How You Can Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Home
High energy bills can drain your budget, especially during the cold winter months when heating systems work overtime. Managing your energy usage begins with small, thoughtful changes. Since 1949, GEM Plumbing & Heating has been helping homeowners make smarter energy choices with high-quality services and expert advice.
From HVAC efficiency to electrical adjustments, here are some money-saving tips to lower your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable.
DIY Tips to Lower Energy Bills
Your HVAC system is one of the biggest contributors to energy bills, especially during peak heating or cooling seasons. Here are some DIY tips that can help you lower your energy bills:
Energy-Efficient HVAC Tips
If you’re looking to lower your energy bills, the first place to start is with your HVAC system. Here’s what to do:
- Schedule routine maintenance: A well-maintained system uses less energy, which saves you money on heating and cooling bills.
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat: Set your thermostat to lower the temperature when you’re away or sleeping. Smart thermostats make it easy to program schedules and even adjust settings remotely. For example, lowering your thermostat by 7°F to 10°F for eight hours a day can save up to 10% annually on heating costs.
- Seal and insulate ductwork: Leaky or uninsulated ducts can waste a lot of your warm or cool air — up to 30%. Sealed and insulated ductwork gets more conditioned air to where it’s going.
- Change air filters regularly: Dirty filters block airflow and make your system work harder. Replace filters every one to three months to get the most out of your system.
- Upgrade to high-efficiency equipment: Older systems often can’t keep up with demand, which makes them use more energy. A Carrier or Mitsubishi high-efficiency HVAC system can help reduce your energy use.
Electrical Tips to Save Energy
You can also save energy with your home’s electrical systems. Some simple upgrades and better habits can reduce your bills, including:
- Switch to LED bulbs: LEDs can use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Changing bulbs in high-traffic areas like kitchens or living rooms can quickly add up to big savings.
- Eliminate phantom energy use: Chargers, TVs, and coffee makers use power even when they’re turned off. Unplug them or use smart power strips that cut power when you’re not using them.
- Install dimmer switches: Dimming lights reduce energy use and add ambiance to your space.
- Invest in whole-home surge protection: You can optimize your energy use and protect your property from power surges with whole-home surge protection.
- Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: Generally, older appliances use far more energy than necessary. Replacing them with ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances gives you better performance and lower electricity costs.
Start Saving on Energy Costs Today
Lowering your energy bills can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start with simple adjustments. If you want professional help to maximize your energy budget, count on GEM Plumbing & Heating. Our licensed technicians offer expert maintenance, repairs, and installations to keep your home running efficiently. From optimizing your HVAC system to upgrading your electrical setup, we’re here to help you save money and live comfortably.
Ready to lower your energy bills? Use the tips above or schedule a service by calling GEM today.
