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5 Ways to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency (& Save on Bills!)
Jan 4, 2016, 20:33 PM
Improving the energy efficiency of your
home can often seem like a costly undertaking, so Global Home Improvements, a local leader
and innovator in home renovations and improvements, shared five options homeowners
can consider when looking to bring the cost of energy bills down.
It’s
important to view these upgrades as long-term investments. Over time, the
amount of money you will save on utility bills will offset the costs of the
upgrades suggested below.
2. Attic Insulation: Because heat rises, over 40% of all heat loss is lost through the attic, so it’s important to make sure your attic is well insulated. Over the last 50 years, the building code standards have changed in regard to how much insulation should be used in an attic. Not only that, homes built before 1970 have outdated insulation that is much less efficient than insulation made today. Insulation will give you the highest return on investment (ROI) on your heating bills, because it is the most effective material for keeping heat in, and can be less expensive than other alternatives.
3. Insulated Siding: When looking to insulate, consider replacing your home’s siding - especially if it’s an older home. They now make foam insulated siding intended to improve energy efficiency. It will also give your home a more updated look enhancing the curb appeal. Insulated siding is a great option to look at because it is easier and much more cost efficient than insulating between your walls. You would have to rip into the wall and go into the rafters, which can become a major, burdensome project.
4. Metal Roofing: During the summer months, when trying to keep the heat out, a metal roof can be extremely effective. When the sun hits your home, it’s not just the heat, but also the radiation that makes your house hot, so the metal roof reflects the heat and radiation to keep your home cool. A metal roof can be especially effective in ranch homes or homes with a finished attic or cathedral ceilings.
5. Solar
panels: Solar panels can be a great way to improve
your carbon footprint and create a long-term investment for significant energy
savings. However, before you even considering solar, you should look into the
first four options, because it doesn't make sense to put solar on an
inefficient house. With solar panels,
you’re not offsetting 100% of your electricity – you’re offsetting about 50%,
so it’s important to first get your energy bill as low as possible. Make your
home air tight and as efficient as possible, then solar can really make an
impact.
With these energy-saving options, you not
only save and money and reduce waste, but your home is more comfortable to live
in, and there is less stress on your heating and air conditioning units helping
them to last longer.
Global Home Improvements will be at the Philly Home + Garden Show, January 15-17 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, in booth# 201
discussing these energy saving tips and more! Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you connect with us on Facebook and bring a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!
