You've probably heard of the many benefits of having an energy-efficient home, but you might not know how to get started. Did you know that even older homes can benefit from energy-saving measures?
Or maybe you've already done a few things here and there but want to do more. Either way, this checklist will help you put together a comprehensive plan for creating a more energy-efficient home.
Let's get started
Insulation
Insulation is a material that slows the transfer of heat. This can be done by using glass, foam, mineral wool, cotton, or cellulose. It’s important to note that not all insulations are created equal—even if they have similar names, for example.
Polystyrene (EPS) insulation is generally considered poor quality and should be avoided if possible. Mineral wool and glass fiber are both efficient insulators, but their performance can vary depending on density due to their structure.
Cellulose is made from recycled household paper and excels at reducing air infiltration through walls and ceilings due to its ability to compress tightly when installed properly.
Heating and Cooling
The first step is to make sure your heating system is energy efficient. If you don't already have an energy-efficient heating system, consider getting one installed. Some popular options include heat pumps and geothermal systems.
One of the easiest ways to save money on heating bills is by using a programmable thermostat. This device allows you to adjust your home's temperature when it's not in use. It allows the heating and cooling systems to run less often or at lower temperatures during those times (which means lower utility bills).
It may take a few weeks for you to get used to the schedule that works best for your home, but once that happens—and once you've saved some money—it will be worth every second spent setting up!
Smart Thermostat
For even more savings potential than what can be found with a simple programmable thermostat, consider upgrading from traditional models to smart ones instead!
These devices allow users even greater control over their homes' temperature settings than usual by interacting directly with other connected devices throughout their house (such as ceiling fans). It also allows you to provide feedback on how much electricity they're saving each month thanks solely because they've installed something so high-tech."
Lighting
First, use compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and/or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. These types of bulbs use about 75% less electricity than incandescent lights, and they last longer, too.
Consider daylighting to reduce the need for electric lighting. This means opening shades during the day to let in natural light. If using artificial lighting during the day, use low-wattage lamps or dimmers so you can adjust the brightness based on how much daylight is available.
Turn off lights when you're not using them—even if this means turning off every single one in your home except for one light in a room where someone is sleeping! This saves money because your electric bill will be lower each month, plus it reduces greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels used by power plants around the world that are contributing to the climate emergency.
And if that isn't enough incentive to turn off those lights, consider this: Every time you leave a room with an open bulb on (even if it's just until later), it adds up over time!
Water Heating
Use a water heater with a high energy factor. If you have an old model, replace it or install a better one. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends the following for home use.
Tankless water heaters are up to 30% more efficient than conventional models. This saves you money on your electric bill and reduces carbon emissions from your home.
Heat pump water heaters use electricity when it is available to power the pump that circulates hot water through the pipes in your house (when there is no electricity, they work as regular electric tankless models) and uses gas only when needed.
If you live in an area where solar panels are viable for heating water, then solar hot water systems may be a good option for you to start clean living.
Appliances and Electronics
The first step to saving energy and money is to reduce your energy use. You can do this by choosing appliances and electronics that have high ratings.
Look for the Energy Star label on new appliances to ensure they are efficient. Then, when it comes time to replace old ones in your home, choose models with the highest grade levels offered by Consumer Reports. Then you can replace the energy you do use with green energy.
Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are the most common source of heat loss in a home. You'll want to make sure that you have the right type of windows for your climate, and doors should be energy-efficient.
For example, double-paned windows are a good choice if you live in an area with extreme temperature swings. Single-pane windows can lose up to 25% of certain types of heat through them!
If you live somewhere where it gets really cold in winter, then having these types of insulated glass works well because they have two panes separated by an air pocket. This means it takes longer for all that warm air inside to escape out through the windowpane so you don't lose as much heat when opening or closing one up during those colder months outside your home office space.
Having an Energy Efficient Home Means Saving Money
Having an energy-efficient home can save you money, help the environment and be good for your health. It’s also important to consider how it will benefit the economy as well.
There are plenty of things you can do to make your home more energy efficient. From installing new windows and doors to switching out old light bulbs, these steps will help you save money on utility bills while also contributing to a cleaner environment.
For more on how we can help you reduce your energy bills be sure to contact us today.
