5 Things You Can Do to Upgrade
Your Home to Lower Bills
Do You Feel a Sense of Dread or Unease When You Open Your Latest Utility Bill?
If yes, you’re not alone. Energy costs are on the rise, and millions of homeowners across the US are struggling with high energy costs. Also, environmental concerns and sustainability are at the forefront. This is why it is crucial to make your home energy-efficient.
Want to upgrade your home to lower bills? Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg or a lot of time to make small changes and lower utility bills. From installing a smart thermostat or swapping out single-pane windows for double-pane windows are simple upgrades that will certainly go a long way toward reduced energy costs.
The best home upgrades have two main benefits. They make your space more livable and energy-efficient and are also cost-effective. Making a few energy-efficient improvements is a practical and savvy way to save considerable money on energy bills, lower energy use, and add to your house’s value. Here are some simple tips and ways to lower your utility costs through home upgrades.
Table of Contents
1. Upgrade Your Home Insulation
Insulation is one of the main ways to make your home energy-efficient. You can lower energy use and save money by insulating your home. Proper insulation helps trap heat in your home during the winter and keep it cool in the summer. This can significantly lower your energy consumption without putting a dent in your wallet.
Although many newer homes and properties are adequately insulated, homes that are many decades old may benefit considerably from an upgrade in the attic and other common problem areas where air can easily escape, including basements, fireplaces, crawl spaces, and ductwork.
What are the best insulation upgrades for energy savings? There are three main types of insulation: attic insulation, crawl space insulation, and wall insulation. Attic insulation is usually the most important type of insulation. What’s the reason? It can account for up to 40% of your home’s heat loss.
Wall insulation benefits are impressive and you will benefit from unparalleled thermal efficiency. Finally, crawl space insulation is essential if you have a crawl space since it can help to prevent heat loss and moisture problems.
2. Replace Old Appliances with Energy-Efficient Models
Replacing old appliances, such as washing machines, with better and energy-efficient models is another great way to slash your energy bills. Low-energy appliances such as a tumble dryer, washing machine, and dishwasher, can make a significant difference to your overall energy consumption. Energy-efficient appliances, like induction hobs, use less energy to operate, saving you money on your utility bills.
For instance, research indicates that induction hobs are up to 3 times more efficient than gas stoves. For dishwashers and washing machines, “eco” settings, also known as efficiency cycles, may take more time but use much less electricity and water. This could have a notable effect on your bill – particularly if you run your dishwasher or washing machine every day or more often.
Are you choosing new appliances for your home? It is best to look for the Energy Star label. It is a government-backed symbol that identifies products and appliances that meet strict energy-efficiency standards.
Here are some specific examples of energy-efficient appliances:
- LED light bulbs
- ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerators
- Smart thermostats
3. Seal Air Leaks and Cracks Around Windows and Doors
You probably know that doors and windows are common culprits for energy loss. Even small leaks can add up to considerable energy waste over time. Although replacing your doors and windows can be expensive, consider adding weather stripping and exterior caulk to fill gaps and crevices where air can escape. You can also hire a professional or insulation expert to seal air leaks and cracks in your home. This can make a noticeable difference for just a fraction of the cost, making it more affordable to heat and cool your home.
4. Install Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Windows
Low-E windows have a thin coating of metal or other material that reflects heat and minimizes infrared and ultraviolet light that passes through your glass. This coating helps keep heat in your home during the winter and out during the summer. Installing Low-E glass windows is one of the most cost-effective home improvements you can make.
These windows can considerably improve lighting while slashing cooling and heating costs. And guess what? Low-E glass windows are an excellent investment in both warm and cold climates. In addition to significant energy savings, Low-E windows can offer improved comfort and reduce the fading of furniture and carpets.
5. Utilize Smart Power Strips to Eliminate Standby Power Consumption
You may have heard of standby power consumption. It is the amount of electricity that electronic devices, such as TVs, use even when they are turned off. Did you know that standby power consumption can account for as much as 10% of your home’s energy usage? While you could limit this waste and reduce utility bills by unplugging everything when you aren’t using it, this is not always ideal, particularly for TVs and appliances.
Need a better solution? It is time to ditch standard power strips and try smart power strips. Smart power strips have sensors that detect when devices and appliances are not being used and turn them off automatically. At a cost of about $15 to $35 per strip, it is a relatively small price to pay for such remarkable long-term savings.
Final thoughts
By implementing these five upgrades and using energy-saving tips for homeowners, you can make your home more energy-efficient and lower your energy bills. Besides saving you money in the long run, these upgrades can also help lower your environmental impact.
If you are looking to save money on utility bills, you can rely on Conejo Valley Home Services for professional insulation services and energy-saving solutions. Our insulation professionals can help you make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. Contact Conejo Valley Home Services at (805) 499-0448 to save money on utility bills.
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