As Earth Day comes up, 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 possible solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Adopting greener HVAC solutions not only benefits the environment but also contributes to cost savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Schedule a home energy audit
The best way to start your journey to an eco-friendly HVAC system is to request a professional home energy audit. As part of the audit, local HVAC experts evaluate your home's energy usage and identify any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before offering opinionso on the best improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you learn just where energy is wasted and how these improvements can offer lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Having enough insulation is an essential, and maybe underrated option for full-spectrum comfort while also addressing things causing excessive energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, helping to prevent heat loss in the winter and keeping cool air indoors during the summer.
However, most homes don’t have enough insulation. Installing new or supplemental insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can significantly enhance energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Seal and Insulate Your Ductwork to Prevent Energy Loss
A leak in your home’s 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 reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician check ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
As another benefit, insulating the ductwork around unfinished 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.
4. Investing in 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 learning how to maintain these temperature settings in response to your usage habits, these thermostats also optimize 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. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
And speaking of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for peak 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 operate efficiently.
By tackling repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean, you can help protect your HVAC system and may even increase 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 separates different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, maximizing comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help keep 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 looking for major improvements, 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 requiring less energy.
Everest Heating & Cooling Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Everest Heating & Cooling at 913-845-9463 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.
