As Coloradoans, we’re familiar with the wide range of temperatures our state experiences. Maintaining a comfortable home can lead to hefty energy bills, from the scorching summers to the freezing winters we endure. Understanding the importance of energy-efficient HVAC systems and using your home’s natural tools will help you lower overall energy expenses.

Here are seven practical ways you can start implementing to lower your bills. These tips are simple and easy to follow, helping you positively change your home and bills.

Upgrade Your Home to an Energy-Efficient HVAC System:

Modern HVAC units are designed to use less energy while providing optimal heating and cooling. When upgrading these systems in your home, remember to look for seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and energy star ratings. SEER measures how efficient a central air conditioning system or heat pump is at cooling a space during a typical cooling season. It’s calculated by dividing the total heat removed from the space by the electricity used during that time. While these systems may have a higher initial cost, the long-term savings on your bills will make a significant difference in your finances, making them a wise investment.

Going Solar:

Going Solar for your utilities and systems will also allow you to save money on bills. When you add solar panels to your home, these are considered upgrades, similar to a renovated kitchen or finished basement, and these changes can increase a home’s value over time. Solar panels can reduce monthly electric bills by 50% or more or eliminate them entirely. For more benefits of going solar, check out our other blog regarding this topic.

Install an Updated Thermostat:

A programmable thermostat allows homeowners to set their house at the desired temperature they want to enjoy their home at. You can reduce your energy consumption significantly by setting the thermostat to have different settings based on when you’re home, asleep, or away.

Smart thermostats are incredibly efficient because they can learn your schedule and adjust to the temperature you want at any time. This saves energy and money and provides homeowners with comfortable temperatures for their needs, making them a valuable addition to any home. With a smart thermostat, you can rest assured that your home will always be at the perfect temperature, enhancing your overall living experience.

Seal and Insulate Your Home:

Proper insulation and sealing of your house can help limit heat loss in the winter and keep cool air throughout your home during the summer months. Stay aware of cracks, gaps, or leaks around windows, doors, and air ducts. If there are any, seal them with caulk or weather-stripping. When adding insulation to your home, ensure you add it to your attic, walls, and basement. This will allow you to maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reduce the workload of your HVAC system, and lower energy bills.

Utilize Colorado’s Natural Ventilation and Lighting:

Having a state that gets 300 days of sunshine yearly gives us homeowners a natural way of ventilation and lighting. Having windows open and using fans to circulate air and cool down your home is always an option without relying solely on the air conditioner unit. When winter comes, open blinds to let the sun in and warm your home naturally. When it’s 100 degrees outside, like this past July, keep blinds closed and curtains down to block out heat.

Regular HVAC Maintenance:

Scheduling maintenance on all of your systems is vital to ensuring their efficiency and extending their lifespan. This also helps you save money and find ways to lower your energy bills. A bi-annual appointment with us will ensure your HVAC system stays clean and maintained. It’s always best to address any issues as soon as possible if they are identified. This will save you money on repairs and reduce your energy bills in the long run.

Add Window Coverings:

Choosing the right window coverings can help you save on energy bills. In winter, window blinds provide extra insulation to keep the heat indoors, while in summer, they block out the heat. By improving your home’s insulation, window coverings reduce the need for heating and air conditioning, resulting in lower energy bills. Options such as blinds, shades, shutters, or drapes are smart investments for your home and can lead to significant energy savings, improved comfort, and protection for your home’s interior.

Lowering your energy bills in Colorado is achievable with strategic changes in how you use your home’s systems. From upgrading your system to an energy-efficient one to installing a smart thermostat and sealing/insulating your home, you will enjoy a comfortable home all year round if you follow these simple tips.  Call Great Guys Today to get your estimate or service scheduled.