6 Money and Energy Saving Tips to “Go Green” in Maryland

Did you know that as much as half of your energy consumption goes towards heating and cooling? There is a lot of potential for energy and financial savings within your HVAC system. Powell and Turner has a variety of recommendations for home owners and small business to save money and care for the environment through our seven energy savings strategies.  Let us help you “go green” with these great tips!

Strategy #1: Replace Old, Inefficient HVAC Equipment.

If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old, then replacing your equipment with a more energy efficient system could reduce your energy consumption by as much as 30%! That could mean big savings for your family’s budget or your business!

Powell and Turner sells a variety of HVAC units that have an ENERGY STAR rating. In fact, we have access to the most energy efficient technologies available. Our estimates can include an energy savings calculator upon request, so that you will understand the energy savings potential of all of the equipment that we install. We even offer Ductless Options when applicable.

Attention!! Right now, BGE is offering a rebate to residential customers who replace inefficient equipment with newer, Energy Star rated models. These incentives, combined with your projected savings on energy bills, could mean your new system pays for itself in a couple of years.*

Strategy #2: Take Control by Installing a Zoning System

Many homes can save energy in energy costs by adding a Zoning system. A Zoning system allows you to individually regulate the temperatures on the different floors or larger rooms of your home using separate thermostats. You can save energy by lowering or turning off the thermostat in rooms or floors that you don’t use regularly such as attics and basements.

Two-story homes often have an 8-12 degree difference in
temperature between upstairs and downstairs. Most ranch-style homes have an 8-12 degree difference in temperature between one end of the home and the other. Also, uneven heating and cooling can occur in rooms with fireplaces, ovens, large windows, vaulted ceilings or other temperature effecting circumstances. Zoning gives you complete control and eliminates these hot or cool spots in your home.

Zoning often does not require upgrading or purchasing new HVAC units. Dampers and panels are installed in your duct work, which divides your home into the zones that you custom design. You can choose anywhere from 2 zones to 32 zones based on your needs. However, most homes benefit the most by being divided into 2, 3, or 4 equal parts. We will give you a FREE estimate on installing a Zoning system in your home.

Strategy #3 : Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat

Why heat or cool your home when you are not at home? If there are regular periods of time when you and your family are away from your home, then installing a programmable thermostat can save you a significant amount of money. In fact, replacing your standard thermostat with a programmable thermostat is the simplest and cheapest way to reduce your energy costs. You can save up to 33% on heating and cooling bills with this simple upgrade.

Strategy #4: Optimize the Efficiency of Your Hot Water Heater

The water in your water heater tank is heated to 140°, but if it’s located in your basement or garage, it is surrounded by air that is around 60°- 65°. Place your hand on your current water heater and see if it feels warm to your touch. If it does, you can save money by wrapping it in an insulating blanket. A insulating blanket can save you approximately 10% in energy costs, depending upon the efficiency of your unit.

Save even more money by insulating your Hot Water Pipes. This reduces heat loss and can raise water temperature 2ºF–4ºF. You also won’t have to wait as long for hot water when you turn on a faucet or shower head, which helps conserve water. Also, you can save money by simply lowering the thermostat setting on your water heater. For each 10°F reduction in water temperature, you could save 3-5% in energy costs.

For optimal savings and efficiency, consider installing a Tankless Water Heater. Tankless Hot Water Heaters can reduce your water heating costs by as much as 50%! Plus, you get an endless supply of hot water that will not run out like the conventional tanks. Powell and Turner has the most efficient models available from Rinnai, and we will give you a free estimate on a Tankless Water Heater installation. For more information on how Tankless Water Heaters operate, please click here, or contact us today!

Strategy #5: Tune-up Your System Every Year with a Maintenance Contract.

According to the EPA, an annual HVAC tune-up and inspection is one of the most important strategies for reducing energy consumption in your HVAC system. Just like a car, even the newest, most efficient HVAC system will decline in performance without regular maintenance from a qualified professional. Just like a tune-up can improve your car’s gas mileage, a HVAC tune-up can improve its efficiency. In addition, regular maintenance can extend the life of your system which will save you money on costly repairs in the future.

Powell and Turner offers a variety of annual Maintenance Contracts to ensure your system is running at peak performance. We make it easy for you to maintain your HVAC equipment by performing a 80-point inspection and service following the EPA’s recommendations, but we don’t stop there! We clean coils and lines, make recommendations, adjust refrigerant and change your filter and water pumps as necessary. We will even provide you with additional replacement filters for your convenience upon request. Visit our Maintenance Contract page to find out more.

Strategy #6: Add a Whole-House Humidifier to your HVAC system

Adding a Whole-House Humidifier to your HVAC system can make a big difference in your energy bill in the winter months, as well as in the safety and comfort of your home. Maintaining optimal humidity levels can make your home feel warmer at lower temperatures. This allows you to turn down your thermostat and still feel comfortable. For every degree that you reduce your thermostat, you could save as much as 4% on your heating bill according to the EPA. That could make a big difference!

 

We hope that you found our six strategies to reduce energy consumption helpful and informative. As always, we will be happy to answer any futher questions that you have about energy savings. We are committed to making your home as energy efficient as possible but offering you the latest technologies available. Let us know how we can help you “go green” by calling us or emailing us today.