In the average American household, almost half of the annual energy bill goes to heating and cooling — more than $900 a year. Here are some ways to stay comfortable while lowering those costs.
Be smart with your thermostat.
Adjust the temperature to save energy when you’re not home. Upgrade to a Wi-Fi smart thermostat for a convenient and stress-free way to manage the temperature while you’re away.
Stay cool with fans.
Ceiling fans can make you feel about four degrees cooler than the actual temperature. To save energy, remember to turn them off when you leave the room.
Use window shades wisely.
Keep blinds, shades, and curtains closed on hot, sunny days and open in bright, colder weather. In winter, you can also use your shades and curtains to keep the heat in by closing them when the sun sets.
Clean vents and keep registers clear.
This will keep the air flowing as efficiently as possible. Always position furniture so the registers can circulate air in the room.
Upgrade and save.
If your home’s HVAC equipment is more than 15 years old or needs frequent repairs, consider replacing it with a new, energy-efficient unit.