As another year rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about your new year resolutions. One resolution that can save you money this year is to improve your home's energy efficiency.
Follow these steps to reduce your energy bill and make the world greener.
8 Resolutions for a Lower Energy Bill
Improving your home's energy efficiency can increase your property value by as much as 6 percent. While some renovations cost thousands of dollars, there are a few updates you can do for a few hundred dollars or less.
1. Upgrade Your Boiler
An inefficient boiler can lead to hundreds of dollars in energy bills each year. In a gas-heated home, boilers make up 60 percent of the home's carbon dioxide emissions. Switching to a more efficient boiler can help the environment and your pocketbook at the same time.
2. Replace an Old Furnace
If your furnace was made before 1992 and uses a standing pilot, then it wastes 35 percent of its fuel use. Upgrading to a heating system that has an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 90 percent or better, you can reduce your heating bill by as much as 27 percent each month. To see how efficient your furnace is, check its AFUE. Your furnace should have a rating of at least 80 percent.
3. Hang Thick Curtains
A thermal curtain is an easy, cheap option to save energy this year. Thick curtains prevent heat from escaping your home.
4. Upgrade Your Windows
While thick curtains are a temporary way to reduce your heating bill, you will eventually want to replace old or leaky windows. You can achieve the biggest savings by replacing single-glazed windows. Single-glazed windows lack insulation, so you end up losing a lot of your heat and wasting money.
5. Get Tankless Water Heaters
Standard water heaters are incredibly inefficient. They waste energy keeping hot water on standby. In contrast, a tankless water heater only heats water when you need it, which can result in significant cost savings. Plus, you will never run out of hot water.
6. Plant Shade Trees
While replacing windows, doors, and insulation is a hassle, planting a tree or bush is relatively simple. Shade trees can help keep your home more comfortable in summer, blocking infrared radiation so that your air conditioner has less work to do.
7. Remember Routine Maintenance
Even if you have the best HVAC system in the world, it will be inefficient if it is not working correctly. Maintenance tasks like replacing air filters and maintaining components are important and should be conducted at least annually by an experienced HVAC technician.
8. Insulate Your Home
If your home is older, it might not have the best insulation. By replacing your insulation, you can prevent hot air from escaping your home. You should also seal any gaps, holes, or leaks to prevent heat loss.
Bottom line: Whether you want to replace your furnace or need help with maintenance tasks, an HVAC technician can help. Start the new year off right by making sure your home is energy efficient. Call A-Temp Heating, Cooling, and Electrical at (503) 694-3396 to get a consultation.