A HVAC system that’s well-managed can use much less energy than one that is not. Regularly having your HVAC system serviced can improve efficiency and help save you money in energy costs. Thankfully, there’s even more you can do to better your property’s energy efficiency. Here are some simple steps you can take to improve your Williamsport home.
- Close up any leaks around your windows and doors. Even tiny cracks can let heat or cool air leave your house. Add caulk or weatherstripping anywhere you find leaks.
- Use your windows. If it’s cooler at night, turn off your AC and open the windows. In the morning, shut the windows and your curtains or blinds to catch the cooler air and to stop heat gain through the windows.
- Insulate your walls and attic. Insulation is generally associated with keeping your home comfortable in the colder months, but it also helps you out in the warmer season. Heat is constantly seeking cooler locations—like your rooms. Sufficient insulation keeps heat from moving through your attic and walls.
- Have your ducts cleaned. Air moves easier through your home when your ducts are clear. That makes your air conditioner’s job less complicated.
- Check to see your ducts are accurately sealed to prevent air leaks and insulate them if necessary. You’re losing valuable heated or cooled air if your ducts have leaks. Correctly sealing and insulating ducts is even more vital if they are in the attic, a vented crawlspace or any other unconditioned area.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats make managing your home comfort and efficiency simple. You can automatically move your temperature when you’re not at home or when you’re sleeping while avoiding discomfort because your home’s temperature will get back to normal when needed.
- If you choose not to use a programmable thermostat, avoid setting your thermostat at a chillier setting when you turn on your air conditioner. You might think it will cool your home faster, but the time it takes to cool won’t be changed. You’ll end up costing yourself more in energy.
- Turn your thermostat as high as comfortably possible in the summer. To help keep your cooling bill low, make sure the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures is as small as possible. According to the Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% annually on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7° to 10°F from its average setting for eight hours a day. Using a ceiling fan together with your air conditioner can let you raise your thermostat a little more. You can raise your setting by about 4°F without changing your comfort.
- Limit heat-generating appliances near your thermostat. If you’re putting lamps, tvs or other heat generating appliances near your thermostat, it can cause your air conditioner to run for an extended time because it senses heat from these appliances and thinks your home needs cooling.
- Invest in new, energy-efficient equipment. If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping up with your home-comfort needs, call Lycoming Heating Company for an assessment. It may be time to replace it with ENERGY STAR®-qualified equipment that can reduce your annual energy bill by more than $115, according to energystar.gov.
If you’re interested in improving your home’s energy efficiency, call Lycoming Heating Company at 570-326-4450. Our pros can help you think about solutions, energy-efficient equipment or schedule a regular maintenance appointment. You can also schedule your appointment online using our online scheduler.