As we get closer to Earth Day, it's a great opportunity to start thinking about how you can make your homes how you can work towards a more sustainable home. There are more options than ever, and having so many available solutions ensures there’s one that matches your budget. Investing in high efficiency HVAC systems not only benefits the environment but also contributes to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Request a home energy audit
The best way to start your journey to an eco-friendly HVAC system is to book a professional home energy audit. As part of the audit, local HVAC experts assess your home's energy usage and note any inefficiencies. They’ll take what they find and discuss things with you before offering opinionso on the best improvements. This comprehensive evaluation helps you figure out where energy is wasted and how these improvements can offer lasting benefits.
2. Boosting Energy Efficiency Through Insulation
Having enough insulation is an essential, if surprisingly underrated option for total comfort while at the same time optimizing energy use. Insulation strengthens your home’s temperature barrier, working to stop heat loss in the winter and keeping cool air indoors during the summer.
Surprisingly, most homes don’t have enough insulation. Incorporating additional insulation to attics, walls, floors and basements is the usual strategy. Using high-quality insulation materials such as fiberglass, spray foam or cellulose can dramatically improve energy efficiency for lower heating and cooling costs.
3. Ductwork Sealing and Insulation Stops Energy Waste
A leak in your home’s ductwork is an often overlooked source of energy waste that can lead to reduced HVAC system efficiency, even with high-efficiency equipment. To address these losses and reduce any wasted energy, homeowners should have a technician inspect ductwork for leaks and seal any gaps or cracks as securely as possible.
If that wasn’t good enough, insulating the ductwork in spaces such as attics or crawl spaces reduces heat transfer into them. Sealing off these inefficient parts of your home is a great example of how a little effort can go a long way.
Trying a Smart Thermostat
Opting for a programmable thermostat, and particularly a smart thermostat, allows homeowners to tailor their heating and cooling schedules based on their daily routines and preferences. By automatically adjusting these temperature settings based on your usage habits, these thermostats also optimize energy costs and cut down on waste. Smart thermostats further offer benefits like remote access with your tablet or smartphone, or sending helpful notifications for things like maintenance.
5. Stay on Top of Routine HVAC Maintenance
On the topic of maintenance, regular HVAC maintenance is one of the most beneficial investments you can make for optimal system performance and energy efficiency. Homeowners should schedule routine tune-ups with local professionals, who can conduct inspections, filter changes, and other tasks to ensure their HVAC systems operate efficiently.
By dealing with repair issues promptly and keeping internal clean,your technician will help support your HVAC system and may even extend its life span.
6. Use Zoning Systems and Fan Settings for Better Ventilation
Zoning systems and fan settings provide homeowners more precise control over their HVAC systems and indoor air quality. Zoning allows different areas of the home to be heated or cooled independently, maximizing comfort and energy usage. Meanwhile, even adjusting fan settings can help keep consistent temperatures in your home while lessening the strain on the HVAC system.
7. Consider Upgrading to a New, High-Efficiency HVAC System
For homeowners looking for major improvements, installing a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is an excellent option. The newest HVAC systems employ variable-speed motors, heat pump technology, and other innovations to deliver superior performance while consuming less energy.
West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is Here to Make Your Home More Sustainable
Looking to turn your home into an eco-friendly haven? Contact West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services at (616) 319-1436 to schedule a free consultation for eco-friendly home upgrades.
By implementing these HVAC tips, you can reduce not only your environmental impact but also enjoy a cleaner and more efficient home. We’re proud to make the most of this year’s Earth Day creating a greener future, one household at a time.
