Cooperative Living June 2024 - 21

CUTTING EDGE
Chilling Out
Tips on how to stay cool and be eco-friendly
story courtesy of Family Features
U
pdating your HVAC system to cool your home
smartly and sustainably involves several steps that
not only improve energy efficiency, but can also
reduce environmental impact.
Consider these tips from the heating and cooling
experts at Carrier to help make your cooling system more
eco-friendly:
UPGRADE TO AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT
HVAC SYSTEM
If your HVAC system is outdated, consider replacing it
with a more energy-efficient model. Look for systems with
an Energy Star or high SEER2 rating, which indicates better
energy efficiency. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more
efficient the unit.
INSTALL A SMART THERMOSTAT
A smart thermostat can be programmed based on your
preferences and adjust temperatures automatically. These
devices can be controlled remotely through smartphones
and help reduce energy consumption by cooling your home
only when necessary.
CONDUCT REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Keep your HVAC system running efficiently with regular
maintenance. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters
every three months, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning outside
condenser coils, and ensuring the system's components are in
good working condition so the airflow is not blocked.
SEAL AND INSULATE
Improve your home's insulation to maintain a consistent
temperature. Seal windows, doors and
any gaps or cracks to prevent cool air
from escaping. This can significantly reduce
the workload on your HVAC system.
USE CEILING FANS
Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air throughout
your home, allowing you to set the thermostat at a higher
temperature without sacrificing comfort, thus saving energy.
ADD WINDOW TREATMENTS
Use blinds, shades or curtains to block out sunlight
and reduce heat gain during the hottest parts of the day.
This simple step can make a big difference in how much
your air conditioner needs to work.
UPGRADE TO A VARIABLE-SPEED COMPRESSOR
Traditional compressors operate at full power or not at all.
However, a variable-speed compressor can adjust its output
to match your cooling needs precisely, resulting in better
efficiency, energy savings and improved indoor comfort.
VENTILATE PROPERLY
Ensure proper ventilation in your home, especially in areas
like the kitchen and bathroom, to remove excess heat and
humidity, which can reduce the need for air conditioning.
UPDATE YOUR ROOF
If you're replacing your roof, consider cool roofing
materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat
than standard roofing materials, reducing the heat that
enters your home.
By implementing these strategies, you can improve
or update your HVAC system to cool your home more
sustainably. Not only do these steps help the environment,
but they can also lead to lower energy bills and improved
indoor comfort. Always consult with an HVAC professional
to determine the best and most efficient options for your
home and specific needs.
*
Keep your
HVAC system
running
efficiently
with regular
maintenance.
co-opliving.com
June 2024 * Cooperative Living * 19
http://www.co-opliving.com
Cooperative Living June 2024

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