How To Make Your Home Energy-Efficient
Research indicates that an average home in the US consumes about 11,000 kilowatts per hour of power. Homes in southern states such as Florida are also likely to use more energy than those in other regions. This higher rate is because residents often need air conditioning for improved comfort.
When purchasing a home or building one in the South Tampa region, it’s vital to ensure it is energy-efficient. Taking this precaution will reduce your energy use and help you protect the environment.
Are you wondering how to make your home more comfortable and save money on utility bills? Read on to discover several ways you can improve energy efficiency.
1. Use Draught-Proof Windows
Drafty windows allow free movement of air between your home and outside, causing regular temperature changes. As a result, you will use your HVAC system more often to heat or cool rooms and prevent discomfort.
The best solution to this issue is getting energy-efficient windows such as those with double panes. By installing these draught-proof fixtures, you can stabilize temperatures and avoid regular HVAC use. You can also modify the existing windows by installing an extra layer of insulation.
2. Change Your Bulbs
Electricity for lighting contributes to about 5% of the total energy consumption in most homes. Depending on your lifestyle and the amount of lighting in your home, your usage may be higher. You may also need to cool your home more if you use bulb models that emit heat.
Consider switching traditional incandescent lights with better options like Energy Star certified LED bulbs. This will help you reduce your consumption and make your home more environmentally friendly.
You will also save money in the long run since energy-efficient light bulbs may last up to 15 times longer than other models.
3. Switch to an Energy-Efficient Heater
Heating helps to keep your home more comfortable during cold weather. However, if you do not use energy-efficient heaters, you will incur more expenses.
When buying a home or renovating, ensure you get eco-friendly heating appliances. Your HVAC system should also have an energy star rating and be the right size for the property.
Other than that, replace your typical gas water heater with an Energy Star-certified product like a condensing tankless boiler. This advanced home appliance is more efficient since it reuses exhaust gas. It is also more durable and heats water in a shorter duration.
4. Insulate Your Roof
Proper insulation is among the most common features of energy-efficient homes. So, when looking for ways to improve your property, consider insulating various areas. Such may include your inner walls, rafters, basement, attic, and floors in vented crawl spaces.
This will help you maintain temperatures in your home irrespective of the weather conditions. It will also improve overall comfort and reduce the amount of money you pay for heating and cooling.
Contact New Legacy Homes for Energy-Efficient Properties
Living in an energy-efficient home is convenient and can reduce your utility expenses. At New Legacy Homes, we use advanced technology to design and construct the most eco-friendly houses.
All the appliances in our homes have Energy Star certification to ensure they are luxurious and cost-effective. If you are looking for an energy-efficient home in South Tampa, FL, reach out to us today to view the available floor plans.