Energy efficiency can seem like a huge, expensive undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be. Energy efficiency not only pertains to how your home’s heating and cooling system is operating, but means that you’re potentially saving money all the time. Simple practices such as turning off lights when you leave for work, changing out furnace and air filters, and programming your thermostat are a couple of the easiest, most impactful ways to make your home more efficient. We all know that the winter and summer months in West Columbia can bring about an increased dependency on both heating and cooling systems, so why not make certain that they’re working at their most efficient levels?
Dirty air filters alone can lower the airflow in your home, resulting in a heating and cooling system that has to compensate by running harder than it would typically. Over time, those systems will wear out sooner, resulting in the need for a replacement earlier than you’d like. Swapping or cleaning your air filters monthly may drastically impact the life of your system and offer you more consistent comfort as well.
So what other common tasks can you complete to improve your energy efficiency?
- Seal or add weather-stripping around your exterior doors and windows
- Add extra insulation to your attic
- Make sure both your laundry and kitchen appliances are clean and free of lint and dust
Something else to consider when boosting your energy efficiency is the age of your system. Older systems are usually much less efficient than newer systems. Sure, it sounds obvious, but the difference a new system can make is substantial, so before you decide whether or not to make repairs to your current system, be sure to check out newer selections as well. The rule of thumb for the lifetime of heating and cooling systems is between 12 and 15 years, so if your system is around that age, be sure to look at all your options.
Energy efficiency doesn’t have to be stressful, and with the team at Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. in West Columbia, you can feel good that you’re in the right hands. Whether it’s more simple tips to maintaining your heating and cooling system or advice on buying a new system, give us a shout at 803-265-4208 and we can put you on the right path.