The Artisan Contracting Blog

Lower Your Monthly Bills With These Energy Efficient Swaps

Lower Monthly Bills With Energy Efficient Homes

Our houses provide shelter, protection and a place to call home. All this comes with a price. One that is often higher than it has to be. Energy efficiency in our homes can be achieved. Finding ways to make our homes more energy efficient will make living in our homes even more enjoyable. Here, we discuss the energy efficient swaps you should make to lower your household’s monthly bills.

Windows

Windows are often the first go-to when it comes to energy efficiency. You could be losing loads of heat in the winter and letting in a lot of heat in the summer if your windows aren’t doing their job. Today’s vinyl windows with triple glass are more efficient than ever. If you haven’t already invested in new windows, you can be assured that making this investment will ultimately save you money for years to come.

Add in the extra bonus of government-funded rebate programs and new windows make a whole lot of sense. If new windows aren’t in the budget, consider caulking or wrapping those old windows. This can go along way in making those inefficient windows, perform a little better until a more permanent solution can be made.

Doors

Often the number of doors in a house will greatly determine how much they can affect the electricity and gas bills. Make sure your doors close properly and provide a good seal. You’d be surprised how much heat is lost to no longer form a proper seal when closed. If new doors are in your future, consider fiberglass. They insulate a lot better and feel just like their steel counterpart. Adding a screen door can cut down on the loss of heat as well.

Furnace and Air Conditioner

Today’s furnaces and air conditioners are highly efficient. If you are in the market for a new heating or cooling unit, these newer models will definitely lower your bills. In lieu of making a large purchase to make your home more efficient, take good care of the furnace and air conditioner you do have. Schedule an appointment with the professional on an annual basis to have these units cleaned, inspected and tuned – up. This alone can greatly improve the efficiency of your house. Also, keep your air ducts clean. A dirty air system will restrict flow and make your furnace and air conditioner work harder.

Solar

Many of today’s homes incorporate solar. A little solar will go a long way in providing higher efficiency for your house. Solar energy can be installed on the roof and provide energy all year long. With a battery, excess energy can be stored and used later, when needed. Solar energy has become a reality for many homeowners as the price of installation comes down.

Light Bulbs

Replacing those old bulbs with LED or any other high-efficiency bulbs can save a whole lot of money. Try replacing them all at once and compare electrical bills before and after. You will be delighted with the energy you have saved. This investment is a small one. It’s also an easy way to make your home energy efficient.

Making and keeping your home energy efficient might look like a combination of solutions. Find the ones that fit your budget and make the most sense for you and your home.

Check out some other money-saving tips in our blog section.