When it comes to making sure you have an energy-efficient home in Anchorage, Alaska, you don’t have to break the bank or embark on extensive renovations. By implementing a few simple changes, you can significantly enhance your energy efficiency beyond changing your lightbulbs and keeping the thermostat low. Here are the top 5 ways on how to make your home energy efficient:
1. Tend to your Furnace
The first step in improving energy efficiency is to ensure your furnace is functioning optimally. Contact professional HVAC services for annual servicing. Regular maintenance, including cleaning hidden parts, will prevent your furnace from working harder than necessary. Additionally, remember to replace filters every three months, or more frequently if you’ve recently undergone renovations or have pets. These actions improve airflow, reduce energy waste, and extend the life of your furnace. Our preventative maintenance program is a great way to get you started on the right track!
2. Hybrid Heat
To avoid heat loss and ensure efficient heating throughout your home, try Hybrid Heating. A Hybrid Heating system will automatically select a fuel source most efficient to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. This is done by combining a heat pump and gas furnace to achieve efficient year-round heating. The smart selection of fuel sources leads to significant energy savings compared to traditional systems. This means you will stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer without wasted energy.
3. Test Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency. To identify and eliminate drafts, perform a simple test. Hold a lit candle or lighter around window frames and doors. If the flame flickers, it indicates a draft. Seal any gaps or cracks with caulking and install or replace weatherstripping. For added insulation, consider applying an exterior window film, particularly during colder months in Anchorage to enhance energy efficiency further.
4. Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a cost-effective way to cool specific rooms without relying heavily on air conditioning. During warmer months, use ceiling fans to create a comfortable breeze in bedrooms or living areas, reducing the need for excessive cooling. In colder months, utilize the fan’s reverse mode to push down warm air that tends to accumulate near the ceiling. This simple adjustment improves air circulation and ensures efficient heating throughout the room.
5. Smart Thermostat
Harness the power of technology to optimize energy usage in your home. Installing a smart thermostat enables you to program temperature adjustments based on your schedule, reducing heating and cooling costs by up to 15%. Smart thermostats learn your habits and make automatic adjustments, ensuring comfort while minimizing energy waste. In addition to controlling your HVAC system, automate your lighting by installing dimmer switches and motion sensors. This way, lights are only activated when necessary, saving energy and reducing utility bills.
Achieving energy efficiency in your home is a worthwhile endeavor that can save you money and reduce your environmental impact. By following these top five methods, you are sure to have a substantial effect.
At Diamond Heating & AirTemp Alaska we understand what you’re going through. Contact us today to learn how we can assist your home and family during this cottonwood season!
