7 Steps to a More Energy Efficient Home

With the rising cost of energy, our customers have begun to recognize the importance of home energy efficiency. At Essig Plumbing & Heating, we love our customers and we want them to get what they want. So, here are seven handy tips that will help you slash your utility bill and minimize your carbon footprint.

1. Install Low Flow Shower Heads and Faucets

An easy, effective and inexpensive way to save energy is to install low flow shower heads and faucets in your home. Energy efficient fixtures can save 25%-60% on your annual water bill. Low flow fixtures have evolved significantly since their introduction to the market years ago. The new improved models offer increased water pressure and different spray variations. Additionally, installation is fairly simple for homeowners to complete themselves, without professional assistance.

2. Purchase Energy Efficient Appliances for your Home

Purchasing new Energy-Star efficient appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, heat pumps, boilers and hot water heaters, may seem like a costly investment at first, but will ultimately pay for themselves after just a few years through reduced water usage and energy output. Installing energy efficient appliances also allows you to take advantage of federal and state tax deductions, local utility discounts, as well as manufacturers’ rebates.

3. Install Programmable Thermostats

Installing a programmable thermostat is an easy way to decrease energy usage that makes your home HVAC system “smarter,” independently switching on and off according to your presets. Installing programmable thermostats will also qualify you for tax credits. Keep an eye on your temperature settings as well – every degree you change from your usual setting correlates to about one percent in your energy bill.

4. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate

Making sure your home is accurately insulated can save money in many ways. First, make sure that your home’s structure is properly and professionally insulated with quality material. Areas of your home that should be insulated include not only the walls, but the attic, as well. This helps keep warm air in and cold air out in the winter; vice versa in the summer. If you own a traditional water heater, placing an insulating blanket around it and the surrounding pipes is a good way to save energy and reduce the risk of frozen pipes during frigid weather. Insulating and sealing any existing cracks or openings around windows and doorways with weather-stripping is another simple, effective fix to protect from drafts, saving on heating and cooling costs.

5. Replace Filters in Central Air Conditioning and Heating Systems

Keeping up with regular replacement of air conditioning and furnace filters is another inexpensive and easy way to keep your systems running efficiently. When filters become clogged with dirt and dust, it restricts air flow and causes your system to work overtime, costing you more money on utility usage and possible repairs. Some systems require filter replacement every few months, while others may require seasonal replacement. It’s best to check with your manufacturer’s instructions to verify how often replacement is needed for your specific system.

6. Install Ceiling Fans

Adding ceiling fans will not only provide a cool, comfortable current of air to any room in your house during the summer months, it can also be used as a heating supplement during the winter, when warm air tends to rise inside. With just a flick of switch, you can reverse the fan direction, bringing warm air downward, where you want it the most.

7. Make Maintenance Tune-ups a Must

Scheduling maintenance tune-ups of your air conditioning and heating systems on a regular basis can contribute to long-term savings by guaranteeing quality and energy-efficient operation, as well as reducing the risk of future repairs.

Questions about this post? Feel free to contact Essig Plumbing & Heating in Reading, PA today!

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