How You Can Maintain an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your perfect idea of comfort, saving on utility bills, and helping the environment. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to hit your energy efficiency goals. Consider 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 make up over half of the energy consumption in most homes. Once your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to stay on longer and expend more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Oversized units are also a common issue, as they may start 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 use more energy to meet comfort levels.
The fix: Install a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have your ducts tested for efficiency. After, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system running at its peak for years to come. Consider adding a programmable thermostat. Installing one helps you control temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t use any excess energy to maintain temperatures when you’re not at home.
Dated Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also puts more strain on your AC.
The fix: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which need much less power and last far longer. Additionally, don't forget to turn off the lights when you exit the room. And for good measure, unplug any electronic devices when they're not in use. For even more savings, explore smart lighting options to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
Old, Leaking Doors and Windows
Damaged windows and doors let heat escape 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 you can't replace all the windows now, apply caulk and weatherstripping around doors and windows to seal drafts. Once you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These windows reduce energy loss by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
Inefficient Appliances
Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines consume higher power levels than energy-efficient alternatives. Poor maintenance practices will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This includes 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, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to get new appliances, look for ENERGY STAR¨-rated models. They’re able to use less energy without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing's old water heater is a big energy consumer, particularly when it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is even oversized for your household's needs. Water heaters also lose heat through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your monthly expenses.
The fix: Learn about the benefits of installing a tankless water heater, which provides hot water on demand. If that's not an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and don't overlook water heater maintenance.
Lacking Enough Insulation
If your home's attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re most likely wasting energy, not to mention money. Effective insulation keeps heat in during the winter and keeps hot summer air outside, so your HVAC system doesn't have to run overtime.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, a prime spot for adding more. You have several different types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose and foam-based options. Working with a certified contractor is almost always worth it for the added experience and proper installation.
Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, it's worth considering investing in solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while a connected battery bank saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar systems require an initial investment, are offered to help reduce some of the expense.
Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts can help you achieve a more energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, long-lasting solutions that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems running at their peak. Thanks to our Service Experts Guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To set up a meeting, please contact us today.
