How to Create Your Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding a complete sense of comfort, lowering your energy costs and helping the environment. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to achieve your energy efficiency goals. Consider 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 account for over half of the energy use in most homes. When your HVAC system is old, it may have to stay on longer and might struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a concern, as they may start short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor humidity control and added strain on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to reach the desired temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork inspected for air loss. After, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Consider adding a programmable thermostat. Installing 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
Older 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: Stick to using LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and last far longer. Also, don’t forget to switch off lighting when you step out. And for good measure, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For even more savings, explore smart lighting options to enable remote control.
Leaks in Your Doors and Windows
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and allow hot, humid air to seep into your home in the summer. In both cases, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If you can’t replace all the windows now, apply caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. If you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These designs reduce energy loss by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Run-Down Appliances
Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than newer models. Insufficient upkeep can make things even worse.
The fix: Use energy-saving strategies when running appliances. This means waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. 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 ENERGY STAR® appliances. They’re able to use less energy without losing out on total performance.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a major power drain, especially in homes where it’s set too high or is actually larger than necessary for your home. 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 that isn’t cost-effective as an option, insulate the water heater tank and pipes, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and never neglect water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
When the attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re most likely wasting energy, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat in during the winter 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. There are several different types of insulation to choose from, like fiberglass rolls, loose-fill cellulose and foam-based options. Working with a certified contractor is often worth it for the valuable insights and proper installation.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, consider switching to solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while a connected battery bank holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While solar-powered systems come with up-front costs, government incentives like tax credits are available 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 energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, yet lasting results to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities operating smoothly. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
