One of the most common questions our professional electricians get is, “How can I pay less for electricity?” Let’s face it, powering our homes is one of the expensive parts of homeownership. This is especially true in the last decade or so, with the addition of devices and entertainment systems. If your home is anything like the average American home, this is true for you too.
The good news is, there are many ways to improve energy efficiency in your home, and therefore lower your electricity bills.
By Understanding the Importance of Energy Efficiency
It’s first important to understand what we mean when we say “energy efficiency.” This means using less energy to do the same job–any electrical appliance you have is going to consume a certain amount of energy to do its job, but most are capable of consuming less. In fact, you can expect to pay less using ENERGYSTAR certified appliances, such as your refrigerator, washing machines, and dryers.
You can also improve efficiency in other ways, especially when it comes to your HVAC systems.
By Taking Advantage of HVAC Energy Savings
Homeowners often don’t realize that their heating and cooling practices could actually be hurting their efficiency. Here are some tips to help you take advantage of HVAC energy savings.
- Install High-Efficiency Systems: Whether you’re looking for a new AC unit or heater, there are so many options available to you that can improve energy efficiency. The inverter drive central air conditioner, for example, operates on variable speeds for better energy use, as do high-efficiency furnaces. Or you can take it up a notch with the zone controlled heating and cooling of a ductless system.
- Upgrade Your Thermostat: Did you know that a smart or WiFi thermostat can actually “learn” from your heating and cooling preferences and adjust itself accordingly? This means that your HVAC systems won’t run uneccessarily, tehreby reducing your energy use.
- Set the Thermostat Reasonable: During the warmer months, people tend to set their thermostats as low as possible, thinking it will cool their homes down faster. All this really does is make your air conditioner run longer. By setting it to a more reasonable temperature (about 78°F), you can avoid unecessary energy use.
- Eliminate Ambient Heat: Do you have south facing windows? The sun that comes in can quickly add ambient heat to your home during the spring and summer. If you close your curtains and blinds though, you can fend off the heat and your AC won’t have to cycle on as early.
By Turning Off Appliances When Not Using Them
Did you know that your appliances can still drain power even when they’re not in use? Depending on the appliance, it might not be a lot of power, but in the name of energy efficiency, it’s a good idea to unplug the appliances that you can when you’re not using them. We’re talking about things like your toaster oven, your gaming or entertainment center, your space heater if you have one, etc. Anywhere you can save energy is a good idea!
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment in the Cedar Rapids area, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or schedule an appointment online when you need professional electrical services in Alburnett, IA.