The rising cost of energy, heating, and cooling costs are making a big dent in household budgets. You can reduce your heating and cooling costs by making a few simple changes around your house. Implementing cost-cutting solutions such as installing an energy-efficient dual zone mini split or setting your thermostat based on seasonal temperatures can help you save on your utility bills and heat and cool your home more effectively.
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Adjust Your Thermostat
One of the easiest ways to cut your heating and cooling costs is by adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees. Setting your thermostat to 68 degrees Fahrenheit or lower in the winter and 78 degrees Fahrenheit or higher in the summer can save up to 10% on your heating and cooling costs. If you have a programmable thermostat, you can automate its adjustments by programming temperature settings according to your daily schedule. Save energy by using “away” mode when you leave your home, or consider a smart thermostat for more advanced programming features.
Clean Your AC Filters
Dirty air conditioning filters can cause your AC system to work harder than necessary, resulting in higher energy bills. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends cleaning or replacing your filters regularly, at least every one or two months, during cooling or heating seasons. Doing so can not only improve your air quality but also extend the lifespan of your AC system.
Use Your Ceiling Fans & Run Them in the Right Direction for the Season
Ceiling fans can be a great way to circulate air and improve indoor air quality. During the summer, make sure your fan runs counterclockwise to push cool air down. During the winter, switch your fan to run clockwise to circulate warm air throughout the room. Using your ceiling fans properly reduces your reliance on heating and cooling systems, which can lower your energy bills.
Check Your Windows and Doors & Seal Leaks
Leaky windows and doors can be a significant source of energy loss in your home. Check for air leaks around windows and doors and seal them using caulk, weather stripping, or other sealants. By sealing air leaks, you can prevent cold air from entering your home in the winter and hot air from entering in the summer, which reduces your heating and cooling costs.
Use Blinds & Curtains
Blinds and curtains can help regulate the temperature in your home by insulating windows in the winter and blocking out the sun’s rays in the summer. In the winter, keep them open during the day to let in sunlight and warmth, and close them at night to insulate your home. During the summer, keep blinds and curtains closed during the day to prevent heat from entering your home.
Switch to a Smart System
Smart thermostats and energy management systems can help you manage your heating and cooling costs more efficiently. With a smart system, you can control your home’s temperature remotely, set schedules, and receive energy-saving recommendations based on your usage patterns. Some smart systems can even learn your habits and adjust your temperature settings automatically. By using a smart system, you can save energy and money while enjoying greater control over your home’s temperature.
Get an Energy Audit
Consider getting an energy audit if you’re serious about reducing your heating and cooling costs. An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of your home’s energy usage and can identify areas where you can save money on your energy bills. During an energy audit, a professional will inspect your home for air leaks, assess your insulation and evaluate your heating and cooling systems. Based on the audit results, you will receive recommendations for improvements that can help you save money on your energy bills. Some energy companies offer free energy audits to their customers, so check with your utility provider to see if this service is available.
Replace Your Traditional HVAC with a Mini Split System
Another way to cut heating and cooling costs is by using a ductless heating and cooling system. Installing a mini split system can help you see significant savings on heating and cooling costs compared to traditional HVAC systems.
For example, a 1.5 ton mini split system is ideal for small to medium-sized rooms and provides targeted heating and cooling to the areas of your home that need it most. This can result in up to 30% energy savings compared to traditional HVAC systems. For larger spaces, a high-quality 4 zone mini split system allows you to heat or cool up to four separate zones in your home with individual temperature controls. This provides personalized comfort and helps you save on energy costs by only heating or cooling the zones you and your family are using instead of spending energy to control the temperature of the entire home.
Consider Insulating Your Attic
Heat rises, so if your attic isn’t properly insulated, you could be losing heat during the winter months. Consider adding insulation to your attic to prevent heat from escaping. This can also help keep your home cooler during the summer months. Insulation is a one-time investment that can reduce your energy bills over time. Consult with a professional to determine the best type and amount of insulation for your attic based on your climate and energy needs. By insulating your attic, you can further reduce your heating and cooling costs and enjoy greater comfort in your home.
Don’t Block Your Air Vents
If your drapes or furniture are blocking your air vents, you are making your heating and cooling system work harder than necessary. Plus, cracks and leaks in your ductwork are caused by increased air pressure due to blocked vents, reducing the lifespan of your HVAC system. Ensure your system is working at full capacity by exposing your vents. If a room is unused, close the vent to avoid wasting resources.
Start Saving on Your Energy Costs Today
By making a few simple changes, like switching to a mini split system or insulating your attic, you can save money on your heating and cooling costs while enjoying greater control over your home’s temperature. Making these small adjustments can help you see reduced energy bills, which benefits your budget and the environment.
