A Homeowner’s Guide to Energy-Efficient Upgrades

By taking steps to make your home more energy efficient, you can increase home comfort and lower your energy bills. Many energy-efficient upgrades aren’t expensive, and you can complete some of them yourself. Others require professional help or a larger investment. Now’s the time to decide what projects your budget allows and to take action today.

  • Lower the water heater temperature: Tank water heaters have thermostats that control how hot your water gets. The default setting is usually 140 degrees. However, you can lower this to 120 degrees to reduce standby heat loss wiA Homeowner's Guide to Energy-Efficient Upgradesthout risking microbial growth in your tank.
  • Seal air leaks: Windows and doors are the easiest places to seal. Use caulk to plug gaps smaller than one quarter of an inch wide and weatherstripping to help close windows and doors tightly. Other areas that could be leaking without your knowledge, include attic floor penetrations, ductwork shafts, dropped ceilings and any exterior wall penetrations.
  • Install a programmable thermostat: This inexpensive upgrade gives you the power to set the temperature back while you’re away or sleeping. Automatic recovery periods can resume a comfortable temperature before you get home or wake up. The result is lower energy bills without having to sacrifice comfort.
  • Boost attic and wall insulation: When the temperature soars in Yuma this summer, you’ll be able to keep your home comfortable better if it’s well insulated. A thick layer of attic insulation is your best defense. If your exterior walls lack insulation, a professional can drill a small hole and blow in cellulose insulation to improve cooling efficiency.
  • Replace the refrigerator: If you have an old refrigerator, it’s probably one of the most wasteful appliances in your home. New energy-efficient upgrades have Energy Star labels, indicating they consume less electricity than standard models. This upgrade can pay for itself in 10 years or less.
  • Consider a heat pump: In Yuma’s warm climate, a high-efficiency heat pump is a smart replacement for an aging furnace and air conditioner. A heat pump can both heat and cool your home for year-round comfort.

For more information on how to make these energy-efficient upgrades in your home, please contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. We’ve been serving residents in Yuma since 1952.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about energy efficiency and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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