Energy Efficient Home Improvements

Before you decide to make your home more energy efficient, you’ll need to know how much energy you are currently consuming. This can be accomplished with an energy audit performed by a certified energy professional. To learn more, visit The Housing Hour’s website and listen to the podcasts in their special series on Energy Efficiency in the Home.
An energy audit is a great way to let homeowner’s know where they stand in terms of energy efficiency, and what areas of the home they can improve upon. Home improvements geared toward energy efficiency may also be funded through the The Energy Star Program, which offers all sorts of incentives and loans for homeowners to go green and increase their energy efficiency. Read on to learn about some easy things you can do to improve your home’s efficiency.

Check for air leaks

It may not be apparent, but air leaks in your home noticeably drive up the cost of heating in your home. Sealing up air leaks from doors, windows, attics or basements can save you money on your heating bill. Many homes do not have proper insulation, and by adding more you can keep warm air out when it’s cold outside, and cold air in when it’s warm outside. Another thing you can do to prevent air leakage is to seal your ducts. Ducts are designed to distribute hot or cold air throughout the home. The EPA estimates that around one fifth of the air carried through your heating and cooling ducts escapes due to leaks. You can seal your ducts to repair any leaks found during the energy audit.

Add energy efficient equipment

Install an energy efficient water heater. Before you go this route, make sure your home is well insulated and leak free. You can save up to 25% on your annual energy consumption by adding a high efficiency water heater.

Install a programmable thermostat

Replacing your old thermostat with a programmable one is a very easy way to save on energy costs. These devices pay for themselves only a few months after you install them. You can save about 10% on your energy bill by making good use of a programmable thermostat.

Install new doors or windows

Consider replacing older windows with more energy efficient models. Instead of cheaper aluminum models, think about getting wooden framed windows. Storm windows are an inexpensive solution to a complete window replacement. Putting in storm windows can make your home greener without having to go through the pains of ripping out your current windows. Also consider replacing your old doors to stop air leaks and add insulation.

To learn more about energy use and conservation, feel free to download or stream the following episode of The Housing Hour with Kevin Rhea and his guest, Dr. Michael Simpson, as they touch on a number of topics concerning energy and homeownership.