Making your home more energy-efficient not only reduces your carbon footprint, it can also help save you money and add resale value to your home.
Here are some effective upgrades you can consider:
Start with an Assessment
Having your home’s energy usage assessed will give you a clear idea about where your home needs improvement. Contact an energy advisor to visit your home and give you an EnerGuide rating and energy efficiency report.
Seal Air Leaks
All homes need healthy air flow! Natural airflow prevents the buildup of mold and mildew, and mechanical airflow from things like the vent in your furnace prevent harmful air from remaining in your home.
However, there can be plenty of unwanted airflow happening in your home. Open gaps and seams can let warm or cold air in and out of your house. Having a professional come and air seal these gaps can improve the quality of air, reduce humidity, and lower your energy bills.
Insulation and Weatherproofing
Adding or upgrading insulation in your attic, walls, and floors can help maintain your home's temperature. Increasing your home’s insulation is one of the fastest and easiest energy-efficient upgrades.
Replace Old Heating & Cooling Units
Replace older heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems with energy-efficient models. Look for products that have a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings.
If your old heating and cooling systems aren’t very efficient, you’ll save yourself money in the long run by upgrading them.
Energy Efficient Windows
Replace old windows with double or triple-glazed windows that have low-emissivity (low-E) glass. This helps to keep the heat in during winter and out during summer and also reduces the amount of UV rays entering your home.
Install Smart Upgrades
Certain smart home upgrades not only make your life easier, they can improve energy efficiency as well.
Consider investing in a smart thermostat; you can set the hours you’re asleep or out of the house, and the smart thermostat will automatically turn itself back in order to save on energy.
Install LED Lighting
Switch out incandescent bulbs for ENERGY STAR® LED bulbs, which are 90% more efficient and last at least 15 times longer than traditional bulbs.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Replace older appliances with energy-efficient models that bear the ENERGY STAR label. Refrigerators and washing and drying machines tend to be the appliances that use the most energy.
Install Water-Saving Fixtures
Install low-flow toilets, showerheads, and faucets to reduce water usage and lower the costs of heating water.
Install Solar Panels
Installing solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills and make your home self-sustaining in terms of energy needs. It is a more substantial investment, but there are many areas that offer incentives or financing for those looking to install solar panels.
Implementing these upgrades can range from simple and cost-effective changes to more significant investments. Regardless, they contribute to long-term savings and environmental sustainability.
