Take These Simple Steps to Boost Your Homes Energy Efficiency

December 16, 2014

Not only does your home’s energy efficiency give you a clue about how efficiently your heating and cooling system is running, but it gives you a way to save more money. Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be a massive, expensive project. There are many uncomplicated ways to do it: replacing your furnace filters when needed, using a programmable thermostat and keeping lights and electronics off when you’re not using them.

The efficiency of your HVAC system can make a huge impact when it comes to saving money on energy. The more severe winter and summer months in Des Moines mean your HVAC system will be working intensely, so now is the time to ensure it’s running efficiently. Your wallet will thank you.

If your air filters are dusty, it’s harder for air to pass through them. This makes your heating and cooling system work harder than necessary, and sends your energy efficiency spiraling. Not only that, but this additional work can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your system that could result in your replacing it before you’d have to. Plus, clean filters give you more comfortable, clean air in your home.

When you’re thinking about the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling system, you need to take into account its age. In general, newer systems are considerably more efficient. Be sure to take that in consideration when you find it’s time to make repairs to an older system. The average lifespan of an HVAC system is 12 to 15 years. So, if your system is getting up there, consider the cost of repair with the cost of a new system, factoring in any energy rebates and the cost savings you’ll see on your monthly bills.

Try these other steps to make your home more energy efficient:

  • Make sure your home is insulated well.
  • Look for air leaks around your doors and windows and seal them and/or add weatherstripping.
  • Keep your kitchen and laundry appliances clean, especially where they have ventilation.

Making your home more energy efficient can be easy, especially when our team at Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling in Des Moines is happy to help. No matter if you’re looking for ideas to keep your current system running more efficiently or you’re planning to replace it, call us at 515-207-6569. We’re eager to help!