No matter if you’re building a new home or already reside in one, making your property as energy-efficient as possible is important. While there are many methods to accomplish this, some simple tricks can help save energy without breaking your budget.
The initial step in building a sustainable home is to ensure there are no leaks in its construction envelope. Sustainable builders use blower door tests to detect these spots, and these can easily be sealed with caulk or spray foam insulation for added insulation.
1. Install Energy Star Appliances
Investing in energy efficient appliances is an excellent way to make your new home more eco-friendly and save money. ENERGY STAR certified appliances use less energy than non-Energy Star models, which could result in reduced bills of up to 30%.
If you’re shopping for a new appliance, be sure to look for the blue and white Energy Star label. This label is awarded to products that meet a set of standards regarding energy efficiency, usability, and other aspects.
These appliances tend to be more affordable than their non-Energy Star counterparts, and you can often find them on clearance at most major home improvement stores and discount retailers like Lowe’s or Home Depot.
2. Insulate Your Home
Insulating your home can make it more energy efficient by decreasing the flow of heat in and out. This simple step can have a major impact on your heating and cooling costs.
Insulation reduces heat transfer through a home’s walls, windows and doors by stopping air leakage – an issue in many houses.
Insulation materials and methods come in a variety of forms, such as foam, fiberglass and cellulose. The R-value of a material indicates its insulating power.
3. Replace Old Doors and Windows
Old windows and doors can contribute to up to 25% of your home’s energy loss. Replacing them with modern models designed for energy efficiency is an effective way to save money on heating and cooling expenses.
In addition to saving energy, newer windows and doors can reduce condensation, enhance natural light and fade protection. Furthermore, there are federal, state and local incentives available that may help cover the cost of replacing your doors and windows.
Old doors can be creatively repurposed to enhance the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of your home. For instance, you could turn an old door into a cozy bench in your backyard for outdoor enjoyment when weather permitting or use it as a dining room table!
4. Install High-Efficiency Thermostats
Programmable thermostats enable you to program your home’s temperature so it uses less energy during day or night. According to ACCA statistics, every degree you can set back daily on a consistent basis will save between 1-2% on your monthly energy bill.
Selecting the ideal programmable thermostat is an essential first step in making your new home more energy-efficient. Look for one that supports various heating systems and is user-friendly to program.
When selecting a thermostat, it’s important to consider your individual needs and lifestyle. If you plan on using it frequently, opting for a wireless model may be more suitable.
5. Install a Solar Panel
Are you considering building a new home? Installing solar panels is an eco-friendly choice that can save money on electricity bills, protect the environment and even increase your house’s value.
Installing a solar panel on your roof is usually an easy process, but there are some steps you should take to guarantee the job is done correctly.
Prior to installation, measure and cut your racking rails accurately according to their intended size. Doing this will prevent metal shavings on your roof during setup.
