There are many ways to make your home more energy-efficient, and we can all do our part to reduce our footprint. From raising the air conditioning temperature to using energy-saving devices, follow these tips for a more comfortable home with lower utility bills.
1. Upgrade the Windows to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient
If you have a new house, this tip probably doesn’t apply to you. However, older homes often are drafty and may be costing you more to heat and cool. Replace old windows with windows that are double-paned and have low-emissivity coating on the glass. You’ll pay more for these windows but can save a significant amount on your energy bills.
2. Get a Tankless Water Heater
Tankless water heaters are more expensive upfront than tank water heaters, but they also use less energy. If you want to be more efficient, install a condensing tankless heater that reuses the exhaust gas to help the water heat up faster.
3. Energy Star Appliances Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient
Replacing all of your appliances with ENERGY STAR-certified models is a good way to make the home more energy-efficient. However, this will be expensive to do all at one time. When you need to replace appliances throughout the home, research different models and their energy usage. ENERGY STAR appliances are readily available and will save you money on your energy bills long-term. It’s well worth investing in newer models.
4. Improve Insulation
Improving the insulation of the house can save up to 50% of the heating bills, depending on where you live. The best place to focus on the insulation is in the home’s attic. Fiberglass insulation is fairly inexpensive and easy to install. An experienced, handy homeowner can do this on their own, otherwise it’s best to hire a contractor to install the insulation.
5. Use a Fireplace Insert
If your home has a masonry fireplace box, heated air can escape through it during the colder months. Add an insert to the fireplace to keep more heated air inside the house. This is a simple addition that should be installed by a professional. Use an expert to make sure that the insert is insulated and has the proper ventilation.
Having a home that’s energy-efficient is also dependent on your habits. Be strategic about your changes and use these tips as a general guide to reduce your energy bill over time.
Homeworx Services Inc. offers home inspections in Northern Virginia. Contact us to schedule an appointment.