Even on a tight budget, there are things you can do to promote energy savings in your South Carolina home. Here are a few affordable options for cutting energy consumption:
Adjust your thermostat settings
For every degree you drop below 70 degrees, you can save as much as 5 percent on your monthly heating costs. Many homeowners find that setting the thermostat to 68 degrees while they’re in the home allows energy savings with minimal sacrifices in terms of comfort. You can save even more by dropping thermostat settings during times when you're either asleep or out of the home for an extended period.
Maintain your heating system
One of the easiest ways to promote energy savings is by making routine air filter changes. Monthly inspections should allow you to keep a handle on necessary cleanings and filter changes (check manufacturer’s specifications for more information). In addition to do-it-yourself maintenance, you should keep an annual maintenance schedule with a professional HVAC contractor to ensure ongoing system performance and efficiency.
Consider your water heater
In the average home, a setting of 120 degrees should provide sufficiently hot water, and can even save you upwards of 11 percent on water heating costs. Adequate insulation also promotes energy savings, so consider insulating your water heater, as well as the first five feet of pipe connected to the heater. This will cut heat loss significantly.
Find and seal air leaks
Don’t just complain about drafty doors and windows; seal them with caulking and weather-stripping. Other common trouble spots include areas where plumbing, ductwork and electrical wiring pass through walls, floors and ceilings. While these leaks may seem small, they can account for a significant amount of energy loss.
These are just a few tips for saving energy on a tight budget. However, if your heating system is between 10 and 20 years old, a high-efficiency upgrade may be the best course of action once your financial situation permits the necessary upgrade.
For more advice regarding energy savings for your South Carolina home, contact Comfort Services and speak to one of our expert technicians today.
