Energy Saving Tips

Energy Saving Tips – Conserving energy and saving money is a goal on many peoples list. Metro Express Service recommends the following energy tips to save both as your electric bill rises with the use of your home’s heating and air conditioning in Plano, TX.

Energy Saving Tips for The Thermostat

Considering the heating and air conditioning system is the greatest consumer of energy, it makes sense to start with it. During the air conditioning season, the EPA recommends setting the thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home, and 85 degrees when you are away. During the winter season, 65 to 68 degrees will save you money, and a sweater is a simple trick for tolerating a lower temperature. Use 68 degrees during the day and 65 at night. When your away never turn the thermostat below 55 degrees to prevent frozen pipes.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat allows you to schedule different temperature adjustments each day. WIFI enabled thermostats can be remotely adjusted, and can send you messages. They eliminate forgotten temperature adjustments and can save you up to 20% on the cost of operating the heating and air conditioning in Plano, TX.

Change the Air Filter Routinely

Change the air filter each month or as the manufacturer recommends. This will help to maintain a clean HVAC system and optimize the performance. A dirty filter increases the workload, and can increase the wear and tear on your home’s heating and air conditioning in Plano, TX. Always use the type of filter the manufacturer recommends.

Keep Registers Uncluttered

Keep the air registers free of clutter and furniture. Blocking the air flow can affect the systems performance and its service life.

Schedule an Annual Tune-up

A professional annual tune-up will ensure the best energy efficiency, performance and a longer lifespan. The tuneup provides an inspection and identifies any potential problems. Most importantly, the annual tune-up ensures your heating and air conditioning in Plano, TX is performing its best.

When it’s time to replace your home’s heating and air conditioning in Plano, TX, choose an Energy Star model. Energy Star ensures the best reliability and highest energy efficiency. Our factory trained HVAC technicians can provide the professional heating and air conditioning installation in Plano, TX that you need.

Electrical Appliances

Phantom energy drain occurs due to appliances continuing use of power even when in off.  It is a small amount, but can add up over a years time. Turn off electrical appliances, such as chargers, computers and televisions when not in use, if possible.

Water Heater

The water heater is the second highest energy user in the home. If you have hard water, your water heater could be damaged without routine maintenance it could be using more energy than it should.  Furthermore, the limescale caused by hard water is likely to shorten its lifespan considerably. Routine maintenance includes a professional inspection and flushing sediment from inside the appliance. Flushing the water heater flush is a relatively simple DIY project.

Setting the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees F l prevents scalding and saves energy. Insulating the hot water pipes during a new home build will also save energy and money. Insulated hot water pipes deliver hot water 2 to 4 degrees warmer than uninsulated pipes. This is especially important on long pipe runs.

Reduce Heat in the Summertime

Use the dishwasher and dryer early in the morning or late at night. The air dry setting on the dishwasher will lower both heat and energy use. Use a lower setting on the dryer and remember to clean the lint filter after each load. Don’t forget to routinely clean the dryer vent. This will reduce energy use, and most importantly, will help to prevent the potential for a fire.

Using the oven greatly contributes to heat in the kitchen. Use a microwave, crock pot, toaster oven, or a grill outdoors to avoid heating the kitchen up and conserve energy.

While lighting is not the largest user of electricity, every little bit adds up. Changing to LED lighting not only saves money, it is cooler. Another tip is to change out incandescent lighting in frequently used rooms for cooler LED lighting. LED lighting may reduce how often the air conditioning in Plano, TX runs.

Managing Sunlight and Heat Gain

Sunlight entering windows is a good idea in the winter, but the heat gain should be avoided during the summer. Close windows and blinds receiving sunlight during summer days, or use thermally insulated drapes. The best way to prevent heat gain in the home from south and west facing windows is to install window film, which blocks 99% of the UV light and heat.  During the winter, using insulated drapes at night can help keep your home warmer.

Install Ceiling Fans

Fans make you feel cooler in the summer, without actually reducing the room temperature. You can raise the thermostat by a few degrees for your home’s air conditioning in Plano, TX without affecting your comfort. In the winter, reversing the blade direction of ceiling fans will divert rising heat back down to where you are, helping you to feel warmer and reducing the need for the heat to run as often.

Additional Tips

• Use cold water for laundry just as clean and fading will be reduced.
• Seal attic access stairs to prevent the escape of conditioned air.
• Seal cracks and gaps in the foundation or basement wall with caulking and/or expanding foam. Install foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on walls, and weather stripping around doors.
• Install storm windows over single-pane windows or replace them with double-pane low- e windows. Check for air leaks around window frames and seal if needed.
• Close the fireplace flue when not in use.
• Check attic insulation. If the ceiling joists are visible, additional insulation is needed. Insulation can settle over time.

Conclusion

Metro Express Service is a leading local heating and air conditioning company offering factory trained professionals. We offer a variety of residential and commercial HVAC services in and around Dallas for your year round comfort. Our services  include heating system and AC tune-ups, service, repairs, replacement, installation and more. We offer emergency repair services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year for your immediate needs. When you call, we will be glad to answer your questions, and schedule service at your earliest convenience. You can rely on us for exceptional service. In addition, we are a member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating, reflecting  our goal of excellence. Contact Metro Express Service in Dallas today to schedule the reliable heat pump or other HVAC services you need.