While there is always an upfront investment required when updating your home’s mechanical systems, doing so will not only help to green your home—but will save you money in the long run. While you may not be able to upgrade all of your mechanical systems at once, below are just a few ways going green can reduce your energy bill, without sacrificing quality or convenience.
Home Plumbing System
While conserving water may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of your plumbing, there are many changes and upgrades you can make that will also help to reduce your monthly energy bill. Below is a general list of upgrades, but consider reaching out to a professional plumbing service in Pittsburgh to help identify the best solutions for your home. Some general upgrades include:
- Upgrade to an energy efficient dishwasher and washing machine to reduce energy usage, and conserve water
- Insulate the pipes in your basement, attic, and under your home so that less energy is invested in keeping the water in your pipes hot
- Turn your hot water heater down to 120°, which will save you an average of $60 per year. The less hot water you use, the more energy you will save.
- Invest in low-flow toilet and faucets.
Home Electrical Systems
There are a multitude of ways you can upgrade your home electrical system, or upgrade the appliances and electronics that you plug into your electrical system to help you save money each month. A Pittsburgh residential electrical service professional can help you to determine if it is best to upgrade your entire system or just your appliances. A few upgrades to consider include:
- Investing in solar products. This does not necessarily mean going completely solar in your home, but turning to solar powered outdoor lights, electronics chargers, and solar powered home gadgets
- Upgrade to energy efficient light fixtures, ceiling fans, sockets, dimmer switches, etc.
- Purchase energy efficient appliances—washer, dryer, dishwasher, kitchen appliances, fan, space heater, window AC, etc.
- Look for an energy efficient option for everything you purchase that plugs in—light bulbs, electronics, power strips, etc.
- Invest in an electronic tool that provides tips on how to reduce your home’s energy consumption
- Unplug all items when not in use, which can reduce your monthly energy bill by up to 10%
Heating and Cooling
There are a multitude of ways that you can reduce your monthly energy bill, while keeping your heating and cooling system at a comfortable temperature for your Pittsburgh home. Below are just a few changes a Pittsburgh HVAC specialist might suggest:
- Upgrading to a programmable thermostat—bonus points if it can be programmed remotely
- Upgrading your furnace or boiler
- Upgrading to an energy efficient heat pump or HVAC system
- Performing necessary repairs and maintenance on your wood or pellet stove
- Heat and cool only the rooms you are currently using with the use of window ACs and portable space heaters, ACs, and dehumidifiers
These upgrades and tips provide you with many methods of greening your home, without taking any extreme measures. Aside from the upgrades and changes mentioned above, there are numerous ways you can further reduce your carbon footprint by making other small changes to your daily, weekly, and seasonal routine.
Even the smallest action can have a big environmental effect. Go green all throughout your home with help from the expert technicians at Tudi Mechanical Systems. For years, Tudi’s team of Pittsburgh HVAC, electricians and plumbers have built a reputation for being some of the best in the business with their uncompromising courtesy and energy-efficient designs. Cut costs throughout your home all year round by calling Tudi today.