How to Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your ideal sense of comfort, saving on utility bills and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to reach your energy efficiency goals. We’ll be talking about some of the most common areas of energy waste in the average North American home and what’s available to fix them.
HVAC System Upgrade
Heating and cooling make up over half of the energy costs in most homes. Once your HVAC system is old, it may have to run longer and expend more energy to achieve the desired temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a potential problem, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor control over humidity levels and added strain on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to reach the desired temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the air ducts tested for efficiency. After, schedule 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 heat or cool the house when you’re away for the day.
Inefficient Lighting
Old incandescent bulbs are well-known 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 far outlast incandescent bulbs. Additionally, don’t forget to shut off lights when you leave a room. And since every bit helps, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For greater savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to enable remote control.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape 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 you can’t replace all the windows now, 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 multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These windows reduce unwanted heat transfer by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Inefficient Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines are less efficient than modern appliances. Lack of maintenance over the years may make things even worse.
The fix: Use energy-saving strategies when running appliances. This includes running full loads in the dishwasher, using cold settings for laundry and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. As for the fridge and freezer, keep the coils clean to improve efficiency. And when it’s time to upgrade old equipment, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re able to use less energy without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s worn-down water heater is a major power drain, particularly when it’s set too high or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also experience heat loss through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Consider 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, set the temperature to 120° F and do your best not to neglect water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
When the attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re probably losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. Effective insulation keeps heat in during the winter and keeps hot summer air outside, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to run overtime.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. You have several different types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass batts, blown cellulose and spray foam. Working with a certified contractor is almost always worth it for the added experience and quality work.
Take Advantage of Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, consider installing solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while an integrated battery system saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems come with up-front costs, tax credits and utility rebates are available to make it more affordable.
Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you achieve a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians offer efficient and lasting fixes to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems running at their peak. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
