Tips on Saving Energy

Admin • March 22, 2018

No matter what time of year, most people are constantly looking for ways they can save a few extra dollars on their monthly utility bills. The good news is, saving energy, and subsequently saving money, can be relatively easy, especially during the spring when chilly winter temperatures are finally beginning to subside and you may not have to rely on your air conditioner quite yet. Here are some of our favorite tips for saving energy at home.

Consider Installing a Heat Pump

The type of climate control system in your home plays a major role in your energy consumption. In general, heat pumps are considered the most efficient units for climates like we have here in Hampton Roads where the winters aren’t overly harsh and the summers aren’t exactly sweltering either.

The U.S. Department of Energy has estimated utilizing a heat pump during the winter versus an electric furnace reduces energy usage by 50 percent while pumping three times more warm air into your home.1 Heat pumps are also very versatile, as they pair well with electric, oil or central propane-powered homes.

Heat pump water heaters are also recommended for those looking to save energy. Energy Saver reports that a heat pump water heater could reduce energy costs by about 50 percent, especially in climates that stay in the 40- to 90-degree Fahrenheit range year-round.2

Try DIY Humidity

Modern HVAC units do an excellent job of maintaining your home’s humidity level at less than the EPA’s recommended 50 percent relative humidity.3 This helps minimize issues such as mold and mildew growth, respiratory problems, and dust mite infestation. If you’re trying to cut energy costs, you may not want to run your heat pump or central air unit when it’s not necessary. During drier-than-normal periods, you can keep your air clean and comfortable by filling your bathtub with hot water and letting the air permeate through your home.

Keep Your Outdoor Condenser Cabinets Clear

If you have a central air conditioner or heat pump with an outdoor condenser unit, it’s important you keep the outdoor cabinet clear of debris, such as twigs, tree limbs, dirt, rocks and leaves. It’s recommended you clear about two feet of space around the unit. If your coils and fan are unobstructed, they perform with higher efficiency. If the cabinet is blocked, it will have a more difficult time drawing and releasing air during the cooling or heating process. Try using a broom or other non-motorized item to get the job done so you can further save water and energy.

Replace HVAC Filters

Furnace and air conditioning filters not only maintain good indoor air quality, but they help your HVAC unit run more efficiently as well. When your filters are clogged or dirty, your system works much harder to heat or cool your home than it would were the filter clean. Energy Star recommends replacing your filter about once a month during peak seasons – and every three months at minimum – to keep utility bills low and your air quality as high as possible.

Repair Water Leaks

Undetected water leaks are some of the biggest culprits for unusually large utility bills. Even a small drip at the faucet or underneath the kitchen sink can easily add up to gallons over time. Not to mention, leaks that go undetected for long periods of time can lead to mold and mildew growth, which has a lot of serious health ramifications in addition to the damage it causes to your home. Consider upgrading to EPA approved WaterSense-labeled fixtures and toilets, which are known to be more efficient. Be sure to repair even the smallest leak as soon as possible.

Professional Plumbing, Air Conditioning and Heating Service in the Norfolk Area

Looking for additional cost-cutting when it comes to energy bills? One of the best things you can do is schedule a routine tune-up for your heat pump, boiler or central air conditioner. The trained technicians at A-1 American Plumbing know just what to look for to get your system running at peak performance. We can also install an energy efficient heat pump or new water heater completely hassle-free.

If leaky faucets are putting a damper on your finances, or you’re simply looking to upgrade your fixtures, consider A-1 Plumbing as your plumbing partners as well. We’ve been providing Hampton Roads with trustworthy service for many years.

To schedule a service appointment contact us online or call (757) 595-9900 today!

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Happy Labor Day weekend graphic with tools and American flag.

Happy Labor Day from A-1 American Services!

September 1, 2025

First, a little background on Labor Day and how it came to play into American history. Labor Day is celebrated to honor the contributions and achievements of American workers and the labor movement. It recognizes the role of workers in building the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the country. The Holiday began in the late 19th century, during a time when working conditions were often harsh—long hours, unsafe workplaces, and little time off were common. Labor unions pushed for better conditions, fair wages, and reasonable workdays. The first Labor Day parade took place in New York City in 1882, organized by the Central Labor Union. In 1894, after years of growing support and following major labor strikes, Congress officially made Labor Day a federal holiday. It’s observed on the first Monday in September, serving both as a tribute to workers and as a symbolic “end of summer” celebration. Not to be confused with International Workers’ Day which is celebrated May 1st worldwide and focuses more on activism and workers’ rights, Labor Day focuses more as a tribute to workers with family time, picnics, parades, and community events like our concer series at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Hampton Roads -- which encompasses the Penninsula (Williamsburg, Newport News, and Hampton) AND South Side (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, and Suffolk) has always been a working community, from the shipbuilders at Newport News Shipbuilding, to the longshoremen at the Port of Virginia, to the military and civil service workers who keep our bases running. Labor Day really ties into that history because it’s a reminder of how much the region’s workforce has shaped the local economy and even national security. For many families here, Labor Day is also (for the lucky) the last long weekend before school starts, so you’ll see people heading to the beach at Virginia Beach, picnicking at local parks, or attending community events. It’s both a recognition of hard work and a chance for people in Hampton Roads to pause, recharge, and enjoy the fruits of their labor before the busy fall season kicks in. From the A-1 American Services family to yours... Please have a safe and happy Labor Day!! And if you find you need help with any clogs, water heater leaks, HVAC hiccups, clooged toilets our guys are standing by ready to help you and your family at a moments notice!