How to Maintain an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your perfect idea 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 areas of energy waste in the average North American home and how you can help fix them.
Upgrading Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling make up over half of the energy use in most homes. If your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to run longer and work harder to achieve the desired temperature. Systems larger than you need are also a common issue, as they may start short cycling, resulting in unstable temperatures, poor humidity control , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Invest in a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork inspected for air loss. Next, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system running at its peak for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Adding one helps you control temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t heat or cool the house when you’re not even home.
Inefficient Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which need much less power and far outlast incandescent bulbs. Also, remember to shut off lights when you leave a room. And since every bit helps, disconnect other appliances when they’re not in use. For greater savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to manage devices wherever you need to.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Leaks in your windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In both cases, your HVAC system is pushed harder.
The fix: If you can’t replace all the windows now, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to seal drafts. Once you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These windows reduce energy loss by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
Run-Down Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than energy-efficient alternatives. Insufficient upkeep may make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This means only operating the dishwasher when full, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. As for the fridge 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 designed to save on power without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your plumbing’s worn-down water heater is a big energy consumer, especially when it’s running at high temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also experience heat loss through pipes without insulation, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Consider investing in a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If this isn’t an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and never ignore water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
If your attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re most likely losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and out during the summer, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. There are many types of insulation to work with, like classic fiberglass, blown cellulose and foam insulation. Working with a certified contractor is often worth it for the valuable insights and quality work.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, it’s worth considering investing in solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while an attached battery backup stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems come with up-front costs, state and federal tax credits are offered to help offset the investment.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can guide you to a more energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver efficient and lasting fixes to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems running at their peak. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
