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Keeping your home energy-efficient is not only good for the environment but also saves you money on your energy bills. There are several things you can do to increase your home's energy efficiency, including installing high-quality window treatments, servicing your AC unit, and hiring a home inspector to identify opportunities for improvement. Here's how to go about it:
1. Install High-Quality Window Treatments
Window treatments such as faux wood blinds, plantation shutters, and roller shades are effective in keeping your home energy efficient. Faux wood blinds and plantation shutters can be adjusted to control the amount of light and heat that enters your home, while roller shades are perfect for blocking out sunlight altogether.
When shopping for window treatments, look for options that have energy-saving features like insulated materials or reflective coatings. These features can help reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, keeping your home at a comfortable temperature without overworking your HVAC system.
2. Service Your AC Unit
Your air conditioning system can use a lot of energy, especially during the hot summer months. To keep it running efficiently, you should have it serviced regularly. This includes changing the filters, cleaning the coils, and checking for any leaks or other issues.
You can also install a programmable thermostat to help regulate your AC usage. This allows you to set your system to turn on or off at specific times of the day, so you can avoid running it unnecessarily and wasting energy.
3. Hire a Home Inspector
A home inspector can evaluate your home's energy efficiency and identify areas where you can make improvements. They can check for air leaks, insulation issues, and other problems that may be causing your home to lose energy. By identifying these issues, you can make changes that will help keep your home energy-efficient and reduce your energy bills.
If you are in the Central Florida area, we highly recommend DamnGood Inspections. Whether you are looking for an inspector for a new home or have a specific reason you need your home inspected, DamnGood Inspections is locally owned and has cutting-edge technology to make sure that your home is taken care of!
4. Use Solar Power to Become Energy-Efficient
Solar power is a clean and renewable energy source that can help you reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bills. You can install solar panels on your roof or in your yard to generate electricity for your home. You can also install solar water heaters to heat your water using the power of the sun.
While the initial cost of installing solar panels can be high, you can often recoup your investment through energy savings over time. Additionally, many governments and utility companies offer incentives and rebates for installing solar panels, which can help offset the cost.
5. Use Smart Home Features That Can Be Set For Lighting and Heating/Cooling
Smart home technology allows you to control your home's lighting, heating, and cooling systems remotely. You can set schedules and timers for when lights should turn on and off, and when the heating or cooling system should turn on or off.
Smart thermostats are particularly useful for controlling your heating and cooling systems. They can learn your schedule and preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly, which can help save energy and reduce your energy bills.
Overall, these additional points can help you maximize your home's energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint, while also making your home more comfortable and convenient to live in.
6. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers can use a lot of energy if they are not energy-efficient. When shopping for appliances, look for models with the Energy Star label, which means they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
In addition, try to avoid using appliances during peak hours when energy demand is highest. For example, run your dishwasher or washing machine at night or on weekends when energy rates are typically lower.
7. Install Weather-Stripping and Insulation
Air leaks in your home can cause energy loss and make your heating and cooling system work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. To prevent air leaks, install weather-stripping around doors and windows, and use caulking to seal any gaps or cracks in walls or floors.
Adding insulation to your home can also help reduce energy loss. Insulation helps keep warm air in during the winter and cool air in during the summer, making your home more energy-efficient.
In conclusion, using high-quality window treatments like faux wood blinds, plantation shutters, and roller shades, servicing your AC unit regularly, and hiring a home inspector are just a few ways to increase your home's energy efficiency. By taking these steps, you can save money, reduce your environmental impact, and enjoy a more comfortable home.