When it’s time for home improvement projects, there are a number of reasons to consider investments in making your home more energy efficient.
Energy efficiency can save homeowners money on utility bills, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and provide a better quality of life.
In the following article, we explore some concrete steps for achieving these goals that you can use to make decisions about which projects make sense for your house.
First off, you need to know what kinds of improvements will best suit your budget as well as your needs by assessing the air leaks in your house – you can do this with an infrared camera.
What Kinds of Home Improvements Can You Do For Low Cost?
There are some home improvements you can do that will save energy and money over time. Some might be small DIY jobs; others will require professionals.
Here is a short list of easy upgrades:
1. Upgrade Your Windows
This is the most important and most expensive upgrade for energy efficiency.
Consider adding vinyl replacement windows where you live. Upgraded windows will be more expensive than using your current window, but they will save energy and money over time.
2. Upgrade Your Insulation
You can save energy in your home by adding insulation wherever possible to help keep warm air inside during the winter and keep cool air out during the summer. Some insulation you might be able to put in yourself and reduce on labor costs.
Upgraded insulation is a great way to save money on energy bills and lower carbon emissions at home or office.
3. Change Air Filters
It’s important to change your air filters regularly because they collect dust, pollen, and other irritants which affect heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
This is especially important in homes where there are lots of occupants or pets. A clean filter means less work for your HVAC system, which will translate into lower costs for your utility bills.
4. Replace Lights and Replace Light Bulbs with Energy-Efficient Models
Some upgrades like this can be installed in minutes, but they are highly effective.
Using LED light bulbs instead of regular incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs will increase energy efficiency and lower energy costs.
LEDs come in a variety of colors too, which means that they are ideal for home decorating too!
5. Replace Your Faucet With a Water-Saving Device
Certainly, replace a tap if it is dripping; you will save a lot of money and water. However, you should also consider replacing any taps with water saving ones – so that you get the same flow with less water.
6. Ensure That You Have an Energy Efficient HVAC System and Use it Properly
A lot of people complain about energy efficiency when they are not using their heater or air conditioner effectively.
Remember that you need to maintain your HVAC system well by having it serviced regularly and setting the thermostat correctly to prevent unnecessary energy usage. Make sure that the outlets are not being blocked.
7. Repair Leaky Faucets and Pipes
It’s especially important to check your water pipes and faucets for leaks because water leaks can waste money and increase your dependence on fossil fuels in the long run.
You can test for leaks by using a detector device. Make sure that you change any worn-out rubber hoses or gaskets too.
