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 more options than ever, and having so many possible solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Investing in eco-friendly HVAC not only benefits the environment but also contributes to bigger savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Complete a home energy audit
One of the first steps towards an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book 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 discuss things with you before recommending improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you understand precisely where energy is wasted and how any recommended improvements can offer lasting benefits.
Adding More Insulation Can Boost Home Energy Efficiency
Adequate insulation is a crucial, and maybe underrated option for full-spectrum comfort while also optimizing 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 could use more insulation. Adding more insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials like fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can dramatically boost energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Seal and Insulate Your Ductwork to Prevent Energy Loss
Damage to the home’s ductwork is an often overlooked source of energy waste that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, even with high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and prevent any more wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician examine ductwork for leaks and seal any openings as securely as possible.
As another benefit, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces reduces 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.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and especially a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to personalize their heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings in response to your usage habits, these thermostats reduce energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or delivering helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
In fact, regular HVAC maintenance is perhaps the most effective decision you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should arrange for routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can carry out inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to make sure their HVAC systems operate efficiently.
By dealing with repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,we can help support 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 greater control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning enables different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, improving comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help maintain consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the actual wear and tear on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners looking for major improvements, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is highly recommended. The newest HVAC systems utilize variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while requiring less energy.
Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Can Help Your Home Be More Sustainable
Ready to transform your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at 804-302-6657 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also enjoy a more 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.