How to Maintain Your Energy-Efficient Home
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding a complete sense of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and helping the environment. 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 you can do to fix them.
HVAC System Upgrade
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy use in most homes. When your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to run longer and work harder to keep the temperature where you want it. Systems larger than you need are also a common issue, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in unstable temperatures, poor humidity control and added strain on the system. Then, leaky ducts waste more energy, forcing your system to make up the losses to achieve your set temperature.
The fix: Install a properly sized high-efficiency HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork tested for efficiency. After, schedule preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Adding one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t use any excess energy to maintain temperatures when you’re not at home.
Dated Lighting
Old incandescent bulbs are well-known 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: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which are much more energy efficient and have a much longer lifespan. In addition, remember to switch off lighting when you exit the room. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For greater savings, think about adding smart controls to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
Leaky Doors and Windows
Leaks in your 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 pushed harder.
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 thinking about a window upgrade, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs reduce unwanted heat transfer by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.
Inefficient Appliances
Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines are less efficient than energy-efficient alternatives. Lack of maintenance over the years can make things even worse.
The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. 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 try to air-dry clothing when feasible. As for the fridge and freezer, clean the coils regularly to remove debris like dust and hair. And when it’s time to get new appliances, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re able to use less energy without compromising quality.
Water Heaters
Your worn-down water heater is a major power drain, especially 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 energy bill.
The fix: Consider investing in a tankless water heater, which provides hot water on demand. If that isn’t cost-effective as an option, add insulation to your tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and do your best not to ignore water heater maintenance.
Inadequate Insulation
When the attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re probably experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. The right amount of insulation keeps heat contained for winter and out during the summer, so your HVAC system won’t need to work as hard.
The fix: Add insulation to the attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. You have many types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass rolls, blown cellulose and foam-based options. Working with a certified contractor is almost always worth it for the valuable insights and quality work.
Take Advantage of Solar Energy
If you’re ready to take your energy efficiency to the next level, it’s worth considering switching to 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 systems cost more up front, state and federal tax credits are available to help offset the investment.
Upgrade Your Home’s Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can assist you in creating a more sustainable living space. Our ACE-certified technicians offer efficient and lasting fixes to keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems working efficiently. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can have full confidence in our work the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
