How to Maintain an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating your ideal sense of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to reach 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 how you can help fix them.
Upgrading Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy use in most homes. When your HVAC system is old, it may have to run longer and expend more energy 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 control over humidity levels and added strain on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Upgrade to a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have your ducts checked for leaks. Next, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best 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 waste energy on climate control when you’re away for the day.
Dated Lighting
Old incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just wasteful—it also puts more strain on your AC.
The fix: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which need much less power and last far longer. Also, remember to shut off lights when you exit the room. And since every bit helps, disconnect other appliances when you’re not using them. For the most savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to enable remote control.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and allow hot, humid air to seep into your home in the summer. In each case, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, add caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. Once you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs reduce unwanted heat transfer by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than energy-efficient alternatives. Insufficient upkeep may make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means only operating the dishwasher when full, using cold settings for laundry and not overpacking the dryer. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for the fridge and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to upgrade old equipment, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re designed to be energy efficient without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s old water heater is a huge energy hog, especially when it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is actually too large for your typical use. Water heaters also experience heat loss 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, add insulation to your tank and pipes, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and never overlook water heater maintenance.
Lacking Enough Insulation
When the attic, walls and floors have too little insulation, you’re probably wasting energy, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and out during the summer, so the HVAC system doesn’t have to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. You have several different types of insulation to choose from, like fiberglass rolls, blown cellulose and spray foam. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the valuable insights and quality work.
Upgrade to 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 attached battery backup holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While these systems cost more up front, tax credits and utility rebates are offered to make it more affordable.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, yet lasting results to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities running at their peak. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To set up a meeting, please contact us today.
