Efficiency is Key to Saving Money

Do you know what constitutes the largest energy expense in the typical American home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy?  If you guessed the heating and cooling system, which generally accounts for 56 percent of the energy used, you’re absolutely right.  So, to save money on your monthly utility bill, here are some cost cutting measures that can have long term beneficial results.

1. Make sure your heating and cooling components are the right size for your home. If your heating system is too large, it will cycle frequently and produce drafts and inconsistent control of the room temperature.  If it's undersized, it will waste energy, running constantly and not reaching the desired temperature.  Likewise, an oversized air conditioner will reduce the room temperature, but wont adequately remove humidity, and if it's too small, it also will run constantly, but ineffectually.
2. Install a programmable thermostat, which will automatically adjust temperatures throughout the day, ensuring greater energy efficiency and enhanced comfort. You can save costs by easily adjusting the heating and cooling settings to run less when you're sleeping, not at home, or away.
3. Upgrade to variable speed heating or cooling.  A two-stage, variable speed furnace or air handler operates at an energy-saving lower speed and a higher speed, when needed, for more consistent air circulation, eliminating the need to turn on and off as frequently, which reduces temperature swings and may help to lower your heating bills.
4. Check your filter every month, especially during heavy usage periods, and change the filter at least every 3 months. A dirty filter will waste energy by slowing down air flow, making the system work harder, and allow dust and dirt to accumulate in your system.
5. Consider investing in a hybrid heating and cooling system which combines two different fuel sources, typically a gas furnace and an electric heat pump, for more efficient heating and cooling.
6. Make sure your heating and cooling system's components have the highest possible energy efficiency ratings. The higher the rating, the more efficient the product and lower your energy bills can be.

So, if you feel that your energy bills are too high, try any or all of the above tips, and contact your heating and cooling system specialist to have your system evaluated and learn how to make it even more energy efficient.  It's an investment that will save both money and the planet's resources in the long run.