According to a recent report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), 90% of all households across the United States are equipped with air conditioning systems serviced with the appropriate repair and maintenance program. With the national energy demand at an all-time high, there’s never a better time to invest in an energy-efficient cooling system.
Why Is Energy Efficiency So Important?
For many homeowners, the primary benefit of energy efficiency is the savings in the monthly energy cost. Considering that a modern home practically runs on electricity, the demand for energy-efficient equipment is steadily increasing. Thanks to initiatives like ENERGY STAR®, finding and upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, electronics, and air conditioners has never been easier.
Energy efficiency is not all about energy savings, of course. Along with low energy requirements, energy-efficient units also tend to have longer service lives. This means the average upkeep cost can be significantly lower compared to its older counterparts. More importantly, if most homeowners in a given area upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, overall dependence on power from the grid, generated using fossil fuels, can be reduced.
Optimizing Your Home for Energy Efficiency
The HVAC system alone uses up almost half of an average household’s annual energy costs. Therefore, it only makes sense to put it at the top of the list when you’re optimizing your home for energy efficiency. While there’s the cost of buying the new air conditioners to consider, the savings derived from upgrading to energy-efficient models can offset a large chunk of the unit’s cost over time. Strategies, such as using fans while setting the thermostat a few degrees lower, can further contribute to energy savings.
Other upgrades that can help improve the home’s overall energy efficiency include repairing or replacing the exterior wall and attic insulation. Investing in replacement windows and entry doors with energy efficiency features is another. The idea is to create an insulated enclosure that helps keep indoor temperatures constant, which should help reduce indoor cooling requirements. If you’re unsure about which upgrade to prioritize, have an energy audit conducted by an auditor certified by the Building Performance Institute (BPI).
Energy Efficiency With M & M Heating and Air Conditioning Service Co.
To learn more about energy-efficient air conditioning systems, call M & M Heating and Air Conditioning Service Co. today at (209) 952-6580. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve Lawrenceville and surrounding areas.
