How You Can Achieve an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating a complete sense of comfort, saving on utility bills and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few strategic changes around the house are all it takes to reach your energy efficiency goals. Consider the most common sources of energy loss in the average North American home and how you can help fix them.
A New HVAC System
Heating and cooling represent over half of the energy use in most homes. Once your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to run longer and work harder to keep the temperature where you want it. Systems larger than you need are also a concern, as they may start short cycling, leading to uneven temperatures, poor humidity control and extra strain on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Invest in a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork inspected for air loss. Next, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Consider adding a programmable thermostat. Adding one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t waste energy on climate control when you’re away for the day.
Dated Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and far outlast incandescent bulbs. Also, remember to switch off lighting when you leave a room. While you’re at it, disconnect other appliances when they’re not in use. For even more savings, think about adding smart controls to manage devices wherever you need to.
Leaks in Your Windows and Doors
Leaks in your windows and doors allow warm air to leak out in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In either of these situations, your HVAC system is put under strain.
The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. Once you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These windows reduce unwanted heat transfer by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than energy-efficient alternatives. Lack of maintenance over the years can make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This includes running full loads in the dishwasher, washing clothes in cold water and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. As for the fridge and freezer, keep the coils clean to improve efficiency. And when it’s time to get new appliances, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re able to use less energy without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a huge energy hog, especially in homes where it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is actually larger than necessary for your home. Water heaters also lose heat through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of investing in a tankless water heater, which only heats water when you need it. If this isn’t an option, insulate the water heater tank and pipes, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and never neglect water heater maintenance.
Lacking Enough Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and floors aren’t properly insulated, you’re probably experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are many types of insulation to work with, like classic fiberglass, blown-in cellulose and spray foam. Working with a certified contractor is often worth it for the valuable insights and quality work.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, it’s worth considering installing solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while a connected battery bank saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems come with up-front costs, government incentives like tax credits are offered to help reduce some of the expense.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can guide you to a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians provide efficient and lasting fixes to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities working efficiently. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
