Many of us are spending more time at home than ever before due to the global pandemic. This means more energy is being used, making it more important than ever to make your home as energy efficient as possible. There are many benefits of energy efficiency, from helping the environment to cutting down financial costs. Energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades will significantly reduce your energy bills, not to mention increase your property value when you sell. It will also enhance your quality of life as your home will be warmer, drier and better insulated. Ready to make some important changes? Take a look at 5 ways to make your home more energy efficient.
1. Upgrade Siding
Your siding covers most of your home’s exterior. If it’s not in great shape, it probably means your home is a lot less energy efficient than it could be. There are a few main signs that tell you you need to upgrade your siding. Look out for holes, cracks and gaps in your exterior cladding, as well as water damage and rotting. Bulging or warped siding panels are also a red flag, as is moisture build up and mold. If there are no obvious signs of damage to your exterior, but your energy bills have skyrocketed and you’ve noticed drafts throughout your house, there’s a good chance your siding isn’t doing its job. Upgrading your siding will increase your home’s energy efficiency considerably.
2. Check Window Seals
Check your window seals for cracks and air leaks. Seals in the windows that receive the most sunshine (on the west and south sides) typically fail before the ones on the east and north sides of the house. If you notice your windows are drafty, add a layer of weatherstripping around the frames. This will keep the heat in, ensuring less energy is used to heat your home, and in turn reducing your energy costs.
3. Add Heavy Curtains and Window Coverings
If you window shades are doing little to keep the sun out of your home, it’s time to switch to darker window coverings or heavy curtains. Window coverings can reduce energy loss through your windows, lowering heating and energy bills and improving your home comfort. About 30% of a home’s heating is lost through windows, so making the switch can make a significant impact.
4. Install a Storm Door
Adding a storm door will give your home an extra layer of protection and insulation. Storm doors save energy by regulating your home’s temperature all year round. The extra layer reduces heat loss in the winter and keeps cool air in during the warmer months. Storm doors are beneficial even if you have an energy efficient front door, but are even more useful if your front door is outdated but not run down enough to be replaced. It will help eliminate air leaks without you having to invest in a new door.
5. Invest in Energy Star Products
ENERGY STAR® certified products help you save energy, improve comfort and lower your energy bills. Energy Star products like washers and dryers, refrigerators and freezers, light bulbs, air conditioners, and televisions meet energy efficient specifications set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Gentek carries a variety of ENERGY STAR® windows and insulated glass packages that suit numerous climate conditions.
Making your home more energy efficient is more important than ever. Use these tips to help the planet and save on energy bills too!