Climate control is one of the most important features of living a modern life. You might not think about heating and air conditioning as being a big deal, but you would most certainly miss them if you had to go even a few days without them. That may explain why heating and air conditioning make up a huge percentage of a household’s power bill. As a new homeowner, you might feel like there’s nothing you can do to bring that price down, but you’d be wrong. Here are just a few tips you can use to save some money on your climate control.
Maintenance
The most important thing you can do for your HVAC system has it inspected regularly by a professional like Seliga Heating and Cooling or a similar company. There are things you can learn to do, however, that will make a difference in your system’s life span. One of the best ways you can help maintain your system is by regularly changing the filter. It’s a relatively quick chore, but it makes a big difference. You should change your filter at least once every 3 months, preferably more often.
If you run into any more in-depth issues, however, you probably shouldn’t attempt to DIY the repairs. Causing additional damage to your system in an attempt to repair it will only end up costing you more money in the long run.
Give it a Rest
It’s really nice to have your home at an optimum temperature at all times of the night and day, but it’s a little unnecessary. Turning off your heater and cooler during the hours when you are at work or asleep will not only save you money, it can also extend the lifespan of your equipment. You’ll probably find that the only thing you notice about your new schedule is the lower power bill each month. Most modern heating and cooling systems are programmable, so you don’t have to worry about actually turning it on and off all the time.
You could also consider turning the system off during peak hours on the weekends and curl up with a blanket in the winter or turn on some fans in the summer. You won’t want to live like this all the time, obviously, but shutting it off for even a couple of extra hours a day can go a long way in your budget.
Wonderful Windows
Having high-quality windows can do a surprising amount for your monthly power bill as well. If you have double-glazed windows you can reduce the heat exchange between the inside and the outside of your home. This basically means that the temperature inside of your home won’t change as fast, so it takes less work to keep the home hot or cold. The initial cost of installing windows like this can be high, but it’s an expense that will generally pay for itself over the course of a few years. If you don’t have windows like this yet, it’s an update you should seriously consider
Insulation
Finally, good old fashioned insulation can make a huge difference. If your home is older the insulation in the walls and attic may be wearing out. Spending the time and money to have it inspected and potentially re-insulated can be a very good investment. Not only can it lower your monthly power bill, but it can also protect you from more serious and permanent damage, such as water damage from freezing and thawing or condensation occurring on the inside of your home. If you’re in a newer home you most likely won’t have to deal with insulation that is failing or wearing out, but it’s still a good idea to check areas of your home like the attic that may never have been properly insulated in the first place. Doing your due diligence like this is definitely worth the effort.
Whatever your situation is, learning tricks like these can make a difference in your monthly power bill. It helps the planet as well, maybe even more than it helps your wallet! Whether you’re thinking of buying a home in the near future, you’ve just moved into one recently, keep these tips in mind and watch your expenses drop.