How You Can Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding your ideal sense of comfort, lowering your energy costs and helping the environment. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to hit your energy efficiency goals. We’ll be talking about some of the most common forms of residential energy waste 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. When your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to run longer and might struggle to achieve the desired temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a potential problem, as they may start short cycling, leading to temperature fluctuations, poor humidity control and extra strain on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork checked for leaks. After, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system in better working condition 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 heat or cool the house when you’re not at home.
Dated Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just more expensive—it also forces your AC to work harder.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and have a much longer lifespan. Additionally, don’t forget to switch off lighting when you leave a room. And since every bit helps, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For greater savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to manage devices wherever you need to.
Old, Leaking Windows and Doors
Drafty 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 forced to work overtime.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, apply 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 double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These designs reduce energy loss by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Run-Down Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than energy-efficient alternatives. Insufficient upkeep will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means only operating the dishwasher when full, 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, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to replace your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re able to save on power without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a major power drain, especially when it’s running at high temperatures or is actually too large for your typical use. Water heaters also experience heat loss through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Consider 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 never overlook water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re most likely wasting 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 the attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. There are several different types of insulation to work with, including fiberglass rolls, blown-in cellulose and foam-based options. Hiring a local professional is often worth it for the expert advice and quality work.
Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy
If you’re interested in going even greener, consider investing in solar power. Panels alone can light your home during the day while an integrated battery system holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While solar systems require an initial investment, government incentives like tax credits are available to help offset the investment.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can guide you to a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, yet lasting results that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities working efficiently. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
