Conserving energy here in West Chester is a household responsibility. If you want to do it right, you have to involve the whole household. Since everyone from adults to small children use appliances and equipment that consume energy, making sure everyone is working together can really pay off. Not only will you save energy and money on your utility bills, but you'll also be teaching your kids an excellent lesson that will follow them wherever they go.

Conservation

Decreasing your consumption is a great place to start. Make a game to see who can best remember to turn off the lights or unplug unused small appliances. You can easily teach school-age children when you should open up windows and blinds to let light and heat in, and when you should keep them closed. If you reward them for their efforts, they'll form good habits quickly.

Efficiency

As kids get older, they want more decision-making power. Teenagers are detail-oriented and can help you sort out the differences in energy-efficient appliances and HVAC equipment, including washers and dryers, dishwashers and faucets and other fixtures.

Start by having them help you decide on a programmable thermostat. If you already have one, teach them how to use it. You’ll be glad you did, should you ever need them to adjust it. Show them the benefits of improving your energy efficiency, especially how it lowers your bills. 

Maintenance

Children love to feel like they’re doing adult work, particularly when they're young. And children of all ages can assist in performing basic maintenance of your HVAC system. Now's a great time to show them how you inspect and clean or replace air filters. They can help you solve problems, as well. Go on a family hunt for air leaks, and let the older kids help you with caulking and weatherstripping. 

For more suggestions on getting your kids involved in home energy efficiency, or for answers to any other HVAC needs, contact the pros at Tri-County Heating & Cooling. We proudly serve homeowners in and around Monroe, West Chester and Fairfield.

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