There are several benefits of installing a heating and cooling system at home, but one of its biggest downsides is having the need to pay high energy bills every month. Depending on the type of fixtures you have at home and how often you use them, you might have to allocate a few hundred or thousands of dollars every month for your energy bills.
Fortunately, all is not lost because there are many ways you can save money at home as you use your heating and cooling system. As long as these strategies are implemented regularly, you can still enjoy a comfortable temperature at home without breaking the bank.
Here’s some heating and cooling advice that can help you save money at home:
1.Schedule Regular Maintenance
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when it comes to their heating and cooling systems is to only contact professionals once the fixture isn’t working properly or has stopped working. Sure, hiring professionals will always solve any of your HVAC-related problems (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), but instead of working with them only when the problem arises, it’s best if you regularly work with them to prevent such problems from happening.
For you to save money at home from using your heating and cooling system, have it inspected every six months even when it’s working properly. Contractors who specialize in heating and cooling Colorado Springs or similar contractors in your area can detect problems even when there are no visible signs and ensure that your system works properly at the lowest cost.
Regular maintenance will help you save money in the long run because the earlier HVAC-related problems are detected, the lower the cost.
2.Change Your Filters Regularly
A dirty filter will make it challenging for your home’s heating and cooling system to function properly as it has to work harder to bring hot or cold indoors. Dirt and dust can get trapped in your filters. When this happens, your heating and cooling system have to exert more effort to work properly. This can result in bigger energy bills.
One simple yet effective way to save money on your heating and cooling system is to change your filters every three months and once a month during humid and winter months. According to the US Department of Energy, you can lessen your energy consumption by 5-15% when you regularly change your filters.
3.Maximize Your Windows
Windows are essential in every home as these affect the overall appearance of your property and the value of your home. But, are you aware that you can also utilize your windows to save money on your heating and cooling system?
Another trick to help you save money from your heating and cooling system is to invest in high-quality drapes and blinds for your windows, and use them during the hottest times of the day. Instead of immediately turning on your AC unit at noon, for example, close your drapes and blinds to keep the sun out.
Letting sunlight enter your home will only require your HVAC system to work harder, causing your energy bills to skyrocket over time. This is especially true during the summer and warmer months.
4.Find And Seal Leaks
Having a well-maintained heating and cooling system at home can still cause higher energy bills if your home has leaks. The hot and cold air that your HVAC system produces will easily escape your home if there are leaks in your ductwork or around your doors and windows.
If you don’t want to waste your hard-earned money on hot and cold air that’s escaping outdoors, find and seal leaks around your home. This will require you to seal the ductwork in your home, caulking your windows, or replacing the weather stripping on your doors.
Ideally, you should inspect your home for any leaks before the hot and cold months because this is usually when you’ll be using your HVAC system more often.
Remain Patient
You can do a lot of things to save money at home as you’re using your heating and cooling system. However, keep in mind that you won’t see results immediately as you follow the tips presented in this article.
For you to be effective with your efforts, you need to incorporate these tips into your daily routine, and ensure that everyone in the household follows the same. Once you’ve ticked the two from your list, it won’t be long before you can see lower energy bills.
