How You Can Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating a complete sense of comfort, saving on utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to achieve your energy efficiency goals. Think about the most common areas of energy waste in the average North American home and how you can help fix them.
HVAC System Upgrade
Heating and cooling represent over half of the energy consumption in most homes. If your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to stay on longer and expend more energy to keep the temperature where you want it. Systems larger than you need are also a potential problem, as they may start short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor humidity control , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to reach the desired temperature.
The fix: Upgrade to a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork checked for leaks. Next, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Installing one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t heat or cool the house when you’re away for the day.
Dated Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just more expensive—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and last far longer. In addition, remember to switch off lighting when you exit the room. While you’re at it, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For the most savings, explore smart lighting options to enable remote control.
Old, Leaking Windows and Doors
Leaks in your windows and doors allow warm air to leak out in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In both cases, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, apply caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. If 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.
Inefficient Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than newer models. Insufficient upkeep will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Use energy-saving strategies when running appliances. This includes waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, washing clothes in cold water and not overpacking the dryer. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for the fridge and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to upgrade old equipment, look for ENERGY STAR® appliances. They’re able to be energy efficient without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s worn-down water heater is a major power drain, particularly when it’s running at high temperatures or is actually larger than necessary for your home. Water heaters also lose heat through pipes without insulation, adding unnecessary costs to your monthly expenses.
The fix: Consider switching to a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If that’s not an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and try not to neglect water heater maintenance.
Lacking Enough Insulation
If your attic, walls and floors have too little insulation, you’re most likely wasting energy, not to mention money. Proper insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so the HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, a prime spot for adding more. You have many types of insulation to work with, like fiberglass rolls, loose-fill cellulose and spray foam. Consulting an experienced technician is often worth it for the added experience and quality work.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, it’s worth considering investing in solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an integrated battery system stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While these systems require an initial investment, state and federal tax credits are available to help offset the investment.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you achieve a more energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians offer fast, long-lasting solutions that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems operating smoothly. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
