With the cool weather approaching in Southern Arizona, now is a good time to think about possible steps for enhancing household comfort and energy efficiency. With that in mind, here are six tips that will help you improve energy savings in your home.
- Properly seal windows and doors. Drafty windows and doors are common trouble spots in most homes, but they are also relatively easy and affordable to address with caulk and weather-stripping.
- Upgrade outdated windows. Even with proper sealing, some older windows just don’t do an adequate job of preventing heat exchange. Consider upgrading to a more thermal-resistant window, such as those qualified by Energy Star. If you’re not in a position financially to afford such an upgrade, storm windows offer a cost-effective alternative.
- Check for leaks around electrical outlets and switches. Addressing this issue is as simple as removing the panel and installing a pre-cut foam gasket.
- Look for exterior penetrations. As pipes, ducts, vents and wires pass from one room to the next, or to the outside of the home, there is a distinct potential for unwanted heat and moisture exchange. Address such gaps using caulk and weather stripping.
- Evaluate duct efficiency. Duct leaks are known to account for significant energy loss in the average home. While you can assess and even seal accessible duct leaks using mastic and metal-backed tape (do not use duct tape), you need a professional to evaluate and seal ducts hidden behind walls, floors and ceilings. To further address energy loss through ductwork, you may also consider adding insulation to ducts that run through unconditioned areas of the home.
- Look for simple solutions. In some homes, increasing energy savings can be as simple as closing a forgotten upstairs window, or shutting a fireplace damper when the fireplace is not in use.
By taking these six simple steps, you’ll enjoy significant energy savings on your monthly heating bills this winter. For more on how you can improve the efficiency of your Yuma area home, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. Our expert technicians are standing by to serve all of your heating and cooling needs.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about energy savings tips and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Hansberger Refrigeration & Electric Co services the Yuma area in Arizona. Visit our websiteto see our special offers and get started today!
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