When you think about heating and cooling your home, do you think about energy efficiency? The more efficient heating and cooling systems are, the less they cost to run. That means your utility bills can be lower. Energy efficiency is good for the environment, too. Before you invest in a new system, ask about the EnergyGuide label – it lets you know how energy efficient a model is compared to others like it. Products that meet certain energy efficiency criteria will have the Energy Star logo. Want to save energy but not in the market for a new system? Consider a professional or do-it-yourself home energy assessment, which can show you how specific fixes – like sealing air leaks or beefing up insulation – could help you save energy.
More than half of the energy use in a typical home goes toward heating and cooling it, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). While there's plenty to consider when you look at new heating and cooling systems – the latest options, the cost to buy them, and your short- and long-term needs – it's also important to look at how much energy they use and cost to operate.
By choosing the most energy-efficient equipment that meets your needs, you may be able to spend less money to heat and cool your home. Using less energy is good for the environment, too; it can reduce air pollution and help conserve natural resources.
Once you know which systems could work for you, here's how you find out about the energy efficiency of specific models:
For more on the EnergyGuide label, required by the Appliance Labeling Rule, which is enforced by the FTC, read Energy Guidance: Appliance Shopping With the EnergyGuide Label. EnergyGuide labels let you know how energy efficient a model is compared to others like it.
Being an energy-smart consumer means getting the most from the energy you use:
A home energy assessment is a careful look at how efficient your heating and cooling systems are and where your home is wasting energy – say, through air leaks or under-insulated attics and ducts. Your utility company may offer free or low-cost energy assessments, or it may recommend a local company or organization to do them. Check with your state or local government energy or weatherization office for recommendations, or visit energysavers.gov for more resources.
If your home has very old or inefficient windows, it might be more cost effective to replace them. Learn more at energysavers.gov/your_home.
Ask your local utility or system salesperson about cash rebates, low-interest loans, tax breaks, or other incentives for buying energy-efficient products, and how you can qualify. You can learn about tax credits and incentives at energysavers.gov.
The savings might be small, but they add up. Other energy-saving ideas include:
If you use heating oil, consider shopping around to make sure you're getting a good price. Research a company and its service before you sign a contract. If you live where you can choose your natural gas provider, shop for a good price on gas.
Be skeptical of gadgets and products that promise drastic reductions in home cooling costs or extreme energy savings. Make sure any product claims can be verified by an independent source you trust. Resist high-pressure door-to-door sales calls for furnaces, windows, and other home improvement products. For more on finding a contractor who's licensed and reputable, read Home Sweet Home Improvement. Remember that the Cooling-Off Rule gives you three business days to cancel a contract if you sign it in your home or at a location other than the contractor's permanent place of business.
To learn more about saving energy as you heat and cool your home, visit: