Heating & Cooling Efficiency

Save energy while keeping your home comfortable

Heating and cooling can use a lot of energy in the average home. According to the EPA, as much as half of the energy used in your home goes toward heating and cooling, which can raise utility costs and contribute to pollution.

With a few smart habits and simple home improvements, you can help your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system work more efficiently, save energy and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.

Adjust for Efficiency

Small changes to your thermostat and daily habits can help reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.

Heating and cooling tips:

Install a programmable thermostat and set it around your family’s daily schedule
Set the thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter when no one is home
Use ceiling fans to help circulate air
Close curtains and shades in the summer to block heat from the sun
Open curtains and shades in the winter when sunlight can help warm your home
Use a microwave or outdoor grill in the summer when possible to avoid heating up your home with the oven

Maintain Your System

Routine maintenance can help your heating and cooling system run more efficiently and last longer.

Maintenance tips:

Check air filters every month and change them when they look dirty, or at least every three months
Seal accessible ductwork with mastic sealant or metal tape
Insulate ducts in attics, crawlspaces, unfinished basements and garages when possible
Add caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors to reduce drafts

Upgrade When It Makes Sense

If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old or has trouble keeping up, it may be time to consider a more efficient option. ENERGY STAR-certified heating and cooling systems can help reduce energy use and may lower annual energy costs by more to $115.

Choosing efficient equipment, keeping it maintained and reducing drafts can make your home more comfortable while using less energy.

Comfort With Less Energy

Heating and cooling efficiency does not have to mean major changes all at once. By adjusting your thermostat, maintaining your system and improving insulation where you can, you can save energy, lower costs and help support cleaner air in Hampton Roads.