Are you looking for ways to increase energy efficiency in your home?
To increase energy efficiency in your home and save money, it may be necessary to conduct a home energy audit. An audit will allow you to check the areas or items inside your home that may require modifications to make it more energy efficient. You may also consider purchasing energy efficient products to replace outdated ones. Solar panels, solar exterior lighting, solar water heaters, and wind turbines have begun to emerge in the housing market. However, it is necessary to be aware of some myths about energy efficiency in homes.
Myth # 1
Compact florescent lights are hazardous due to the presence of mercury. Although CFL bulbs contain some amount of mercury, they provide environmental benefits in comparison to incandescent bulbs. CFL bulbs use less energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from power-generating companies. Trimming the demand for these facilities through the use of CFL bulbs decreases mercury levels in the atmosphere.
Myth # 2
Resetting the thermostat higher or lower increases the use of energy. Although the HVAC system runs until it reaches an appropriate temperature, it may not be using as much energy when the system is set at a lower or higher temperature when the homeowner is not in the house or is sleeping.
Myth # 3
Closing the vents in other rooms reduces energy use. Although this belief may appear to be true, it is actually a myth. Shutting the vents does not direct air into used spaces inside the house. It only obstructs air flow and reduces the efficiency of the HVAC system. In fact, the HVAC system may have to work harder if the vents are closed. An HVAC system is meant to ensure a balance in air flow. Any disruptions in the air flow may result in limitations in the air that goes into a room even if the vents are opened. Closing the vents will allow heat sources to get into the house and make it difficult to keep the house cool.
Myth # 4
Turning electronics off reduces electricity use. A number of energy efficient appliances feature a standby mode that allows them to be turned back on quickly whenever they are going to be used. To completely prevent energy from being used, homeowners should unplug their home appliances when they will be gone on a long vacation.
Myth # 5
Replace 90-day filters after three months. Whenever filters are dirty, it is necessary to replace them, even if they have been used for only twenty days. Filthy filters have a negative effect on HVAC systems, so it is necessary to change them whenever necessary. They are reasonably-priced and replacing them as needed may save you expensive repairs in the future.
St. Louis Heating and Air Conditioning
Continue to look for ways to save energy and maintain your HVAC system. Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating LLC offers full service residential HVAC maintenance in St. Louis with over 30 years of experience. Call us today at (314) 471-7625 for HVAC maintenance services.