When it comes to concepts like energy-efficiency or sustainability, people tend to imagine the expenses of smart cars and solar panels — while those are definitely lifestyle choices that are ideal for better energy consumption, they aren’t readily available for the average homeowner. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable, accessible and achievable changes that people can make to improve their home’s energy-efficiency. If you are a homeowner looking to upgrade your property or a professional looking for solutions for clients, here are some steps that you can take to get an energy-efficient home.
Improving Your Windows
Windows are not devices that need electricity, but they contribute to significant energy loss — air leaks from windows will ruin the indoor temperature and make homeowners depend on the furnace or the air conditioner for comfort. The over-use of the furnace during the colder months and the air conditioning unit during the warmer months will raise hydro bills. This unnecessary problem has a simple and satisfying solution — a homeowner needs to replace their leaky or drafty windows with high-quality ones. Lowering your home’s energy costs is an important part of the Casa Bella Advantage — with the help of energy-efficient features, window replacements can help insulate your property and reduce energy consumption.
Ideally, you will want a window with advanced weather stripping and superior spacers to protect your home from drafts and regulate the indoor temperature. They should also have vinyl frames to guard the house against moisture and insulate the heat, even during Canadian winter. These practical qualities are why vinyl windows are popular with homeowners — they are even more popular than aluminum frames when it comes to windows.
Replacing Your Entry Doors
Even if you replace all of your old windows, your entrance doors can still be major reasons why your hydro bills are climbing. You can effectively proof your house of air leaks and save money by doing sustainable renovations with your windows and entrance doors. You should make sure that the door material will keep the indoor temperature comfortable — fiberglass and steel are both materials designed for strong insulation and protection from outside elements. Another factor that is always important to think about is the installation because a poorly installed door will impact your home’s energy consumption. When you want to replace your entry doors, use professional window and door installation services — trained experts will prevent mishaps or mistakes that could end up costing you more money in the future.
Other renovations and improvements that homeowners can do to have a more energy-efficient home:
- When you are planning to make energy-efficient upgrades in your home, think about the money and energy you waste with lighting. Make the switch from incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescents or LEDs to keep your spaces bright.
- When you renovate your home by getting energy-efficient windows and doors, they should have the Energy Star certification to prove they’re reliable. The same rule applies for important appliances throughout the house — getting Energy Star certified refrigerators, dishwashers and other major appliances will keep your hydro bills down.
- Many homeowners waste energy by leaving lights and electronics on without thinking about it. Consider how many times you walk out of a room without turning off the lights and forget about it for hours. You can install timers and motion sensors for lights and other devices to make sure that you aren’t running them for longer than you need to.
When it comes to renovations, you can get energy-efficient windows and doors, change your light bulbs, upgrade your appliances and install some handy technology. Whether you want to save money or help save the environment, it’s good to be conscious of the energy you use at home and to be proactive about preventing future waste.
