Either out of concern for the environment or their bank accounts, most homeowners want to lead more energy-efficient lifestyles. Unfortunately, due to the vast array of technologies available to us, it’s difficult to monitor our energy usage across every device.
Analyzing your HVAC practices is an easy way to start. The team at Air Tech of Katy can offer unique energy-saving solutions based on your home’s distinct characteristics.
If you’d rather take a few steps independently first, you can also begin the journey to energy-efficient heating and cooling with these tips:
Avoid Using a Space Heater
When winter rolls around, many homeowners falsely believe a space heater expends less energy than central heating. In reality, though a space heater is harmless when employed sparingly, regular use often wastes lots of electricity. It’s best to simply bundle up and turn up the thermostat.
If your main heating system can’t keep you adequately warm, it may be time to schedule a furnace repair appointment.
Match Indoor and Outdoor Temperatures
Yet another myth that misleads homeowners is that keeping your thermostat at the exact same temperature saves money. Instead, you should adjust your indoor environment to match the outdoor temperature as closely as feels comfortable.
By doing so, your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to contradict outdoor conditions. Additionally, you can deactivate your system entirely on more temperate days.
Upgrade Old Units
Few things hinder energy-efficient heating and cooling more than ancient air conditioning units. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, systems that are over 10 years old typically consume 40% more energy.
Fortunately, there are affordable air conditioner upgrade options available. Plus, the money and energy you save with a modern unit ultimately outweighs an installation price tag.
Consider Adopting Ductless AC
If a system upgrade is on the table, try looking into ductless AC. As the name implies, rather than guiding air through a centralized duct system, this type of unit pushes chilled air directly into your rooms. Given less energy is required to transport cold air, ductless air conditioning yields lower utility bills and is more eco-friendly than traditional options.
Seal Your Windows
If outdoor air seeps into your home (or chilled air slips out), all the energy expended by your AC unit is wasted. Therefore, make sure to check for any drafty windows. Eliminate gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Again, the energy savings will eventually outpace the cost of these repairs.
Change Dirty Filters
A clogged air filter prevents proper airflow and hurts indoor air quality, meaning your AC system has to work twice as hard to keep your home livable. Swapping out air filters every 90 days is perhaps the easiest, most affordable way to ensure your heating and cooling system runs efficiently.
Embrace Preventative Maintenance
Replacing filters is an essential form of preventative maintenance, as are annual tune-ups. Ideally, you should schedule two appointments each year. During these visits, an HVAC technician can spot flaws in the heating and cooling process, resolve them and prevent catastrophic, costly damages down the road.
Find Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling Experts
Last but not least, it never hurts to partner with professionals. Contact Air Tech of Katy for personalized guidance through all of the aforementioned energy-saving steps. Whether you choose to upgrade your unit, adopt ductless AC or simply rely on preventative maintenance, our team is ready to support you.
Why Choose Us?
Katy’s Reliable Air Conditioning and Heating Company
Peace Of Mind Guarantee
30% Utility Savings Guarantee
