5 Ways to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency (& Save on Bills!)

Improving the energy efficiency of your home can often seem like a costly undertaking, so Global Home Improvements, a local leader and innovator in home renovations and improvements, shared five options homeowners can consider when looking to bring the cost of energy bills down. 

It’s important to view these upgrades as long-term investments. Over time, the amount of money you will save on utility bills will offset the costs of the upgrades suggested below.  

1. Replacement Windows: One of the easiest ways to cut down on energy costs is to replace old drafty windows. Many older homes have aluminum or wood windows, so it’s important to look into swapping them out for widows made of insulated vinyl or fiberglass. If you can’t afford to do a full replacement, focus on the rooms you spend the most time. For a quick, and relatively inexpensive fix, consider weather stripping. This easy solution can make a big difference.

2. Attic Insulation: Because heat rises, over 40% of all heat loss is lost through the attic, so it’s important to make sure your attic is well insulated. Over the last 50 years, the building code standards have changed in regard to how much insulation should be used in an attic. Not only that, homes built before 1970 have outdated insulation that is much less efficient than insulation made today. Insulation will give you the highest return on investment (ROI) on your heating bills, because it is the most effective material for keeping heat in, and can be less expensive than other alternatives.

3. Insulated Siding: When looking to insulate, consider replacing your home’s siding - especially if it’s an older home. They now make foam insulated siding intended to improve energy efficiency. It will also give your home a more updated look enhancing the curb appeal. Insulated siding is a great option to look at because it is easier and much more cost efficient than insulating between your walls. You would have to rip into the wall and go into the rafters, which can become a major, burdensome project.

4. Metal Roofing: During the summer months, when trying to keep the heat out, a metal roof can be extremely effective. When the sun hits your home, it’s not just the heat, but also the radiation that makes your house hot, so the metal roof reflects the heat and radiation to keep your home cool. A metal roof can be especially effective in ranch homes or homes with a finished attic or cathedral ceilings.

5. Solar panels: Solar panels can be a great way to improve your carbon footprint and create a long-term investment for significant energy savings. However, before you even considering solar, you should look into the first four options, because it doesn't make sense to put solar on an inefficient house. With solar panels, you’re not offsetting 100% of your electricity – you’re offsetting about 50%, so it’s important to first get your energy bill as low as possible. Make your home air tight and as efficient as possible, then solar can really make an impact. 

With these energy-saving options, you not only save and money and reduce waste, but your home is more comfortable to live in, and there is less stress on your heating and air conditioning units helping them to last longer.

Global Home Improvements will be at the Philly Home + Garden Show, January 15-17 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, in booth# 201 discussing these energy saving tips and more! Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you connect with us on Facebook and bring a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there! 

GREATER PHILADELPHIA EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.