Remodeling is one of the top resolutions many set for the new year, but what if these resolutions could save you some money? Whether you're renovating a new home or trying to bring your older property up to date, there are countless projects that can eventually help you save money.
These are some of the top energy-cost-shrinking projects anyone can complete!
Updating Older Windows
How old are your windows? The older these parts of our homes are, the more likely they'll leak or allow air to slip through. These leaks can ruin your heating and cooling bills by causing the temperature to fluctuate constantly between hot and cold.
There are three options for this that can range in price and the amount of work you have to do. The first is checking the seal around the window to see if that’s the problem. This can be fixed depending on the severity. The next option is, if it’s only a couple of windows malfunctioning, to look for replacement windows parts! This allows a small change instead of a major one.
The final option is the most expensive. If you have the budget for it, and your current windows are leaking a ton of air, it could be time to do a full replacement. This will cost a lot of money and should be the last choice when possible.
Invest In Updating Your Siding
The siding on the house is for more than just aesthetics! Your siding will also control how warm your home is and can even help keep noise levels down. If your siding is older, it's going to let through more air, which can negatively affect your heating bills.
Siding should be replaced every twenty to thirty years, depending on the material it's made out of. Although you can always go for aesthetics, make sure your siding comes with insulation and is high quality enough to last for a long time.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
One of the best upgrades any homeowner can make to become more energy efficient is to swap out a smart thermostat. You can get a smart thermostat for as little as forty dollars, although they usually trend around the $90 to $130 range. This will allow you to set schedules for your heating and cooling system, as well as give you a chance to control it when you aren't home.
Having more control of your HVAC system ensures you won’t lose as much money with the system running when it doesn’t need to be. You can also track your heating and cooling and see what times of the day are costing you the most money.
Checking Your Insulation Levels
Your insulation levels are going to control a lot of how your home handles the cold or heat outside. A well-insulated home will stay more level for longer and won't struggle with things like insect life or moisture that can easily be blocked out.
Although insulation can last for well over fifty years, if it's not put in correctly or you don't have an adequate amount, you'll feel the difference. Have a professional like Milo Insulation check your insulation levels and make sure it's the right material for your home.
Adding Heated Flooring
Heat naturally rises, meaning if your heating is close to your ceiling, you'll have to wait for it to fill a large space before you feel it evenly in your home. Investing in a radiant floor heating thermostat gives you the opportunity to thoroughly heat your home in an order that makes sense.
Heated flooring is also awesome for anyone who hates cold tile or wood in the morning! Having to deal with cold feet from the moment you step out of bed is a hassle for anyone. This will allow your home to heat evenly, stay at a steady temperature, and also be incredibly comfortable.
Updating Your Water Heater
We all love a nice warm shower in the middle of a cold morning or even soaking in a hot bath, but nobody loves the power bills when that heating has been tacked on. Check how old your water heater is, and consider upgrading to something more energy efficient. There are even companies that offer solar water heaters that allow you to heat your water without having to draw from the power grid.
Check how Old Your Roof Is
How old is your roof? Heat rises, so if you're trying to keep your property warm in the winter and your roof is older, you could be wasting hundreds of dollars through the whole season. Look for signs of age, and consider how old your roof is. Most materials only last thirty to fifty years, so try to upgrade to something more trustworthy, like slate, that can last far longer.
Every Property Can Be More Energy Efficient
Whether you're finally updating an older home or giving a newer home some energy efficiency, it's a great move to make! Consider taking on some of these energy cost-saving projects in the new year.