Older homes often have an abundance of fascinating history and original charm. Unfortunately, they also often include outdated features that can cause a major drain on your energy bill. Let’s take a look at some key energy-efficient upgrades you can make on your older home.
What are some of the best ways to improve home energy efficiency? Read on for ideas.
Go for High-Efficiency Appliances
- One way to increase home energy efficiency is by swapping out your high-energy appliances for the high-efficiency
- Ideally, big-ticket items like HVAC systems should be replaced after 15-20 years for optimal efficiency.
- Worried about costs? Studies have shown that even the cheaper models of new air conditioning units and furnaces are still more energy efficient that leaving in the original systems over 20-years-old.
- If you’re planning to take your home efficiency upgrades to the next level with a new dishwasher, washing machine, or clothes dryer, look for models labeled HE, which stands for high efficiency. Your utility bill will thank you!
Opt for a “Smart” Thermostat
- The newer versions of programmable thermostats offer a range of energy-saving features.
- For example, you can set your climate-control system for times when you’re at home or away, saving a great deal of energy and money. You can enjoy the convenience of adjusting the temperature even when you’re already in bed.
- Once the thermostat has been programmed to your specifications, it will automatically adjust itself in the future, eliminating the need for any manual adjustments.
Add More Attic Insulation
- For older homes, adding another layer of insulation in the attic can be a real energy-saving boost for you when it comes to conserving energy. Most heat escapes the house from the attic.
- Once you’ve determined whether or not you need to add a new layer of insulation in your attic (check out the U.S. Department of Energy’s website for a helpful fact sheet), you can expect to recoup your costs in a mere 4-5 years with consistently lower utility bills.
Consider Prepaid Electricity
- One of the most common-sense ways to use less energy, and, in return, lower your monthly electric bill, is to use prepaid electricity services.
- If you live in a deregulated area of Texas, you have the option to choose your electricity provider, instead of being forced to use the services of one in particular.
- Now Power offers affordable prepaid electricity plans to their customers, giving them the ability to save by tracking their utility usage to see how they can adjust their power consumption.
- Having the ability to pay ahead of time, get connected quickly without added hassle, and tracking your daily usage with a Smart Meter all contribute to the perks of using a prepaid electricity provider.
- A Smart Meter works to show you exactly what your energy habits are in real time. Especially for those living in older homes, the Smart Meter’s data is very valuable in helping you to stick to your electricity budget and preview upcoming costs.
Call or visit https://nowpowertexas.com/ today to see all of the budget-friendly, affordable electricity plans and savings offered by NOW Power.