Service accordingly. Have heating and cooling systems tuned up in the fall and spring. Make sure ductwork is intact and sealed properly.
Clean or replace filters on air conditioners and heat pumps regularly. Use an air conditioner with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 13 or higher. Use the proper size for your home. If building a new home, consider installing an energy-efficient geothermal system to cool and heat the home. Contact a reputable HVAC contractor to properly size the unit required for your home.
Insulate. Make sure insulation levels are appropriate in the attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces. You can increase the comfort of your home and reduce annual heating and cooling usage up to 30% just by investing in proper insulation—cellulose is recommended—and sealing unwanted air infiltration.
Ceiling fans can bring energy-saving benefits to the home. Most ceiling fans use only about as much power as a 100-watt light bulb. When used properly, ceiling fans can save money on utility bills year-round.