We can all benefit from saving a few bucks where we can. An easy way to do this is by making some energy-efficient changes throughout your home. Upgrading your HVAC system or putting in a smart thermostat, for example, gives you more control over your HVAC system, contributing to a more energy-efficient home and more affordable monthly energy bills.  

Read on to read about 4 ways you can make energy-efficient home enhancements. 

 1. Install a Smart Thermostat  

If you still use an older thermostat and control it manually, consider taking a step toward the future by installing a smart, or Wi-Fi, thermostat – which comes with a number of features to improve your home's energy efficiency. 

The function homeowners appreciate the most is being able to adjust their smart thermostats from anywhere they want through their smartphone or other smart device. As an example, in situations where you forget to use your thermostat before leaving for vacation, you can simply take out your smartphone and make the necessary adjustment.  

Just like a programmable thermostat, a smart thermostat permits you to schedule your home’s temperature according to the time of day and day of the week so you’re not spending energy on an empty house. Smart thermostats also offer the capability to watch your temperature preferences over time and automatically make energy-efficient corrections. They even provide monthly energy reports that demonstrate how much energy you've used and when so you can make modifications to reduce costs.  

If you’re curious about how to secure a free smart thermostat, talk to your utility company to find out if there are any discounts or free smart thermostats available. 

2. Routine HVAC Maintenance 

Regrettably, lots of homeowners often forget to have their heating and cooling systems maintained. While this may not seem like a huge deal, inadequate maintenance can produce a number of issues, including inefficiency, breakdowns, and a shorter system lifespan. 

When performing an HVAC maintenance service, the technician will evaluate your HVAC system, clean important components, and catch minor problems before they lead to bigger, more expensive repair issues. Tune ups keep HVAC systems working at optimal condition, which means less energy is needed to heat and cool your home. This will reduce your energy bills, prolong the lifespan of HVAC equipment, and contribute to fewer repairs. 

We encourage two HVAC tune ups every year – once during the spring before summer and another in the fall before the arrival of frigid weather. 

3. Getting rid of Your Worn-Down, Inefficient HVAC Equipment 

Regretfully, like every appliance, HVAC systems don't last forever and eventually need to be replaced. New heaters and cooling systems are much more energy efficient than equipment produced just over a decade ago. Fortunately, helpful HVAC companies like Titan Heating & Air Conditioning can perform professional services including furnace installation in Central Point.  

Well-maintained furnaces and air conditioners can run for about 15-20 years. If your system is within that span, it can be a good idea to replace them now to avoid premature breakdowns that can leave you cold and uncomfortable on a cold winter night. If your HVAC system is approaching 15 years old and has a problem that needs an expensive repair, it’s almost always time to replace it. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to a new HVAC system can sometimes save you between 20-40% on your monthly energy bills, so you’ll recoup some of the costs of installing a new system. 

 A professional HVAC technician can help you find the most energy efficient HVAC system for your needs. In general, try to find HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified, meaning the equipment meets rigid guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. LENNOX HVAC systems are often some of the most efficient systems around, boasting both high AFUE and SEER ratings. AFUE is for heating systems and measures how well they convert fuel to heat. SEER, on the other hand, is used to quantify the energy efficiency of cooling equipment.  

Contact a reputable HVAC provider like Titan Heating & Air Conditioning for air conditioning installation in Central Point. 

 4. Use Energy-Efficient Air Filters 

When you’re looking for new HVAC filters, remember that not all air filters are capable of providing the same results. Certain air filters are far more efficient than others, leading to lower energy bills and a cleaner home environment. 

The performance of HVAC air filters is illustrated by their Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV rating. The MERV scale ranges between 1-20; the higher the number, the more effective the filters are. It’s important to note, however, that high-efficiency air filters can sometimes impede airflow too much based on the type of HVAC system you own. It’s important to read the owner’s manual before getting a filter to determine the ideal model for your system.