Taming energy hogs

Before summer gets into full swing, take a few minutes to check your home for energy hogs. They may be lurking in plain sight.

Air conditioners – if your home isn’t cooling the way you think it should, it could be time to have your air conditioner serviced to clean the coils and check refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant levels will cause your air conditioner to work harder, resulting in higher electric use.

Cooling the outdoors – if your ductwork is leaking, you can save money by having it checked by an HVAC professional to ensure it is sealed properly.

Clogged HVAC filters – a dirty filter makes your system work harder, increasing your bill.

Insulation – most homes don’t have enough insulation. Today’s homes are required to have a rating of R-38, twice the standard of a few years ago.

Swimming pools – if you own a pool, take a look at your pump. If it is running constantly, it may be time for a new one. Call a professional for an energy audit to see what your pump is costing.

An energy audit can help reveal ways to save energy and dollars.