While summer may be fast approaching, some areas of the United States may still be on the chilly side from time-to-time. The weather, as the saying goes, tends to have a mind of its own.
When you do need to take off the chill, it makes sense to have a high-efficiency heating system.. Energy-efficient heating systems have an annual fuel utilization efficiency, or AFUE, of 90% to 95%. As the weather begins to warm up, you can start turning back your thermostat when you’re at work or engaged in other activities that keep you away from home for an extended period of time.
Were you aware that if you’re going to be out of the house for 8 hours or so, that turning back your thermostat 10% can save you the same amount on your heating and cooling bill? Since 48% of your energy consumption is usually for heating and cooling, it tends to be the largest expense. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that heating and air conditioning usually comprise 43% of your monthly utility bill.
In addition to turning your thermostat back, you can also reduce energy waste by installing insulation. If you have an attic that isn’t adequately insulated, the heat can literally go through your roof. The same applies to cool air during those warmer months.
Most, or 88%, of the single-family homes constructed during 2011 had air conditioning systems installed. Currently, 2/3 of American homes have air conditioners, which use approximately 5% of the electricity produced in this country. Given that medical issues associated with extreme heat, including death, have dropped 80% over the past 50 years, researchers believe that air conditioning systems have contributed to this reduction significantly.
If your home doesn’t have an air conditioning system, you may want to contact an AC service to have a central air conditioning system installed. When properly maintained, the average lifespan of these systems is 20 years.
When you haven’t turned on your air conditioning system for a while, it’s also be a good idea to have a heating and cooling company inspect it. Chances are that it may need routine maintenance or repairs.
Even though you may not need your heating systems again until fall or winter, you may want to have a HVAC home analysis conducted now. When a contractor provides this analysis, they can provide you energy-saving solutions as well as discuss the benefits of having an energy-efficient HVAC system installed.