yet. Here are some of our
favorite tips for saving energy at home.
Consider Installing a Heat Pump
The type of climate control
system in your home plays a major role in your energy consumption. In general,
heat pumps are considered the most efficient units for climates like we have
here in Hampton Roads where the winters aren’t overly harsh and the summers
aren’t exactly sweltering either.
The U.S. Department of Energy
has estimated utilizing a heat pump during the winter versus an electric
furnace reduces energy usage by 50 percent while pumping three times more warm
air into your home.1 Heat pumps are also very versatile, as they pair
well with electric, oil or central propane-powered homes.
Heat pump water heaters are
also recommended for those looking to save energy. Energy Saver reports that a
heat pump water heater could reduce energy costs by about 50 percent,
especially in climates that stay in the 40- to 90-degree Fahrenheit range
year-round.2
Try DIY Humidity
Modern HVAC units do an
excellent job of maintaining your home’s humidity level at less than the EPA’s
recommended 50 percent relative humidity.3 This helps minimize issues
such as mold and mildew growth, respiratory problems, and dust mite
infestation. If you’re trying to cut energy costs, you may not want to run your heat pump or central air
unit when it’s not necessary. During drier-than-normal periods, you can keep
your air clean and comfortable by filling your bathtub with hot water and
letting the air permeate through your home.
Keep Your Outdoor Condenser Cabinets
Clear
If you have a central air
conditioner or heat pump with an outdoor condenser unit, it’s important you
keep the outdoor cabinet clear of debris, such as twigs, tree limbs, dirt,
rocks and leaves. It’s recommended you clear about two feet of space around the
unit. If your coils and fan are unobstructed, they perform with higher
efficiency. If the cabinet is blocked, it will have a more difficult time
drawing and releasing air during the cooling or heating process. Try using a
broom or other non-motorized item to get the job done so you can further save
water and energy.
Replace HVAC Filters
Furnace and air conditioning
filters not only maintain good indoor air quality, but they help your HVAC unit
run more efficiently as well. When your filters are clogged or dirty, your
system works much harder to heat or cool your home than it would were the
filter clean. Energy Star recommends
replacing your filter about once a
month during peak seasons – and every three months at minimum – to keep utility
bills low and your air quality as high as possible.
Repair Water Leaks
Undetected water leaks are some
of the biggest culprits for unusually large utility bills. Even a small drip at
the faucet or underneath the kitchen sink can easily add up to gallons over
time. Not to mention, leaks that go undetected for long periods of time can
lead to mold and mildew growth, which has a lot of serious health ramifications
in addition to the damage it causes to your home. Consider upgrading to EPA
approved WaterSense-labeled fixtures and toilets, which are known to be more
efficient. Be sure to repair even the smallest leak as soon as possible.
Professional Plumbing, Air Conditioning
and Heating Service in the Norfolk Area
