The New Year is the perfect time for fresh starts—not just for you, but for your home too! While you might be resolving to hit the gym or eat healthier, your home might have its own set of resolutions to become more energy-efficient and comfortable for everyone living in it.
Here are some practical and impactful resolutions to make your Florida home more energy-efficient and improve your comfort in the coming year.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat for Energy Savings
A smart thermostat is like a personal trainer for your HVAC system. It learns your schedule and adjusts the temperature to save energy while maintaining comfort. For instance, you can set it to cool less while you’re at work and have the house perfectly chilled by the time you return. Over time, this upgrade can save you up to 10% on heating and cooling bills.
If you’re still using a manual or non-programmable thermostat, upgrading is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
Keep Your Water Heater in Check
Your water heater accounts for about 14% of your home’s energy use, according to Energy Star. To keep it running efficiently:
- Lower the temperature: Set your water heater to 120°F for optimal energy savings without sacrificing comfort.
- Insulate the tank: This is especially important if your water heater is located in an unconditioned space.
- Consider a tankless water heater: These models heat water on demand, saving energy by eliminating standby heat loss.
Seal Air Ducts
Leaky air ducts can waste up to 30% of the air moving through your HVAC system, leading to higher energy bills and uneven cooling. Sealing and insulating your ducts ensures that the air you pay to heat or cool stays in your home.
To determine if your ducts need sealing, look for visible leaks, inspect connections at vents and registers, or consult a professional for an evaluation.
Increase Insulation
Insulation isn’t just for colder climates. Proper insulation keeps cool air in during Florida’s hot summers and warm air in during those rare chilly nights.
- Focus on the attic: Heat rises, making the attic a critical area for insulation improvements.
- Check for drafts: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent energy loss.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Windows
Florida’s abundant sunshine is wonderful, but it can also drive up cooling costs. Energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings help block heat from entering your home while still letting in natural light.
If replacing windows isn’t in the budget, consider adding solar film or using thermal-backed curtains to reduce heat gain.
Install Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are an underrated tool for improving comfort and reducing energy costs. In the summer, set them to spin counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze. In the winter, reverse the direction to push warm air downward.
By using ceiling fans, you can raise your thermostat by a few degrees without sacrificing comfort, leading to significant energy savings.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Your HVAC system is the heart of your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning coils, replacing filters, and inspecting components, ensures it runs at peak performance.
A well-maintained system not only uses less energy but also lasts longer, saving you money on costly repairs and replacements.
Embrace Renewable Energy
Consider taking your energy efficiency to the next level by installing solar panels. Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a reason, and harnessing that sunshine can significantly reduce your energy bills.
While the initial investment can be high, state and federal incentives often make solar panels more affordable. Plus, they add value to your home.
Manage Humidity with a Dehumidifier
Florida’s humidity can make your home feel warmer than it is, causing your air conditioner to work harder. A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, making your home feel cooler and more comfortable.
By reducing humidity, you can ease the strain on your HVAC system and potentially lower your energy costs.
Clean Your Air Ducts
Dirty air ducts can not only lower indoor air quality but also reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency. Regular duct cleaning removes dust, allergens, and debris, allowing air to flow freely and your system to work more effectively.
Unplug and Save
Many electronics and appliances continue to draw power even when they’re turned off, a phenomenon known as phantom energy. Use power strips to easily cut off power to multiple devices at once or invest in smart plugs to automate energy-saving practices.
Upgrade Lighting to LEDs
LED light bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Switching out old bulbs for LEDs is a quick and inexpensive way to lower your electricity bills.
Call Velocity Air Conditioning for Energy Savings
Making your home more energy-efficient is a resolution that benefits both your wallet and the planet. From installing a smart thermostat to sealing air ducts, these simple upgrades can lead to significant savings and improved comfort.
If you’re ready to take your home’s energy efficiency to the next level, Velocity Air Conditioning is here to help. Our experts provide HVAC maintenance, energy audits, and system upgrades tailored to the unique needs of Florida homes.
Contact Velocity Air Conditioning today to schedule your consultation and make 2025 the year of energy savings for your home!
