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How Energy-Efficient Is Your Home?

It’s impossible to run a modern home without using some energy. After all, your home needs electricity to turn on lights to power your electronics as well as to regulate the temperature. Regardless of the necessity of energy, many people look for ways to reduce their consumption to be better for the environment and to lower their monthly bills. Is your home energy efficient? Read on to learn more.

Efficient HVAC System

Your HVAC unit helps keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter. It can use as much as 30% or more of the energy in your home and almost 75% of American homes have air conditioners. These units use about 6% of all the electricity produced in the United States, which costs about $29 billion annually to homeowners. When you have an HVAC unit, it’s important to get regular service so that technicians can make sure it’s running as efficiently as possible. If your HVAC unit becomes clogged or old, it can take more energy to run. Remove older or malfunctioning HVAC systems for more energy-efficient models such as those from the Energy Star brand.

Roof Maintenance

Your roof protects your home from the elements while preventing heat loss. When people think of roof leaks, they often think of water, but air leaks are just as common. The impact of rain, snow, hail, and UV rays can eventually damage your roof and create cracks or holes. You can prevent these problems or at least get them treated early on by regular roof inspections and maintenance. Your local roofer will ensure that your roof insulation is up to par. That way, when you turn on your HVAC unit, you’ll be less likely to have your cooled or heated air escape through your roof, which in turn causes your unit to work harder.

Water Heater Temperature

There is nothing like a nice hot shower every day and washing your hands and clothes at the right temperature. However, you should still monitor how much hot water you use to remain energy efficient. You can save money by setting your heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Such a temperature is more than enough to kill any type of lingering bacteria or germs. You could also help preserve the life of your water heater and reduce the risk of having to replace it sooner than necessary.

Window Security

Windows allow you to see outside while still being in the comfort of your home. They provide natural scenery as well as natural sunlight. With the average American home having about 22 windows, that means that your home has several vulnerable points in which air can come in or escape. Secure your windows by ensuring that the surrounding caulking is always secure and updated. In addition to keeping your windows properly sealed, you should also switch out outdated ones for more energy-efficient models. If you’re home still has single-paned windows, it’s time to replace them with double-paned ones for better efficiency as well as aesthetics.

Insulation

Several points in your home provide insulation. As mentioned, air can easily escape through your roofing and windows. So keeping those areas sealed can help you keep your home insulated. But don’t forget about your flooring and the basement. Whether or not you actively use your basement for activities, you should make sure that it’s waterproof and reinforced to prevent any water or air from getting in. If your flooring makes your home feel colder in the wintertime, you may want to consider investing in carpeting. Carpeting can retain heat in a way that solid floors don’t.

As you can see, there are many ways to ensure that you have an energy-efficient home. Doing so can ensure you’re always comfortable and can save money. Follow the tips to reduce your carbon footprint.