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PREMIER CONSTRUCTION OF DES MOINES

Helpful Tips to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

As the weather starts to warm up, and the warm summer season inches closer, you need to start testing out your air conditioner and preparing your home for those hot, humid summer months in Des Moines. Your heating and cooling cost accounts for a very large amount of the energy used in a typical residential home. Below, we discuss some simple ways that you can decrease your energy usage this Spring and Summer, be more energy efficient, and decrease the cost of your energy bills. We know that being a homeowner can be expensive, but we want to help you save money by educating you about a few simple ways you can save money on your next energy bill.

Program Your Thermostat

By installing a programmable thermostat, you can choose specific times when your air conditioner runs. It is recommended that you set your thermostat to 68 degrees to allow your cooling system to operate less and use less energy.

Use Window Shades

Keeping your window shades open allows natural sunlight to enter your home, reducing the need to turn on electric lighting. In the hot heat of summer, keeping your shades closed can actually help to greatly reduce the amount of outside heat that enters your home. In the Winter, you should do the opposite, keeping your shades open to allow as much sunlight and heat to warm your home.

Clean Air Conditioner Filters

A dirty A/C filter or furnace filter makes your system work much harder to cool your home. When the filter is changed regularly, the system can function as normal, prolonging the longevity of your system. According to Angie’s List, there is no fast rule for knowing when to change your filter, but if the filter appears dirty, change it! You should also consider how old your unit is, the type of system you have, and how often you are running your A/C unit.

LED Light Bulbs

Installing LED bulbs in your home might be more of an investment up front, but in the long run it saves you money on your electric bills. LED light bulbs consume up to 90% less power than incandescent bulbs. The overall lifespan of LED light bulbs is much longer, also saving you money from not having to replace them as often as other types of bulbs.

Seal Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doorways can make your air conditioning and heating units run constantly in order to maintain a comfortable living temperature. Before the heat of summer or cold of winter hits, seal up your windows and drafty doorways in your home.

Energy Star Products250px-Energy_Star_logo.svg

When purchasing new products for your home, look for the energy star label, letting you know that the product is rated by the government for energy efficiency.

Think Efficiently

Who doesn’t love saving money? By taking a few of these energy efficient tips, you can become more energy efficient, make your home more comfortable, while saving you a significant amount on your cooling and heating bills. Start saving today!