Energy Bill Savings: 6 Ways to Reduce the Impact of Heating and Cooling
by Judy Colbert
The US Department of Energy’s studies show heating and cooling account for about half of our energy bill. 1 Small changes and improvements can make a significant impact on your monthly costs. By optimizing your home’s energy efficiency, you can reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems while enjoying greater comfort year- round. Here are a few ways to save money on that bill: SMART THERMOSTATS These devices save you from having to manually adjust your thermostat as the weather and temperature inside your home change by learning your temperature preferences and establishing a schedule that automatically adjusts to energy-saving temperatures when you are asleep or away. 2 According to John Jordan, President of Integrity Heating & Cooling, “they are generally more straightforward and cost-effective to integrate into new builds.” COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHTS (CFLS) Although a little more energy is used when they are first turned on, CFLs use 70% less electricity than standard bulbs and last ten times as long. 3 They produce less heat, Home insulation helps block heat transfer, reducing both heating and cooling expenses. In addition to saving money, proper insulation enhances overall comfort in your living space. Older homes are generally less well- insulated than newer builds. Determine if improving insulation will result in energy savings by getting a professional assessment. 4 DUCTWORK The duct system in your home consists of a network of tubes located within the walls, floors, and ceilings, designed to distribute air from the furnace or central air conditioner to each room. Typically made from sheet metal, fiberglass, or other materials, leaky ducts can allow heated air to escape into unheated areas, potentially increasing your annual heating and cooling thus reducing cooling costs. WALL INSULATION
costs by hundreds of dollars. Make sure heating and cooling ductwork that runs through uninsulated attics and garages are properly sealed to avoid losing heated and cooled air. 5 LEAKS Check unconditioned attic space, basement, and crawl spaces. Seal air leaks around areas where pipes enter the home (known as plumbing penetrations), as well as gaps around chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cabinets and closets. 6 REDUCE WATER HEATING Water heating makes up approximately 18% of a home’s energy usage and is usually the second-highest energy expense. Reduce water consumption and save energy by reducing the amount of hot water required. You can lower your water heating bills by using less hot water, adopting energy-saving practices like reducing your water heater’s thermostat, insulating the heater and pipes, or upgrading to a more efficient water heater model. 7
Sources:
1 U.S. Department of Energy. "Energy Data Facts." Residential Program Solution Center. November 28, 2024. https://rpsc.energy.gov/energy-data-facts. 2 ENERGY STAR. "Smart Thermostats." November 28, 2024. https://www.energystar.gov/products/ smart_thermostats. 3 ENERGY STAR. "Learn About CFLs." November 28, 2024. https://www.energystar.gov/products/ lighting_fans/light_bulbs/learn_about_cfls. 4 U.S. Department of Energy. "Insulation." Energy Saver. November 28, 2024. https://www.energy. gov/energysaver/insulation. 5 U.S. Department of Energy. "Minimizing Energy Losses in Ducts." Energy Saver. November 28, 2024. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/minimizing-energy-losses-ducts. 6 U.S. Department of Energy. "Fall and Winter Energy-Saving Tips." Energy Saver. November 28, 2024. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/fall-and-winter-energy-saving-tips. 7 U.S. Department of Energy. "Water Heating." Energy Saver. November 28, 2024. https://www. energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating.
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