If you have houseplants in your Mount Brooke, Alabama, home, you probably love the visual appeal and ambiance that these additions provide to the space. However, what you may not realize is that indoor plants do more than just look nice. In fact, certain houseplants can help reduce your energy costs and keep bills down every month.
Moisture in the Air
One of the ways that plants can help reduce energy waste is through the process of transpiration. Moisture evaporates through the leaves of indoor plants, which can provide a cooling effect when the air is warm, as well as a warming effect when it’s cold inside. The slight increase in humidity can also make a cool room feel warmer since the moisture retains heat more effectively. During the winter months, it’s smart to use a few extra houseplants and turn the thermostat several degrees lower.
Improved Air Quality
Plants can also improve the quality of the air in your home, which can help the HVAC system to run more efficiently. According to research performed by a university professor from Norway, the presence of plants can also reduce illnesses in businesses, hospitals, and schools by up to 23 percent. Indoor plants can help reduce the presence of toxins, bacteria, and mold spores in the air.
Choosing the Right Plants
Not all plants will offer the same benefits within your home, so choose the right plants to maximize the energy savings. You may also want to opt for plants that don’t require a lot of care or work, as they can be hard to manage. For example, English ivy can grow well without much TLC and offers the air-purification benefits that you may want. Spider plants are also popular among indoor gardeners, adding a unique look to your space while helping to clean the air.
If your houseplants aren’t helping to keep your bills low enough for your liking, contact our experienced technicians at One Source Heating & Cooling at (205) 509-1929 to schedule HVAC maintenance on your unit.
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