With energy prices as high as they have been recent, many of us are looking forward to the warmer temperatures in Spring, when we can turn off our home’s heating system.
That’s not the only way to save money on energy this time of year. We have some suggestions that may help you save more money, allowing you to enjoy yourself without sweating energy costs as much this Spring.
Regular, professional maintenance can help your home’s air conditioning run at its best possible efficiency while also lowering energy consumption by 15%. When you figure out that cooling accounts for around half of your energy expenses in warmer weather, it’s clear that there are some significant savings!
If your water heater is still at the factory preset of 140˚ Fahrenheit, your water heating energy costs are needlessly high. You can save 10% on your water heating costs by lowering the thermostat on your water heater to 120°F. The lower temperature setting is also safer, as 140˚ poses a scalding risk, especially for infants, children, and the elderly. If your water heater is approaching its end-of-life, now is a good time to upgrade to a propane tankless water heater and save 30% or more on water heating costs!
Don’t forget the refrigerator while cleaning your house, as it accounts for around 15% of your energy consumption. Carefully roll the fridge away from the wall and dust the coils in the back. You should also declutter your refrigerator. When it’s too full, the circulation of chilled air is restricted and your refrigerator must work harder, increasing your energy expenses. Also, vacuum your HVAC vents and replace your HVAC air filter.
When it’s hot outside, let your grill keep your home cooler! By grilling instead of using the stove, you avoid heating up your home and forcing the air conditioner to run more. One of our excellent propane gas grills would be a fantastic addition to your backyard.
You may associate drafts with heat loss in the winter. But they also bring warm air into your home. Your air conditioning will turn on more frequently and use more energy. Caulking, weatherstripping, and expanding foam can all be used to keep your cool air in where it belongs during the summer. This is also a great time to look into your home’s insulation and see whether it needs more. The U.S. Department of Energy has a good guide on insulation needs.
Improve your home’s energy efficiency with new, high efficiency propane appliances from Parker Gas! Contact us to learn more.