Your Reliable Source for Eco-Friendly Home Tips
Living in an energy-efficient home is all about cultivating your ideal 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 achieve your energy efficiency goals. Consider the most common sources of energy loss in the average North American home and what you can do to fix them.
1. Too Little Insulation
If your attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re most likely experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat contained for winter and keeps hot summer air outside, so the HVAC system doesn’t have to run overtime.
- The fix: Consider more insulation in your attic, usually the most cost-effective spot for added insulation. There are many types of insulation to choose from, like fiberglass rolls, blown cellulose and foam-based options. Hiring a local professional is almost always worth it for the valuable insights and proper installation.
2. Run-Down Appliances
Worn-down refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines consume higher power levels than modern appliances. Lack of maintenance over the years can make things even worse.
- The fix: Be mindful of energy usage with appliances. This includes only operating the dishwasher when full, using cold settings for laundry 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 upgrade old equipment, look for high-efficiency models with ENERGY STAR® labels. They’re designed to be energy efficient without sacrificing performance.
3. Dated Lighting
Older 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: Stick to using LED bulbs, which need much less power and have a much longer lifespan. Also, don’t forget to turn off the lights when you exit the room. And since every bit helps, unplug any electronic devices when you’re not using them. For greater savings, explore smart lighting options to control your lights and gadgets remotely.
4. Install Systems Compatible with Solar Energy
If you’re looking to REALLY enhance your home energy savings, consider installing solar power. Photovoltaic panels cover daytime needs while an attached battery backup saves power for nighttime use and on stormy days. While solar-powered systems cost more up front, state and federal tax breaks are available to help reduce some of the expense.
5. Water Heaters
Your old water heater is a huge energy hog, particularly when it’s running at high temperatures or is even oversized for your household’s needs. Water heaters also experience heat loss through pipes without insulation, adding unnecessary costs to your utility bill.
- The fix: Learn about the benefits of investing in a tankless water heater, which only heats water when you need it. If that’s not an option, insulate the water heater tank and pipes, set the temperature to 120° F and try not to neglect water heater maintenance.
6. 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 pushed harder.
- The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, add caulk and weather stripping around doors and windows to seal drafts. If you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings. These windows reduce energy loss by creating an insulating air barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
7. A New HVAC System
Heating and cooling account for over half of the energy use in most homes. Once your HVAC system is past its prime, it may have to run longer and expend more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Oversized units are also a potential problem, as they are prone to short cycling, leading to temperature fluctuations, poor control over humidity levels and added strain on the system. Then, ductwork leaks waste more energy, forcing your system to use more energy to achieve your set temperature.
- The fix: Invest in a properly sized energy-efficient HVAC system and have the air ducts tested for efficiency. After, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Adding 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.
