When it comes to making your home more energy efficient, you may not know where to start. But with a little kick-start and investment, you can start making a noticeable difference in your energy bill. Start by making small conscious changes on a regular basis and when you have the money consider purchasing larger upgrades. Every effort can make a difference in your energy bills, your impact on the environment, and give you that great feeling of savings!
Here are a few low-cost ways you can make your home more energy efficient. With an energy efficient ‘to do’ list and a little effort, any homeowner can make a change!
Low-Cost Savings
- Reduce Hot water use.
- Lower your thermostat.
- Start a compost pile in your garden.
- Install low-flow showerheads.
- Seal windows.
- Turn off unnecessary water.
- Replace incandescent bulbs.
- Unplug unused chargers.
Not everyone is able to afford solar panels or a completely new and high-efficiency heating and cooling system; but if you are, here are some things to keep in mind when making your lists.
Big-Ticket Items & Projects
- Add Insulation to Your Attic
- Install Solar Panels
- Install a Storm Door
- Buy Energy Star Products
- HVAC System Tune-Up
Is an energy audit in your near future?
An energy audit is also a very useful tool to learn the opportunities for change in your home efficiency. It can identify not only quick and inexpensive fixes, but also acts as a preventative service that may catch the beginning of bigger issues.
An energy audit should include the following:
- Blower door test – to test for drafts and leaks in your house
- Infrared Thermography – to pinpoint areas of weakness in your building’s envelope, insulation, duct system, windows and doors
- Combustion Analysis & Safety Testing – to analyze the Carbon Monoxide and CO2 emissions, steady state temperature and efficiency, gas spillage potential for every water heater, furnace, and boiler.
- Comprehensive & Detailed Report – detailing any issues or potential problems with infrared and thermal images. Along with recommendations and the estimated return for any upgrades that you make.
There are so many benefits to making your home more energy efficient. Improve the comfort of your home and save on utility bills by making a game plan for reducing your energy output, and taking advantage of local, state, and federal incentives with efficient upgrade purchases. So, what are you waiting for? Start today!