How You Can Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your perfect idea of comfort, lowering your energy costs and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to achieve your energy efficiency goals. Think about the most common forms of residential energy waste in the average North American home and how you can help fix them.
A New HVAC System
Heating and cooling make up over half of the energy consumption in most homes. Once your HVAC system is past its prime, 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 temperature fluctuations, poor control over humidity levels , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to meet comfort levels.
The fix: Invest in a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have your ducts checked for leaks. Then, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system in better working condition for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Adding one helps you control temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t waste energy on climate control when you’re away for the day.
Inefficient Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also forces your AC to work harder.
The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and have a much longer lifespan. Also, don’t forget to turn off the lights when you exit the room. And for good measure, 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 Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In both cases, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, add caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. If you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs limit heat loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.
Run-Down Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than energy-efficient alternatives. Insufficient upkeep will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This means only operating the dishwasher when full, using cold settings for laundry and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for the fridge and freezer, keep the coils clean to improve efficiency. And when it’s time to get new appliances, 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 major power drain, especially in homes where it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. 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 heats as needed. If this isn’t an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and never ignore water heater maintenance.
Too Little Insulation
When the attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re most likely experiencing heat loss, 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 work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. You have several different types of insulation to choose from, like fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose and foam insulation. 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 investing in solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while a connected battery bank stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems come with up-front costs, tax credits and utility rebates are offered to help offset the investment.
Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can guide you to a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians offer fast, long-lasting solutions that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities running at their peak. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
