How to Be More Energy Efficient in 2023 by Investing in Your Home

As James Clear once wrote, “Goals are good for setting a direction, but systems are best for making progress.” Whether your goals for the new year include being more energy efficient, saving money, or maintaining a cleaner home in 2023, you need a plan or system to make it happen.

Instead of setting a big goal and hoping you’ll stick with it, putting systems into place is a sure-fire way to set yourself up for success, as Clear describes in his bestselling book, Atomic Habits. Making a few simple changes, and implementing a few effective habits, can help you reset and reinvest in your home this year. Here’s how to get started. 

Start Fresh  

During your “new year, new me” cleaning, don’t forget what’s at the heart of your home – the HVAC system. It is responsible for keeping your air clean, free of pollutants and excess humidity, and keeping you comfortable. Putting an HVAC maintenance appointment on the calendar is an easy way to make sure everything is clean, running smoothly and operating as efficiently as possible. An inspection can also help you determine whether you need any upgrades or replacements to your system. 

To keep up with weekly maintenance, try to eliminate pollutants around your home that build up in your system, such as dirt, dust and other debris. To do so, try the simple act of “habit stacking” to implement cleaning routines as Clear describes in Atomic Habits. 

Simply take a habit you already have and add a another, desired task to it. For example, if you always brew a pot of coffee in the morning, take 60 seconds to sweep the floor around the coffee pot each day while it brews. You’ll be surprised how quickly small habits can add up to big changes. Once you’re on auto-pilot, you won’t even have to think about these tasks anymore. As a result, you’ll reap the benefits of a cleaner, happier home. 

Get Into a Rhythm 

Now that your HVAC is tuned up, don’t let it fall off your to-do list for next year. January is the perfect time to set up regular annual maintenance through a program such as the Total Comfort Service Program. Don’t wait until something breaks, smells funny or makes a weird sound before you get your HVAC tuned up again. Staying ahead of problems can save you time and money, and scheduling in advance can keep you from forgetting before it’s too late. 

Plus, as a bonus, you’ll save even more time by being pre-established with a reputable company. When an emergency does happen, you won’t have to search around and ask for recommendations. You’ll know exactly who to call when you need help. 

Save Money and Energy 

Finally, make 2023 your year to finally take advantage of the offers that are out there. By upgrading your system, you may be able to secure rebates through Carrier, the City of Tallahassee, Duke Energy and more. With the SEER updates that went into effect this month, new tax credits are becoming available  through the Inflation Reduction Act for upgrading to a more energy efficient system. 

In addition to saving money in the long run through lower energy bills, you may be able to save big on the cost of upgrading to your new system. Your home is one of the biggest commitments you make and reinvesting in it is a smart way to maintain its value. 

Not sure what all is available? This is another area where habits are your friend. Make it part of your routine to stay informed about deals and rebates available in your area, so you don’t miss out when an opportunity arises. Signing up for email updates with Barineau is a super easy way to check this off your list. 

Make 2023 Your Year 

As James Clear wrote, “Success is the product of daily habits—not once-in-a-lifetime transformations.” Start your new year on the right note and set your home up for success by investing in your HVAC system through daily, weekly and monthly habits. Implementing healthy habits lets you breathe easier, stress less and save your time for what matters most to you.  

Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning is your guide to all things HVAC, and keeping you comfortable is our No. 1 priority. Visit our website to view available rebates or to sign up for the Total Comfort Service Program today.