Welcome back to my 4 part blog series on Conducting a Home Energy Audit!
If you missed Part 1, I discussed locating the leaks in your home. Locating exactly where you are leaking air in your home can save you hundreds of dollars each year! Part 2 covered how to conduct a home energy audit in your attic - or specifically, with your insulation.
Today, I want to discuss auditing your heating & cooling. Did you know that heating and cooling account for about 56% of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most homes.
It is always recommended to inspect your heating and cooling equipment annually, or as directed by the manufacturer. You should be diligent in checking your filters and replacing them as needed. A general rule of thumb, you should change them about once every month or two, especially during periods of high usage.
You should also have a heating and cooling professional check and clean your equipment once a year. EnergySavers.gov recommends that if the unit is more than 15 years old, you should consider replacing your system with one of the newer, energy-efficient units. A new unit would greatly reduce your energy consumption, especially if the existing equipment is in poor condition. Check your duct-work for dirt streaks, especially near seams. These indicate air leaks, and they should be sealed with a duct mastic! Also make sure to insulate any ducts or pipes that travel through unheated spaces.
For more energy saving tips on your home, visit EnergySavers.gov! Come back tomorrow for the last of my "Conducting a Home Energy Audit" Series Part 4: Lighting where I will discuss how to save money on your lighting!
Have a Blog Idea, A Real Estate Question, would like to spotlight an upcoming event or local business send an email to PearlandHomeTeam@aol.com.
Whether you are buying or selling Real Estate in Pearland Texas it just makes sense to use a Realtor® that knows the area! I live here, work here and play here - I call Pearland Texas home! For more information regarding Pearland Texas be sure to visit my website:
- PearlandHomeTeam.com - Homes for Sale in Pearland Texas, Schools, Home Selling Tips, Buying a Home Tips, Foreclosures, Weather and Community Information.
