One of the largest expenses in most households is the cost of energy, especially cooling and heating your home. Except for a few months in the spring and fall when temperatures are generally milder, the rest of the year an HVAC system must work hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. While increased energy bills during the hottest and coldest months are to be expected, there are ways to reduce these costs with a few home improvement tips:
- Insulation. Insulation is one of the best ways to keep your home at the temperature you desire, with less strain on your HVAC system. Adding extra insulation in the attic, crawlspace or walls of your home can make a large difference in your energy bills.
- Drafts. Any crack which allows outdoor air inside your home can also be leaking your warm or cold air. Seal cracks in ductwork, around windows or below doors to reduce the amount of temperature-controlled air which is lost.
- Windows. Old windows can also be poorly insulated, allowing air to escape or outdoor air to move into your home, affecting the interior temperature. Replacing your old windows can make a significant difference in your energy bills. Another option is to use heavy drapes or blinds to help insulate the windows, plus keep out the hot sun during the summer months.
- HVAC maintenance. Your HVAC system needs regular HVAC maintenance to stay efficient. Reduce energy costs by scheduling annual maintenance with your HVAC service company and ensuring that filters are replaced as needed throughout the year.
By adding a few home improvements, you can reduce how hard your HVAC system needs to work in order to keep your home comfortable. Even one or two of these improvements can have a big impact on your monthly and yearly energy expenses.
Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC
