Creating an energy efficient home is considered to be an environmentally responsible decision. However, even though homeowners may be very conscientious about the environment, in many instances they also want to save money on utility bills. There are many types of projects from purchasing Baltimore window replacements, adding insulation or planting shrubs around the house to help provide protection from extreme weather. These are just a few of the things that a homeowner can do to help create a more energy efficient home.
Upgrading or Replacing Windows
A home’s windows can be one of the biggest leaks of energy if they are old and leaky. Having Baltimore window replacements installed with more energy efficient windows can save a substantial amount on the monthly utilities. Homeowners should pay attention to the different window ratings in order to purchase the window replacements which will be the best for their particular home and situation. One of the best choices in energy efficient windows is to select windows with multiple panes. There are double paned or triple paned windows which are filled with argon gas and can be very effective at preventing air exchange. The argon which is inserted between the window panes serves as a very effective insulator. For the homeowner who cannot afford total window replacements, there are other affordable options such as tinting or glazing which can also make a significant difference.
Replace Older Appliances
Older appliances can be a drain on the electrical system as they are not always very energy efficient. Newer models are much more energy efficient and most of them have the latest Energy Star ratings. As it comes time to replace appliances such as kitchen appliances, a washer, dryer, furnace or water heater consider models which are designed to be more energy efficient. When a homeowner is shopping for new appliances, it is important to look for models which are specifically marked “Energy Star Certified.” This will ensure that the appliance is not only energy saving but also money saving. By installing an on-demand water heater homeowners can save money since the unit will only use electricity when the hot water is turned on. It will also heat the water quickly and then it will stop burning fuel. Adding low-flow fixtures can also help save a substantial amount of water. These steps can help reduce the energy usage in the home.
Increase the Home’s Insulation
If the home is already insulated, adding new insulation to key areas such as the ceiling, in walls and the attic can help increase its energy efficiency. Another way to add an extra level of insulation is to add caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows. This will help prevent air leaks and cold drafts which can make it difficult to maintain a constant and comfortable temperature in the home while saving on utility bills.
Service your Furnace
If the furnace being used in your home still has a pilot light chances are it wastes a lot of fuel. Today’s energy efficient furnace wastes a maximum of 10 percent of natural gas which is purchased as opposed to older furnaces which wastes nearly 30 percent. A more energy efficient furnace can save over 25 percent on a heating bill. Furnaces which were installed after 1991 have an energy rating called an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating which helps the homeowner make an educated choice about which his best for them. A heating technician or an energy auditor can help a homeowner determine the AFUE of the unit or system presently being used. Upgrading or replacing older furnaces with an energy efficient model can easily pay for itself in energy savings.
Author Bio: This post was written by Joe Kelemer. Joe Kelemer has many years of installing windows in the Baltimore area. He is dedicated to providing customers with high quality service and to help customers reduce with energy bills in their homes; for more information on energy efficient windows visit, http://www.kelemerbrothers.com.