1. Upgrade Your Thermostat Game

If you’re still adjusting a dial or tapping buttons on an older thermostat, it’s time to upgrade. Smart and programmable thermostats are one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to lower your energy use.

With a smart thermostat, you can:

• Set schedules that match your daily routine

• Automatically lower temps when you’re not home

• Control settings from your phone, even if you’re out

Just lowering your heat or AC by a few degrees while you’re asleep or at work can save you up to 10% a year on energy costs—without you even noticing the difference.

2. Seal the Sneaky Air Leaks

You can have the most efficient HVAC system in the world, but if warm or cool air is escaping through cracks and gaps, you’re still wasting money.

Common problem areas include:

• Gaps around windows and doors

• Attic hatches

• Basement rim joists

• Electrical outlets on exterior walls

Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal them up tight. Draft stoppers at doors and thermal curtains over old windows can also help maintain your indoor temperature without overworking your system.

3. Keep Your HVAC System in Top Shape

An HVAC system that’s clogged with dirt, low on refrigerant, or running with a worn-out filter is going to burn more energy just to keep up. Regular maintenance keeps your system efficient and extends its lifespan.

Here’s what to stay on top of:

• Change your filters every 1–3 months

• Schedule professional HVAC tune-ups twice a year

• Clear leaves and debris from around your outdoor unit

• Make sure vents are open and unblocked

In Tarrytown, we recommend a tune-up before both the heating and cooling seasons. Think of it like a check-up for your home comfort.

4. Layer Up—Smartly

You don’t have to live in a blanket fort to save on heat. But small adjustments can make a big difference. Throw on a comfy sweater or fuzzy socks before bumping the thermostat up a few degrees.

During the winter:

• Set your thermostat to 68°F during the day

• Lower it to 60–62°F while you sleep

During the summer:

• Set the AC to 76–78°F when you’re home

• Raise it a few degrees when you’re out

It’s all about balance. You’ll stay comfortable—and those savings will add up fast.

5. Use Your Ceiling Fans (Yes, Even in Winter)

Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. In winter, reverse the direction of your fan blades (usually with a small switch on the base of the fan). This pushes warm air back down into the room, especially helpful in homes with high ceilings.

In the summer, set fans to spin counterclockwise to create a breeze that makes you feel cooler, so you can raise the thermostat a bit without losing comfort.

Bonus: Ceiling fans use far less electricity than your HVAC system, so it’s a smart swap.

6. Be Smart with Appliances and Lighting

HVAC might be the biggest part of your bill, but other appliances can chip away at your energy budget too.

Tips to cut energy use across your home:

• Switch to LED bulbs—they use 75% less energy

• Run full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine

• Unplug chargers and electronics when not in use

• Use energy-saving settings on appliances when available

Also, avoid using the oven on hot days—it’ll heat up your home and force your AC to work harder. Opt for microwaves, air fryers, or outdoor grilling instead.

7. Insulate Like You Mean It

In older Tarrytown homes, insulation can be a major culprit in heat loss. Adding insulation to your attic, crawl space, or walls can dramatically improve energy efficiency.

Proper insulation keeps your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer—reducing the load on your HVAC system and making your space more comfortable year-round.

It may be a bigger upfront investment, but you’ll see long-term savings on every utility bill.

8. Think Long-Term with Energy-Efficient Upgrades

If your furnace or AC unit is more than 10–15 years old, it might be time to consider an upgrade. New ENERGY STAR®-rated systems are significantly more efficient and can cut your energy use by 20–30%.

Paired with smart thermostats, zoning systems, and ductwork inspections, an upgraded HVAC system can transform both your comfort and your costs.

Look into available rebates or incentives in New York State for energy-efficient home improvements. You might qualify for savings when you make the switch.