Arizona Tips: Fall and Winter Energy Efficiency

Arizona is cooling down, and that means a shift in how energy is and should be used. During the summer, SunHarvest Solar made sure you had all the right tools to keep your bill low and your wallets full. We want to make sure you have these tools during every season so you can adjust with the changing weather and save money all year long! Check out these tips to maximize your energy efficiency in the fall and winter months:

Sun Exposure

Let's face it: winter in Arizona is still filled with sun. There are some cloudy days. but overall the sun stays shining all year. The sun has been a natural heater since ancient times, and it can definitely help you increase savings on your electricity bill in cooler months. Open your curtains – especially south-facing ones – to allow the sun to shine in during the day, and close them in the evening to retain the heat. This is a great way to take advantage of the natural heat the sun provides during these cooler months.

Seal Drafty Areas

Doors, windows and other passageways can let in a lot of cool air. Some older homes and businesses are draftier than others. If there is a cool draft coming from your windows, or if you have single-pane windows, consider using plastic to cover them. A clear, heavy-duty plastic and duct tape from your nearest hardware store will work well. Weather-strip your doors to stop cool air from traveling through the doorways under or above them. You can find DIY weather strip methods online, or find one them at a hardware store. If your home or business is looking for an efficient duct-sealing solution, contact us to learn more about how Aeroseal can protect your ducts all year long. Spending a small amount on these items will save energy and money throughout the cooler months.

Chimney Check-Up

Fall is a great time to get an annual chimney check-up. When it goes unused during the summer months, some maintenance issues could arise. There could be leaks, foliage, or other breaches that may cause you to lose heat or not have a properly functioning chimney. If you never use your fireplace, sealing it will save you a lot during the winter months. It is also important to keep the damper closed when you are not using the fireplace, as cold air travels through it and into your home or business. Overall, a fireplace can help with heating if it is properly maintained and sealed when not in use.

HVAC Check-Up

Annual HVAC check-ups will help keep your system running smoothly all year long, and this is a great time of year to schedule yours! These checkups can help identify problems you may not notice, leading to lower energy bills and fewer future repairs. Also be sure to change your HVAC air filters frequently, as this will prevent your system from working too hard to do its job.

Holiday Lighting

Cooler weather means the holiday season is approaching, bringing festivities, decorations, and lights! There are easy ways to make your home look great and also save money on electricity. If you are going to put lighting up this holiday season, try using LED lights. Purchasing lights with a timer can also help you save, as it eliminates the possibility of leaving them on too long by accident. Keep your home festive and cost-effective this holiday season!

From snow to sunshine, SunHarvest Solar is here to ensure you achieve the most cost-effective energy use possible. To become even more energy-savvy and save on your monthly energy costs, we can help you harness the power of the sun for your home or business!