A comfortable atmosphere is one of the most important factors in what makes a house feel like a home. At ACS Air Conditioning Systems, we are dedicated to giving Concord residents that “like home” feeling with elite heating and cooling services. We also have a deep understanding of how a single home can impact the environment with its energy consumption and pollution emissions. This is why we have compiled these 6 ways to go green and make your home more comfortable for spring.
Seal your home
Cracks and gaps can develop overtime around windows, doors and trim. These cracks not only create uncomfortable drafts in the winter and at night, but it creates a hole for money to just pour out with high energy bills. When your home is not sealed tight, the comfortable air that your home’s HVAC system is working to create will seep out through the cracks or be compromised by the outdoor air that is coming in. Weatherstrip your doors and caulk any cracks around windows to ensure that your home is sealed tight.
Swap out your filters
A clogged air or furnace filter will be forced to use much more energy in order to keep your home comfortable because of dust and dirt that is blocking the way. Air filters catch dirt, dust, pollen and other pollutants that are in your home in order to keep your air clean. Over time, this buildup can clog the filter, rendering it less energy efficient by having to work harder to push the same amount of air past all of this buildup. Keep your air clean and your energy efficiency up by regularly checking and replacing your air and furnace filters.
Nighttime energy use
By using your energy at night, you may be able to receive a discount from your energy provider for “off-hours” use. Doing chores like washing dishes, washing and drying clothes and cooking for the day or week ahead at nighttime can also release extra energy (heat) into the home during the coldest part of the day. This helps you save money and use less energy.
Trust your thermostat
Every thermostat has preferential system settings in order to operate at maximum efficiency. Adhering as closely as possible to these settings will ensure that your home is using its energy properly. Layer clothing or utilize house fans to make up for any differences in comfort.
Go green (literally)
Houseplants are a great way to decorate your home while also improving your humidity. On the outside of your house, planting a tree is a great way to improve the environment and the curb appeal or comfort of your home. If you place greenery along the north and northwest sides of your home, it can act as a windblock against the cold winter winds to come.
Whole home water filter
There are a few ways that a whole home water filtration system makes your home more comfortable and eco-friendly. By replacing your standard tap water with great tasting and clean filter water, you can save money and use less plastic by not having to purchase bottled water. Filtered water also contains less chlorine and other harmful chemicals that can compromise your hair, skin and air quality.
For more eco-friendly home comfort advice, or to make sure that your HVAC system is ready for spring in Concord, contact ACS Air Conditioning Systems (ACS) to schedule an appointment with one of our HVAC experts today.
