How to Create Your Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding your ideal sense 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 reach 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.
HVAC System Upgrade
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy use in most homes. When your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to run longer and might struggle to achieve the desired temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a common issue, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to temperature fluctuations, poor humidity control and added strain on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork tested for efficiency. After, 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 allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t use any excess energy to maintain temperatures when you’re away for the day.
Dated Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just wasteful—it also puts more strain on your AC.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and far outlast incandescent bulbs. In addition, remember to shut off lights when you leave a room. And since every bit helps, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For the most savings, think about adding smart controls to enable remote control.
Old, Leaking Windows and Doors
Leaks in your windows and doors allow warm air to leak out in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In each case, 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. Once you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These windows 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Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines consume higher power levels than energy-efficient alternatives. Lack of maintenance over the years may make things even worse.
The fix: Use energy-saving strategies when running appliances. This means waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes 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 upgrade old equipment, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re able to use less energy without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s old water heater is a huge energy hog, 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 pipes without insulation, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of installing a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If this isn’t an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and never ignore water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
If your attic, walls and floors aren’t properly insulated, you’re most likely losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system won’t need to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. There are several different types of insulation to work with, including fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose and spray foam. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the added experience and proper installation.
Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy
If you’re interested in going even greener, consider investing in solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an attached battery backup holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems cost more up front, state and federal tax credits are available to make it more affordable.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians provide efficient and lasting fixes that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems operating smoothly. With 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.
