Experts Recommend Investing in an Energy-Efficient HVAC System.
The biggest energy hog in a home is the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system, so it’s smart for you to consider investing in new energy-efficient products. However, replacing an entire HVAC system is a large investment, so you should consider your needs carefully before making a decision. A home energy audit will determine where problem areas are in your home and help you decide what will bring you the most return on investment.
So What Should You Invest in for 2015? Here Are Our Top Choices:
HVAC Tune-Up
It may sound silly, but just having a simple Air Conditioning or Heating Tune-Up performed on your home can cut your monthly energy costs by up to 30%! With the average electric bill here in Austin, TX being *$102.71 a month that an average-immediate savings of over $30 a month or $360 for this year alone. I would say that is a sound investment.
Digital Programmable Thermostat
According to the government’s Energy Star program, households that use a digital programmable thermostat can save about $180 a year on their energy bill. These thermostats make it even easier to keep your house comfortable, allowing you to adjust your settings even when you’re not at home. No matter what your budget may be, a smart thermostat is a smart investment.
Attic Insulation
A properly insulated attic can reduce heating and cooling costs by an average of **$600/year. Proper insulation will also make your home more comfortable and extend the life of your HVAC system.
Repairing or Replacing Ductwork & Air Balancing
Even though your Air Conditioner, Furnace or Heat Pump is working properly and efficiently doesn’t mean your HVAC system is in complete working order. Are there hot or cold spots in your home? This could be causing you to unnecessarily adjust your thermostat to accommodate for that hot or cold room, which costs you more money. Having your home properly air-balanced and air ducts in working order can save you up to 10% of your monthly energy costs.
HVAC Replacement
The federal government recommends replacing air conditioners over ten years old and furnaces over 20 years old. The primary reason for this, according to the EPA and Department of Energy, is that newer air conditioners and heat pumps offer significant long-term energy savings. Replacing older air conditioning units can save you 20% or more on air conditioning energy use. The older the unit, the less efficient and more costly it will be.
* Average Electric Bill in Austin, Texas provided by MyEnergy.com
**Based on a national average; actual savings may vary.