How to Achieve an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating a complete sense of comfort, saving on utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to hit 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 you can do to fix them.
Upgrading Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling make up over half of the energy costs in most homes. When your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to run longer and might struggle to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a common issue, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor humidity control and extra strain on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to reach the desired temperature.
The fix: Upgrade to a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have your ducts tested for efficiency. Then, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Consider adding a programmable thermostat. Adding one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t waste energy on climate control when you’re not at home.
Dated Lighting
Old incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just wasteful—it also forces your AC to work harder.
The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and have a much longer lifespan. Additionally, don’t forget to shut off lights when you exit the room. While you’re at it, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For even more savings, explore smart lighting options to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
Old, Leaking 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 both cases, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If you can’t replace all the windows now, add weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. If you’re ready for an upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These designs reduce unwanted heat transfer 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. Insufficient upkeep will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This means waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, washing clothes in cold water and not overpacking the dryer. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. As for your refrigerator and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to replace your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR® appliances. They’re designed to be energy efficient without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s old water heater is a major power drain, especially in homes where it’s running at high temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also lose heat through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.
The fix: Consider investing in a tankless water heater, which only heats water when you need it. 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.
Lacking Enough Insulation
If your attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re most likely wasting energy, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and out during the summer, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are many types of insulation to work with, like classic fiberglass, blown cellulose and foam insulation. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the expert advice and quality work.
Take Advantage of Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, consider investing in solar power. Panels alone can light your home during the day while an integrated battery system saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While these systems cost more up front, 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 more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians offer fast, long-lasting solutions to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities working efficiently. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that we’ll get it right the first time. To set up a meeting, please contact us today.
