How to Create Your Energy-Efficient Home

Living in an energy-efficient home is all about finding your perfect idea of comfort, reducing monthly expenses and reducing your carbon footprint. A few smart 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 how you can help fix them.

A New HVAC System

Heating and cooling represent over half of the energy consumption in most homes. If your HVAC system is outdated, it may have to run longer and expend more energy to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Oversized units are also a concern, as they are prone to short cycling, resulting in uneven temperatures, poor humidity control , and excess wear and tear 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 high-efficiency HVAC system and have your ducts tested for efficiency. Next, set up preventive maintenance to keep the system performing at its best for years to come. Installing a programmable thermostat also helps. Installing one allows you to set temperatures more precisely based on your schedule, so you don’t waste energy on climate control when you’re away for the day.

Inefficient Lighting

Traditional incandescent bulbs are notorious energy wasters. In fact, they tend to produce more heat than light, which isn’t just inefficient—it also makes your air conditioner work harder in the summer.

The fix: Stick to using LED bulbs, which need much less power and far outlast incandescent bulbs. Additionally, don’t forget to switch off lighting when you step out. While you’re at it, unplug any electronic devices when they’re not in use. For even more savings, explore smart lighting options to manage devices wherever you need to.

Old, Leaking Windows and Doors

Damaged 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 put under strain.

The fix: If replacing all the windows isn’t affordable, add weatherproofing materials around doors and windows to try and minimize these air leaks. When you’re prepared to invest in new windows, go for multi-pane, low-emissivity (low-E)-coated windows. These designs reduce energy loss by forming a buffer zone between the inside and outside of your home.

Old Appliances

Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines use more energy than energy-efficient alternatives. Insufficient upkeep 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, choosing cold water temperatures for clothes and avoiding overloading 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 replace your appliances, look for ENERGY STAR®-rated models. They’re designed to save on power without losing out on total performance.

Water Heaters

Your plumbing’s old water heater is a huge energy hog, especially in homes where it’s set too high or is actually too large for your typical use. Water heaters also experience heat loss through uninsulated pipes, adding unnecessary costs to your energy bill.

The fix: Learn about the benefits of investing in a tankless water heater, which heats as needed. If this isn’t an option, wrap your water heater and pipes with insulation for better efficiency, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees F and do your best not to overlook water heater maintenance. 

Too Little Insulation 

When the attic, walls and flooring have too little insulation, you’re most likely experiencing heat loss, not to mention money. Quality insulation keeps heat indoors during the cold months and out during the summer, so the HVAC system won’t need to run overtime. 

The fix: Add insulation to your attic, the easiest place to retrofit an existing home. There are many types of insulation to work with, like fiberglass rolls, blown-in cellulose and spray foam. Consulting an experienced technician is almost always worth it for the expert advice and quality work. 

Upgrade to Solar Energy

If you’re interested in going even greener, it’s worth considering investing in solar power. Solar panels provide enough power during the day while a connected battery bank stores excess energy for use at night and on stormy days. While solar-powered systems require an initial investment, tax credits and utility rebates are offered to help reduce some of the expense. 

Unlock Modern Comfort and Energy Efficiency 

Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning can assist you in creating a more sustainable living space. Our certified technicians offer fast, long-lasting solutions that keep your HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems operating smoothly. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that we’ll get it right the first time. To book an appointment, please contact us today.