by ANDREW LEMIEUX
In most regions, winter is when energy costs typically increase. With unstable fuel costs, it’s a good idea to look for ways to conserve. Implementing more efficient systems and appliances is a wise long-term investment, even if it requires an upfront investment. Here are some of the best ways to make your home more energy-efficient.
Upgrade Your Insulation
Improving insulation lets you retain heat. Common areas where you can easily add or upgrade your insulation include the following.
- Higher-grade windows are a great place to start for better insulation. Triple-pane windows are perfect. You can make your existing windows more efficient with thermal blinds, drapes, and curtains.
- Foam around pipes prevents heat from escaping.
Find Places Where Heat Escapes
Heat may be escaping through leaks or gaps around the home. This keeps you chilly and raises your heating bills. You may not always notice these leaks, so inspect your home thoroughly to locate them.
Do you feel drafts in certain areas? Take note and pinpoint the source. Even small gaps, such as under doors, make a real difference. Using a candle is a simple way to find leaks. Light a candle and walk around windows and doors, noticing any spots where the flame flickers. You can also use sophisticated technology such as thermal imaging or a blower door test. You can purchase devices to conduct these tests at home or hire a specialist to perform them.
Seal Leaks and Gaps
- Weatherstripping is helpful to apply around window and door frames.
- Seal small gaps with caulk.
- Use door sweeps to block drafts entering from under doors.
Get the Most From Your Heating System
You can upgrade to a new, more energy-efficient heating system as part of a full home remodeling project. There are also ways to optimize your existing system.
Avoid Rapid Cycling
Rapid (or short) cycling is when the heater constantly turns on and off. It’s more efficient for it to run for longer cycles. An innovative heating system will naturally optimize the cycles. Older ones, however, may require some adjustments. Changing the air filter or replacing the thermostat can often resolve this issue. You may also need to adjust the cycle rate adjustment setting on the thermostat.
Use a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat is one of the most effective tools for managing your energy costs while also maintaining a more comfortable home.
Programmable vs Smart Thermostats
A programmable thermostat is one that automatically adjusts heating levels according to your needs and habits. It saves you the trouble of having to set the ideal temperature yourself.
A smart thermostat offers more capabilities, including remote temperature control. If you’re going to be out of the house for a long time, you can set the temperature a few degrees cooler. It may also have geofencing capability. By integrating with your phone, the thermostat knows when you’re coming home so it can adjust the temperature accordingly.
When purchasing a new programmable or smart thermostat, ensure it’s compatible with your heating system.
Use Energy Star Devices
The US Environmental Protection Agency approves Energy Star devices. Look for products and systems that have the Energy Star label. Products undergo third-party testing to attain this label.
Use Secondary Heating
If you’re not ready to invest in a new heating system, you can keep yourself warm by using supplemental heating. This is a good option if your heating system is usually sufficient to keep you warm, but it’s not quite enough on frigid days. Space heaters can be placed strategically around the house, allowing you to keep the central thermostat a little lower. Another option is to add a wood or pellet stove.
Heat Your Home Intelligently
There are many small shifts you can make that add up to a home that’s warmer while you conserve energy.
- Don’t block heating vents. Furniture and other obstacles can block the flow of heat through the room.
- Apply zone heating. Zone heating lets you set temperatures independently in different rooms. For example, keep rooms where you spend a lot of time warmer than areas you seldom use. This type of system utilizes electronically controlled dampers in ducts that are connected to the thermostat.
- Shut doors and close vents in rooms you aren’t using.
Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient
Create your strategy that enhances your comfort and lowers your energy costs.
Tailor your actions to your location, finances, and personal temperature preferences. Make minor or significant changes so you save money and stay warm.
