With the summer months here, we have the AC blasting and trying to keep our home cool and comfortable. This can also be quite expensive. Creating an energy-efficient home is a great way to help keep your home cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and money in your pocket as bills will be reduced. When buyers are looking for Windsor homes for sale, green or energy efficient features or upgrades can be items that help sway them to buy. For new home owners in Windsor-Essex, consider reviewing our tips below to see what upgrades your home could use.
Insulate Your Home Properly: Proper insulation is critical for keeping the temperature comfortable in your home year-round. It keeps the heat inside during winter and blocks it out during summer, reducing the need for heating and cooling. Be sure to check your attic, walls, and floors to ensure they are well-insulated. If they are missing insulation, new insulation methods are minimally invasive to the home to fix the issue.
Energy-Efficient Windows: Old windows can be drafty (let air flow in and out instead of being sealed) and can significantly impact your home's energy efficiency. If you are in the market for windows, by upgrading to double-pane or triple-pane windows you can improve insulation and home heat loss or gain. Look for windows with the Energy Star label, which indicates they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat will let you set your heating and cooling systems on a schedule to function only when needed. By keeping your systems running minimally when the home is empty and on when people are home will help prevent energy waste. Smart thermostats can let you control your thermostat from anywhere on your phone and can even learn your habits and routines to help guide or control your system and schedule.
LED Lighting: One of the easiest ways to make your home energy efficient, greener, and lighter on your wallet. LED bulbs are far more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. They use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: When it’s time to replace appliances like fridges, dishwashers, or washers and dryers, choose energy-efficient models. Look for the Energy Star label, which ensures the appliance meets specific energy-saving criteria.
Seal Air Leaks: Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings can cause your heating and cooling systems to work harder. Seal these leaks with weatherstripping, caulk, or spray foam. Pay special attention to areas where plumbing, duct work, or electrical wiring enters your home, as these are common sources of leaks.
Install Low-Flow Fixtures: install low-flow shower heads, faucets, and toilets to reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. This not only conserves water but also reduces the energy needed to heat water, resulting in additional energy savings.
Making your home more energy-efficient is a rewarding endeavor that benefits both the environment and your wallet. By implementing these tips, you can create a more sustainable living space, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy long-term savings on your utility bills.
Here at Jump Realty our agents will give you honest advice on what course of action is best for you in their professional opinion and will always put taking care of your best interests first! With offices in Windsor, Tecumseh, Kingsville, LaSalle, Harrow, Chatham, and Leamington, no matter where you are, a Jump agent is ready to help. Please contact us for any housing needs and let us give you a better real estate experience!
