In order to really cut down on your monthly spending, it’s a good idea to start by getting your energy bills in check. That means making sure you have a fully functional HVAC system, airtight windows, a well-ventilated attic, and more. But if you’re not a construction expert, how can you tell if your house is hemorrhaging heat and money this season?
Here are some tips from Ivy Lea Construction on how to give your home an energy audit, without having to pay a professional.
The first sign of energy inefficiency in your home is simple: have you felt a draft while you were sitting down to watch TV or read? It’s no secret that winters in our area are cold, and if you live in a large home, the cost of heat can add up fast. Drafts through windows and doors are tell-tale indications that your home is leaking expensive hot air. Check around windows and doors to make sure all cracks are sealed. Check your baseboards (this is an area where lots of air tends to escape), light fixtures, and any plumbing that travels outside the house. These areas may need extra insulation.
If you have an old home, consider having your attic and some of walls re-insulated. Check to see when your home was built to see what kind of insulation was likely used, and whether it should have been replaced by now.
Replace the filters on your heating and cooling systems as often as the manufacturer suggests. Spending the extra 20 bucks per year can keep your system running smoothly and efficiently, and could save you from major repair costs down the line.
Once you’ve given your home the once-over to seal any cracks with caulk and weatherstripping, take a look at your appliances. Do you leave them plugged in while you’re not using them? Unplugging appliances that aren’t in use can save you a few bucks a month on your energy bills, and that adds up over the course of a year. Make sure you’re using the most energy efficient settings on appliances you need to have plugged in 24/7, and consider updating old equipment with new energy-saving models as well.
If you find that your home needs some professional attention in order to make it more energy efficient before the cold sets in, the experts at Ivy Lea Construction are here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.