Here are a few suggestions for surveying your home and making modifications that can improve your electric and oil bills.
Proper insulation: Appropriate insulation for the home has myriad benefits to keeping energy costs at bay, because the combination of products and construction techniques act as armor against outside temperatures, both hot and cold, air leaks and moisture. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using the right insulation and sealing air leaks can reduce heating and cooling needs by as much as 10%.
Consider an insulation overhaul for any of the following scenarios:
Your home was built prior to 1980 and you haven’t upgraded your insulation; you feel too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer indoors; you pay very high energy bills; you are distracted by external noise.
Ducts: The critical network tucked away in the ceiling, walls and floors that moves air from the furnace and the central air conditioner to each room in the home can be the biggest culprit in terms of wasted energy dollars. Ducts that are poorly or improperly insulated can allow heated air to seep into unconditioned areas (space that isn’t heated and cooled), adding significant dollars each year to heating and cooling bills. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can lose up to 60% of heated air before it reaches the register if ducts are not insulated and they travel through unconditioned spaces like the attic or the crawlspace. To protect against such loss: Check for air leaks by identifying sections that should be joined but have come apart, and look for obvious openings, and seal ducts with mastic, butyl tape, foil tape or other heat-approved tapes.
Appliances: Major home appliances such as refrigerators, washer/dryers and dishwashers can account for as much as 20% of household energy consumption, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When shopping for replacement appliances, study the federally required yellow and black Energy Guide labels on appliances. They will outline annual energy consumption and operating costs of each appliance.
Windows: The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that inefficient windows, skylights and glazed doors account for more than 25% of a typical household’s energy bills. Those costs can decrease significantly by installing windows with double-pane insulated glass, heat-resistant coatings or airtight frames.
Hire an energy auditor: A professional will come to your home and conduct a blower door test. An infra-ray camera will detect where your heat is escaping in your home. This service can save you hundreds of dollars in heating costs as well as put more money in your pocket during the home sale. Disclosing that your home has been tested, will be assurance to your buyer.
Anne-Marie McKenzie is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Yarmouth. She works with buyers, sellers and investors, and teaches free buyer classes. Contact her at 847-1725 or AnneMarie.McKenzie@NewEnglandMoves.com.