6 Energy-Saving Tips for Your Home this Spring

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused massive financial losses in countless businesses and families. As a result, people are left to find ways to minimize their expenses in an attempt to make up for the lost income. Thankfully, you can take some steps to lower your energy expenses this spring, starting with your heating techniques. Since your heating can make up about half of your monthly expenses, being wiser on how you operate your heat pump and making little adjustments at home has become a must.

Four Seasons Air Specialists is your total HVAC company in Circle Pines MN. We aim to help you maintain a comfortable home in the most energy-efficient ways.

Here are some tips to consider if you are looking to save on your energy expenses this season.

Natural Lighting

During summer and winter, you try not to ring up the curtains because you want to keep as much conditioned air as possible. However, spring offers milder temperatures, which enable you to use natural light instead of turning on your electrical lighting fixtures. Your LED or incandescent lightbulbs produce a lot of heat, in contrast to the minimal heat generated by natural light. Making use of ambient light can save up to 75 percent of the energy used for lighting and reduce your HVAC costs.

Filter Maintenance

Your HVAC system’s filter helps clean the air that circulates in your home. It also keeps dust, dirt, and debris from entering the internal components of your cooling system. If the filter is clogged, it can cause your system to work with added strain. This burden leads to inefficient heating and inconsistent temperatures in different areas of your home.

Changing your filters on a regular basis allows your HVAC system to work efficiently, meaning, it consumes less energy. According to the  U.S. Department of Energy, using clean filters allows you to save as much as 5 percent to 15 percent on your energy consumption.

Using a Dishwasher

You may not realize this, but when you use a dishwasher instead of hand-washing dishes, you are saving energy. Energy Star estimates annual savings of up to $40 if you use an Energy Star-certified dishwasher rather than hand-washing your plates and platters. Most dishwashers approved by Energy Star are equipped with powerful jets that effectively clean and sanitize dishes using less heated water.

Energy Star also states that a dishwasher certified by their office uses less than half as much energy as washing dishes by hand and saves almost 5,000 gallons of water per year.

Thermostat Settings

Check your outdoor temperature and set your thermostat only a few degrees higher. The smaller the difference between outdoor and indoor temperatures, the lower your utility bill will be.

When you’re away, set your thermostat to a warmer temperature, and lower it to 78 degrees Fahrenheit only when you’re at home and need cooling. This can be easily achieved with the help of a programmable or smart thermostat.

Setting your thermostat higher than normal when turning on your heat pump doesn’t actually do you any favor. It will not heat up your home any faster and can even cause your electric bill to rise up unnecessarily.

Insulation Boost

Winter may have damaged seals around your doors and windows, allowing precious air to escape. This problem will keep your HVAC system from operating efficiently since some of the heated air is escaping in tiny openings within your home.

Therefore, take some time to check each window and door and see if there are any cracks or leaks. A caulk gun can help you repair any damaged seals to ensure your home stays energy-efficient, especially during summer.

Proper insulation will help you keep the desired temperature in your house regardless of the season. It will protect you from the searing heat of summer as well as the piercing cold of winter.

HVAC Maintenance with Four Seasons Air Specialists

Perhaps the most important energy-saving tip we can give you is to have your HVAC system maintained by your preferred Shoreview heating and air conditioning company at least once per year. The technician will give your heat pump or air conditioner a thorough cleaning, lubrication if needed, and operational safety inspection. These steps are necessary to ensure a hassle-free and efficient operation all year round.