As we get closer to Earth Day, it's the perfect time to start thinking about how you can make your homes how you can work towards a more sustainable home. There are more options than ever, and having so many available solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Investing in eco-friendly HVAC not only benefits the environment but also contributes to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Request a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to request a professional home energy audit. During the audit, local HVAC experts examine your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before recommending improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can offer lasting benefits.
2. Update Your Home's Insulation
Having enough insulation is a crucial, and maybe underrated option for total comfort while at the same time addressing things causing excessive energy use. Insulation strengthens your home’s temperature barrier, preventing heat loss in the winter and retaining cool air indoors during the summer.
Unfortunately, most homes would still benefit from adding more insulation. Installing new or supplemental insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials such as fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can significantly enhance energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy loss that lower HVAC system efficiency, even with high-efficiency equipment. To recoup these losses and avoid future wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician examine ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
If that wasn’t good enough, 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 personalize their heating and cooling schedules in line with their daily routines and preferences. By gradually optimizing these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and minimize 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 one of the most beneficial investments you can make for ideal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should plan routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can conduct inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems function seamlessly.
By tackling repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,we can help protect your HVAC system and may even extend its life span.
6. Leverage Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Enhanced Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners greater control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning allows different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, improving comfort and energy usage. And to support the zoning system’s airflow, even adjusting fan settings can help maintain consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the actual wear and tear on the HVAC system.
7. Think About Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners eager to upgrade, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems employ variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to provide superior performance while requiring less energy.
Point Heating & Cooling Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Ready to transform your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Point Heating & Cooling at 715-504-0533 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.