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 lots of great options, and having so many potential solutions ensures there’s one that fits every budget. Investing in eco-friendly HVAC not only benefits the environment but also contributes to cost savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Schedule 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 evaluate your home's energy usage and look for any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before recommending improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can bring lasting benefits.
2. Update Your Home's Insulation
Proper insulation is an essential, if surprisingly underrated option for total comfort while simultaneously addressing things causing excessive energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, preventing heat loss in the winter and retaining cool air indoors during the summer.
However, most homes would still benefit from adding more insulation. Incorporating additional insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials such as fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can dramatically boost energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is an often overlooked source of energy loss that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, despite having high-efficiency equipment. To mitigate these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician examine 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, enables homeowners to personalize 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 reduce energy costs and minimize waste. Smart thermostats also provide benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or providing helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
In fact, 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 ensure their HVAC systems operate efficiently.
By tackling repair issues right away and keeping internal clean,your technician will help safeguard 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 provide homeowners more room-room-room control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning separates different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, maximizing comfort and energy usage. And to support the zoning system’s airflow, even adjusting fan settings can help keep consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the strain 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 highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems feature variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while using less energy.
May's Heating & Air Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact May's Heating & Air at 301-690-0397 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can not only reduce 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.