What is a recommended strategy for a homeowner to reduce HVAC costs?

The most effective strategy for a homeowner to reduce HVAC costs is to upgrade insulation in the attic. Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining the temperature within a home by preventing conditioned air from escaping in winter and keeping excess heat out in summer. Proper attic insulation helps ensure that HVAC systems do not have to work as hard to maintain desired temperatures, thereby reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.

While planting trees can also contribute to energy savings, the specific choice of planting trees on the south side may not necessarily provide the best shading and cooling benefits that good insulation would. Trees can effectively block sunlight and provide natural cooling, but without adequate insulation, the benefits may be less impactful. In contrast, upgrading insulation works year-round to improve energy efficiency regardless of outside influences.

Therefore, while both options may contribute to reducing costs in different ways, investing in attic insulation presents a more immediate and comprehensive solution for enhancing energy efficiency and reducing HVAC expenses.