Rising fuel prices, environmental awareness and technological innovations all contribute to the popularity and demand for more energy-efficient homes. If you’re considering designing a new home, or are renovating your existing one, energy efficient products, systems and practices are a great investment.
What Makes a Home Energy Efficient?
This type of home typically emits less greenhouse gas emissions, places less demand on nonrenewable resources, and lessens energy consumption. In addition to the resulting energy savings, this type of home also provide its residents a healthier, safer living environment.
Efficient Home Improvements
While many new homes are being built with energy efficient features, both new and older homes can benefit from efficient products and strategies.The following home improvement projects range from inexpensive, do-it-yourself tasks to those that require professional installation:
- Perform an energy audit. A professional audit can help pinpoint the areas of your home which can benefit most from adjustments or improvements.
- Perform annual preventive maintenance. Have your HVAC equipment cleaned, tuned and inspected each spring and fall.
- Seal leaky ducts. Holes or cracks in your ductwork can account for around one-fifth of your monthly energy bill. Make sure to examine exposed ducts and seal leaks using either mastic or foil-backed tape.
- Add more insulation. Check the level and condition of your attic insulation. If you can see floor joists or areas that are uncovered, consider adding another layer for a minimum of eight inches of cellulose insulation or 11 inches of fiberglass.
- Upgrade aging HVAC equipment. Replace your old, inefficient equipment with properly sized, Energy Star-rated appliances.
- Check for air leaks. Wait for a windy day, and check for leaks around doors or windows using a piece of tissue paper. Seal problem areas with caulk or weatherstripping where applicable.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Set your thermostat according to your work and sleep schedule, adjusting the temperature several degrees higher in the summer and lower in the winter.
For more information on energy-efficient homes, call the experts at Ace Hardware Home Services, Inc. We proudly serve homeowners in Dayton and the surrounding areas.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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