As we approach Earth Day, it's the right time of year to start planning 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 high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Request 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 identify any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and go over things with you before suggesting improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can provide lasting benefits.
Adding More Insulation Can Boost Home Energy Efficiency
Proper insulation is a crucial, and maybe underrated option for a complete sense of comfort while simultaneously addressing things causing excessive energy use. Insulation functions kind of like a shield for your HVAC system, working to stop heat loss in the winter and holding cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, most homes don’t have enough insulation. Adding more insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials such as fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can significantly boost energy efficiency for reduced heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
Leaky ductwork is a common, but hidden source of energy loss that lower 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 openings as securely as possible.
Additionally, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces minimizes 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
Investing in a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, enables homeowners to tailor their heating and cooling schedules according to their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings according to your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access via mobile devices, or sending helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Prioritize Regular HVAC Maintenance
And speaking of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is an essential investment you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should arrange for routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can conduct inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems function seamlessly.
By dealing with repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,your technician will help support 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 greater 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 maintain consistent temperatures in your home while reducing the workload on the HVAC system.
7. Think About Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners ready to take the next step, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is always a great choice. The newest HVAC systems utilize variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to provide superior performance while using less energy.
Titan Heating & Air Conditioning is Here to Make Your Home More Sustainable
Eager to make your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Titan Heating & Air Conditioning at 541-286-6617 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 cleaner 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.