Install programmable thermostats to automatically reduce energy usage when you are normally away from home. Programmable thermostats, when used properly, will help you reduce your heating and cooling energy costs. According to the Department of Energy, a programmable thermostat can save you about $150 every year.
Set your thermostats at 78°F in the summer and 68°F in the winter and leave them there. You can immediately notice a 3% to 5% decrease in energy use for every degree you adjust the thermostat setting above or below your normal setting.
Have your heating and cooling system professionally serviced semi-annually to keep them running at top efficiency.
Maintain heating and cooling unit efficiency by replacing your filters every month. Always replace with the same size and type as the original. If your filter is not disposable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool thereby wasting energy and money. A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system, leading to expensive repairs and/or early system failure.
Clean dust from supply and return air grilles and heating outlets.
Seal around wiring and plumbing penetrations. Use caulk for small holes and expanding foam for larger areas. This will keep unconditioned air from entering the house.
Make sure the caulk and weather-stripping around your windows and doors are in good shape.
Make sure your ducts are properly sealed. Cracks and joints at plenums can cause your heating and cooling bills to increase as much as 30% and can allow outside air to enter your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20%--and sometimes much more
Make sure furniture, curtains and rugs don't block the flow of air from vents and air registers.
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