Rising energy costs and unpredictable weather make it challenging to keep your home comfortable without driving up utility bills. The right HVAC upgrades can help you maintain a consistent indoor temperature while improving efficiency and lowering costs.
At Mainstream, we’ve spent over 20 years helping Spokane homeowners make smart, energy-saving choices. With a few key improvements, you can reduce energy waste, enhance comfort, and keep your utility bills in check. Let’s explore the most effective upgrades for a more efficient home.
1. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats have quickly become a popular choice for cutting energy costs. These devices are built to optimize heating and cooling by learning your household’s habits and adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. For example, a smart thermostat can lower the heat while you’re at work or asleep and raise it again before you return home or wake up. This personalization helps keep energy usage in check without sacrificing comfort.
Many homeowners notice significant savings after installing smart thermostats. When your HVAC system runs more efficiently, heating and cooling costs can drop by as much as 10% annually. Beyond saving money, smart thermostats offer added convenience. Many models let you control settings remotely through a smartphone app, so you can make adjustments even when you’re not at home.
Though setting up a smart thermostat might seem simple, professional installation is always recommended to ensure compatibility with your current HVAC system. Mainstream’s technicians have extensive experience with these systems and can help you pick the right model for your home. We’ll take care of the setup so you can start saving right away.
2. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient HVAC System
Heating and cooling typically account for a large part of utility bills, especially during Spokane’s cold winters and hot summers. If your HVAC system is outdated or underperforming, you might be paying much more than you need to. Modern energy-efficient systems use advanced technology to deliver the same comfort while using less energy.
Replacing an old HVAC system with a more efficient one can lead to major savings on heating and cooling costs. Features like variable-speed motors and advanced heat exchangers allow these systems to adapt to your home’s needs, avoiding the constant cycling that wastes energy. Additionally, many energy-efficient systems qualify for rebates or tax incentives, adding even more value.
Signs that your HVAC system might need replacing include uneven temperatures, frequent breakdowns, or being more than 10-15 years old. Mainstream’s team can evaluate your current system and recommend the best replacement to meet both your comfort and energy-saving goals. Professional furnace installation ensures your new system is properly sized and optimized for efficiency.
3. Switch to a Tankless Water Heater
Water heaters are another big contributor to high energy bills, especially older models that store large amounts of hot water. Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand systems, offer a more efficient alternative by heating water only when needed. This eliminates the energy loss that comes from keeping a tank of water hot at all times.
Switching to a tankless water heater can lead to noticeable reductions in energy use. These systems provide instant hot water without constant reheating, and their compact design saves space. With proper care, tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years, making them a long-term investment.
Choosing the right tankless water heater depends on your household’s specific needs. Mainstream’s plumbing experts can assess your situation and recommend a model that fits your home. Professional installation ensures reliable performance and proper setup for years to come.
4. Enhance Your Home’s Insulation
Many Spokane homes, especially older ones, don’t have enough insulation, which leads to heat escaping in the winter and entering in the summer. Insulation helps maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, reducing the strain on your HVAC system and lowering energy costs.
Areas like the attic, walls, and floors are common sources of energy loss. Adding proper insulation can eliminate drafts, reduce noise, and improve overall energy efficiency. If you’re unsure where to start, an energy audit can pinpoint problem areas. Mainstream can connect you with trusted energy auditors to help you prioritize the best upgrades for your home.
5. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Small gaps and cracks around windows and doors can significantly increase energy bills. Air leaks let conditioned air escape and allow outdoor air to enter, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. Sealing these gaps is an easy and affordable way to improve energy efficiency.
Common problem spots include window frames, door thresholds, and gaps around vents or pipes. Materials like weather stripping and caulking can effectively close these gaps and prevent drafts. For a more durable solution, professional air sealing is a smart choice. Mainstream’s team can identify trouble areas and provide high-quality fixes to boost your home’s energy performance.
6. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
Household appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines contribute significantly to electricity use. Older models are often much less efficient, driving up costs. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR-rated appliances helps reduce energy consumption without sacrificing functionality.
ENERGY STAR appliances are specifically designed to use less electricity and water. For instance, a modern washing machine can save hundreds of gallons of water each year, and a more efficient refrigerator can cut energy usage by up to 15%. Mainstream’s technicians can help you select and install appliances to ensure they operate at their best.
We Are HVAC Maintenance. We Are Mainstream.
At Mainstream, we’re committed to helping you enjoy a comfortable home while keeping your utility bills under control. Our experienced technicians are here to guide you through the process of making energy-efficient upgrades, from selecting the right products to ensuring proper installation. We understand that every home is unique, which is why we offer personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs and budget.
With our comprehensive range of services, including HVAC system replacements, insulation upgrades, and appliance installations, we’ll help you create a more efficient and comfortable living space. Plus, our Service Partner Plan provides regular maintenance and exclusive discounts, ensuring your home’s systems continue to operate at peak efficiency year-round.
Contact Mainstream today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our full range of energy-efficient solutions.
