Whether you’re buying a new property or selling one, one of a home’s best features is its energy efficiency. A home that’s an energy saver can go a long way in real estate value. That’s why most people want to know how to make their homes more energy-efficient.
The thing is, during winter, it can be challenging to maintain an energy-efficient home. Energy consumption can rise during this season. The cold weather means we’re using more energy to heat our homes, which can quickly add to the utility bills.
But how do you ensure your home is energy efficient, even during the winter? It can be challenging to keep up with the demand of heating bills and other energy costs when the temperature outside plummets. Here are a few tips on how to stay energy efficient this winter:
1. Consult an energy assessor
As the weather gets colder, many of us start thinking about how to make our homes more energy-efficient. One way to do this is to consult an energy assessor. An energy assessor can provide you with a report outlining ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Some recommendations may be simple, such as sealing cracks around doors and windows, while others may require more significant changes, such as upgrading your insulation.
By taking action on these recommendations, you can help to reduce your energy bills and keep your home comfortable during the winter months. And, as a bonus, you’ll also do your part to help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.
2. Use efficient home heating systems
During the cold winter days, your heating and cooling system will work overtime. So, it’s essential to make sure that your system is energy-efficient. This is why it’s important to use efficient home heating and cooling systems.
Heat pumps are a great way to heat your home efficiently. They work by transferring heat from the ground or air outside and then distributing it inside your home. You can start lowering your energy consumption by reducing your dependence on fossil fuels. Working with the best air source heat pump installers can help you save on energy costs and make your home more comfortable during the winter.
On the other hand, if you’re using an electric furnace, get it serviced before winter sets in. This will ensure that your furnace is running efficiently and not using more energy than necessary. These simple steps can go a long way in making your home more energy-efficient and saving you money on utility bills.
3. Educate yourself on energy-efficient practices
Many people think energy-efficient means making significant changes to their lifestyle. However, you can do many small things that will add up to big savings.
For example, during winter, you can set your thermostat a few degrees lower and dress more warmly indoors. You can also let the sun help heat your home by opening curtains and blinds on sunny days.
Educating yourself on these and other energy-efficient practices is one way to stay comfortable while saving money on your energy bill. Luckily, some of these steps are easy and can be done without inconvenience.
4. Invest in energy-efficient appliances
Modern appliances are now more energy-efficient than ever before. So, consider investing in energy-efficient appliances if you’re due for an upgrade. These appliances can help you save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable during the winter.
According to a study, replacing your older appliances with newer models that are more energy-efficient can save you up to $500 or more yearly. You may already know how winter can affect your energy consumption, but you can turn it around and use the season to your advantage.
When it comes to appliance choices, go for appliances that have the ENERGY STAR label. These appliances are tested and certified by the US Environmental Protection Agency to be more energy-efficient than standard models. Smart appliances and devices are also a great choice. These devices can help you manage your energy consumption more efficiently by giving you real-time feedback on your energy usage.
5. Practice proper insulation techniques
As the temperature drops, many homeowners begin to think about how they can make their homes more energy-efficient. One way to do this is by practicing proper insulation techniques.
By sealing up any gaps or cracks around doors and windows, you can help to keep warm air inside your home and prevent costly heat loss. In addition, insulating your attic and walls can also help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Working with a professional insulation contractor can help ensure that your home is insulated and energy-efficient. This way, homeowners can enjoy a comfortable home all year round without worrying about high energy bills.
Staying energy efficient during the winter doesn’t have to be difficult. Following these tips, you can keep your home comfortable and save money on your energy bill. Stay warm this winter while keeping your energy consumption low.
