Many homeowners may not regularly consider the implications of energy use on the environment. Yet homeowners in Jacksonville, Florida, can have a big impact on the environment with just a few simple changes. Here are three ways energy efficiency at home helps the environment:

Reduces Reliance on Fossil Fuels

Many homes rely on fossil fuels like oil and coal (electricity) for heat. One way to reduce dependence on fossil fuels is to switch to a more energy-efficient HVAC system that uses renewable energy, such as a geothermal heat pump. Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat from beneath the ground. As a result, they eliminate the need for fossil fuels to heat and cool your home.

Decreases the Effects of Climate Change

Power plants produce electricity by burning coal or crude oil. This process produces greenhouse gas emissions — one of the biggest contributors to climate change. To help curb the effects of climate change, you must lower your carbon footprint. Therefore, you must reduce your energy usage. Unplugging devices that aren’t in use and line-drying your clothes are easy ways to use less energy. Using a smart thermostat to avoid heating or cooling an empty home can also help.

Protects It From Further Damage

Finally, harvesting fossil fuels comes at an enormous cost to the land, air, water, animals and ecosystems. Oil spills harm our oceans, and mining on a mass scale depletes the earth’s resources.

Consider greening your home by switching to wind, geothermal or solar-generated energy. They all allow you to enjoy all the same comforts of home without impacting nonrenewable resources. If you can’t take advantage of these energy alternatives, you can minimize energy usage by installing ENERGY STAR-rated appliances. Some examples include energy-efficient washing machines and dishwashers.

You may think that making small changes to your energy usage won’t make much of a difference. But if everyone takes tiny steps toward saving energy, the collective impact is huge. At Ocean State Air Conditioning & Heating, we can assess your home’s needs and install an HVAC system that’s more energy-efficient. Call us at (904) 574-5619 to schedule a consultation.

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