Making your home more energy efficient isn’t just good for the environment – it’s great for the wallet!
With the rising utility costs we’re all experiencing right now and the increasing awareness of our carbon footprints, many homeowners are looking for simple but impactful ways to reduce their energy use and save some money.
Between replacing old windows under upgrading appliances, there are plenty of strategies out there to create a more sustainable living space, and we’ve got some steps below to help you get started.
- Start with the windows. Old or poorly sealed windows are a huge source of heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. If you’re feeling droughts or you’re noticing condensation between paints, your windows may be compromising your home’s energy efficiency. Upgrading to double pane or triple pane windows with low emissivity coatings can significantly reduce energy transfer. If you’re unable to afford to replace windows. Consider adding weather stripping, caulking gaps or installing energy efficient window film.
- While improving the thermal envelope of your home with better windows or insulation is crucial, generating your own clean power can also dramatically offset energy consumption, with the installation of solar PV panels presenting a long-term investment that reduces reliance on the grid and offers potential savings on electricity bills.
- Improve your insulation. You need a thermal barrier in your home and insulation is that barrier. It keeps warm air in during the winter and cool air in during the summer. Many older homes have insufficient insulation in the attics, walls and basement. Have a professional and set your current insulation levels and recommend where to add more. Between spray foam, fibreglass bats or blown in cellulose, you have plenty of options. The same can be said of the professionals you hire to install it. Thankfully, there are plenty of high-quality options you can go for with this, like Insulation Commandos of Grand Rapids. So, there shouldn’t be anything to worry about.
- Seal up the leaks and draughts. Air leagues can significantly reduce the efficiency of your heating and your cooling systems. Common leak points include your vents, windows, doors, and even your electrical outlets. Use cool foam sealant or weather stripping to seal the gaps. This small DIY task can make a noticeable difference in your energy use without a major investment.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Heating and cooling account for a large portion of the household energy use. A programmable or smart thermostat allows you to set your temperature schedules based on your routine. Lowering the temperature slightly when you’re asleep or away from home can result in meaningful savings over time.
- Switch out your appliances and lighting. Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs is a very fast and inexpensive way to cut down on your electricity use. LEDs last longer and consume less energy. When it comes to the appliances, look for Energy Star certified models. These are the products that meet stricter efficiency standards and can help lower your bills.
- Use window coverings strategically. Even if you’ve upgraded the windows, how you use them really matters in the winter. Open the curtains during the day to let the sunlight warm your home, and then close them at night to retain the heat. In summer, keep the blinds of curtains closed during peak sun hours to prevent heat build ups. Thermal or blackout curtains are especially effective here.
