Our houses use a lot of energy, especially in the summer. Some of that energy goes to good use, like air conditioning. But a lot of it is wasted. That means higher bills, especially as utility companies across Maryland jack up electric rates.
If you’re looking for ways to lower your summer electric bills, stopping energy waste is the best thing you can do.
In this post, we break down the most common energy wasters that could be costing you money this summer, and what you can do about them.
1. Air Leaks
Air leaks are one of the biggest and sneakiest sources of energy waste in a house. These tiny gaps and cracks let cold air escape your house while hot, humid air seeps in, forcing your AC to work harder. They can be anywhere, but are common in attics and basements, around doors and windows, and where plumbing and electrical enter your home.
Fix It With Air Sealing
Air sealing is the key to stopping energy waste through leaks. At Total Home Performance, we find and seal leaks to stop energy waste and save you money.
2. Bad Insulation
Insulation is the foundation of your home’s energy efficiency. Without good insulation, heat will conduct right into your house through your attic and walls. Your air conditioner has to run more often to keep up with the constant influx of heat, which increases your energy bills.
Fix It With an Insulation Upgrade
You can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs just by insulating and air sealing key areas in your home. Total Home Performance can help you save up to $10,000 on insulation costs with ENERGY STAR rebates through BGE or Delmarva Power. Reach out today to see if you qualify.
3. Leaky HVAC Air Ducts
Your cooling system uses air ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home. But if your ducts are leaky, a lot of that cool air is lost. According to ENERGY STAR, leaky ducts reduce HVAC system efficiency by as much as 20%!
Plus, your ducts usually run through dirty and even moldy places like your attic or crawl space. If they’re leaky, they’ll suck in all that dust and mold and send it flying through your house.
Fix It With Duct Sealing
Duct sealing is one of the most effective ways to stop energy waste and lower your energy bills in the summer.
4. Too Much Humidity
Humidity makes your house feel warmer than it actually is, pushing you to crank up the AC. That wastes energy and costs you money. Plus, too much humidity can cause mold growth and is bad for your health.
Fix It With a Whole-Home Dehumidifier
A whole-house dehumidifier controls humidity using a fraction of the energy as an air conditioner, reducing summer AC bills while keeping you comfortable.
5. Old Cooling Systems
Cooling systems become less and less efficient as they get older. That means they cost more to run. If your air conditioner or heat pump is around 10-15 years old or older, it might be time for an upgrade, especially if you’re dealing with other problems like frequent breakdowns and repairs.
Fix It With an Energy-Efficient AC or Heat Pump
A new cooling system is an investment, but sometimes it’s necessary. At Total Home Performance, we can evaluate your AC, heat pump, or mini splits and let you know whether a replacement makes sense. We install energy efficient central air conditioners and heat pumps that use less energy to keep you cool!
Not Sure Where to Start? Schedule an Energy Audit!
Not sure what’s wasting the most energy in your house? An energy audit is the best place to start. With an energy audit, we can figure out exactly how your house is wasting energy (and why your bills are so high) in just a few hours.
If you’re a customer of BGE or Delmarva Power, you may be eligible for a no-cost or reduced-cost energy audit through the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR program. You may also qualify for up to $10,000 in rebates for insulation, air sealing, duct sealing, and more. We can help you claim your savings!
Save money on AC bills this summer. Call 410-822-1390 to book your energy audit today.
Is your house wasting energy and money?
Find the fix with Total Home Performance.
410-822-1390