Considering that heating and cooling account for 43% of utility bills, it’s no surprise many Utah residents are looking for ways to make their homes more energy efficient. Thankfully, there are simple methods to accomplish this goal—which also lowers your carbon footprint and saves money.
4 Smart Ways to Save on Energy Bills
From timely air conditioner and furnace repair to learning how to use your ceiling fans correctly, here are four effective ways to lower energy consumption in your Utah home all year long:
1. Invest in a Smart Thermostat
Modern smart thermostats automatically regulate your home’s temperature depending on the weather and your lifestyle patterns for maximum energy savings. Industry estimates reveal that smart thermostats can save you around 8% on your heating and cooling bills annually. If you’re looking for a more affordable solution, opt for programmable thermostats that allow you to pre-set your home’s temperature on a set schedule.
2. Use Your Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans circulate air, which reduces the load on your HVAC system. You may use it with your HVAC system to increase the comfort of your house—regardless of the season. Throughout the summer, you can rotate it counterclockwise to circulate cold air without using air conditioning. As the colder weather arrives, you rotate it clockwise to move warm air around the room.
3. Maintain Your HVAC System
Timely air conditioning repair, furnace repair, and regular tune-ups ensure your HVAC system runs at peak efficiency. During a service, your trusted local contractor will check the overall operation of your HVAC, clean your burners, tighten electrical connections, and more. Aside from providing your Utah home with optimal comfort, this helps you save on energy bills and avoid unexpected, costly system breakdowns.
4. Seal Drafts
The more drafts your home has, the less efficient your HVAC system is (as heated or cooled air slips through nooks and crannies). Prevent this by weatherstripping and caulking your doors and windows. Consider replacing older windows with energy-efficient ones if they show visible signs of wear. Despite the initial investment, energy-efficient windows can save you money on utility bills in the long run.
Small, manageable steps can make a huge difference in the long run. The simple tips we’ve shared can help make your Utah home more comfortable while saving money on your energy bills.
