Ways To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Thornton, a beautiful town in the South, experiences extreme weather conditions. The summers are hot, and temperatures can reach chilly lows in winter. So, it’s obvious that your HVAC system is constantly running, skyrocketing your electricity bills.

Considering that Thornton is among USA’s most expensive cities, this can be a significant financial burden.

So, how do you plan to reduce your electricity bills? Will you run room to room, switching off lights and plugging out electronics? Or is there a better way to increase your home’s energy efficiency?

We have the answer. Let’s take a look.

Replace Your Asphalt Roof with a Metal One:

An asphalt roof traps heat, which then transfers down into your home. It causes your air conditioner to work harder and drives up electricity bills. Replacing the asphalt with a metal one is an energy-efficient way to ensure the heat doesn’t transfer inside. It is because they are highly reflective. Metal roofs are also durable and can last for up to 50 years. Plus, the maintenance is easy and cost-effective.

Please note that roof replacement is a major home improvement project. It’s not something you can pull off yourself. Therefore, it’s only wise to hire the best roofing company in Thornton. After all, they know the ins and outs of metal roof installation and will perform the job perfectly.

Draft-Proof Your Windows and Doors:

Does a gust of wind sneak through your windows and doors, resulting in an uncomfortable draft? If so, then these drafts are why your HVAC system has to work harder. Hence, the rise in electricity bills. To fix this, you can draft-proof your windows and doors with weather-stripping or caulk. But make sure you choose higher-quality materials like vinyl, rubber, or foam. During the colder months, an exterior window film can provide an extra layer of insulation.

To check whether the windows and doors are tightly sealed, light a candle or incense stick and move it around the window frame and door. If the flame flickers or the smoke moves, you know there are air leaks.

Install Insulated Blinds and Shades:

Insulated shades or blinds are a great way to reduce energy consumption. The layers of insulation trap heat, blocking it from entering the home and keeping it warm during winter. As a result, your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard. You can get your windows covered with custom blinds or shades, such as cellular shades, Roman shades, and roller shades.

Before picking out a style, you should always consider the size and shape of your windows. If you want to take advantage of natural light and retain the view outside your windows, go for honeycomb or Roman shades.

Switch Over to LED Lightbulbs:

Incandescent bulbs were once a hit, but they are energy hogs. They emit heat and require more electricity, increasing your power bills. To save energy and reduce costs, switch these bulbs out for LED light bulbs. LEDs use less energy and generate a lot more brightness, making them the most energy-efficient option. Plus, they are cost-effective, and they last longer than traditional bulbs. You can also opt for solar-powered lights and motion sensors. Solar lights are easy to install and maintain. They also provide adequate illumination without raising your electricity bills. Of course, what you choose will depend on the lighting requirements of your home.

Tend to Your Furnace:

Your furnace is the best friend of your HVAC system, as it helps to filter out allergens, improve air quality, and keep your home warm. But with time, a neglected furnace can become clogged with dust and dirt, causing it to run inefficiently. It causes the furnace to use more energy and increases your electricity bill. To avoid this, you need to maintain the furnace regularly. That includes changing the filters, cleaning the vents, and getting an inspection. If you have pets, then you should clean the area more often.

We recommend getting professional help for furnace maintenance. An HVAC technician will inspect, clean, and repair the unit to increase efficiency. They can also determine whether the furnace is outdated and needs replacement.

Automate Your Electricity Usage:

You can enhance your home’s energy efficiency by using a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats are connected to the internet. It means you can control them from your smartphone. They help to monitor and regulate the temperature inside your home, so you don’t have to worry about it.

You can also program them to switch off the HVAC system when you’re away. It will significantly reduce your monthly electricity expenditure. If you’re looking to invest in one, look for the following features: geofencing, energy-saving modes, and remote access.

Wrap the Water Heater:

Winters and warm baths go hand-in-hand. But as great as they might be, hot showers can cause a spike in your electricity bill. To avoid this, wrap your water heater with an insulation blanket. It will significantly reduce energy loss and help to keep the temperature regulated.

Another thing you can do is turn down the temperature of your water heater. You can adjust it to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and save up to 10 percent on energy bills.

On-demand water heaters are also a great way to save energy. They come with advanced features, such as auto shut-off and remote control.

Conclusion:

Energy efficiency doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right knowledge and tips, you can make your home more efficient while keeping costs low. Taking the time to follow these tips can help you save a significant amount of money and preserve energy. But if you don’t have the time, it’s best to contact an expert who can help you. It’ll help you save trouble and money in the long run.