8 home improvement ideas for energy efficient home advice, Modern houses function, Property running cost guide
8 Home Improvement Ideas for Energy Efficient Houses
14 June 2022
How can you make your home more energy efficient? Whether you live in an apartment, condo, or single-family home, there are some easy ways to cut down on your monthly utility bills and reduce your overall carbon footprint, whether that be through energy efficient windows, or simply a change in lifestyle choices. Here are eight home improvement ideas to help you save money while conserving resources and helping the environment.
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8 Home Improvement Ideas To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
1) Replace Your Lightbulbs
Old lightbulbs use a lot of energy and they can also cost more over time than newer models. If you’re trying to lower your energy bill, start by replacing old bulbs with newer, low-energy models. It’s a simple, easy change that won’t take up much of your time—but it can make a big difference in your bill. Be sure to recycle old bulbs.
2) Caulk Any Air Leaks Around Windows
Windows can be a source of major energy loss in winter and summer. To save on your heating and cooling bills, look for drafts by touching a lit candle to all around your window frame, including under it. If you find any cold spots, caulk them with silicone caulk. You can also add weather stripping if you want an extra seal against leaks. If there’s still a draft, replace or repair your windows.
3) Ditch the Old Air Conditioner
If you’re not careful, you could be pouring money down your air conditioner’s drain. As temperatures rise, so do your energy bills—but there are ways to lower these costs while keeping cool at home. Many of us overuse our air conditioners because they’re a necessary fixture in hot weather; however, it pays to have them checked regularly and replaced if needed. If you’ve had yours for more than 10 years, it might be time for an upgrade. A new unit will not only help keep your home cooler during those summer months but also save you on energy costs throughout the year. Plus, new models often come with advanced features that can help reduce your carbon footprint as well as utility bills.
4) Switch Out an Old Electric Stove for a New Electric Stove
Replacing your old, inefficient electric stove with a new, highly efficient one is one of the easiest and most effective ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Not only do these stoves use less electricity, but they’re also safer than their older counterparts. Before investing in a new stove, it’s important that you choose one that meets all of your cooking needs while fitting comfortably into your kitchen.
5) Add Insulation in Attic/Crawl Space
What’s lost in building efficiency often comes down to air infiltration, which is driven by temperature differences between inside and outside your home. If you live in a cold climate, insulating your attic or crawlspace can make a big difference. Low-tech approaches include making sure there are no cracks or gaps where outside air can seep into your house. Adding cellulose insulation will add R-value (R is used as an abbreviation for resistance to heat flow) and help you save on heating costs.
6) Turn Down the Thermostat
Research shows that turning down your thermostat by 10 degrees can help you save up to 6% on heating and cooling costs. Look for areas in your home where heat or cold is escaping, making it necessary for your furnace or air conditioner to run more frequently, wasting energy. Also turn off any unnecessary lights and appliances when not in use.
7) Get a Programmable Thermostat
To save money and energy, try using a programmable thermostat. This technology allows you to pre-program your home’s temperature during certain times of day. During other times, you can manually adjust your thermostat as necessary. This helps ensure that your home is only being heated or cooled when it needs to be—and thus can help save money on your utility bills.
8) Buy New Windows
Replacing old windows with energy-efficient new ones will improve your home’s energy efficiency, lowering monthly heating and cooling costs. New windows can also increase a home’s resale value. Be sure to measure your windows before you buy replacement models, as well as consider design styles that complement your existing decor.
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