How You Can Create Your Energy-Efficient Home

Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your ideal sense of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and helping the environment. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to achieve 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.

HVAC System Upgrade

Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy consumption in most homes. If your HVAC system is old, it may have to stay on longer and work harder to keep the temperature where you want it. Systems larger than you need are also a concern, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in unstable temperatures, poor humidity control and added 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-efficient HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork inspected for air loss. After, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system in better working condition for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Adding one lets you adjust 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.

Old Lighting

Old incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just inefficient—it also puts more strain on your AC.

The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and have a much longer lifespan. In addition, don’t forget to turn off the lights when you leave a room. While you’re at it, disconnect other appliances when they’re not in use. For even more savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to manage devices wherever you need to.

Leaks in Your Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors allow warm air to leak out in the winter and allow hot, humid air to seep into your home in the summer. In both cases, your HVAC system is put under strain.

The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, add caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. When you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These designs limit heat loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.

Old Appliances

Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than newer models. Lack of maintenance over the years will sometimes make things even worse.

The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means running full loads in the dishwasher, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and loading the dryer properly. 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 get new appliances, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to use less energy without losing out on total performance.

Water Heaters

Your plumbing’s old 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 lose heat through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.

The fix: Learn about the benefits of installing a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If that’s not an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and don’t ignore water heater maintenance. 

Lacking Enough Insulation 

If your home’s attic, walls and flooring aren’t properly insulated, you’re most likely wasting energy, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and keeps hot summer air outside, so the HVAC system won’t need 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 classic fiberglass, blown-in cellulose and foam-based options. Hiring a local professional is often worth it for the valuable insights and quality work. 

Take Advantage of Solar Energy

If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, it’s worth considering switching to 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 solar-powered systems cost more up front, government incentives like tax credits are offered to help reduce some of the expense. 

Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency 

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians offer fast, long-lasting solutions to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities operating smoothly. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To set up a meeting, please contact us today.