When you’re considering upgrades to your Augusta, Georgia, home, start with your HVAC system. Although it’s not always as fun as a bathroom or kitchen renovation, HVAC upgrades typically pay for themselves through the energy savings you will see.
Add Insulation
If you have hot or cold spots in your home, or if certain rooms get hotter during the summer and colder during the winter, insulation might solve your problem. Whether or not you have temperature issues, adding insulation will save you money on your utility bills and take some of the burden off your HVAC system.
Insulation prevents the air in your home from leaking out and the outdoor air from sneaking in. It’s essentially an extra barrier for the walls of your home. Insulation is especially important in your attic where air tends to escape the most. You should also double check the wall between your house and garage, since air often comes in through there as well, and add insulation if necessary.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient System
A new HVAC system is a significant investment. If your current system is aging, it’s likely using a lot of extra energy while it works to heat or cool your home. Your utility bills are going to increase the more your system ages. Upgrading to a new system will provide greater efficiency and lower your monthly bills, thereby helping to pay for the investment.
Furthermore, if you sell your home, you will get some of that money back by improving the resale value of your home. It’s also possible you will sell your home faster. Home buyers don’t want old HVAC systems that they will have to replace soon after buying the home. Energy efficient upgrades are major selling points for contemporary homebuyers, so this is something to think about should you decide to sell your home in the next few years.
Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat pays for itself through your energy savings. You can adjust the temperature to maximize your at-home comfort and control it while you are away, so that you’re not heating or cooling an empty home. With a programmable thermostat, your HVAC system will work more efficiently and you’ll be spared extra repairs over time.
Use the Right Curtains for the Season
Curtains aren’t just for decoration. Somewhat surprisingly, they can aid your HVAC system. Hang heavy curtains during the winter and keep them closed, especially at night. The heavy curtains are an extra layer of insulation, providing a barrier that prevents air from escaping or entering in the winter. Just be sure to take them down and replace them in time to let the fresh air in during the spring.
Get a Preventive Maintenance Agreement
A preventive maintenance agreement is one of the best investments you can get for your HVAC system. With these agreements, you can schedule two tune-ups per year. Having preventive maintenance performed before summer and winter helps to ensure that your system is running efficiently. This maintenance can help you save money on your utility bills and help prevent costly repairs.
These maintenance agreements are even more valuable because of the extensive services they provide, to include discounts on repairs, filters during your tune-up, and no charges on diagnostics. These agreements also provide you with peace of mind, which is priceless.
Home Energy Audit
Have a home energy audit completed to find out where you’re losing energy. A professional will come in and test your home’s efficiency. For example, you may find out you have air leaking from your ducts. Having your ducts sealed could save you a lot of money. Your doors and windows may need upgrades to prevent energy loss. All of these issues will be uncovered during your home energy audit, helping you to make informed decisions on how to make your home more efficient.
If you’re looking to make HVAC upgrades to your home, or you’re shopping for a new system, we are the people to call. Contact Doc Savage Air at 706-426-9262 to schedule an appointment with a professional technician today.
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