With
the rising costs of energy making your home more energy efficient is tantamount
to a comfortable and cost effective living environment. Comfortable interior
environments make for a more friendly and welcoming home. Improving the efficiency of your mechanical
systems helps with comfort, but more importantly will save you money over the
long haul.
Periodic Inspections Are
Important
Every
mechanical system (which moves warm or cool air throughout your home) requires
maintenance and periodic tune-ups.
Equipment the is functioning properly will make your home more
comfortable and it won’t “short-cycle,” which is when a system comes on and
turns off frequently. A competent and
qualified heating, ventilation, air conditioning contractor (HVAC) can help evaluate
your mechanical systems and make necessary adjustments. Easy maintenance such
as replacing the filters and cleaning vents can be done by the homeowner, but
balancing, and fine-tuning should be done by a pro.
Digital Thermostats are
the Rage
There
are some pretty sophisticated digital thermostats on the marketplace these
days. Set these thermostats such that
you can control the temperature swings and keep the equipment from cycling on
and off. Ideally, the home will maintain a constant temperature which would be
the most cost effective environment because the systems will use less energy
than if there were big temperature swings where the equipment is turning on and
off. Some of the more advanced
thermostats can be remotely controlled via a computer or hand-held mobile
device (ideal for vacation homes).
When
you are away from home for long periods of time a thermostat with remote access
is a real nice feature to have. You can
turn the heat up or down a few hours before you show up such that the interior
environment is perfect when you arrive. This
will allow you to maximize the comfort level but at the same time not spend
money for energy you are not really using.
Modern Windows are Energy
Efficient
Installation
of energy efficient windows is critical to having a comfortable interior and a
better looking home. New dual-glazed windows
will help your home stay comfortable (warm or cool) and it will improve the
overall aesthetics of your house. In the
winter months curtains can be spread out to let the sun’s warmth in. During the spring and summer months curtains
can be used to deflect heat. There are
numerous energy programs which could provide an avenue to replace windows based
on the amount of savings you will get from the new windows. The best of both worlds would be to find a
program that allows you to replace windows while reducing your energy bills.
Attic and Subarea
Insulation Works Wonders
There
are dozens of new insulation products on the market. Several types are spray-on, spray-in, and
batt-type. The bottom line is that if
your home has no insulation your money if going straight up through your
ceilings and into the atmosphere. Proper
caulking and insulation around the perimeter of doors, windows is
paramount. Insulation blown into the
walls is also important, but is the last place to insulate after the attic and
crawlspace underfloor. Insulation helps
improve comfort and it will reduce energy consumption.
Central Air Conditioning
Units are Critical in Warm Climates
If
you live in an area that is hot for several months during the year you can
appreciate a system air conditioning system.
If you have a swamp cooler or an older insufficient air conditioner you are
not getting the quality or quanity of cool air that you need. Install an upgraded energy efficient central
air system as soon as possible.
Dress to Accommodate the
Temperature
A
sweater or sweatshirt in the house may make the difference in whether or not
you have to turn the heat up or air conditioner down. Try snuggling in a
blanket or donning a sweater before you crank up the heat when it gets
colder.
There are Many Ways to
Improve Energy Efficiency and Your Energy Bill
There
are a dozens of ways to make your home a more efficient cooling and heating environment
while reducing monthly payments. Making a adjustments and small sacrifices, making lifestyle
choices which don’t include freezing or being uncomfortable, your home could be
energy efficient and save you money at the same time.
SHELLY ROBERSON
Alain Pinel Realtors, Palo Alto, CA
23+ Years Experience - 600+ Closed Transactions
http://twitter.com/sroberson2
http://www.facebook.com/ShellyRobersonAPR
sroberson@apr.com
1-650-464-3797
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