We are all concerned with our energy footprint. The place where we use the most energy is in our homes. Much of that energy is used to regulate the temperature. Fortunately, there are several things we can do to reduce the amount of energy we use and still maintain a comfortable temperature. We can make changes in the quality of our insulation, and to the method with which we heat or cool our home. We can also change some of our habits.
Get a New System: Although this is one of the more expensive options, it is also one of the most effective ways to lower energy costs. Modern heating and cooling systems are much more efficient, and they can make your house more comfortable as well. For example, trench convectors from Air Solutions are an attractive and advanced method of heat delivery. Not only are there several design types to match any décor. The way they provide heat to the room is the closest possible match to perfect heat distribution, delivering heat from the floor in a way that it mixes efficiently.
Improve Your Insulation: Poor insulation wastes a lot of energy. Not every home was built with good insulation, but there are some things you can do to improve the insulative qualities of your home. Windows are a major source of heat loss. If you are in the mood for some remodeling you can take that opportunity to replace old, inefficient windows with some that have a better R-rating. And also, if cooling is a concern you can get windows that reflect heat away. Another thing you can do is add a layer of insulation under your siding, and to search your house for any heat leaks.
Maintain Your System: If you are unable to make changes to your home, you can still make improvements by servicing and maintaining your heating system. In a forced air system, you can get your ducts cleaned, and you can get new filters to improve air flow. You can also install a heat recovery ventilator, which will draw heat from your furnace exhaust, and combine it with the air in your ducts, through a heat exchange. If you have radiative heat you should regularly bleed the radiators to ensure that you don’t have trapped air that is making your system less efficient. You should also see if there are places where you can install heat reflectors to better distribute the heat throughout the room.
Change Your Habits: Other things that you can do is to adopt new habits in the home. You should be mindful of the temperature outside when you have the windows open. Perhaps you could adjust to living with a little lower heat, or a little less air conditioning. You can also purchase devices that will lower the temperature of your house while you are away.
Making your home more energy efficient can come with some high costs up front, and it does require some upkeep. But the long-term benefits will be a reduced energy bill, and the peace of mind that you are doing all you can to reduce your personal energy usage.