How to Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your perfect idea of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to achieve your energy efficiency goals. We’ll be talking about some of the most common areas of energy waste in the average North American home and what you can do to fix them.
HVAC System Upgrade
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy use in most homes. If your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to stay on longer and might struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a common issue, as they may start short cycling, leading to temperature fluctuations, poor control over humidity levels and extra strain on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the air ducts inspected for air loss. Next, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. 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.
Old Lighting
Old incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just more expensive—it also puts more strain on your AC.
The fix: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and far outlast incandescent bulbs. Also, don’t forget to switch off lighting when you leave a room. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For even more savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In each case, your HVAC system is put under strain.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. When you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These windows limit heat loss by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than newer models. Lack of maintenance over the years may make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means only operating the dishwasher when full, using cold settings for laundry and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. As for the fridge and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to get new appliances, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to use less energy without losing out on total performance.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s old water heater is a big energy consumer, especially in homes where it’s set too high or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also lose heat through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of switching to a tankless water heater, which only heats water when you need it. If that isn’t cost-effective as an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, set the temperature to 120° F and never overlook water heater maintenance.
Too Little Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re probably wasting energy, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and keeps hot summer air outside, so the HVAC system won’t need to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, the easiest place to retrofit an existing home. There are several different types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass rolls, loose-fill cellulose and spray foam. Hiring a local professional is often worth it for the valuable insights and proper installation.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re interested in going even greener, consider investing in solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while an attached battery backup stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While these systems require an initial investment, government incentives like tax credits are available to help offset the investment.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a more energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, yet lasting results that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities running at their peak. With 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.
