How to Maintain an Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding your perfect idea of comfort, saving on utility bills and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to reach 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’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 expend more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Oversized units are also a common issue, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to uneven temperatures, poor humidity control , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have your ducts checked for leaks. After, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Adding 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.
Inefficient Lighting
Old incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they lose a lot of their energy to heat, which isn’t just inefficient—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and last far longer. In addition, remember to shut off lights when you leave a room. And since every bit helps, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For even more savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to manage devices wherever you need to.
Leaky Doors and Windows
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In both cases, your HVAC system is put under strain.
The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, apply caulk and weathers tripping around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. Once 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 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 will sometimes make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means waiting until the dishwasher is full to run it, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and loading the dryer properly. 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 replace your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR® appliances. They’re able to save on power without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your old water heater is a major power drain, particularly when it’s kept at excessive temperatures or is actually too large for your typical use. Water heaters also suffer losses through pipes without insulation, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
The fix: Consider 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, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and try not to overlook water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
If your home’s attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re probably experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. The right amount of 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, a prime spot for adding more. You have several different types of insulation to work with, like fiberglass rolls, blown-in cellulose and spray foam. Consulting an experienced technician is often worth it for the added experience and proper installation.
Upgrade to 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 an attached battery backup holds extra energy to use at night and on stormy days. While these systems come with up-front costs, tax credits and utility rebates are available to help offset the investment.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver quick, yet lasting results that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems operating smoothly. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that we’ll get it right the first time. To set up a meeting, please contact us today.
