Smarter investments than solar energy for most homeowners
Posted By RichC on September 10, 2017
For homeowners considering energy use and investing in solar … take a look at these FIVE solutions first from nuwireinvestor.com (although still one of the best investments for your home is "insulation")
Some of the smartest investments you can make in your home are ways to maximize the energy efficiency of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. With a few repairs and new installations, you’ll find yourself saving money each month on energy bills. You’ll have a more efficient and comfortable home with lower bills, which makes for a pretty good investment.
A Tankless Water Heater
Use this infographic to consider investing in a tankless water heater as a way to use less energy and lower your bills. While a tankless water heater is a bit more expensive to install, you’ll save money because you won’t have to store hot water for later use. You’ll produce only as much hot water as you need, so you won’t waste energy heating extra water in a storage tank.
A Programmable Thermostat
You can use your thermostat strategically to save on energy expenses. Some rooms need more air control than others, and while you’re out of the house you won’t want to leave the HVAC system on full blast. If you’re keeping the same air control levels throughout the house and changing the controls every time you leave, you’re wasting money and time. Installing a programmable thermostat will let you adjust the air in different areas and set a timer for the most efficient energy use. Your bills will drop, and you won’t have the daily hassle with the thermostat.
Sealing
Improving your home’s sealing will not only decrease your energy bills, it’ll also reduce humidity, keep the structure secure, and improve indoor air quality. This will save you money down the road when it comes to structural maintenance and your respiratory health. Some repair options include caulking cracks in your home and weather-stripping moving parts like windows and doors. Limiting air flow between the outside and inside of your house will lower energy costs a great deal and keep your home comfortable.
Energy-Efficient Windows
Choose windows that will save you money in addition to bringing in natural light. Find the most efficient windows for your home based on your location, the directional orientation, and the way light filters in. You can get windows with more panes, non-metal frames, and glass with low emissivity to limit the heat transfer between the inside and outside. Upgrading your windows after sealing and insulating your home will be the finishing touch in maximizing energy efficiency for indoor air control.
Smart Landscaping
This infographic can help you use less energy with smart landscaping. Designing the plants in your yard to cast shade and direct cool breezes can help control the air outside your home. With cooler air hitting your house, you won’t have to use as much air conditioning to maintain the inside temperature. Investing in landscaping will improve your curb appeal in addition to minimizing HVAC expenses.
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