As concerns over climate change continue to grow, many people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and lessen their impact on the environment. One way to do this is by cutting down on the use of natural gas and propane in our homes.
You Can Take to Cut Natural Gas and Propane Use
These fossil fuels are commonly used for heating, cooking, and hot water, but they also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Fortunately, there are several easy steps that you can take to reduce your natural gas and propane use at home. Not only will these steps help you lower your carbon footprint, but they can also save you money on your energy bills. From simple changes in behavior to more significant upgrades to your home’s infrastructure, there are many ways to cut down on your natural gas and propane use. By taking action, you can play your part in building a more sustainable future for our planet.
Steps To Reduce The Amount Of Energy You Are Currently Using
These steps will reduce the amount of energy that you’re using and lower your utility bills:
- Turn down your thermostat to 68 degrees. For every degree you lower your heat in the 60-degree to 70-degree range, you’ll save up to 5 percent on heating costs.
- Wear warm clothing like a sweater and set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during the day and evening, health permitting.
- Set the thermostat back to 55 degrees or off at night or when leaving home for an extended time, saving 5-20 percent of your heating costs (heat pumps should only be set back 2 degrees to prevent unneeded use of backup strip heating).
- Replace or clean furnace filters as recommended. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy use.
- Now is also the time for a furnace “tune-up.” Keeping your furnace clean, lubricated and properly adjusted will reduce energy use, saving up to 5 percent of heating costs.
- Reduce hot water temperature. Set your water heater to the “normal” setting or 120-degrees Fahrenheit, unless the owner’s manual for your dishwasher requires a higher setting. Savings are 7-11 percent of water heating costs.
- Seal up the leaks. Caulk leaks around windows and doors. Look for places where you have pipes, vents or electrical conduits that go through the wall, ceiling or floor. Check the bathroom, underneath the kitchen sink, pipes inside a closet, etc. If you find a gap at the point where the pipe or vents goes through the wall, seal it up. Caulk works best on small gaps. Your hardware store should have products to close the larger gaps.
- Have your ductwork inspected for kinks, leaks or not insulated areas. Problems with your ductwork will cause serious increase in utility consumption, damage to your equipment and uneven hot spots thought the house.
- Consider replacing your old gas appliances with an ENERGY STAR® water heater or furnace.
Contact ICE Heating & Cooling For Ideal Services
At ICE Heating & Cooling, we take pride in our reputation for excellence, and we’re dedicated to providing the best possible service to our customers. We understand that ideal HVAC installation and HVAC maintenance issues can be stressful and disruptive, which is why we work quickly and efficiently to get your system up and running again as soon as possible.
So, if you need reliable heating and cooling services, don’t hesitate to contact us at ICE Heating & Cooling. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to answer any questions you may have and provide you with the ideal service you need to keep your home comfortable year-round.
