Home Remodeling Trends Help Reduce Energy Usage and Save Money

Data from the U.S. Department of Energy suggests that heating and cooling are the largest energy expenses in most homes across the U.S. Homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their energy usage and save on their utility bills. Here are nine remodeling trends and tips to make your home more energy efficient.

1. Replace worn-out appliances with Energy Saving appliances.

Energy and water usage can be reduced by up to 50% with energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen.

 

2. Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs and install skylights.

CFLs last up to ten times as long as standard bulbs and use one-fourth of the energy. Skylights are also a great way to brighten up dimly lit areas and save on electricity.

 

3. Swap single-pane windows with new energy-efficient windows or repair old windows.

Window replacement will dramatically reduce your energy usage. New energy-efficient windows are twice as efficient as the average 10-year-old window, and they are available in a variety of options and designs. If new windows are not in your budget, you can boost your home’s energy efficiency by repairing older windows that are rotted, damaged with cracked glass, or missing putty.

 

4. Make sure exterior walls and access into unconditioned spaces are properly sealed.

Exterior wall penetrations into the house (including dryer vents, cable television lines, power lines, gas lines, or hose bibs) should be properly sealed from both the outside and inside. Make sure all interior access points into unconditioned spaces (including attic or basement/crawlspace access) are tightly closed and well insulated.

 

5. Seal basements and crawlspaces to reduce heat/cold transfer.

Air moves from warmer to colder areas, so in the winter, you need to seal basements and crawlspaces with caulk, spray foam, or weather-stripping to prevent heat loss. In the summer, the same holds true to keep warm air from defeating your air conditioner. This will have a great impact on improving your comfort and reducing utility bills.

 

6. Add insulation to your attic.

Proper attic insulation can make your home more comfortable in the winter months and can lower your energy bills. At least a foot of fiberglass or cellulose insulation in the attic floor is recommended as a cost-effective measure.

 

7. Insulate hot water pipes and conserve water.

Insulating hot water pipes and adding a re-circulating valve at the far end of a water supply stack will help conserve energy and water. Installing low-flow shower heads and using dual-flush toilets will also save substantial water.

 

8. Upgrade and insulate your hot water heater.

Replace your old hot water heater with a tankless water heater or with a properly sized energy-efficient tank model. Water heater jackets will help insulate tanks and generally cost around twenty-five dollars. They can potentially save ten to twenty dollars a month in energy costs.

 

9. Service your HVAC system regularly.

Have a specialist look over and inspect your HVAC system at least once a year to ensure that your system is running at optimal performance. Additionally, ensure you change your filters as recommended and keep plant growth, leaves, or debris from clogging your air compressor. When it’s time to replace your system, look for an Energy Star rated appliance.

Case Remodeling will help you make decisions with your home remodel that reduce energy and save money. Talk with a home remodeling specialist near you.