Our routines affect more of our lives than we realize. For example, how long we spend getting ready in the morning might be why we’re consistently late for work. Our eating habits, while they might not have an immediate effect, can play a significant role in the long run. At the same time, our routines can also improve the efficiency and organization of our lives.
Some parts of our routines are fueled by responsibilities (getting kids where they need to be), others are motivated by a desire (a workout regimen to tone that summer body), but no matter the reason, our best routines are supported by good habits. You’re always looking for ways to improve energy efficiency and cut utility costs in your Louisville, Kentucky, home.
Energy efficiency is a lifestyle built on habits that consistently optimize energy usage in the home. Build a groundwork of energy-efficient habits, and your home will be more cost-saving and comfortable than ever.
Cool Efficiently
We understand it’s tempting to keep your home as cool as possible during those hot summer days, but cranking your AC isn’t the best option if you’re hoping to increase energy efficiency. Keep your home as warm as comfortably possible, preferably around 78 degrees Fahrenheit. While you and your family are away from home, keep your living space even warmer. A programmable thermostat will help you set a more efficient cooling schedule. With one of these thermostats, you can set different temperatures for different times of day.
Using a programmable thermostat efficiently isn’t the only way to keep your home cool. During the day, windows let in enough heat to suck the comfort out of any room. Keep blinds and curtains over the windows to hold back the heat.
Control Humidity
As we all know, few things will reduce your comfort quicker than high humidity. Moisture levels in the air will make your home feel warmer than it is. Not only does this reduce your comfort but it also makes it more difficult to keep your home cool, putting more strain on your HVAC system and reducing efficiency. Plus, high humidity can cause extra mold and mildew growth, which is never good.
You can’t just get rid of humidity, or you’ll cause a host of other problems. Instead, you must control it. Start limiting humidity by keeping your home well-ventilated, especially in warm and wet areas like the bathroom. Our technicians can also install a ventilator that will circulate air throughout your home. On cooler nights, it never hurts to open your window and let some fresh air in.
Maintain Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality isn’t only bad for your health but it’s also bad for your home’s efficiency. It puts unnecessary strain on the HVAC system. The easiest way to maintain high indoor air quality is to clean your home regularly, especially areas around the indoor and outdoor units of your HVAC system. Even dust and dirt are enough to reduce efficiency.
Your HVAC system comes with its own built-in air filter that catches particles before they can disperse through your home. When this filter gets clogged, however, it can make efficiency and indoor air quality even worse. Make a habit of changing your air filter once a month to reduce these issues.
Cut Vampire Energy
As soon as you turn off your electronics, you’re saving power, right? That’s why you don’t leave the TV on when you’re not paying attention. Unfortunately, your electronics and small appliances continue to sap power as long as they’re plugged in, even if they’re turned off. That’s called vampire energy.
Aside from unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, you can also plug everything into power strips, which you can then simply turn off at the end of the day.
It won’t take much to start these smart habits. With a little motivation and time, and you’ll be on your way to lower utility costs and a better quality of life. For help jump-starting your home’s energy efficiency, call One Choice Mechanical at (502) 242-8204.
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