How You Can 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 doing so as efficiently as you can. A few smart changes around the house are all it takes to reach your energy efficiency goals. Think about the most common sources of energy loss in the average North American home and how you can help fix them.
A New HVAC System
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy consumption in most homes. If your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to stay on longer and work harder to achieve the desired temperature. Oversized units are also a concern, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to temperature fluctuations, poor control over humidity levels , and excess wear and tear on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to meet comfort levels.
The fix: Invest in a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the air ducts tested for efficiency. After, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system running at its peak for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Installing one helps you control temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t waste energy on climate control when you’re not even home.
Incandescent Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also puts more strain on your AC.
The fix: Switch to LED bulbs, which need much less power and far outlast incandescent bulbs. Also, don’t forget to turn off the lights when you exit the room. And for good measure, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For greater savings, explore smart lighting options to enable remote control.
Leaky Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and bring in hot air during summer. In each case, your HVAC system is forced to work overtime.
The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, apply weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. Once you’re ready for an upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These designs limit heat loss by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
Old Appliances
Older refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than energy-efficient alternatives. Poor maintenance practices may make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means only operating the dishwasher when full, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and loading the dryer properly. In fact, you should consider line or air-drying when you can. As for the fridge and freezer, remove debris from the coils for optimal performance. And when it’s time to upgrade old equipment, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re designed to be energy efficient without sacrificing performance.
Water Heaters
Your old water heater is a big energy consumer, especially when it’s set too high or is actually larger than necessary for your home. Water heaters also experience heat loss through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your monthly expenses.
The fix: Consider switching to a tankless water heater, which provides hot water on demand. If this isn’t an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and never overlook water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
If your attic, walls and floors lack sufficient insulation, you’re probably wasting energy, not to mention money. Effective insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and out during the summer, so your HVAC system won’t need to overexert itself.
The fix: Add insulation to your attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. There are many types of insulation to work with, like fiberglass rolls, blown cellulose and spray foam. Consulting an experienced technician is almost always worth it for the expert advice and quality work.
Upgrade to Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, it’s worth considering switching to solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while an integrated battery system saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar systems come with up-front costs, government incentives like tax credits are available to help reduce some of the expense.
Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians provide efficient and lasting fixes that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems 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.
