How to Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your perfect idea of comfort, reducing monthly expenses 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. Consider the most common sources of energy loss 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. When your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to stay on longer and expend more energy to keep the temperature where you want it. Oversized units are also a common issue, as they may start short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor control over humidity levels , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have your ducts checked for leaks. Then, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system running at its peak 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 not even home.
Inefficient Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they convert most of their energy into heat rather than light, which isn’t just more expensive—it also puts more strain on your AC.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and have a much longer lifespan. In addition, don’t forget to shut off lights when you leave a room. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For greater savings, think about adding smart controls to manage devices wherever you need to.
Leaks in Your Doors and Windows
Leaks in your windows and doors lose lots of indoor heat in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In either of these situations, your HVAC system is pushed harder.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, add caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to seal drafts. When you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs limit heat loss by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines consume higher power levels than energy-efficient alternatives. Lack of maintenance over the years can make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and avoiding overloading 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 able to save on power without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your old water heater is a huge energy hog, particularly when it’s running at high temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also experience heat loss through pipes without insulation, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of installing a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If that isn’t cost-effective as an option, insulate the water heater tank and pipes, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and don’t overlook water heater maintenance.
Poor Insulation
When the attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re most likely losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and keeps hot summer air outside, so the HVAC system won’t need to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are many types of insulation to work with, including fiberglass batts, blown cellulose and spray foam. Working with a certified contractor is often worth it for the expert advice and quality work.
Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, it’s worth considering switching to solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an integrated battery system saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems cost more up front, government incentives like tax credits are available to make it more affordable.
Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you achieve a more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians offer efficient and lasting fixes that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities running at their peak. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that we’ll get it right the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
