How You Can 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 helping the environment. A few strategic changes around the house are all it takes to achieve 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 you can do to fix them.

HVAC System Upgrade

Heating and cooling make up over half of the energy use in most homes. Once your HVAC system is old, it may have to run longer and expend more energy to keep the temperature where you want it. Oversized units are also a concern, as they may start short cycling, leading to unstable temperatures, poor humidity control , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to meet comfort levels.

The fix: Upgrade to a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork tested for efficiency. After, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system in better working condition for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Installing one lets you adjust temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t heat or cool the house 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 more expensive—it also forces your AC to work harder.

The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and have a much longer lifespan. Additionally, don’t forget to shut off lights when you step out. And since every bit helps, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For the most savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to enable remote control.

Old, Leaking 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 either of these situations, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.

The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, add caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. If you’re ready for an upgrade, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs reduce energy loss by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.

Inefficient Appliances

Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines are less efficient than modern appliances. Lack of maintenance over the years may make things even worse.

The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and avoiding overloading the dryer. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. 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 high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to be energy efficient without sacrificing performance.

Water Heaters

Your plumbing’s worn-down water heater is a major power drain, especially when it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. 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 this isn’t an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and try not to neglect water heater maintenance. 

Inadequate Insulation 

If your attic, walls and floors have too little insulation, you’re most likely losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. Proper 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 your attic, the easiest place to retrofit an existing home. You have many types of insulation to work with, like classic fiberglass, blown cellulose and spray foam. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the expert advice 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 holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While solar-powered systems come with up-front costs, tax credits and utility rebates are available to make it more affordable. 

Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency 

McKinley Heating Service Experts can help you achieve a more sustainable living space. Our certified technicians deliver efficient and lasting fixes to 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 book an appointment, please contact us today.