How To Deal With Increasing Energy Costs in Houston
Like many regions in the country, homeowners in the greater Houston area are experiencing a spike in energy costs. Several factors are contributing to the rise in one of the world’s largest energy hubs, including:
- Increased demand: As Houston’s population grows, the electricity demand has risen, too, putting pressure on energy prices due to the need for new facilities and additional fuel.
- Climate and weather fluctuations: Recent hurricanes, heatwaves, and floods have caused significant damage to the area’s energy infrastructure, resulting in widespread outages and shortages.
- Seesawing fuel prices: Houston maintains close ties to the global gas and oil markets. When prices rise, the city’s energy costs typically follow suit. For instance, in 2022, area electricity prices skyrocketed due to a price increase in natural gas, making it more expensive for power plants to generate electricity using the energy source.
Changes in energy regulations, such as stricter environmental laws and carbon emissions taxes, have also had a major impact on energy costs.
Rising prices at the industry level invariably affect electricity costs for Houston homeowners. These tips on conserving electricity and getting the most out of your HVAC system can help.
How To Conserve Electricity & Get the Most Out of Your HVAC System
Your home’s HVAC system accounts for one of its largest energy expenses. The good news is that these easy and cost-effective steps can help make your heating and cooling equipment more efficient without sacrificing comfort.
Change the Air Filters
Dirty and non-functioning filters do nothing but drain money from your wallet. Check filters every month and clean or replace them as needed. Doing so also extends your HVAC system’s life span by reducing how hard it needs to work to cool and heat your home.
Routine Maintenance
Regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance can reduce the risk of expensive breakdowns by up to 95%. And you can save as much as 35% on your energy bill by making simple adjustments to the equipment’s operating cycle. Twice-yearly tune-ups by an expert heating and air conditioning technician also help you enjoy better indoor comfort all year.
Another great way to save is by joining Horizon Air Solutions’ exclusive maintenance program designed to keep your entire HVAC system well-maintained.
Our technicians inspect and test your heating and cooling systems and make any necessary adjustments and repairs, including replacing the air filter, cleaning the condensate drain, and checking electrical and fuel connections.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
Adjusting the thermostat by just five or six degrees can significantly reduce your energy usage and costs. Even better is upgrading to a smart thermostat that automatically makes adjustments for you as it learns your habits and ideal comfort level.
Most models also alert you to increased energy consumption and let you know when it’s time to change the filter.
These tips can go a long way in making your Houston area home’s heating and cooling usage more efficient.
Why Choose Horizon Air Solutions?
HVAC services from Horizon Air Solutions can help you get the most efficiency out of your home’s heating and cooling system. Our air conditioning services ensure a humidity-free house in the summer. Our heating services improve your equipment’s efficiency and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature during the winter.
Because we’re locally owned, you save even more, as we pay no franchise fees or other overhead costs national companies require. You get lower prices without cutting corners or sacrificing quality.
We also offer 24/7 emergency HVAC repairs and convenient financing options to all our customers in the greater Houston area.
For friendly, quality service from NATE-certified technicians or to learn more ways to help your HVAC unit function more efficiently, call 713-679-9225.
