Efficient Heating and Cooling – Why It’s Important And What You Can Do
February 27th, 2011
Most of us want to be sure our homes stay at a comfortable temperature, but keeping them that way can use up a lot of energy. Of course, any behavior that raises energy use also increases the rate at which we use the fossil fuels we burn for power. These fuels are not only in limited supply, but their burning increases the number of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as lower level pollution. If you’re concerned about the environment, efficiently heating and cooling your home are important things to pay attention to.
Fortunately, that are a number of things you can do to improve your home’s efficiency. How we heat and cool our houses makes for a significant part of most Americans’ carbon footprint – as much or more than even our driving habits. By improving your home’s efficiency, you’re making a big difference in how much energy you use. Many of the changes you can make are simple and easy.
Installing a programmable thermostat with Energy Star certification makes it easy to keep your home at the desired temperature. Turn it down a little more in the winter and up a few degrees in the summer – most of us don’t notice, but it makes a big difference. Remember that your windows and doors should be well sealed to prevent air leaks, and that you can use insulated blinds and drapes to help reduce heat loss or gain in your home. Installation of ceiling fans will improve energy efficiency, too. You can use them in the summer, or in the winter by reversing the direction of the blades. Fans also make the air in your home a lot healthier.
Insulation makes a big difference, too. Most homes don’t have enough insulation, especially in the attic. Adding more may take a bit of effort, but it’ll safe you money in the long run. Remember to have your furnace serviced regularly, too. If it’s too old, replace it with a more efficient model – this might be expensive to start, but it’ll soon pay for itself. The efficiency of some old furnaces is no more than fifty percent!
Making your home’s heating and cooling more efficient is one important step towards greater sustainability, and a smaller carbon footprint. Plus, you’ll save money on energy bills, too. Take a look at your house and see what changes you can make for a better, more efficient home.
Posted in Green Ideas
