Owning a home is a big expense, and a home that bleeds energy is even more expensive to maintain. Living in a time when energy efficiency is more of a necessity than a luxury means that investing in upgrades is worth the effort.
Look into what steps you can take as a homeowner to boost your home into a whole new category of excellence. Here are a few ways to upgrade the energy efficiency of your home.
Start with the insulation
Check out what you’re working with in the insulation department. You may own an older home that can easily be upgraded with some new insulation.
Foam insulation is easy to install, and it will give your home the best protection against energy leakage by keeping the cool air in during the summer and the warm air in during the winter.
Your home may also benefit from a protective roof coating. The coating is built to repel the sun’s rays and keep your home cool in the summer.
Upgrade or replace windows
The technology included in the design of windows has drastically improved their energy saving capabilities. If your home is a bit dated, you could likely benefit from a window upgrade.
Invest in the installation of high quality energy efficient windows throughout your home, and the money you save will pay for the investment in no time.
Plant trees for added shade
You can help your home’s energy protections not work as hard by using nature as well. Try planting some trees and other greenery to shield your home from the sun. The foliage may also provide valuable protection from everyday weather wear and tear.
Replace appliances for energy efficiency
You can save thousands over the years by replacing your old household appliances with Energy Star, energy efficient models. Energy efficient appliances have been on the market long enough that they are far more affordable now than ever before. Make the change now, and look into the tax benefits you can claim from all the energy efficient upgrades.
Trade out your light bulbs
If you are still using the traditional sort of light bulbs in your lamps and lights around the house, it’s past time to make the switch to energy efficient bulbs. You’ll save money and energy by spending a few more dollars to purchase the higher caliber bulbs.
Get a programmable thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat will help your home save on energy, and you won’t have to do anything at all. Just program your thermostat, and let technology do the rest. The overall benefits of a programmable thermostat far outweigh the affordable pricing of this small piece of tech.
