9 Smart Projects for an Energy Efficient Home
By Pro.com
Special to Yahoo Homes
The U.S. is only 39% energy efficient, concluded a study undertaken by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and released in July, 2013. Granted, this includes both industry and residences, but homeowners need to do their part to improve energy efficiency. If we make just one simple change like switching to better light bulbs, using less water, upgrading an appliance or any number of other actions, we can contribute to the progress of a more green environment for future generations.
Saving energy not only affects our country as a whole by helping the environment, but as individuals we also reap benefits. Although, the project you undertake to make your home more energy efficient may seem on the expensive side at the time, you’ll save money over the long term, usually in drastically reduced utility bills.
Before randomly throwing a dart to decide on an energy-saving renovation task, begin with a home energy audit or Home Energy Rating (HER). This will give you an in-depth analysis of how your home is currently performing energy-wise, any energy problems and a cost/benefit report for the proposed changes.
Below you’ll find nine suggestions for giving your house energy-efficient upgrades. Some of them might net you a rebate, so be sure to inquire about that.
1. Upgrade Appliances
Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or laundry room Energy Star appliances should be on your to-buy list. These stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, washers and dryers have been certified to save energy without sacrificing features or functionality.
2. Low-Flow Shower Heads
By installing low-flow shower heads in bathrooms, you’ll conserve hot water and lower your hot water costs at the same time.
3. Wall-Mount Toggle Switches
By investing in wall-mounted toggle switches, you can cut off the power to the electronics, like TVs and computers, when you’re not using them more easily than having to pull various cords out of wall sockets.
4. LED Bulbs
An easy project to tackle, switch to LED lights in your lamps and overhead fixtures throughout your home.
5. Increase Insulation
Add insulation to your attic or increase the amount in your walls to eliminate excessive heat loss or heat gain.
6. Update Windows
If you currently have single-pane windows, replace them with new ones that are double-paned or insulated. They redirect ultra-violet rays and control how heat comes through the windows.
7. Seal Ductwork
Older homes may have bad air flow with the culprit being leaky ductwork. Improve the home’s comfort by sealing and insulating ductwork.
8. Under-Floor Radiant Heat
Besides being more efficient than most types of heat sources, radiant heat can also come from a variety of sources including gas, oil, wood and solar. Allergy sufferers love this because it doesn’t blow small particles into the room.
9. Solar Water Heating System
Because the sun is technically free, your water heating bills should decrease from 50-80% with a solar water heating system.
Pro.com is a website founded in 2013 by service industry entrepreneurs and former Amazon executives to simplify home services -- especially research on contractor fees and qualifications.
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22 Ways to Go Green In and Outside of Your Home
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