As we get closer to Earth Day, it's the perfect time to start planning how you can make your homes greener and more efficient. There are more options than ever, and having so many potential solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to bigger savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. Over the course of an audit, local HVAC experts assess your home's energy usage and look for any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and review things with you before recommending improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how our proposed improvements can provide lasting benefits.
Adding More Insulation Can Boost Home Energy Efficiency
Having enough insulation is a vital, and maybe underrated option for total comfort while simultaneously optimizing energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, working to stop heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, most homes don’t have enough insulation. Adding more insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can significantly improve energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Seal and Insulate Your Ductwork to Prevent Energy Loss
Damage to the home’s ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy waste that lower HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and avoid future wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any damage as securely as possible.
As another benefit, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces helps prevent heat transfer into them. Sealing off these inefficient parts of your home is a great example of how a little effort can go a long way.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and especially a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to customize their heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines and preferences. By learning how to maintain these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats improve energy costs and stop waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or sending helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
On the topic of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is perhaps the most effective decision you can make for peak system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should schedule routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can conduct inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems function seamlessly.
By addressing repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean, you can help protect your HVAC system and may even prolong its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings offer homeowners more room-room-room control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning creates different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, maximizing comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help maintain consistent temperatures in your home while reducing the actual wear and tear on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners eager to upgrade, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is always a great choice. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while consuming less energy.
Superior Comfort Systems Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Superior Comfort Systems at 828-202-7025 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can reduce not only your environmental impact but also enjoy a comfortable and more efficient home. We’re proud to make the most of this year’s Earth Day creating a greener future, one household at a time.
