Energy Saving Renovation Ideas

By Author: Art Neidich
Total Articles: 4762
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Energy-saving renovations not only save you money but also improve the overall comfort and quality of your home. Drafts, condensation and noise are just a few of the problems that can be alleviated through energy efficient measures. For older homes, renovations can substantially cut the cost of utility bills as at least 50% of a home's energy use comes from heating and cooling. Below are 10 renovation ideas that will provide optimal energy savings.

1) Install energy efficient windows. A large percentage of heat and air loss in homes occurs because of insufficiently sealed windows. Replace existing windows with energy efficient windows to control your home's temperatures, offset condensation problems and increase your comfort.

2) Draft-proof your entire home. Windows are not the only problem spots for heating loss. Foundation walls, attics, ceiling and exterior wall penetrations as well as joints between walls and window frames are places where you can lose heat. Joints should be sealed and problem areas weather stripped. Also consider foam insulation for your attic.

3) Upgrade inefficient furnaces and water ...
... heaters. Higher energy units will help pare down your utility costs.

4) Insulate hot water pipes. Cover hot water pipes within nine feet of the water heater with pipe insulation; if possible, insulate all easily reached hot water pipes.

5) Upgrade your air conditioning unit. Replace your air conditioning unit with one that has a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) of 12 or more. You can find this information on the Energy Guide affixed to the unit. Although energy efficient air conditioners may cost more, they will eventually provide money savings over time.

6) Install a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat automatically adjusts the climate environment when you are away from home. Consider installing a thermostat on an exterior wall; this will prevent temperatures outside from causing your heating unit or AC to run more than needed. Also cool your home more efficiently in the summer by running your thermostat at 78 degrees; the lower the thermostat setting, the more it will cost in utility charges.

7) Replace older appliances. Old refrigerators, freezers, electric ranges and dishwashers are less efficient than newer models on the market. Shop for Energy Star rated models that will save your home more energy.

8) Update your lighting system. Consider adding a high-quality energy efficient system with compact fluorescent lamps and "soft-start" electronic ballasts; these changes will cut your lighting costs by 30 to 60 percent as fluorescent lights are three to five times more efficient than regular bulbs and will last 10 to 20 times longer. When possible use more natural lighting instead of electric lighting to also save money.

9) Update your water systems. You can save energy and water consumption by updating your toilet system with low-flush or dual-flush toilets and installing low flow faucets and shower heads. Front loading clothes washers also reduce water consumption. However beware of certain brands of front-loading models that have reported problems of mold buildups in the rubber gaskets inside the doors.

10) Keep fireplaces and chimneys efficient. If you have a fireplace or woodstove, replace leaky dampers and repair chimney flues to prevent drafts. Also consider energy efficient options such as installing either an electric fireplace insert, an EPA-rated insert unit or a direct-vent natural gas fireplace insert.

No matter the age or style of your home, there are energy-saving options that you can implement to make your home more efficient and much more comfortable. Consider green options as well that will not only improve your home but also keep the environment healthy. Some green options may cost more upfront, but in the long run, they will provide savings that will last you for many years.
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