Let Energy Star Guide You to Greater Savings With These Tips
The Department of Energy has been setting regulations and providing tips on HVAC efficiency since the energy crisis of the 1970s. Its Energy Star program doesn’t just put restrictions on homeowners — it helps them save energy. With over half of your utility bills likely being made up of heating and cooling costs, you may want to consider the following Energy Star tips.
- Change your air filter regularly. All of your home’s heated and cooled air passes through your air filter, so it is key to your indoor air quality and your HVAC system’s performance. When your air filter becomes clogged, it doesn’t clean your air as well and also slows your air flow so that your HVAC system has to run longer to achieve the same results.
- Get an annual tune up. An annual tune up makes minor adjustments that can knock a few percent off of your energy bills. It also checks for problems that could potentially cost you even more in increased energy use and repair costs down the road if not corrected early.
- Have your ducts checked. Your ducts are largely out of sight and out of mind, but they play a major role in your energy efficiency. Over time, they often develop leaks that can send as much as 30% of your freshly heated or cooled air into your attic. You may also want to consider insulating them to prevent heat loss.
- Use Energy Star equipment. If your current HVAC equipment is older than 10 years old, it’s time to start considering a replacement. When you choose an Energy Star qualified HVAC system, you’re choosing a system that has been certified as one of the most energy efficient in its class. In fact, the energy savings over older HVAC systems often quickly pays for the replacement cost. For more information on installing Energy Star HVAC equipment or for more energy saving tips, contact Sobieski Services.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems).
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