Over half the energy used in a typical home goes toward heating and cooling it, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The more energy efficient your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are, the less they cost to run, and the lower your heating and cooling bills could be.
Here are tips to help you shop smarter and save money on your energy use.
Think Efficiency.
When you shop for new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment and systems, it’s important to comparison shop, not just for the price up front, but also for energy efficiency, which means how much it will cost to run your new system.
Pay attention to EnergyGuide labels and ENERGY STAR logos.
The EnergyGuide label means that anyone selling heating and cooling systems - central air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, and heat pumps - has to tell you how much energy a product uses and how it compares to similar models at the point of sale. Manufacturers include this information on a product’s EnergyGuide label. You’ll often see the label on the product when you shop in person, but it could also be on a website, fact sheet, or brochure.
The ENERGY STAR logo means the product meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and DOE.
Do a home energy audit.
Also called a home energy assessment, it will tell you how efficient your heating and cooling systems are and where your home is wasting energy such as through air leaks or under-insulated attics and ducts. Your utility company may offer free or low-cost energy assessments or refer you someone who does. Check with your state or local government energy or weatherization office for recommendations or visit energysavers.gov.
A professional home energy assessment might cost several hundred dollars. Before you hire a company, get several references. Look at sites you trust that post ratings and reviews. Do people seem to have similar experiences, good or bad? Check out a company by searching for the company’s name with words like “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.” The assessment you pay for should include specific recommendations.
A do-it-yourself assessment is another option. While not as thorough as a professional home energy assessment, it can help you pinpoint some of the easier areas to address. Check out DOE’s Energy Saver website, or use the online tool at hes.lbl.gov.
Seek out air leaks, seal and insulate.
Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and places where pipes and wires come through walls.
Check existing caulking and weather-stripping for gaps or cracks.
Check ducts for holes and gaps where sections have separated and air might be leaking. You can seal some leaks yourself with mastic sealant or metal tape, but don’t use duct tape. Hiring a professional to repair leaky ducts can be a good investment.
Bring your insulation up to DOE recommended levels if the home energy assessment shows it’s needed.
If your home has old or inefficient windows, consider replacing them.
Research special energy efficiency offers, programs and assistance.
If you’re in the market for energy-efficient products, ask the salesperson or utility company for information on cash rebates, low-interest loans, or other incentive programs in your area.
Check the the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency for information about government- and utility sponsored incentives.
Notice the little things.
Small savings really can add up. Here are some things you should start noticing:
Lower your thermostat in winter and turn it up in summer before you go to bed or out for the day, or get a programmable thermostat to do it.
Check filters for forced-air furnaces, and check heat pumps and air conditioners as recommended to see if they need cleaned or replaced.
Make sure that fireplace dampers are closed when you don’t have a fire going.
Consider a budget-billing program if your utility or oil company offers it. You won’t pay less, but your costs will be spread evenly over the year, protecting your budget from seasonal spikes.
If you’re on a fixed income or have trouble paying your utility bills, contact your utility company and see if there are energy assistance plans.
If you use heating oil, shop around to make sure you’re getting a good price.
If you live where you can choose your natural gas provider, comparison shop for gas prices. Research the company and its service before you sign a contract.
Shop Smart and hard for “Energy-Saving” products and services.
Be skeptical of products that promise to drastically reduce your home heating and cooling costs.
Visit sites trust that post ratings and reviews; Google search the company or product name with words like “scam” or “complaint.”
Resist high-pressure sales calls for furnaces, windows, and home improvement products.
Remember, the Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel a contract if you sign it in your home, or anywhere as long as it's not in the contractor’s permanent place of business. You can change your mind and you don’t have to give a reason for canceling your purchase.
Source: FTC