Expensive energy bills can really add up. Many households spend tens, hundreds or even thousands of dollars more per year than they need to on energy bills. Luckily, some simple strategies can drastically lower your bills and increase energy savings. Many people think that energy savings mean having to live in a very hot home during scorching LA summers, always keeping the lights off, or making other uncomfortable sacrifices. The truth is that minor changes around your home can make a big difference.
Lifestyle changes
Some simple lifestyle changes will lower your energy costs. Ideas to consider include:
- Taking shorter showers
- Setting your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees; this temperature is still warm enough for comfortable showers, and it will lower your water heating costs
- Setting your programmable thermostat to turn off the heat or air conditioning when you’re not home, or manually turning down the heat or air conditioning before you leave the house
- Only running the dishwasher, washing machine and dryer when you have full loads
Simple maintenance, product and design changes
- Use high-efficiency light bulbs.
- When you buy new appliances, consider energy efficiency.
- Install a door sweep to prevent air leaks.
- Caulk around windows that have air leaks.
- Find and seal leaky air ducts, or have a professional contractor perform duct maintenance on your home.
- Install low-flow water fixtures.
- Unplug power adapters and chargers when you aren’t using them.
System upgrades
Having an expert HVAC contractor install a high-efficiency furnace and air conditioner costs money up front, but it will result in energy savings in the long run. Many homes can also save money with a zoning system, which allows you to set different temperatures in different rooms. This type of system means that everyone in the household is comfortable, and you don’t pay to condition rooms you aren’t using.
To figure out which type of system upgrades might save you money in the long run, have a professional conduct a home energy assessment. Contact us Around the Clock Air Conditioning and Heating for an expert consultation.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about energy savings and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Around the Clock Air Conditioning & Heating services Los Angeles, North Hollywood and the surrounding areas in California. Visit our website to see our current specials and get started today!