Going green is all the rage. And it’s understandable why. We all have a responsibility to care for the world around us for future generations. You probably already take at least small steps to do things like reduce, reuse, and recycle.
Our team at Burns & McBride wants to provide some heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) related ideas to help you go even further.
It Is Making a Difference
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), the country has started down the right track during the last two decades or so. A Residential Energy Consumption Survey showed 48 percent of energy in United States homes was used for heating and cooling in 2009, which was a decrease from 58 percent 16 years earlier. Projections conducted in more recent years shows a steady decline as well.
As Wilmington households adopt more energy-efficient equipment and take advantage of improved insulation developments, it’s hopeful energy usage will continue to decline for typical HVAC requirements. Here are some things you can consider to make a green difference.
Learn About Efficiency Ratings
Technology continues to improve when it comes to HVAC equipment, and new furnaces, heat pumps, and air conditioners are always more efficient than antiquated models. When it’s time to replace your HVAC equipment, pay attention to energy-efficiency ratings to see how your new heating and cooling system can be greener than your last.
Air conditioners use a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating and furnaces use an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. The government has set minimum standards for new equipment, but high-efficiency models exceeding those minimum standards are also available. Typically, the higher the rating, the greater the efficiency. The more efficient the equipment – the less amount of electricity, gas or oil that you will need to use and the lower your carbon footprint. Be sure to take these ratings into consideration when you make future HVAC purchases.
Think About the Quality of the Air You Are Breathing
A green home also includes healthy indoor air. Consider products such as Aprilaire’s fresh air kit or high efficiency air filters. Our professionals can give you more information on this.
Consider Heat Pumps and Other Low-Carbon Equipment
Several different types of HVAC equipment leave a smaller carbon footprint than conventional heating and cooling options. The most popular and best proven of these technologies is the heat pump.
Unlike a conventional furnace, a heat pump does not generate heat by burning a fossil fuel. Instead, it transfers heat from one location to another. During the colder months, the heat pump will absorb heat from outside and relocate it into your Delaware home.
In the summer, the pump works in the opposite direction, moving the heat from inside your house to release it outside, which has the effect of cooling your indoor air.
For even more efficiency – don’t forget “Ductless” units. Units such as the Mitsubishi Ductless system are very efficient and can be used to heat and cool the areas of your home that you spend the most time – reducing the use of your main hater and air conditioner.
Take Advantage of the Energize Delaware Program
Energize Delaware is a state-wide program aimed at boosting energy efficiency and lowering costs for Delaware residents by providing reduced rates and rebates for energy audits, equipment upgrades and services through the program’s approved contractors. Burns & McBride has been involved in the program since its start and is one of the largest contractors in it.
In order to give Delaware residents incentive to reduce their carbon footprints and boost their home’s energy efficiency, Energize Delaware is offering in home energy audits and rebates for energy upgrades to people who make any number of approved upgrades to their HVAC equipment.
Depending on the particular upgrade, the rebates offered can range from $150-$1,500; combined, they can help you save up to $6,750 on your next home upgrade–not to mention the money you can save over time by maximizing your energy efficiency. Burns & McBride has worked with hundreds of Delaware homeowners to obtain nearly $1,000,000 in rebates through this program
Add Complementary Components
Besides generating heat or air conditioning, you can also find ways to hold on to that conditioned air for a longer period of time. Investing in additional insulation and energy-efficient windows is another easy way to reduce your energy consumption. Taking this step along with selecting energy-efficient HVAC equipment can have a combined effect on the environment and your pocketbook.
Further, consider investing in a programmable thermostat or even smart technology designed to maximize your comfort while minimizing your energy consumption. These technologies can help you turn on your HVAC system when you are home or even target the rooms you are currently using. They can likewise turn off your system when you’re away or not using particular rooms.
Utilizing window coverings to augment your heating and cooling can also make a difference in your overall energy usage. For instance, take advantage of the sun in the cooler months to help naturally heat your home. When the weather turns warm, however, be sure to cover those same windows to block and reflect that heat away from your home.
Rely on Professional Installation and Maintenance
Finally, be sure to use an experienced, certified HVAC professional when you’re installing new equipment or servicing current furnaces or air conditioners. Our trained technicians can help you size new equipment appropriately and install it properly, which can improve efficiency and longevity of your HVAC investment. This also keeps your equipment manufacturer’s warranty in good standing.
You may additionally want to invest in a Full Comfort Service Plan to keep your equipment in the best possible shape. This simple, affordable step can make a big difference in your system’s efficiency, which will then have a positive effect on the environment.
Contact Burns & McBride for Your Green Solutions
Our Burns & McBride team in Wilmington, DE, would be happy to share other green HVAC options with you. Call our experienced professionals at tel:3022197098 or request service online today.
