How to Create Your Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding a complete sense of comfort, saving on utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint. A few strategic changes around the house are all it takes to reach your energy efficiency goals. We’ll be talking about some of the most common sources of energy loss in the average North American home and what’s available to fix them.
A New HVAC System
Heating and cooling represent over half of the energy costs in most homes. If your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to stay on longer and expend more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a concern, as they may start short cycling, leading to uneven temperatures, poor control over humidity levels and added strain on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to reach the desired temperature.
The fix: Upgrade to a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have the air ducts checked for leaks. Next, plan 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 helps you control temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t use any excess energy to maintain temperatures when you’re not at home.
Inefficient Lighting
Older 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: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and last far longer. In addition, remember to switch off lighting when you exit the 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.
Leaks in Your Doors and Windows
Leaks in your windows and doors allow warm air to leak out in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In both cases, your HVAC system is pushed harder.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. When you’re ready for an upgrade, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs reduce unwanted heat transfer by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than modern appliances. Lack of maintenance over the years will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, washing clothes in cold water and not overpacking the dryer. 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 upgrade old equipment, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re able to be energy efficient without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a big energy consumer, especially when it’s running at high temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also lose heat through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your monthly expenses.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of investing in a tankless water heater, which only heats water when you need it. If that’s not an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and do your best not to neglect water heater maintenance.
Poor Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and floors aren’t properly insulated, you’re most likely wasting energy, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and keeps hot summer air outside, so your HVAC system won’t need to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, the easiest place to retrofit an existing home. You have several different types of insulation to choose from, including classic fiberglass, blown-in cellulose and spray foam. Consulting an experienced technician is almost always worth it for the added experience and proper installation.
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 a connected battery bank holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems require an initial investment, state and federal tax credits are offered to help offset the investment.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help you achieve a more energy-efficient home. 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 have full confidence in our work the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
