Are you a first-time homeowner looking to enhance the energy efficiency of your residence? We can guide you in determining which upgrades should be a priority for boosting the energy efficiency of your home in Hampton Roads. With the increase in energy expenses, making informed choices regarding home improvements has become more crucial than ever before. Taking control of your energy consumption can lead to significant savings on your bills, providing you more financial stability and peace of mind.
Based on our expertise, there are three energy-efficient upgrades that every homeowner in Hampton Roads should prioritize;
Enhancing Insulation
Insulation plays a role in preserving your home’s energy efficiency. Here are the areas to focus on:
Attic Insulation: Insulation in the attic is crucial, as heat naturally rises, making it a key area for conserving energy. For the best results, consider using high-quality insulation materials from Owens Corning. As a Certified Energy Expert, we offer the best materials on the market. Read More About Attic Insulation Services
Wall Insulation: Proper wall insulation can prevent air leaks and enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Read More About Wall Insulation Services
Crawl Space Insulation: Do you have hot or cold spots on the floor above your crawl space? If so, that may indicate that you’re losing energy because your crawl space is not insulated. Read More About Crawl Space Insulation Services
Air Sealing
Air leaks can be one reason for wasting home energy. Locating and sealing any gaps can improve your home’s energy efficiency. Pay attention to spots like windows and doors. Use weather stripping and caulking to seal any openings. Checking your ductwork for leaks is essential, as adequately sealing them can yield significant savings and better efficiency for your heating and cooling systems. Read More About Air Sealing & Ventilation
HVAC Systems
To enhance the efficiency of your HVAC system and reduce energy usage, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit with an ENERGY STAR rating. Regular maintenance, such as changing filters and scheduling tune-ups, ensures system performance and smooth operation. Installing a high-efficiency unit can result in energy savings and reduced costs.
Additional Energy-Efficient Tips
In addition to the improvements mentioned earlier, there are practical steps you can take to maximize your home energy efficiency;
Smart Thermostats: Investing in programmable or smart thermostats can significantly impact your energy bills. A programmable thermostat provides flexibility and scheduling by automatically adjusting your heating and cooling settings based on the time of day or day of the week.
A smart thermostat learns your routines and assists in determining your schedule, adjusting the indoor temperature based on factors like outdoor temperature and your presence at home. Some technicians can even interpret data from these thermostats to troubleshoot issues with your HVAC unit. The advancements in technology have undoubtedly made significant progress in the field of energy efficiency, offering exciting possibilities for homeowners!
Energy-efficient Windows: Investing in energy-efficient windows has various advantages, although it can be expensive. These windows are specifically designed to reduce heat transfer, which proves beneficial during scorching days in Hampton Roads when temperatures soar to 110 degrees. By upgrading your windows, you can effectively regulate temperatures year-round, ultimately lowering energy consumption.
Lighting: Transitioning to LED lighting is a highly effective method of enhancing energy efficiency in your household. LED bulbs consume significantly less power than incandescent bulbs, which can substantially save energy bills over time.
Hampton Roads Homeowners, are you aware that Dominion Power offers an Energy check-up service? This service includes a comprehensive assessment of your home’s energy usage and improvement recommendations. They also provide incentives for thermostats, light bulb replacements, and discount and savings programs. Learn more about these cost-saving opportunities on their website.
Final Thoughts
This information will help you prioritize home improvement projects for energy conservation. Remember, each home is unique, so the best approach may vary. Are you prepared to begin cutting down on your energy expenses? Contact Zhe Industries, a trusted provider of energy-efficient home upgrades, for a consultation and embark on the journey towards making your home more energy-efficient.