As the temperatures start to drop, homeowners begin preparing their homes for the upcoming cold months. Fall is the perfect time to take steps toward making your home more energy efficient, not only to keep your family comfortable but also to reduce your energy costs. Implementing a few simple strategies can make a big difference in your home’s efficiency.
Here are some practical energy efficiency tips from ServiceOne on how to keep your home energy efficient during the fall!
1. Seal gaps and cracks
One of the most common ways energy is wasted during the fall and winter months is through leaks and drafts in your home. Gaps around doors, windows, and even electrical outlets can let cold and warm air in, forcing your heating system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. This leads to higher energy costs.
To prevent this, inspect your home for any gaps or cracks around doors and windows. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal them up, ensuring that your home stays warm without using extra energy. You can also use draft stoppers at the bottom of exterior doors to prevent cold air from sneaking in.
2. Schedule an HVAC tune-up
Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in keeping your home comfortable during the fall and winter months. Regular maintenance ensures that your heating system runs efficiently, preventing sudden breakdowns and costly repairs. Fall is the perfect time to schedule a professional HVAC tune-up with ServiceOne. Our team will inspect and clean your system, checking for any issues that could affect its efficiency.
A well-maintained HVAC system uses less energy to heat your home, reducing your overall energy bills. Plus, routine maintenance can extend the life of your heating system, saving you money in the long run.
3. Upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat
Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency in your home. A programmable thermostat allows you to set schedules based on when you are home or away, ensuring that your heating system isn’t running when it’s not needed.
A smart thermostat takes energy efficiency to the next level by automatically learning your schedule and adjusting temperatures. You can even control your smart thermostat remotely through an app on your phone, allowing you to manage your home’s temperature no matter where you are. Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees when you’re not home can significantly reduce your energy costs.
4. Use ceiling fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling your home in the summer. By reversing the direction of your ceiling fan in the fall, you can push warm air that rises toward the ceiling back down into the room. This helps to distribute heat more evenly throughout your home, reducing the need to turn up the thermostat. Just remember to switch your fan to run clockwise during the fall and winter months to take advantage of this energy-saving tip.
5. Maximize natural sunlight
Take advantage of the sun’s natural warmth by keeping blinds and curtains open during the day. The sun’s rays can naturally heat your home, reducing the need to rely on your heating system. Close the blinds and curtains at night to help insulate your home and keep the heat inside.
By following these simple energy efficiency tips, you can keep your home energy efficient during the fall while also staying comfortable and saving money. ServiceOne is here to help with all your HVAC maintenance needs, so don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule your fall tune-up. Together, we can ensure that your home is prepared for the colder months ahead while minimizing energy costs.