If you’re looking for a sign to make some energy efficient upgrades and reduce your carbon footprint, this is it! Whether you’re looking to improve your home’s equity, do some home maintenance, or reduce your energy consumption, there are many great projects to help you achieve your goals. Read on for four home upgrades to help boost your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your energy bills.
Reduce Energy Costs with Solar Panels
Solar panels are a popular eco-friendly upgrade for energy efficiency, and for good reason. Solar panels offer numerous benefits, including lowering monthly electricity bills, lessening your carbon footprint, and even increasing your home value. Additionally, installing solar panels may grant you tax credits, depending on your state’s specific incentives, which could also help you save money annually.
If you’re considering renewable energy, such as solar panels, it’s important to understand the costs before making a decision. A 5kW solar panel system typically costs between $10,000 and $13,000. In addition to the panels, installation and maintenance expenses may further increase the total investment. However, beyond tax credits, solar panels can save you anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year. This means they can pay for themselves within a few years while also providing long-term savings.
Save on Heating and Cooling Costs with New Attic Insulation
One of the biggest factors behind high energy bills is the cost of heating and cooling your home during the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
While there are many ways to lower heating and cooling costs, one great way is to install new attic insulation. Attic insulation plays a pivotal role in ensuring heat stays in during the winter and out during the summer. It is a good idea to replace your attic insulation every 10 to 15 years, or else it may lose its effectiveness in keeping your home regulated.
Attic insulation comes in various types, each with their own benefits and costs. Some insulations, such as reflective or radiation barrier insulations, are great options in hotter climates and tend to be more affordable. per square foot. In contrast, spray foam insulation conserves the most energy on average, but tends to be more expensive. It is important to consider which kind of insulation fits both your budget and needs. While installing new insulation can be pricey, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), installing new attic insulation can save you around 15% on energy bills, making it a worthwhile upgrade.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
If you’re looking for a smaller-scale upgrade with energy efficient benefits, replacing your existing thermostat with a smart thermostat is a great project to consider. While it may seem like just another “smart” upgrade for your home, it is actually a great way to help you save on energy bills. Smart thermostats learn your habits, adjusting the temperature automatically based on when you are home, asleep, or away. You can even control the settings from your phone, whether you’re on the couch or out of town. Smart thermostats are also equipped with technology that can help you adjust the temperature of your home based on sudden weather changes to help your home stay comfortable without energy waste. Plus, with more accurate temperature readings, you’ll have better control over how much energy you use daily, helping you save monthly on energy bills.
Replace Outdated Kitchen Appliances
Upgrading old appliances may seem like a daunting task, but it’s one of the most effective ways to boost your home’s energy efficiency in the long run. Begin by identifying the biggest energy consumers in your household, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and stoves. Smaller appliances like microwaves and toaster ovens tend to use less energy, so they may not require immediate attention. Replacing an outdated refrigerator can lead to substantial energy savings while also offering perks like improved food preservation and additional storage. When it comes to stoves, gas models are often more energy-efficient, although newer electric models also offer great options. Upgrading your dishwasher can cut down on both water and energy usage without sacrificing efficiency. While these changes come with upfront costs, the long-term reduction in energy bills makes them a great investment for both your wallet and the environment.
Taking steps towards becoming more eco-conscious is always a great idea that can help make your home not only more comfortable, but sustainable! If you’ve read through these home upgrades and feel inspired but don’t know where to start, we can help!
If you’re looking to make some larger-scale improvements and require financial support, Keller Home Loans has you covered. Whether it’s to boost your home’s equity with energy efficient upgrades, or to secure funds for a future project, contact us today to explore your options and take the next steps towards your dream home.
