Energy efficiency in your home can significantly improve your life in many ways. It can reduce the costs of energy bills every month. It reduces wear and tear on appliances and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which saves money through fewer repairs and less frequent HVAC replacements. Energy-efficient windows keep your rooms cooler in warmer months without excess air conditioning. Energy efficiency also utilizes fewer natural resources, which is better for the environment. There are a few ways that you can improve energy efficiency in your home through your windows and HVAC system alone.
1. Regular HVAC Maintenance
Keep your HVAC system regularly maintained, including annual inspections. If there is a problem with your HVAC system, it can overwork the system or add excess wear and tear that can cost a lot of money to repair or replace. When your HVAC system is in peak working condition, it will run less and use less energy while running, benefitting your wallet and the environment.
2. HVAC Duct and Filter Cleaning
Ducts and filters are responsible for trapping debris and pollutants and delivering cleaner air throughout your home. If these ducts and filters get too dirty or clogged, it can break the HVAC system, introduce pollutants into the air that lower its quality, and cause it to run more than it needs to (which costs money). Regular duct cleaning can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. For optimal comfort, consider using an indoor air quality tool to assess and improve the air inside your home. Filters should be replaced every one to three months, depending on the type of AC filter.
3. HVAC Replacements
Replace that old HVAC system that is decades old! Newer HVAC systems are equipped with more energy-efficient technology, including ENERGY STAR. An old HVAC system that needs replacing tends to run longer as well, costing more money and energy than necessary. If your HVAC system is a decade old or older, have it inspected and consider replacing it if necessary. There are even smart HVAC systems to ensure peak efficiency.
4. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats can automatically adjust heat or air conditioning to provide optimal, energy-efficient HVAC settings. You can even adjust or program the temperature when you aren’t home. Smart thermostats can be ENERGY STAR efficient, which actively adjusts your HVAC system to use less energy.
5. Solar Energy
Solar energy is a renewable source of power for your home’s electrical system, including the HVAC unit. Due to its renewable status, solar energy is incredibly efficient and can lower your monthly energy bills significantly. Solar is great for the environment as well.
6. Smart Windows
Did you know that there are even smart windows? These types of windows refer to glass that can block certain wavelengths of light from the sun that can overly warm your home. Blocking this light reduces the need for your HVAC system to work overtime while still allowing plenty of natural light and scenic views. Certain types of smart windows can even self-tint or be tinted at the owner’s request to provide a dimmer, cooler view.
7. Proper Window Installation
Regardless of what type of windows you own, ensuring they’re properly installed can make your home more energy efficient. Ill-fitting windows can add excess heat or cold to the home, requiring your HVAC system to overwork itself unnecessarily.
8. Window Repair
Broken or cracked windows can create drafts or let in too much outside air, raising or lowering the temperature of your home. It may even be difficult to tell when a window is broken, as cracks or displacement aren’t always obvious. Consulting with a professional who can inspect and repair your windows is key to energy efficiency. You can find local contractors with search terms such as, ‘window replacement company in Kansas’ or ‘window inspectors near me’. They can even install energy-efficient windows if you’d like.
9. Window Coverings
If smart windows aren’t to your taste or they’re out of your budget, window coverings on the interior or exterior of the home can provide shade to keep your home cooler. Awnings, shutters, or outdoor shades can provide exterior coverage, while blinds or curtains can provide adequate interior cooling.
10. Weatherproof Windows
Any type of window can be weatherproofed with the use of caulk or stripping to insulate it, preventing leaks or pests from entering the home. Window film can also add tinting that blocks a percentage of light from entering the home and unnecessarily warming it. There are many types of window insulation or weather stripping, such as foam or felt, all with varying advantages and disadvantages; for example, felt is cost-effective but requires regular replacement as frequently as annually.
Conclusion
Energy efficiency provides a lot of benefits to your home, life, and the environment. Properly maintaining, installing, and monitoring your home’s HVAC system and windows can save a lot of money on utility bills and repairs. Blocking excess light when necessary can add a lot of efficiency to your home as well. Regularly inspect your windows and HVAC systems for better function.
