How to Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating your perfect idea of comfort, lowering your energy costs and reducing your carbon footprint. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to reach your energy efficiency goals. Think about 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 make up over half of the energy consumption in most homes. If your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to run longer and might struggle to keep the temperature where you want it. Oversized units are also a common issue, as they may start short cycling, resulting in unstable temperatures, poor control over humidity levels , and excess wear and tear 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 energy-efficient HVAC system and have your ducts inspected for air loss. Next, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Installing one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t use any excess energy to maintain temperatures when you’re away for the day.
Dated 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. Also, remember to switch off lighting when you exit the room. And for good measure, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For the most savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to enable remote control.
Leaks in Your Doors and Windows
Damaged windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In either of these situations, your HVAC system is pushed harder.
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. Once you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These designs reduce energy loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines consume higher power levels than newer models. Insufficient upkeep will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and not overpacking the dryer. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for the fridge and freezer, clean the coils regularly to remove debris like dust and hair. And when it’s time to replace your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re able to be energy efficient without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s worn-down 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 suffer losses through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Consider installing a tankless water heater, which only heats water when you need it. If that’s not an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and do your best not to overlook water heater maintenance.
Poor Insulation
When the attic, walls and floors aren’t properly insulated, you’re most likely losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat contained for winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system won’t need to run overtime.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are many types of insulation to work with, like fiberglass rolls, blown-in cellulose and foam-based options. Consulting an experienced technician is almost always worth it for the valuable insights and proper installation.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re interested in going even greener, consider installing solar power. Panels alone can light your home during the day while an integrated battery system stores excess energy for 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.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you achieve a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver quick, yet lasting results to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems working efficiently. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
