People are going green globally! Upgrading home energy efficiency is a major green effort, which is worthy of consideration. Eco-friendly updates conserve energy, save money on utility bills and add to the resale value of our homes.
Even the strictest budget-conscious individual can incrementally heighten home energy efficiency. Let's explore six ways to green-up your home.
1. Programmable Thermostat:
Energy StarR products are highly recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A relatively inexpensive way to increase home energy efficiency is by the installation of an Energy StarR programmable thermostat for your heating/cooling system.
Pre-programming the thermostat settings to fit your family's lifestyle will achieve substantial energy savings, without forgoing a comfortable temperature. These thermostats are designed to reduce amounts of energy required to heat or cool when no one is home, during nighttime hours or when the family is away for extended periods, such as vacations.
2. Appliances:
Due to modern materials and technology, you'll conserve electricity and water, if applicable, with Energy StarR appliances. Consider replacing existing appliances one-by-one for greater home energy efficiency and resale value.
The initial investment will be larger than buying regular appliances, but you will soon realize a return through savings on utility bills. For example, the washing machines contain sensors that determine the precise amount of hot water necessary for each load of clothing. Statistics suggest a savings of about 40% energy and 50% hot water, per load.
Are you aware that refrigerators use more power than most other appliances? Energy StarR refrigerators have cost-effective compressors, improved insulation and produce less heat while running.
Dishwashers are constructed using updated technology, such as sensors to regulate the different cycles and correct temperature of water. The need to consume less hot water contributes significantly to home energy efficiency.
3. Windows and Doors:
Home energy efficiency and comfort substantially increase with the installation of new windows and/or doors. Reportedly, Energy StarR window or door products will save as much as 15% on utility bills.
Unlike their older counterparts, where heat escaped and cold entered, window glass remains warm during winter and cool during summer, without disturbing the light from the sun. The same modern coating that preserves temperature serves as a screen against the sun to protect your cherished possessions from fading.
4. Energy Efficient Insulation:
Adding energy efficient insulation to your home is a gift you give yourself. You can't see insulation, but you will feel the difference in overall comfort and see the difference in utility bills. Similar to older windows and doors, an improperly insulated home lets outside heat/cold in and inside warm/cool air out.
5. Heating and Cooling System:
The rule of ten applies to potential replacement of home heating and cooling systems. After HVAC equipment ages about 10 years, it experiences failure to perform. Energy StarR qualified HVAC systems can save you upwards of $200 annually on home energy bills.
It may be also be time to call a professional if your unit requires excessive repairs; utility bills consistently creep-up or in event of home humidity problems.
6. Roof:
A new roof is a considerable, but necessary expenditure. When your roof needs replacing, the perfect opportunity is presented to explore benefits of reflective roofing by Energy StarR. Experts report that these cool zone roofs use 40% less energy.
Cool zone roofing reflects more rays from the sun, resulting in lowering roof temperature as much as 100F. It also takes appreciably less energy to heat or cool the interior of your home with a cooler roof.
If your budget doesn't have enough wiggle-room to start renovations, you may take one eco-friendly baby step. Start switching incandescent to compact fluorescents - one bulb at a time! Compact fluorescents outlast incandescent bulbs 15 times and use about 20% less energy.
Most home energy efficiency upgrades enhance the eventual resale value of your home and is a selling point worth mentioning to prospective buyers. In the meantime, your home really is your sanctuary; make green efforts that contribute to your comfort.
Bill McCormick is an experienced real estate agent and owner of a Re/Max Executive Realty office covering the market in the metro-west Boston area and is an advocate of ongoing home maintenance to maintain value of property. Bill specializes in Homes for Sale in Upton and also in the towns of Milford, Mendon and Grafton. His website has more tips for house sellers and buyers and also moving tips and you can find them at: http://www.billmccormick.com.
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