Spring is finally here, and you know what that means: spring cleaning and countless home improvement projects you can get started on. One goal that many homeowners have for the new decade is improving their home’s energy efficiency, but it can be hard to know exactly where to start. After all, there are so many areas in the home that can benefit from renovation or remodeling. To help you get started, here are some of the most effective steps to creating an energy-efficient home, from appliances to new windows.
Efficient Appliances
Depending on how old your appliances are, you could see significant improvements in energy efficiency just by adding a new fridge or similar appliance to your home. Household appliances, specifically those in the kitchen, often take up a surprising amount of energy. Older appliances weren’t designed with the same emphasis on energy-efficiency as today’s household staples. Making an upgrade may be a bit costly, but it’s well worth the investment for the energy savings.
Smart Technology
For those who constantly forget to turn out the lights when they leave a room or leave their thermostat set just a bit too high, smart technology can help bridge the gap. Some thermostats now allow you to program what times you’re at home or out and about so you don’t waste energy heating an empty home. Depending on how tech-savvy you are, this could be a great option.
New Windows and Doors
Finally, adding new windows or doors to your home can dramatically improve your energy efficiency. This is because different window materials trap heat differently, and the wrong materials will allow heated air to escape. When it comes to a home’s wall space, about 15% is taken up by windows. This means that depending on what window types you have at home, you could be losing a significant amount of heat just through your windows alone. Likewise, the right exterior doors can limit drafts to keep your home sealed up. This way you won’t waste money and energy heating space inefficiently.
If you’re not sure what residential windows you should be looking for, working with an expert to find your new windows can help. For more information on how new windows can help you save energy at home, contact Discount Window and Door today.
