CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Saving energy is very important to both your wallet and the environment.  There are several things homeowners, like you, can do to maintain your home while reducing energy bills at the same time. 

By incorporating some of the following tips from ARS®/Rescue Rooter® into your home maintenance program this fall, you may experience your heating system working at its best and lasting longer -- thus saving you money.

Ups And Downs: The settings on your thermostat can help you save energy and money.

One easy way to begin saving energy is by installing a programmable thermostat, if you don’t already have one. By programming your thermostat to heat up or cool down during the day, you may be able to save money on your energy bill -- but make sure the change is no more than ten degrees at a time. 

To make the transition even easier, some thermostats come pre-programmed with Energy Star recommended settings. According to Energy Star, if the settings are maintained, homeowners can potentially save $180 per year.

Count Back: Make sure your HVAC system is not past its life span -- it could be costing you.

According to the National Home Builders Association, most heating systems last 10-20 years, depending on the type of system installed. HVAC systems have an average life span of 10 years, 15-20 years for furnaces, and 16 years for properly maintained heat pumps.  Replacing your old system with a new, high-efficiency one can potentially pay for itself in the long run, as it may reduce your heating costs by more than 30 to 50 percent.  Also, high-efficiency air conditioning units use a refrigerant substitute that is environmentally friendly -- unlike the common refrigerant found in older and less efficient units that is known to cause depletion of the ozone layer.

Give Your Windows Special Treatment: A tightly sealed house helps reduce energy loss.

Replacing old windows is an ideal way to save money as the weather gets cooler.  A less expensive option is to install window insulation kits, which will limit cold air from entering your home and help keep heat from escaping.

Also, don’t overlook your electrical outlets. Home improvement stores sell “electrical outlet sealers” to reduce energy loss from your outlets located on exterior walls.  Be sure to follow the directions carefully and turn off the power before you begin installation.

Keep It Clean: Air filters are a must for a well-maintained, properly functioning system.

Dirty air filters negatively affect air quality and can cause problems for your family members, especially those with allergies and asthma. Replacing air filters monthly is key for proper system maintenance and especially important in the winter months when more time is spent inside.  Remember, a dirty air filter makes your system work hard -- thus wasting energy and decreasing its life span.

Also, to maximize air flow and distribution, do not block air vents, intakes or radiators with furniture or drapes that can restrict proper distribution of heat.

Check It Out: Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid HVAC issues.

The best defense against heating or air conditioning problems is to make sure your system is maintained year-round. Having heating equipment serviced by a reputable company at least once a year can reduce your heating bill and prevent costly repairs and replacements in the future.

This professional inspection should include:

• Inspecting the heat exchanger, burners, gas and draft pressure, flame and igniter operation and overall safety of gas systems to ensure they are working properly.
• Thermostat calibration that improves total home comfort and temperature control.
• Inspection and cleaning of the air handler/blower as a dirty blower wheel can reduce air flow, causing efficiency loss and higher energy bills.
• Filter inspection and cleaning that increases system efficiency and home comfort.
• Inspection of wiring and connections, as loose or burnt connections can cause higher operating costs and costly repairs, and inspection of airflow and ductwork.
• Identifying hot and cold spots in the home and balancing the system as needed.
• Gauging electrical systems for proper amp draw as improper amp draw can signal that system parts are near failure.

Audit The Attic: A properly insulated attic is an easy way to maintain the comfort level in your home.

Attic insulation is another key to maintaining the comfort level in your home. If you don’t have enough insulation you can waste energy by allowing warm air in your home to escape though the ceiling, and that may show in your heating bills. You can easily tell if you need more insulation -- if structural frame elements, such as ceiling joists or wall framing boards, are visible. Also, don't forget to insulate your attic door access, as this is another source of significant energy loss in the home.

As you continue to audit your home for energy savings this fall, visit ARS/Rescue Rooter Home Connect (www.ars.com/homeconnect) for answers to any questions you may have along the way.  If you don’t see your question answered, you can send our HVAC and plumbing experts an email that will be answered and posted to the site.

For more information about ARS®/Rescue Rooter® and its services, please call (704) 545-8868 or visit www.ARS.com.