What Can I Do to Lower My Energy Bills in Delray Beach?
If you’re wanting to save money, a great place to begin is right inside your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling your home typically accounts for about 48% of your utility bill. Some of the best ways to start saving money don’t require a big investment of money or time. If you haven’t scheduled your furnace service for the year, that’s an ideal place to start. We also have a couple additional tips that can help keep your costs as low as possible.
Schedule an Energy Audit
If you contact your local utility provider, they will come conduct an energy audit of your home. These services are usually provided free-of-charge and include everything that is present on your energy bill, from your heating and cooling system to your kitchen and laundry appliances. Many utility companies also offer rebates for insulation and other equipment that can increase your home’s efficiency.
Smartly Program Your Programmable Thermostat
Thermostats have come a long way, and the technology behind them only continues to expand. For example, the iComfort S30 is able to use the GPS In your smartphone to detect when you’re leaving and makes the proper change to help you save money and boost efficiency while you’re away. When you return home, everything goes to the way it was and you don’t have to worry about anything. It’s also able to adapt to your routine, so when baseball and football seasons kick off, your thermostat can make the right adjustment.
The Department of Energy notes that a well programmed thermostat may
lower your heating costs by up to 35% and your cooling costs by up to 25%. Set your thermostat as low as you can, while remaining comfortable in the winter and as high as comfortable in the summer. There are a few different models to decide from so pick the one that best adapts to your schedule and needs.
If your schedule changes often, a 7-day model is likely your best choice. They provide you the flexibility to set different programs for each day. These normally have four possible temperature periods per day.
There are also 5+2 and 5-1-1 models. These models are best if you maintain the same schedule on weekdays and another for weekends.
Selecting and Maintaining Your System
If you think you’re almost to the point where your system will need to be replaced, it’s a good idea to view all of your options so you can make an informed decision when the time comes. Look at the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of air conditioners and the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) of the furnaces. The higher the ratings, the better the savings. As always, our furnace and A/C professionals will help you make a well-informed decision that adapts to you and your needs.
If you’re not at that point, a simple furnace service and routine maintenance can keep your system working smoothly and efficiently. If you haven’t arranged your furnace service for the year or are having any sort of questions about your system or possibilities, give us a call at 561-287-7071.