As the spring equinox approaches there are a numerous things homeowners can do to save energy and improve the efficiency of their household.
Perform an energy audit. In an energy audit, a trained professional can evaluate the efficiency of a person’s home. These auditors primarily examine the insulation, windows, heating and cooling systems, and appliances. Then these auditors can pinpoint the areas of maximum energy loss and suggest solutions for significant energy savings.
Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat[1] allows a person to automatically adjust the temperature within their home at any time. This technology can also be controlled remotely with a smartphone or computer. Overall, most programmable thermostats provide a multitude of benefits to the homeowner.
Clean out air vents throughout the home. As many know debris can accumulate in a home’s air vents and cause the HVAC system to work harder to maintain the desired temperatures[2]. Through regular cleaning a homeowner can lower energy consumption and enhance the indoor air quality by minimizing the circulation of airborne pollutants. Energy-efficiency is not only beneficial for a person’s home but also plays a crucial role in the health of each inhabitant.
Harness the power of the sun. About 30% of the energy needed to heat a house is lost through the windows. Additionally, approximately 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows can be converted to heat within a home[3]. For these reasons, the more natural light a home has the less reliant it is on artificial lighting and the warmer it will be.
Spring cleaning. As spring approaches most people participate in an annual spring cleaning and begin to declutter their homes. Clutter is known to interfere with a home’s air conditioning system[4]. By removing clutter homeowners create a more energy efficient space and improve the functionality of their HVAC system.
Walk in nature. By immersing oneself in nature, a person can reduce their reliance on energy-consuming activities at home since venturing into nature requires minimal energy consumption compared to most indoor activities. Additionally, walking is an eco-friendly alternative to driving or other forms of transportation.
Spring is almost here; it is the perfect time to prepare your home for the warmer months to come using these tips.
[1] The 7 Best Programmable Thermostats of 2024 (The Spruce, 2024).
[2] Breathe Clean and Maximize Comfort: The Importance of Regular HVAC Cleaning (Tiger Home & Building, 2024).
[3] Energy Efficient Window Covers (U.S. Department of Energy, 2024).
[4] How Clutter Can Lead to AC Issues (Carol Flynn Heating & Cooling, 2024).