5 COST EFFECTIVE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT

Cost Effective Energy Efficiency 

Today's article will feature educational tips from the experts at Modernize.  They have shared 5 simple ways to upgrade your Halifax home by making it more energy efficient.

via Modernize

From energy efficient appliances and light bulbs to solar modules, the benefits of going green in your home are dual sided. Not only are you lessening your carbon footprint and taking better care of the earth—if you make the right upgrades, you’re saving money. Investing in energy efficient changes in your home may feel like a big step, but it’s one that will soon pay off both in financial rewards and in a feeling of doing good. Check out these cost-effective changes you can make, then head over to Modernize for more ideas on increasing the energy efficiency of your home.

Low Flow Filters

Every time we flush the toilet or wait for the shower to heat up, we are wasting water. Countless gallons of water are wasted every day. Low flow filters help you and your family consume water more thoughtfully by regulating the amount that comes out when you turn on a faucet. While you may want a professional to help you upgrade your toilet, you can easily switch out fixtures like your faucets and showerheads on your own. Prepare to save on your utility bills!

Windows and Doors

Living Space by Case Design/Remodeling

The more tightly you seal the spaces around your windows and doors, the less cool air sneaks into your home to cancel out the efforts of your HVAC. When your HVAC isn't having to fight cold air coming in from outside, it doesn't cost you as much. Weatherstripping is one of the most cost-effective measures—the supplies you need are affordable hardware store finds, and you can easily do the job yourself.

Programmable Thermostat

Heating and cooling are the biggest money-eating monsters in your home. But so much of what you spend on heating and cooling may be unnecessary, especially if your settings stay the same when you’re gone as when you’re at home. A programmable thermostat takes the gray area out of making your home the right temperature. Instead of leaving your AC on full blast on a hot summer day while you’re at work, you can program it to kick in an hour before you get home. Smart thermostats take it even further by allowing you to program it from your device and giving your updates on your HVAC’s energy efficiency.

Ceiling Fans

Direct current (DC) fans use up to 70 percent less energy than alternate current (AC) ceiling fans. DC fans are often quieter and lighter, and they generate less heat. Take a load off of your HVAC system by relying on your ceiling fan to help out—even AC ceiling fans are pretty energy efficient.

Insulation

Attic by Case Design/Remodeling

Air leaks and improper insulation waste a lot of energy. They also contribute to difficulty stabilizing indoor temperatures. By replacing the insulation, especially in an unfinished attic, you can not only save money but also reduce pollutants, reduce noise coming from outside, and keep out potentially destructive humidity. Even though you don’t see the leaks or feel the air from outdoors sneaking in, failing to properly insulate your home is as bad for your wallet as leaving a door open.