Going outside in the middle of summer in Arizona feels like walking into a giant broiler. When you go inside to get some relief from an angry sun, you shouldn’t have to feel like you’re getting burned anymore because your HVAC system can’t keep up with demand. And just when you think you’re in the clear, you open your latest energy bill and your wallet gets scorched.
When the blazing summer heat overworks your HVAC system and your cooling costs rise faster than an outdoor thermometer in the middle of July, you need a break. Anything you can do to create a more energy-efficient home will help ease that energy-related squeeze on your bank account. Luckily, you have plenty of options—big and small—to help you achieve that!
Let the Right Light In
When was the last time you changed your lightbulbs? You may want to consider changing them again if you’re still using traditional 40- or 60-watt bulbs. Halogen and LED bulbs last longer and use less energy. Also, closing the blinds or curtains on the sunny side of your house is another great way to help save on energy costs.
Not Using Something? Turn It Off
This may be tough to hear if you’re the kind of person who likes to fall asleep with the TV on, but you will save money by turning off your electronics (and your lights) anytime you’re not using them. And don’t let those bathroom or kitchen fans run for too long, as they let outside air in—which can eventually throw off your home’s temperature.
Set a Schedule For Your Thermostat
If you’re not working from home and no one else will be there, consider setting your thermostat so that your HVAC unit cycles on less frequently. If you don’t already own a programmable thermostat, getting one means you only have to set a cooling schedule once! Just keep it away from direct sunlight or any electronics, appliances, etc., that generate heat.
Go Solar
One of the best ways to create an energy-efficient home is to switch to solar power. This can dramatically lower your energy bills by making good use of all that harsh sunlight, converting its solar energy into usable electricity for your home. If this is something you want to do, you couldn’t have picked a better website to click on! Our Energy Pros install high-quality solar panels with customer service to match.
Energy Audits Help Solve Problems
If you think you have an energy-drain mystery on your hands—for example, your current energy costs are noticeably higher than in previous years, but you haven’t made any indoor lifestyle changes—then it wouldn’t hurt to get a home energy audit. At FOR Energy, we offer a free Home Energy Checkup and a $99 ENERGY STAR® Audit to help you pinpoint the root cause of your increased energy usage. While the audit itself isn’t a quick fix, it’s a great way to help find the best home energy efficiency solution for you.
Big Fixes for Big Problems
If your energy audit uncovers something that needs to be addressed immediately, you won’t want to wait to fix it. FOR Energy provides duct maintenance, home insulation, and energy-efficient window replacement services in addition to solar panel installation. And if your energy usage problem isn’t one that we can fix directly, we can point you in the right direction.
If you’d like to learn more about how FOR Energy can help you get a more energy-efficient home, contact us today.