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While many people think that energy bills are just something to put up with, there are a number of things your can do to create energy savings. Energy Star recently offered a few tips we thought were worth passing along:

• Keep a clean air filter in your HVAC system – dirty filters reduce airflow and make your system work harder. Changing your filter every 30 days, or as often as recommended by the manufacturer, is one of the simplest energy savings ideas you can do.
• Install programmable thermostats – programmable thermostats allow you to reduce your heating and cooling during times when your house is vacant or your family is asleep, thereby reducing your energy consumption.
• Install ceiling fans – in the summer, fans reduce the perceived temperature by 2 to 3 degrees, allowing you to raise your thermostat by that amount. In the winter, ceiling fans push the heat down from the ceiling, insuring that your family is warm, and allowing you to lower the temperature on your thermostat by 2 to 3 degrees.
• Schedule annual preventative maintenance for your HVAC system – a properly tuned-up system works more efficiently, giving you another energy savings.
• Install CFL (compact florescent) light bulbs – CFL bulbs use about one-third the electricity of standard incandescent bulbs.
• Have your house checked for air leaks – whether summer or winter, excessive outside air entering into your home will cause your system to work harder in order to maintain your home comfortable.
• Think about replacing your air conditioner with an energy-efficient model – if your system is getting old, and close to the end of its life expectancy, changing it now might make sense. The energy savings you will gain from a new unit will recoup your costs in about two years.

Making even a couple of strategic changes can yield a difference. Of course, you know that you’re never alone when it comes to maximizing the efficiency and comfort from your heating and air-conditioning systems. The professionals at Home Comfort Experts are always ready to help.

Home Comfort services the Mishawaka/South Bend areas of Indiana.