How energy efficient is your home? Have you ever thought about upgrading to more energy-efficient systems and materials and wonder if it’s worth the cost and the trouble? Here are some of the advantages to making sure your home uses energy as efficiently as possible:
Lower utility bills
Using less energy to perform functions like heating, cooling, and lighting your home can mean that you’ll notice lower utility bills. According to EnergyStar.gov, some examples of energy-efficient products that can make a difference include light bulbs, windows, insulation, smart thermostats, and computer power management. While it’s true that some energy-efficient products may cost more initially to purchase and install, they may save money over time.
Environmental Protection
Making energy-efficient choices helps burn fewer fossil fuels, which helps lessen the bi-product of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants. By helping to reduce greenhouse gases and other emissions, we can work toward improved air quality, help fight climate change, and promote healthy habitats.
Less water usage
In addition to saving electricity and gas, some energy-efficient products help conserve water usage. By installing or upgrading to energy efficient toilets, dishwashers, clothes washers, and low flow faucets, you may be able to save significantly on your household’s water usage.
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Comfort
Some energy-efficient steps, such as improving insulation, ventilation and installing smart thermostats that help maintain room temperatures, can make your home more comfortable to live in. Ceiling fans can help rooms feel cooler without adjusting air conditioning settings. On-demand water heaters save energy and decrease worry about running out of hot water during high usage.
Air quality
Some energy efficiency upgrades can help you use heating and cooling systems less frequently and improve ventilation. This can mean improved air quality for your home, which can be especially important if members of your household suffer from health conditions like allergies and asthma.
Resale
Energy-efficient systems, appliances, and structures can be appealing to homebuyers and may help homes sell faster and increase resale value. Be sure to save your utility bills to show potential buyers the savings they can expect.
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Incentives
Ask your insurance provider if they offer discounts to homeowners with energy-efficient systems, appliances, doors, windows, or other structural improvements. Your local utility company may also offer rebates and discounts for energy-efficient enhancements, and you may be eligible for federal income tax credits available through December 31, 2021, as well as other incentives.
Children
Setting a good example by paying attention to energy usage can teach children the value of good environmental stewardship. Setting an example in your household that energy conservation is important can lay the foundation for a lifetime of responsible resource consumption.
For more information about energy-efficient systems and appliances for your home, visit Energystar.gov or ask your local home improvement store for options.