By Natural Home Staff
The average family has an annual energy bills of $1,400. Nearly half of that is spent on heating and cooling. Homeowners can save up to 20 percent on their annual utility bills by using Energy Star heating and cooling equipment.
To save energy as well as money, try these energy saving tips:
PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS:
Programmable thermostats that have earned the Energy Star rating will automatically adjust temperature settings while you’re asleep or away from home. Save energy and money by maximizing your heating and cooling during the hours when you need it most.
AIR CONDITIONERS AND HEAT PUMPS:
Energy Star–qualified air conditioners and heat pumps offer substantial long-term energy savings when compared to ten-year-old units. They typically use at least 20 percent less energy than new standard models.
CEILING FANS:
Ceiling fans circulate cool air so you can adjust your thermostat for energy savings. Fans are not only beneficial in warmer weather months but also in cooler weather months.
TUNE UPS:
For peak operating efficiently, have an annual tune up of your central air system.
DUCT SEALING AND INSULATION:
Proper duct sealing and insulation can prevent leaks of conditioned air between the walls, ceilings, and floors. This can save up to 10 percent on energy bills.
COOL ONLY WHAT YOU NEED:
By providing heat relief only where and when you need it, a room air conditioner can save energy and money. An Energy Star qualified, single-room air conditioner will be at least 10 percent more efficient than older models. When buying a new air conditioner, make sure it’s the appropriate size and installed properly—bigger is not always better. Units with too large a capacity cost more and may decrease your home’s comfort.
For information on keeping your home comfortable year-round, get the Energy Star Guide to Energy-Efficient Cooling and Heating. EnergyStar.gov/hvacguide; (888) 782-7937.
Provided by Natural Home - http://www.naturalhomemagazine.com
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