How to Maintain an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating a complete sense of comfort, lowering your energy costs and helping the environment. A few simple adjustments around the house are all it takes to achieve your energy efficiency goals. Consider the most common areas of energy waste in the average North American home and what’s available to fix them.
Upgrading Your HVAC System
Heating and cooling represent over half of the energy consumption in most homes. When your HVAC system is old, it may have to run longer and work harder to achieve the desired temperature. Oversized units are also a concern, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in temperature fluctuations, poor humidity control and extra strain on the system. Then, leaky ducts 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 air ducts inspected for air loss. Next, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Installing one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t waste energy on climate control when you’re away for the day.
Dated Lighting
Older incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just more expensive—it also forces your AC to work harder.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which need much less power and have a much longer lifespan. Additionally, don’t forget to turn off the lights when you step out. And since every bit helps, disconnect other appliances when they’re not in use. For the most savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
Leaks in Your Windows and Doors
Damaged windows and doors lose lots of indoor heat in the winter and allow hot, humid air to seep into your home in the summer. In either of these situations, your HVAC system is put under strain.
The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, apply caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. When you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These windows reduce energy loss by adding an air-filled layer between the inside and outside of your home.
Run-Down Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than modern appliances. Lack of maintenance over the years can make things even worse.
The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This means waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, washing clothes in cold water and not overpacking the dryer. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. As for your refrigerator and freezer, keep the coils clean to improve efficiency. And when it’s time to upgrade old equipment, look for ENERGY STAR® appliances. They’re designed to be energy efficient without losing out on total performance.
Water Heaters
Your old water heater is a big energy consumer, especially when it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is actually larger than necessary for your home. Water heaters also experience heat loss through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Consider switching to a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If that isn’t cost-effective as an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and never neglect water heater maintenance.
Lacking Enough Insulation
If your attic, walls and floors lack sufficient insulation, you’re probably wasting energy, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system won’t need to run overtime.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are many types of insulation to choose from, like classic fiberglass, blown cellulose and foam-based options. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the expert advice and proper installation.
Take Advantage of Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, consider investing in solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while a connected battery bank stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While solar systems require an initial investment, government incentives like 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 guide you to a more energy-efficient home. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver fast, long-lasting solutions to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities running at their peak. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.
