How You Can Create Your Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating your perfect idea of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and reducing your carbon footprint. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to hit your energy efficiency goals. We’ll be talking about some of the most common sources of energy loss 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 costs in most homes. Once your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to stay on longer and might struggle to keep the temperature where you want it. Oversized units are also a common issue, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in uneven temperatures, poor humidity control and added strain on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the air ducts checked for leaks. Next, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system in better working condition for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. 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 not at home.
Inefficient Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they convert most of their energy into heat rather than light, which isn’t just more expensive—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and far outlast incandescent bulbs. In addition, remember to turn off the lights when you leave a room. While you’re at it, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For the most savings, explore smart lighting options to manage devices wherever you need to.
Old, Leaking Windows and Doors
Leaks in your windows and doors lose lots of indoor heat in the winter and allow hot, humid air to seep into your home in the summer. In each case, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, add caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. Once you’re ready for an upgrade, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These windows limit heat loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines consume higher power levels than energy-efficient alternatives. Poor maintenance practices may make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This includes waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and avoiding overloading the dryer. In fact, you should try to air-dry clothing when feasible. As for your refrigerator and freezer, clean the coils regularly to remove debris like dust and hair. And when it’s time to replace your appliances, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to save on power without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a major power drain, 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: Consider investing in 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 ignore water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re most likely experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat in during the winter and keeps hot summer air outside, so the HVAC system doesn’t have to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. You have several different types of insulation to work with, like classic fiberglass, loose-fill cellulose and spray foam. Working with a certified contractor is almost always worth it for the added experience and quality work.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re interested in going even greener, it’s worth considering installing solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an integrated battery system saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems cost more up front, state and federal tax credits are offered to help reduce some of the expense.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you achieve a more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver quick, yet lasting results that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems operating smoothly. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To set up a meeting, please contact us today.
