If you’re building your home or doing remodeling, making energy conscious design decisions is environmentally responsible. You may even qualify for a tax credit too!
As home buyers are becoming more aware of energy conservation they’re making their homes more energy efficient while saving cash. That’s good for both the Earth and your wallet.
Here are 5 ways to conserve energy in a home remodel process.
5 Ways to Conserve Energy: Start with the bones
One of the best ways to improve the energy efficiency of a home is with insulation.
A well-insulated home will be able to maintain a comfortable temperature without the excessive use of air conditioning or heating. When installing insulation, use the fewest number of supporting studs possible. That way the contractor can fit more insulation into the walls.
Make sure the attic is well insulated as well. This can be a huge source of energy loss. Adding a drywall access panel to an opening such as a crawlspace will also increase the energy efficiency of a home.
Water is Important
While harnessing the tides might be used as an energy source, the way water is used in a home can affect the amount of energy used. In an individual home, wasting water is wasting energy.
People are often tempted to add double shower heads or other fancy bathroom accessories. This wastes water energy. Opt for a single shower head and low-flow products to save energy.
Think About Heating and Cooling
A huge portion of your energy bill will come from your HVAC and water heating systems.
The longer you run your shower or faucet waiting for the water to heat up, the more you’re wasting water. If you’re in a position to replace your water heater try installing it closer to where you’ll need hot water the most. Consider getting a solar powered water heater as well.
Replacing your HVAC system for a newer, more efficient and appropriately sized system is a smart way to increase your energy conservation.
Update Appliances
New appliances are designed with the latest technology to conserve energy. One of the best ways to add value to your home is to replace old appliances with new and efficient ones.
When you’re shopping around for a new appliance, compare the machine’s kilowatt usage to your old one. Just because an appliance has a good energy star rating doesn’t mean it uses less energy than your old appliance. Check carefully before investing.
Getting more efficient appliances can save you hundreds of dollars a year.
Use the Natural World More Efficiently
Taking care of the planet will ensure that you can enjoy the great outdoors for decades to come.
But the great outdoors can help heat and cool your home in an environmentally conscious way too. Smartly placed windows can help control the amount of sunshine you let into your home. Blackout curtains can help keep a room cool.
Use these 5 ways to conserve energy and your home will help save the planet while saving you money!
