Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades

Several simple upgrades will save money and help protect the environment.

Investing in a more energy-efficient home doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Several simple upgrades will save money and help protect the environment.

Here are five energy-efficient home upgrades to consider:

Install LED light bulbs

Traditional incandescent bulbs are inefficient, wasting up to 90% of their energy as heat. Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFL) and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are much more energy efficient, using 70%-80% of their energy to produce light and dissipating the rest as heat.

Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs can save up to $225 in energy costs per year.

Get a smart thermostat

Smart thermostats can save up to 30% on heating and cooling costs by automatically adjusting the temperature when the family is asleep or away from home. They also allow homeowners to control the temperature using a smartphone, so the heat can be turned down when away and turned back up right before arriving home.

Smart thermostats typically cost between $100 and $250, but many utility companies offer rebates that can cover a large portion of the cost.

Seal ducts

If a home has central heating and cooling, chances are good that some of the air flowing through the ductwork leaks through holes and cracks. Sealing and insulating the ductwork can improve the efficiency of a heating and cooling system by up to 20%.

Depending on the property's size, this upgrade will typically cost between $200 and $600, but it's well worth the investment since it will quickly pay for itself in lower utility bills.

Invest in a heat pump water heater

A heat pump water heater (HPWH) uses electricity to heat water efficiently. Unlike a conventional electric water heater, an HPWH uses a heat pump to move heat from one place to another.

An HPWH draws heat from the air around the appliance and transfers it into the water inside. This process is often more efficient than heating water directly, as it requires less energy to move heat than to generate it. As a result, HPWHs can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs.

Install solar panels

A solar panel installation significantly reduces fossil fuel dependence and lowers electricity bills. The initial cost of this installation can be pretty high (between $10,000 and $30,000), but several state, federal, and local incentives can significantly offset this cost. Solar panels also have a very long lifespan—up to 25 years.

For best results, hire HVAC professionals

While there are certainly some upgrades that don't need skilled installation, HVAC is not one of them.

HVAC systems are complex, and without skill or experience, it is almost impossible to DIY the assessment of the system's needs. However, an HVAC professional can thoroughly analyze the system and recommend the best way to improve its efficiency.

These professionals also have access to the latest technology and equipment. As a result, they can perform tests and install products that will significantly boost energy efficiency.

Finally, HVAC professionals are familiar with regulatory requirements for energy efficiency. They can ensure that every item installed meets all the necessary standards and help you take advantage of any available incentives or tax breaks.

Eagle Home Renovation is a family-owned general contracting business offering 20 years of experience in residential home remodeling. We remodel kitchens and bathrooms, garages, balconies, porches, deck porches, and more for homeowners in Richmond, VA, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (804)538-3334.