Energy efficiency in the home goes beyond simply using less. It requires you to understand how energy is used in your home and what can be done to use it more efficiently. Here are some tips to make your home more energy efficient.
Add Insulation to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Adequate insulation is an integral part of energy efficiency. It helps to reduce the heat that escapes your house during winter and enters your house during summer. Therefore, less energy is required to cool or heat your home, which in turn helps you save energy and money. You can hire a professional to evaluate your insulation and provide tips on improving it.
Upgrade Windows
There are several ways to make your windows more energy efficient, depending on your budget or preference. The most effective method is replacing your old windows with new energy-efficient ones, which can be very costly. If replacing your existing windows is out of budget, seal gaps using weatherstripping and caulk. Another simple and cost-effective solution is using window treatments such as drapes and blinds. Open them during the day to heat your home and close them in the evening to trap the warm air inside.
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient with Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)
Do you use incandescent light bulbs in your home? If yes, this is probably one of the main reasons your energy consumption is high. Compact fluorescent bulbs can help you save up to three-quarters of the electricity used by regular incandescent bulbs. CFLs also last ten times longer than these older light bulbs, meaning you won’t have to replace them as often. They may be a bit more expensive, but you will save money and energy over time.
Install Solar Panels
Another way to make your home more energy efficient is by using solar panels. Solar panels can be an excellent investment. Have a professional install them on your roof or in a sunny part of your yard. Solar panels can dramatically reduce monthly electricity bills because you aren’t relying on the power company to provide all your electricity. Over time solar panels pay for themselves in savings on the power bill.
Wrap Your Water Heater
If you have a tank water heater, you can easily make it more energy efficient by covering it with an insulation blanket. These blankets are inexpensive and primarily designed to keep heat energy inside. They help to keep the water in your tank hotter for longer, reducing the energy needed to heat your water. This can help you save energy and reduce your monthly electricity costs.
Making your home more energy efficient doesn’t have to be an expensive, major project. Choose methods that best suit your needs and gradually turn your home into an energy-efficient space.
Horizon Inspection Services offers home inspections in Arizona. Contact us to request an inspection.