4 Smart Renovations to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

Concerned with your home’s energy efficiency? Whether your goal is to “go green” and reduce your carbon footprint or reduce your monthly utility expenditure, there is a technology that can help you reach those lofty goals.

Once upon a time, in the not so very long ago decades—say thirty years ago—it was considered wasteful to upgrade your home until it became necessary. The “make do” mindset has shifted, allowing us to renovate to our heart’s content without the guilt. This case is especially true when you’re not only making aesthetic enhancements but you’re also ramping up efficiency.

So, what are some of the smartest renovations you can invest in today? Take a look.

1 – Tankless water heaters

Tankless water heaters are a smart investment, as they lower your energy consumption. Therefore, they reduce the cost of heating water in your home.

A tankless water heater is different than an old-style “tank” heater. This is because the traditional tank is a vessel that holds a specific number of gallons of water ready for use, 24/7/365. The internal thermostat keeps the water to the specified temperature at all times, running day in and day out—even if you are away at work or on a vacation.

On the other hand, a tankless water heater is water supplied on demand. When you turn on your tap, the water runs through a pipe and runs over a heating mechanism the moment that you need it. That fact means that it is not running continuously all day, every day.

Here’s another fact that most people don’t consider. The average lifespan of a traditional hot water tank is 12 to 15 years. That of the best tankless water heaters is 18 to 20 years, on average. That additional three to eight years of life means fewer water tanks you’ll send to the landfill during your lifetime.

 
2 – Install a new roof

The roof is a pain point for many homeowners. It’s an expensive repair, but it’s one of the most vital structures of your house. Literally, this is what keeps you, your loved ones, and your possessions protected.

Lesser known is the fact that, according to EnergyStar, a roof is one of the primary sources of energy loss in your home. In the hot summer months, in particular, a roof comprised of the latest materials can lower the temperature of the shingles by up to 50°F. In turn, this decrease lowers the transference of heat into the house and lowers the cooling bill.

Do you need an upgrade to your roof? Check for:

• Missing or loose shingles
• Flashing that’s damaged or missing
• Popped out nails
• Rotting fascia
• Leaks inside your attic
• Mold or mildew in the attic rafters

As you are checking your roof and attic, be sure to practice ladder safety according to OSHA!

3 – New windows

There is almost no better way to enhance the beauty of your home and save money than installing new and energy-efficient windows!

When you are avoiding the expense of new windows, you are allowing air infiltration into your home. This term means that you are allowing treated air inside your residence to leak out and also permitting outside air to seep in—along with pollution, dust, pollen, and other allergens.

As a result, your heating and air conditioning systems might struggle to keep up with your home’s heating and cooling needs. This means that you are consuming more energy and increasing your carbon footprint. And, it’s costing you a pretty penny, too!

What are the indicators of your old windows are due for replacement?

• Mildew or moisture between the panes or around the frame
• Cracked, rotten wood
• Pest infestations
• Cold or warm air drafts that indicate air infiltration

4 – Smart thermostat

A smart thermostat, which can be synced with your smartphone or tablet, can save you money on your energy bills, also. With a couple of swipes, you can control your home’s comfort.

You might be thinking that this is similar to your current programmable thermostat. Well, yes and no. Sure, this thermostat is programmable. However, it takes user preferences to a whole new level.

Here’s an example. You leave for your dream winter vacation to Fiji, and it’s bitterly cold outdoors. Of course, you leave your heat running on the regularly programmed cycle to ensure your comfort upon your return—and to ensure your water pipes don’t burst. You learn from an alert that there’s an unexpected warm snap while you are away. Instead of continuing to run the severely cold weather program, you open up the app and change up your settings.

This adjustment means that you have lowered your energy consumption and will save a little bit of money on your next heating bill. Double win!

Final Thoughts on Smart Renovations to Decrease Your Energy Consumption

Whether your goal is to reduce your energy use for environmental conservation reasons, to improve your personal finances or a combo of both, you’re on the right track. These investments can help you reach all of your goals.