How to Create an Energy-Efficient Home

Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding a complete sense of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and doing so as efficiently as you can. A few strategic changes around the house are all it takes to hit your energy efficiency goals. Think about 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 account for over half of the energy consumption in most homes. When your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to stay on longer and expend more energy to achieve the desired temperature. Oversized units are also a potential problem, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in uneven temperatures, poor control over humidity levels and extra strain on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.

The fix: Invest in a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have your ducts inspected for air loss. Then, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Installing 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.

Old Lighting

Traditional incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they convert most of their energy into heat rather than light, which isn’t just more expensive—it also forces your AC to work harder.

The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which need much less power and far outlast incandescent bulbs. Additionally, remember to shut off lights when you exit the room. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when you’re not using them. For greater savings, explore smart lighting options to control your lights and gadgets remotely.

Old, Leaking Windows and Doors

Damaged windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In each case, your HVAC system is put under strain.

The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to seal drafts. If you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These designs reduce energy loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.

Inefficient Appliances

Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines are less efficient than energy-efficient alternatives. Lack of maintenance over the years may make things even worse.

The fix: Operate your appliances with efficiency in mind. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, washing clothes in cold water and avoiding overloading the dryer. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for your refrigerator and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to replace your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re able to be energy efficient without compromising quality.

Water Heaters

Your plumbing’s worn-down water heater is a huge energy hog, especially in homes where it’s set too high or is actually too large for your typical use. Water heaters also lose heat through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.

The fix: Learn about the benefits of investing in a tankless water heater, which provides hot water on demand. If that isn’t cost-effective as an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, set the temperature to 120° F and don’t ignore water heater maintenance. 

Too Little Insulation 

If your home’s attic, walls and floors lack sufficient insulation, you’re most likely losing a lot of energy, not to mention money. Effective insulation keeps heat in during the winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system won’t need to work as hard. 

The fix: Add insulation to the attic, a prime spot for adding more. There are many types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass batts, blown cellulose and foam-based options. Consulting an experienced technician is almost always worth it for the valuable insights and proper installation. 

Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy

If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, consider investing in solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while a connected battery bank saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While these systems require an initial investment, 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 sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver efficient and lasting fixes to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities running at their peak. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can count on us to meet your service needs the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.