By Robert Kociecki
For most homeowners, summer is synonymous with an increase in energy consumption (and higher utility bills). Depending on your location and lifestyle, your average monthly energy costs could be as low as $219 or as high as $380. However, if your expenses are climbing well above the local average, it may not be the increase in your HVAC unit’s “airtime” causing the problem.
Now is the time — before your energy bills start rising this summer — to give your home a DIY home energy inspection. These tips can help you start reducing energy consumption in your home right away.
1. Your HVAC System Coils Need to Be Cleaned
When was the last time you had your HVAC system condenser and evaporator coils cleaned? Most people would probably say “never.” Over time, the coils collect debris, causing the system’s motors to work harder (and wear down faster). Dirty condenser coils can increase compressor energy consumption by 30 percent — that alone justifies the expense of yearly HVAC unit cleaning.
2. Your Old Appliances Should Be Replaced
While an antique refrigerator may pull your 1950s diner–themed kitchen design together, it isn’t the best choice for reducing energy consumption. In fact, Energy Star didn’t start rating refrigerators until 1996. When it comes to devices that use the most electricity, refrigerators are often at the top, meaning that retro style could be costing more than you might think.
Replace a refrigerator made before 1976 with a CEE Tier 3 model and you could save approximately $266 a year. That’s $22.17 extra each month — quite a lot to be paying for “old-school cool.”
3. Your Water Heater Needs to Be Turned Down
Do you really need water so hot it turns your skin lobster red? Probably not. Your water heater is constantly working to stay close to the set temperature, even when you aren’t running hot water. Turning the temperature setting down a couple of degrees is a great first step to reduce energy costs.
Another tip: If you haven’t insulated your water heater yet, do so. It helps the system maintain heat more easily and could reduce your energy bill by 7 to 16 percent annually.
4. Your Heat Strip Is Stuck
Your HVAC system uses a lot of power — on average, 3,500 watts per hour of use. That’s 1,555 percent greater than the energy use of a refrigerator. When the unit’s heat strip is stuck in the “on” position, the device is doing double the work it has to. Essentially, the HVAC system is cooling and heating the house at the same time instead of just doing one or the other.
Call an HVAC technician if you think you may have this problem. Given the device’s energy consumption, it’s a worthwhile repair that could save you a great deal of money.
5. Your Devices Are Plugged In
Approximately 50 typical household electronics are always drawing power, even when they appear to be turned off. TVs, computers, phones, smart lights and even microwaves use a feature called standby (also known as sleep mode). Devices in standby may appear to be powered off but are still drawing power, driving up your energy costs. Multiply that number by the country’s average and the financial impact of devices in standby mode becomes astronomical.
An easy way to combat rising energy costs: Make a habit of unplugging devices when you’re finished using them. It’s a minor inconvenience that can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run. And with standby features responsible for 1 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, you might just be helping the planet while keeping those valuable dollars in your wallet.
Higher seasonal energy bills are part of renting or owning a home, but by taking smart steps to conserve energy and keep your HVAC, water heater and appliances in top working order, it’s possible to prevent an unexpected wallet-busting power bill.
About the Author:
Robert Kociecki is a real estate industry expert who serves as the senior vice president of property management and renovation at Altisource. Altisource and its affiliates, including Owners.com, provide real estate services for consumers and investors.