How to Maintain an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding your perfect idea of comfort, lowering your energy costs and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few smart changes 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 make up over half of the energy consumption in most homes. If your HVAC system is old, it may have to run longer and might struggle to keep the temperature where you want it. Systems larger than you need are also a potential problem, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to temperature fluctuations, poor humidity control , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to reach the desired temperature.
The fix: Invest in a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have your ducts checked for leaks. After, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Consider adding a programmable thermostat. Adding one lets you adjust temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t heat or cool the house when you’re not at home.
Inefficient Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just wasteful—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and far outlast incandescent bulbs. In addition, remember to turn off the lights when you step out. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For the most savings, think about adding smart controls to enable remote control.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Damaged windows and doors lose lots of indoor heat in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In each case, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, apply caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. Once you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These designs reduce energy loss by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines run less efficiently than energy-efficient alternatives. Poor maintenance practices will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, washing clothes in cold water and avoiding overloading the dryer. In fact, you should try to air-dry clothing when feasible. 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 be energy efficient without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a big energy consumer, especially in homes where it’s set too high or is actually larger than necessary for your home. Water heaters also experience heat loss through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your monthly expenses.
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, insulate the water heater tank and pipes, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and don’t ignore water heater maintenance.
Too Little Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and floors have too little insulation, you’re probably losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. Proper insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and keeps hot summer air outside, so your HVAC system doesn’t have to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are several different types of insulation to choose from, like classic fiberglass, loose-fill cellulose and spray foam. Working with a certified contractor is almost always worth it for the valuable insights and proper installation.
Take Advantage of Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, it’s worth considering installing 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-compatible systems cost more up front, state and federal tax credits are offered to help reduce some of the expense.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a more energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver fast, long-lasting solutions to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities operating smoothly. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
