How to Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding a complete sense of comfort, lowering your energy costs and reducing your carbon footprint. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to reach your energy efficiency goals. Think about the most common sources of energy loss in the average North American home and what’s available to fix them.
Upgrading Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy costs in most homes. If your HVAC system is old, it may have to run longer and expend more energy to keep the temperature where you want it. Oversized units are also a potential problem, as they may start short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor humidity control and extra strain on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Upgrade to a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have the air ducts tested for efficiency. After, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system in better working condition for years to come. Consider adding a programmable thermostat. Adding one lets you adjust temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t heat or cool the house when you’re not even home.
Old Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just wasteful—it also forces your AC to work harder.
The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which need much less power and last far longer. Also, don’t forget to turn off the lights when you step out. And for good measure, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For even more savings, explore smart lighting options to manage devices wherever you need to.
Leaks in Your Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors lose lots of indoor heat 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 weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. When 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.
Inefficient Appliances
Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than energy-efficient alternatives. Poor maintenance practices will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This means running full loads in the dishwasher, using cold settings for laundry and not overpacking the dryer. 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 get new appliances, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to save on power without losing out on total performance.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a major power drain, especially when 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 monthly expenses.
The fix: Consider installing 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 ignore water heater maintenance.
Too Little Insulation
If your attic, walls and floors have too little insulation, you’re probably losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. There are many types of insulation to work with, including classic fiberglass, blown-in 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 interested in going even greener, consider switching to 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 systems require an initial investment, government incentives like tax credits are offered to make it more affordable.
Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can guide you to a more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, yet lasting results that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities working efficiently. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that we’ll get it right the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
