Adjust the Thermostat
You’ll make your home more energy efficient by adjusting the temperature whenever you aren’t around. Get into the habit of raising the temperature by three to five degrees in the summer while you’re at work and lower the thermostat when you’re away from home during the winter.
Create a More Energy-Efficient Home by Sealing the Windows
A drafty home is more expensive to cool and heat. Take the time to add weatherstripping around windows and doors. Caulk drywall cracks and gaps around windows and doors. Air leaks cause the HVAC system to work harder to reach and maintain the desired temperature.
Replace Incandescent Lighting
Incandescent bulbs use more energy than:
- compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs)
- halogen bulbs
- light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs
The average home uses around 40 bulbs throughout the house. Make your home more energy efficient by replacing incandescent bulbs with alternative lighting options.
Add Attic Insulation to Create an Energy-Efficient Home
Go the extra step beyond sealing windows and doors an add more insulation in your attic. This will further protect your home from warm air escaping during the winter and cold air escaping during the hot summer months.
Install Solar Panels
Though it will cost some money upfront to install solar panels, you’ll save on energy bills for years to come. Many areas offer credits and you may qualify for government tax incentives when you have solar panels installed.
Get an HVAC System Tune-Up
Your HVAC system becomes less efficient as it ages. Call your local HVAC specialist at least once each year to tune-up the system. They will tighten parts, inspect hoses and filters, and make sure the system is running as efficiently as possible.
For a More Energy-Efficient Home, Add a Storm Door
A storm door will provide an extra layer of energy efficiency to your home. The protective low-e glass of a storm door provides an extra layer of insulation that will reduce your home’s energy loss all year long. Storm doors are affordable; you can buy one for as low as $75.
Use Energy Star Products
Refrigerators, washers, stoves, air conditioners, water heaters, and other appliances that meet the Energy Star qualifications use 10-50% less energy than non-Energy Star models. Make the shift to Energy Star versions each time an appliance in your home needs to be replaced.
Jamie Schaefer Professional Home Inspector provides home inspections in the New York Metropolitan area. Contact us to book an inspection.