Having an energy efficient home can seem expensive, but the truth is, the little changes can make the most difference once they add up. Follow these nine tips to make your Indianapolis area residence an energy efficient home.
- Have your HVAC system checked out by a professional at least once per year. A system that hasn’t been properly maintained won’t work properly and will cost you more to heat or cool your home.
- Install low-flow fixtures on shower heads, faucets and toilets. You’ll save more money on water-heating costs, too.
- Use CFL or LED light bulbs instead of common fluorescent ones. CFL and LED bulbs use between 70 and 80 percent less electricity.
- Look for air leaks around windows and doors and seal them. Weatherstripping works for movable parts of windows and doors, and caulk works on stationary joints. Seal any holes or cracks in your home’s perimeter with caulk or spray foam.
- Consider a new heating or cooling system if yours is more than 10-15 years old. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump or A/C can save substantially on monthly operating costs.
- Put in double-pane windows instead of single-pane. Special windows designed to stop heat transfer such as low-E windows can save substantially on your heating bill.
- Change your HVAC air filter regularly. Take a look at it every month and when it looks dirty or clogged, change it. This improves system efficiency, protects system components, and improves indoor air quality.
- Get rid of old appliances and replace them with Energy Star certified ones. You’ll save money while updating the look of your home, too.
- Unplug your appliances when you aren’t using them. Some items like computers and DVD players use electricity even when they’re not on, running up your bill.
Please contact us at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing for more information on getting an energy efficient home this winter and all year round, as well as for expert advice on heating, cooling, plumbing and air quality. We provide expert services in the Indianapolis area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Brownsburg, Indiana and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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