Energy Efficiency Tips from an HVAC Contractor in Charleston, SC
Low-country residents were quick to express their enthusiasm at the recent hint of fall temperatures, and understandably so. Over the summer, we saw highs in the 90s with lows inching towards the 80s many nights. Although some families squeezed in a socially distant beach day or two, routines were far from normal. A new season brings fresh promise and the motivation for improvement, whether personal, professional or around the home. In today’s post, we’ve pulled together our favorite energy efficiency tips as an HVAC contractor in Charleston, SC.
1. Review Your Energy Usage
Take a close look at your monthly energy usage by logging into your online account (through Dominion Energy, Berkeley Electric Cooperative, etc.). Review trends and compare usage from this September versus last September, for instance. Are things trending up or down? Understanding this information is step one. The data you uncover can also be helpful as you prepare your monthly budget.
2. Have Your Unit Serviced
Although we may be a little biased in this recommendation as an HVAC contractor in Charleston, SC, energy experts agree on its importance. We recently covered the many benefits of semi-annual HVAC maintenance, which include cost savings, healthier air and lowering your home’s carbon footprint.
3. Schedule an Energy Audit
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends an energy audit of your home: “An audit can help you determine how much energy your home uses, where your home is losing energy, and which problem areas and fixes you should prioritize to make your home more efficient and comfortable.” At East Cooper Heating & Air, we are happy to provide professional energy audits and have more information about its many benefits on our website. Our goal is to save you money and improve your home’s thermal performance.
4. Consider Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat
You can expect to save 10-12 percent on heating and 15 percent on cooling costs with a Nest Thermostat. Not able to make the switch quite yet? Review pointers on programming your existing thermostat on Energy.gov. Adjusting by just a few degrees can benefit the environment and lower your energy bill.
5. Unplug It and Turn Appliances Off
Do you leave phone chargers plugged into outlets even when not in use? Establishing simple habits such as unplugging after use can make an impact. If you or a family member keeps the television on as background noise, adopt a new habit of turning the TV off when you aren’t actively watching.
6. Open and Close Blinds
Welcome the day by adjusting your blinds to curtail energy usage. Invite the sunshine in to bring warmth into a room as it cools down outside (when temps are high outside, limit the amount of light that enters the room). As an added bonus, natural light has many notable health benefits.
7. Change Your Filters
Having clean filters means your unit won’t have to work quite as hard. Clean filters also improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens.
8. Energy Efficient Appliances
When it’s time to purchase a new appliance, Energy Star reminds consumers there are two price tags to keep in mind: what you pay initially for the appliance and the energy usage associated with the appliance over time. Their website includes a directory by appliance type.
We’re Here to Help
The East Cooper Heating and Air SC team is committed to its employees, customers and communities. We are taking proper measures to ensure the safety of our team members and our customers. Let’s work together to keep you and your family comfortable as you save energy. Contact us today to get started; give us a call at (843) 375-6592 or fill out our online request form.
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