3 Major Energy Drains You’re Overlooking

You turn off the lights when you leave a room, you use CFLs throughout the house, and you never run the dishwasher half-full. You consider yourself fairly energy-savvy, but there may be several energy drains affecting your utility budget that you’re overlooking. Check out these major energy users and see if you can find ways to improve usage in your Raleigh home.

Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are commonly used to decrease your energy expenses on cooling. However, there may be a more efficient way for you to use this technology. Turn off fans when the room is empty. They create a wind chill effect that makes you feel cooler, but does not actually lower the room temperature. Therefore, the benefits of fans are only relevant when someone is in the vicinity to enjoy them. Consistently turning fans off when you leave the room may eliminate a consistent energy drain.

Inefficient Thermostat Settings

Adjusting your thermostat settings can yield significant savings. Turn the air conditioner from 72 to 78 degrees, and you may save up to 18 percent on your cooling bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. You may find ways to save even without adjusting the thermostat if you look carefully at where it’s located. If a TV, lamp, or other heat source is near the thermostat, it will give a warmer reading, causing the unit to run longer than needed.

Improperly Sealed Ducts

The U.S. Department of Energy also reports that if your ducts aren’t sealed properly, you could lose as much as 20 percent of your heated or cooled air. Stop using energy for home cooling that simply leaks away. Seal your ducts properly and eliminate this energy drain.

To learn more about keeping your home as efficient as possible, contact Air Experts at 919-480-2727. Schedule your annual tune-up to make sure your HVAC system is running at peak efficiency or explore options for a greener upgrade.