Homeowner Tips: Save Some Money On Energy Throughout The Year
If you are like most homeowners, you're probably always looking for ways to save some money on your energy costs year-round. Luckily, there are quite a few updates you can make to your home that will help you do just that. Consider implementing the following options:
Update the Windows
You can improve your household's overall energy efficiency while enhancing your home's look and feel at the same time by making a few updates to all your windows. If your windows leak or have faced lots of wear and tear, consider replacing them with new Energy Star rated options. Energy Star windows are designed to lower energy bills by about 12 percent and are treated with special film that will protect your furniture, walls, and floors inside from fading and damage due to ultraviolet rays. And after installing new Energy Star windows, you can expect to lower your overall carbon footprint.
To enhance the performance of your new Energy Star windows, you can apply solar film to them that will further insulate your home and protect it from sun damage. What's great about solar film is that it comes in different colors, shades, and designs so you can create a unique look for your home that can't be found elsewhere in your neighborhood. It's easy to install and can be peeled off without damaging your windows if you want to change your windows' design in the future.
And if you're still using old curtains, it's a good idea to replace your window treatments with a more energy efficient option such as the following:
- Blinds – Reduces overall solar heat gain while providing customizable light, privacy, and ventilation
- Mesh Screens – Can be installed on the exterior side of the window to diffuse solar radiation, enhance light control, and protect your window glass
- Roof Overhangs – Allows for full sunlight during the day while blocking heat gain in the summer and allowing for heat gain in the winter
You can use one window treatment alone or combine two or three of them for a customized look and optimized energy saving results.
Focus on the Plumbing
There are quite a few things a plumber can do to update your home for enhanced energy efficiency so you can save some money throughout the year. First, they can replace your water heater with a solar powered option, as this can cut your water heating bill in half, which will make a positive impact on your overall energy costs – and you'll reduce your C02 production by about the same amount. There's also a chance that you'll increase your property's overall value by installing a new solar water heater. Talk with a plumbing company, such as Cove Plumbing Inc, for more information and options.
Your plumber can also replace your faucets and showerheads with low-flow options, which will reduce both your water and energy bills because your water heater won't have to work so hard. If you can't afford or aren't inclined to replace all your fixtures and toilets, ask your plumber to fit your current ones with low-flow aerators, as they can reduce your water and energy needs by up to 50 percent.
Another way your plumber can help you save money on energy and water is by replacing your toilets with dual-flush models. These toilets feature two separate flushing buttons. One provides a full flush, while the other offers a shorter flush. This will allow family members to use less water when flushing liquids, so the heftier water usage can be saved for solids. Have your plumber install a certified dual-flush toilet to ensure that the design has been tested and rated for high efficiency.
Utilizing these techniques in your home is sure to make a big difference in both your energy bills each month while helping to reduce your family's overall carbon footprint.
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