How can I better control my home energy costs?

With energy costs climbing, there are a few processes you can take to reduce the expense of heating and cooling your house in Houston.

Heating and cooling systems typically consume more energy than any other appliance in your home. This is seen on your monthly energy costs, but it’s crucial to remember utility prices can be managed in several methods.

Upkeep: One method to control heating and cooling prices is to book seasonal maintenance. Furnace maintenance helps your heating and cooling systems work as designed and efficiently. Running dirty heating and cooling units could create decreased efficiency and damage to your system.

High efficiency: If you’re wanting to buy for a new HVAC system, consider buying a high-efficiency system. They’re made to decrease your energy bills and conserve natural resources. When choosing an updated heating and cooling unit, look for the HVAC energy-efficiency ratings—SEER for air conditioners and AFUE for furnaces. The better the SEER or AFUE, the better the efficiency and savings.

Zoning: Home zoning can drastically decrease your heating costs. This divides your space into separate comfort areas, which are heated or cooled based on your settings. With a zoning system, you no longer pay to heat or cool infrequently used spaces. And you can enjoy the exact temperature you want in highly occupied rooms.

Smart thermostats: Smart thermostats can make a major difference in energy consumption. These thermostats pick up on your household’s routine and lower energy consumption while you’re not at home. You can also use your smartphone or other Wi-Fi-enabled device to adjust temperature settings on the go.