How to Create Your Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your perfect idea of comfort, saving on utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to achieve your energy efficiency goals. Think about the most common sources of energy loss in the average North American home and what you can do to fix them.
A New HVAC System
Heating and cooling represent over half of the energy costs in most homes. Once your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to stay on longer and expend more energy to keep the temperature where you want it.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 concern, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in uneven temperatures, 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 meet comfort levels.
The fix: Invest in a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have your ducts tested for efficiency. Next, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system running at its peak 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 not even home.
Incandescent Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just wasteful—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which need much less power and have a much longer lifespan. In addition, don’t forget to shut off lights when you leave a room. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when you’re not using them. For even more savings, explore smart lighting options to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
Old, Leaking Doors and Windows
Leaks in your windows and doors let heat escape 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 you can’t replace all the windows now, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to seal drafts. When you’re ready for an upgrade, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These windows reduce unwanted heat transfer by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
Run-Down Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines are less efficient than newer models. Lack of maintenance over the years can make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, using cold settings for laundry and avoiding overloading the dryer. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for your refrigerator and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to upgrade old equipment, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re able to save on power without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s old water heater is a big energy consumer, especially when it’s set too high or is actually too large for your typical use. Water heaters also experience heat loss through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of switching to a tankless water heater, which provides hot water on demand. If this isn’t an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and do your best not to ignore water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
When the attic, walls and floors aren’t properly insulated, you’re most likely experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. Proper insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and keeps hot summer air outside, so your HVAC system won’t need to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, the easiest place to retrofit an existing home. You have many types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass rolls, blown cellulose and foam-based options. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the expert advice and proper installation.
Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, consider investing in solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an attached battery backup holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While solar-powered systems come with up-front costs, state and federal tax credits are available to make it more affordable.
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 deliver efficient and lasting fixes that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems running at their peak. With 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.
