Energy costs continue to rise and your family may now be considering how to reduce your monthly energy costs. This is often not a simple process, but if you have a clear understanding on high efficiency home systems, you can ensure you make the right choice for your property and your long-term home comfort requirements.
To help guide you within this process, our latest blog features 10 energy efficient home upgrades to try this spring season.
- Low Flow Systems
Low flow showers and toilet systems are designed to help you reduce your water usage costs over the year. These systems are engineered to be inexpensive and simple to install and, according to the latest Energy Star data, can help homeowners save as much as $140 per year on their energy costs.There are a multitude of low flow shower heads and toilet systems available within local Canadian hardware stores. It’s important to speak with a trusted equipment specialist before investing in the latest products. - Insulation
It’s the product that will keep your home cool in the summer and warm throughout the winter months, but many property owners are still neglecting to invest in proper home insulation. The latest data shows that optimally installed insulation can help save you as much as 20% on your energy costs throughout the year, and most hardware stores sell insulation by the roll for only approximately $20 per piece. It’s a product that can have a significant and lasting impact on home comfort levels. - Fluorescent Light Bulbs
The latest data highlights the full range of benefits derived from using fluorescent light bulbs. These products can last up to 10 times longer than traditional light bulbs and over time will help you save hundreds of dollars in home lighting costs. It’s important to find fluorescent light bulbs that have been recommended for high efficiency residential use. - Energy Star Dishwashers
Energy Star rated dishwashers are designed to significant reduce the amount of water consumed within the home each year. The average non Energy Star rated dishwasher consumes as much as 15 gallons per load, while Energy Star rated products use less than 5.5 gallons per load.This is a highly significant difference that will become most clear when you go to compare your water use costs before and after the change. - Weather Stripping
Patching that draft in your kitchen, bedroom or living room space can help you make long-term savings on your energy costs. The simple use of weather stripping can help block the leaks which account for 30 to 40% of heating and cooling loss according to the latest data from Energy Star. It’s a small investment that will assure lasting savings. - High Efficiency Windows
The latest Energy Star rated window products are designed to help seal in warmth in the winter and cool air within the summer season. Products such as vinyl windows improve home energy efficiency while limiting the need for property maintenance over time. They also assure greater levels of comfort within the home by sealing the interior spaces against outside noises.Consider the latest Health Smart Windows from Clera Windows and Doors. These products use Hydraglass 50™ warm edge technology on the Super Spacer® platform, to make the window more efficient than the leading competitor products. - Energy Efficient Storm Doors
By sealing the home against the intrusion of outside elements during the cooler months and allowing the flow of air in the summer, the leading energy efficient storm doors can help you achieve lasting discounts on your energy bills. - Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are now found throughout Canadian homes, but for property owners without available fan coverage, installing a fan can help reduce energy costs over many years. Fans also help keep homes at the optimal cool temperature without overworking cooling systems. - Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are designed to help reduce your consumption of water for baths and showers. The water heater provides water to the home via an on-demand system, thereby limiting the need to store water in a tank. The heater’s on-demand performance means that homeowners only require enough water for their direct use, limiting water waste. - New Refrigerator Door Seals
Your home’s refrigerator door plays an important role in reducing home energy costs. The door’s sealing system can degrade over time, allowing small gaps in which cool air escapes from the fridge. Your refrigerator accounts for up-to 11% of your home energy bills each year, and this small amount of air loss can cost you hundreds of dollars if not addressed.
By completing just a few of the upgrades we’ve highlighted in this article, you can ensure your home’s energy performance reaches optimal levels of efficiency for the coming years. To learn more, speak with our trusted team today!
