Were you afraid of opening your energy bill each month this winter? Are you ashamed how you compare to your neighbors? The good news is you can take your energy efficiency into your hands and see a big change with a few small (and large) projects.
Here are 7 ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home:
New Windows
We fight to control the temperature in the home but the outdoors can have a lot to say about it as well, especially if you have bad windows. It’s not secret windows let in a lot of cold, or hot hot air and replacing them can dramatically impact your electric bill. When it’s time to replace your windows select double paned windows with a low-e coating which reflects heat back into your home. You may also be eligible for a tax credit.
Here are 7 ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home:
New Windows
We fight to control the temperature in the home but the outdoors can have a lot to say about it as well, especially if you have bad windows. It’s not secret windows let in a lot of cold, or hot hot air and replacing them can dramatically impact your electric bill. When it’s time to replace your windows select double paned windows with a low-e coating which reflects heat back into your home. You may also be eligible for a tax credit.
Digital Thermostat
Traditional programmable thermostats are falling by the wayside as connected digital thermostats gain popularity. These devices allow you to change the temperature in your house through your phone or computer. Many high end digital thermostats will also help you track your energy usage putting your energy bill fully in your hands.
New Appliances
Your 15 year old washing machine may still work but it’s likely pulling a lot of energy with it. By investing in energy star appliances, you’ll not only add value to your home but reduce your energy bill as well. And hey, who doesn’t want some new fancy appliances?
Mechanics
The old furnace and water heater you’re running are likely a big draw on your energy bill. New tankless water heaters don’t require energy to keep a tank of water warm and they give you unlimited hot water. Upgrading your furnace from an 80 percent efficiency rating to a 97 percent efficiency rating can lower your heating bill by up to 20%! Do the math to see if the savings are worth it.
Insulation
If you climb up to your attic you can usually see the R rating of your insulation. The higher the R value the better insulated your home is. Replacing the insulation throughout your house can cost a pretty penny and may not get you the returns you’re hoping for. However, keep insulation in mind as you work on projects throughout your home. Take any opportunity to upgrade your insulation.
Siding
Siding is the first line of defense your home has against the elements. If your siding has cracks or gaps in it or if you have low quality siding you will experience heat loss in the winter and cooling loss in the summer. Replacing your siding will not only cut down on your energy costs but increase your curb appeal, a win-win.
New Lightbulbs
Lightbulbs aren’t going to revolutionize your energy bill, but they can make a difference. Incandescent light bulbs produce heat which you have to cool down during the summer and they are inefficient light providers. Replace your bulbs with LED or energy efficient bulbs to cut back on energy costs. You’ll also reduce the frustration of having to regularly change light bulbs.
Enjoy the feeling of watching your energy bill decrease with the completion of each project!
Traditional programmable thermostats are falling by the wayside as connected digital thermostats gain popularity. These devices allow you to change the temperature in your house through your phone or computer. Many high end digital thermostats will also help you track your energy usage putting your energy bill fully in your hands.
New Appliances
Your 15 year old washing machine may still work but it’s likely pulling a lot of energy with it. By investing in energy star appliances, you’ll not only add value to your home but reduce your energy bill as well. And hey, who doesn’t want some new fancy appliances?
Mechanics
The old furnace and water heater you’re running are likely a big draw on your energy bill. New tankless water heaters don’t require energy to keep a tank of water warm and they give you unlimited hot water. Upgrading your furnace from an 80 percent efficiency rating to a 97 percent efficiency rating can lower your heating bill by up to 20%! Do the math to see if the savings are worth it.
Insulation
If you climb up to your attic you can usually see the R rating of your insulation. The higher the R value the better insulated your home is. Replacing the insulation throughout your house can cost a pretty penny and may not get you the returns you’re hoping for. However, keep insulation in mind as you work on projects throughout your home. Take any opportunity to upgrade your insulation.
Siding
Siding is the first line of defense your home has against the elements. If your siding has cracks or gaps in it or if you have low quality siding you will experience heat loss in the winter and cooling loss in the summer. Replacing your siding will not only cut down on your energy costs but increase your curb appeal, a win-win.
New Lightbulbs
Lightbulbs aren’t going to revolutionize your energy bill, but they can make a difference. Incandescent light bulbs produce heat which you have to cool down during the summer and they are inefficient light providers. Replace your bulbs with LED or energy efficient bulbs to cut back on energy costs. You’ll also reduce the frustration of having to regularly change light bulbs.
Enjoy the feeling of watching your energy bill decrease with the completion of each project!