HOME
MASTERING ENERGY EFFICIENCY WRITTEN BY T.E. CUNNINGHAM
High electric and gas bills
are never a welcome sight, but there are many things homeowners can do to save money. Regardless of the season, your home will benefit from installing a programmable thermostat. Once installed, set your heat as low as you can comfortably bear it. You can program the thermostat to increase or decrease temperature settings when you’re out for long periods. You may be able to adjust the temperature a few more degrees while sleeping as well. Most experts agree that over time, these steps can save you at least 10 percent. “During the winter, programmable thermostats save energy dollars for homeowners. However, during bitter, frigid temperatures you should be cautious of setting temperatures back too much so you avoid frozen pipes and other adverse effects,” advises Richard Blachly, owner of Ideal Air Heating and Cooling, which serves Johnson County. He adds, “Homeowners can also
44
|
SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE
|
MARCH 2021
save energy in the summertime, but we recommend you adjust in small increments—not more than a three-degree offset of your regular setting. By having the house too warm it introduces more humidity, causing the house to take more time to cool down.”
SOME OTHER TIPS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY • A smart thermostat gives you the ability to control temperatures from your smartphone and alerts you to any problems. For example, one of Blachly’s customers called him while traveling in Ohio when his smartphone alerted him it was only 45 degrees in his house. With the help of a neighbor allowing the HVAC company entry, the problem was remedied before the homeowner returned and any pipes froze. • Further insulate your home and prevent drafts. Contact an insulation company to determine what insulation options are available. Drafts can kill your energy bill, so check all windows and doors for
