HVAC | Plumbing | Electrical | Ductwork | Solar Hot Water Heating Systems | Grid-tied Renewable Energy Electric Systems
Choices concerning the heating and cooling systems of a home provide multiple opportunities for energy conservation. When these functions are designed well, the cost reduction in maintenance expenses will benefit the homeowners continuously throughout the lifetime of their home, while protecting the environment in the process. Here are some ways to address this key concern:
- Start with easy tasks like installing ceiling fans, programmable humidistats, and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
- Choose a reputable HVAC installer that you trust; or consult with a green-building program near you (see the YouthBuild Green Pages for listings).
- Install 12 SEER or higher air-conditioning units over 1.5 tons with non-CFC/HCFC cooling refrigerant. This is now required by code in some states.
- Install outside air mechanical ventilation system or an energy recovery ventilator.
- Be sure to get a system air-flow test and blower-door test to find any unwanted air leaks and to test caulking in walls, windows, and doors.
> LEARN MORE ABOUT BLOWER DOOR TESTS
Preprogrammable Thermostats
Properly using a programmable thermostat in your home is one of the easiest ways you can save energy, money, and help fight global warming. An ENERGY STAR qualified programmable thermostat helps make it easy for you to save by offering four pre-programmed settings to regulate your home’s temperature in both summer and winter — when you are asleep or away.
The average household spends more than $2,200 a year on energy bills — nearly half of which goes to heating and cooling. Homeowners can save about $180 a year by properly setting their programmable thermostats and maintaining those settings. The pre-programmed settings that come with ENERGY STAR qualified programmable thermostats are intended to deliver savings without sacrificing comfort.
Simple Steps to Energy Savings with Programmable Thermostats
Achieve significant energy and money savings that are possible through the proper use of your programmable thermostat.
- Choose the right programmable thermostat — There are three types of programmable thermostats designed to best fit your daily schedule
- Properly install the thermostat — Here’s what you need to know about proper and safe installation of your programmable thermostat, as well as when you should call a certified HVAC contractor to handle the installation for you.
> WATCH A VIDEO ON INSTALL - Properly set and use your thermostat
- Save with your manual thermostat — If you choose to keep your manual thermostat, there are recommendations to help you save, too.
At Home With Energy Star Video
Learn how to properly use your ENERGY STAR qualified programmable thermostat to save energy, money, and help fight global warming.
instructions for some of the most common Green Building improvement projects. Each tool includes easy-to-follow directions along with diagrams and pictures in downloadable pdf format.
