With the rising price of energy, spring cannot come soon enough for many homeowners. But cooling also involves the consumption of energy so it makes sense to conserve in the summer cooling season as well.
PORT CHESTER, N.Y., April 11, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- With the rising price of energy, spring cannot come soon enough for many homeowners. But cooling also involves the consumption of energy so it makes sense to conserve in the summer cooling season as well.
Geothermal Cools Too
Geothermal energy uses heat radiating from the earth's core, and is best known for heating homes, but it can cool as well. By installing heat pumps, homeowners can harness this energy to both heat and cool their homes.
"Owners of new homes or ones planning renovations could benefit by looking into geothermal heating and cooling as an alternative to conventional energy sources,'' said Dan Singer, President of Robison, a home comfort company in Westchester County, NY. "Utility companies in many states are now offering substantial rebates that in many cases cut the cost of installation dramatically, making it very affordable for the homeowner."
For instance, in New York State, a partnership between New York State and utility company Con Edison makes installing a heat pump an economical and sustainable choice for homeowners. Most homeowners can qualify for up to $21,000 in rebates and can also take advantage of low-interest loans and federal tax credits.
To learn more about rebates for geothermal energy in New York State and in other parts of the country consult IRS rules.
Upgrading Cooling Equipment
Outdated cooling equipment can use a disproportionate amount of energy. While upgrading your cooling system might seem expensive, now is probably the best time to get a return on your money. Choosing a system with a higher efficiency rating is always the best bet. For air conditioning, the rating is (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). This rating is based on general design criteria such as the compressor and outdoor coil.
"A new HVAC System can reduce your energy bill by as much as 20 percent,'' said Dan Singer. "There are many options. Homeowners should evaluate SEER ratings to compare different brands of products with similar efficiency ratings."
Maintenance is Key to Energy Efficiency
At a minimum, homeowners should be changing the filter on their central AC unit once every three months—and as often as once a month if your system is running all the time.
A dirty filter can lead to poor air flow or freezing up of your unit's evaporator coil. A filthy filter could add 5% to 15% to your AC bill and will shorten the lifespan of your entire system.
Smart Thermostats Can Save On Energy Costs
A programmable thermostat can save you hundreds on your annual AC bill by automatically raising the temperature at those times of day when you're at work or away from home.
Reduce Dependence On Air Conditioning
The best way to reduce cooling costs is to assist your HVAC system by finding other ways to cool your home, and by accustoming your body to higher temperatures.
Research shows the human body is capable of adapting to hot or cool temperatures pretty quickly—like within a week or two. When you consider you'll cut up to 3% off your AC bill for every degree you raise the temperature—it's worth sweating through that adjustment period and setting your thermostat somewhere in the high 70s.
You can make your air conditioning more efficient by lowering the temperature in your home by installing fans to circulate air and blinds to keep the sun out. Bright sunlight is your AC system's nemesis. By closing blinds and sliding curtains to block the sun's rays, you'll also shield your space from the sun's heat.
Make sure that your air vents are free flowing. Blocking AC vents with furniture or curtains can limit air circulation. You want to be sure your AC vents are unobstructed.
"While we are all glad to put the winter heating bills behind us, conserving energy also makes sense in the summer months as electric costs also continue to rise," said Singer. "With the end to higher energy costs nowhere in sight, it pays for the homeowner to save wherever possible.''
Media Contact
Dean Bender, Thompson & Bender, 914-391-6042, [email protected]
SOURCE Robison
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