As homeowners, we all want to save money on our monthly energy bills without sacrificing the comfort of our homes. You can lower your monthly bills and use less energy if you make some changes to your home. There are many ways to save money and energy, like upgrading your HVAC system, installing energy-efficient windows, and adding insulation. This article will explore some of the best budgeting tips to improve your home and lower your monthly energy bills.
1. Consult an Expert
Consider getting a professional energy audit to determine where your home spends the most energy. You can hire professionals with blower door tests to check for drafts, infrared cameras, and other inspections that examine the house, its features, and your energy-using habits. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this audit takes between one and five hours and costs $412 on average.
However, the price could go up to $1,650 or more, depending on where you live and your home size. Some energy companies give customers a home energy assessment for free or at a low cost. Check with your local utility company to get an estimate, check reviews, and do some energy budgeting.
2. Upgrade Your HVAC System
A survey by the U.S. Department of Energy also shows that 84% of homes in the United States use air conditioning. In fact, the United States uses more air conditioning than all other countries put together! However, only some of these HVAC systems are energy-efficient. You can save money on heating and cooling costs by replacing an old, inefficient HVAC system with a new, high-efficiency system. Unique heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems use less energy to run and can keep your home at a comfortable temperature without wasting energy.
3. Install Windows That Save Energy
You can reduce heat loss and gain when you replace old, single-pane windows with double-pane windows with Low-E coatings. This upgrade saves you money when budgeting for heating and cooling costs. It is because the Low-E layer helps to reflect heat, keeps your home cooler in the summer, and stops heat from escaping during the winter.
However, if your windows are less than 10 years of age, you can upgrade them later. Most home windows last between 15 and 30 years. Products taken care of may last longer than 20 years, but when your windows are getting close to 20 years old, it’s time to consider replacing them.
Install Energy-Efficient Window Coverings
Coverings that make windows more energy-efficient are essential for new and existing homes. According to the US Department of Energy, ineffective window glasses increase a home’s energy bill by 25%, causing a strain on your monthly budget. Window coverings can help stop this energy loss by making the room more comfortable, keeping the temperature stable, and lowering the energy bill. However, how much you save will depend on the type of covering, the time of year, the weather, and how you use the attachment.
Add Insulation to Your House
Adding more insulation to your attic and walls can stop heat from escaping or entering your home. It can lower your monthly budget for heating and cooling costs. Insulation works by trapping air and making a barrier that keeps heat from escaping your home during the winter and keeps your home cooler during the summer.
Ideally, these home improvements help you save money when budgeting for energy bills. They may require an initial investment, but they save you money in the long run, making your home more comfortable and better for the environment. You’ll love the new aura in your home after the improvements.
