How You Can Achieve an Energy-Efficient Home

Living in an energy-efficient home is all about creating your ideal sense of comfort, lowering your energy costs and helping the environment. A few strategic changes around the house are all it takes to hit 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.

Upgrading Your HVAC System

Heating and cooling make up over half of the energy consumption in most homes. When your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to stay on longer and work harder to keep the temperature where you want it. Systems larger than you need are also a common issue, as they may start short cycling, leading to uneven temperatures, poor humidity control and extra strain on the system. Then, air duct leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.

The fix: Invest in a properly sized ENERGY STAR®-certified HVAC system and have the system’s ductwork tested for efficiency. Then, plan preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. A programmable thermostat can also make a big difference. Installing one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t heat or cool the house when you’re not even home.

Incandescent Lighting

Older incandescent bulbs are well-known energy wasters. In fact, they convert most of their energy into heat rather than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.

The fix: Upgrade to LED bulbs, which use significantly less energy and last far longer. Additionally, remember to shut off lights when you step out. And for good measure, disconnect other appliances when they’re not in use. For greater savings, consider installing smart bulbs and plugs to enable remote control.

Old, Leaking Doors and Windows

Leaks in your windows and doors let heat escape in the winter and let in heat during the warmer months. In each case, your HVAC system is put under strain.

The fix: If new windows aren’t in the budget, add weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to close some of the gaps. When you’re thinking about a window upgrade, go for energy-efficient, low-emissivity (low-E) windows. These windows limit heat loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.

Run-Down Appliances

Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines are less efficient than newer models. Poor maintenance practices may make things even worse.

The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This means running full loads in the dishwasher, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and avoiding overloading the dryer. In fact, you should air-dry clothes whenever possible. 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 high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to save on power without compromising quality.

Water Heaters

Your worn-down water heater is a big energy consumer, especially in homes where it’s set too high or is actually larger than necessary for your home. Water heaters also experience heat loss through poorly insulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.

The fix: Learn about the benefits of switching to a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If that isn’t cost-effective as an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees and don’t overlook water heater maintenance. 

Inadequate Insulation 

If your home’s attic, walls and flooring lack sufficient insulation, you’re most likely losing a lot of 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 the attic, the easiest place to retrofit an existing home. You have several different types of insulation to work with, like classic fiberglass, loose-fill cellulose and foam-based options. Consulting an experienced technician is almost always worth it for the added experience and proper installation. 

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. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an integrated battery system stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While solar-compatible systems require an initial investment, government incentives like tax credits are offered to make it more affordable. 

Maximize Comfort and Energy Efficiency 

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can guide you to a greener household. Our ACE-certified technicians offer efficient and lasting fixes that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical utilities working efficiently. Thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that we’ll get it right the first time. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today.