There are many more benefits to an energy-efficient home than just using less energy. Having a home that is more energy-efficient means lower monthly bills and higher resale value. Energy efficiency also translates to comfort, health, safety and improved quality of life.
So apart from going out and investing in a new Passive House or Zero Energy home, how can you make your existing house in New Jersey more energy efficient? Begin with these improvements to increase your home’s energy efficiency.
1. Get an Energy Assessment
An energy assessment is a comprehensive examination of how your home is performing. It identifies ways in which your home uses energy and uncovers opportunities for saving energy.
After an audit by the experts, you’ll receive a report on which issues need to be addressed to save the most energy and money in the long-term. When you’re armed with the knowledge and insight that an energy assessment can provide, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about which improvements to make.
2. Change Your Light Bulbs
An easy way to waste less energy is to upgrade all the light bulbs in your home from incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs. Not only do these bulbs require less energy, but they also last about 50 times longer than incandescent bulbs, saving you on replacement costs over time. LED light bulbs are dimmable and offer warm, soft light and instant brightness to make your indoor environment more enjoyable.
3. Replace Old, Outdated Appliances
Whether it’s an outdated refrigerator, air conditioner or heating unit — if it’s over 10 years old, consider replacing it. New large appliances, especially ones with ENERGY STAR certifications and high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings, will save you money and allow you to live more comfortably with increased peace of mind. New, energy-efficient appliances now offer convenient features and intuitive settings to increase your quality of life at home.
4. Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you still have an old thermostat that you’re constantly adjusting, installing a new, smart option can help increase your home’s energy efficiency. With programmable and intelligent settings, you’ll have full control over your comfort and easily save on heating and cooling costs when you’re not home.
5. Maintain Your HVAC Systems
In order to work effectively and maintain their efficiency, your AC and furnace or boiler have to be regularly serviced by a professional. With a seasonal tune-up, your heating and cooling systems won’t have to work as hard to achieve the temperature you desire.
Regular maintenance saves energy, lowering your bills. It also offers peace of mind that you won’t experience an unexpected breakdown on one of the hottest or coldest days of the year.
6. Invest in Insulation & Air Sealing
Most homes in the area are inefficient due to poor insulation and air sealing. It’s likely that your home’s energy assessment will uncover the same thing.
These home weatherization solutions can make the largest difference when it comes to your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. By increasing the insulation in your house and closing up any cracks and gaps that have been allowing air in and out, you’ll notice that you have a much warmer home during the winter and a cooler one during the summer. Your HVAC units won’t have to work as hard to keep you comfortable, resulting in significant monthly savings.
Allied: The Experts in Home Energy Efficiency
By taking these measures to make your New Jersey home more energy-efficient, you’ll not only be helping to reduce your impact on the environment, but you’ll also save more money and live more comfortably. Our team of professionals at Allied Energy Efficiency Experts has the solutions you need to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.
Ready to save money and get more comfortable? Take the first step to an energy-efficient home and schedule your energy assessment today — contact us or call 856-528-2822.
