Increase Comfort Through Efficiency
A significant amount of pollution comes from the production and use of energy. You, too, can do your part to save energy, money, and our environment. Now is the perfect time to streamline your home’s energy efficiency while you maximize overall comfort.
Most people don’t realize how easy and budget-friendly it is to make their homes run on less energy. Drastic reductions in heating, cooling, and electricity costs can be accomplished through very simple changes. Sealing and insulating your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a home more comfortable and energy-efficient, and you can do it yourself. A tightly-sealed home can improve comfort and indoor air quality while reducing utility bills. As much as half of the energy used in homes goes toward heating and cooling so when a house is better insulated, energy bill costs are significantly reduced.
If you do have the ability to spend more on energy-efficient appliances such as installing a tankless water heater, the upfront costs are outweighed not only by significant energy savings down the road but worth it due to the level of increased comfort.
In an existing house, the first step is to conduct a free home energy audit. These surveys are used to find out how your home uses energy and determine the best ways to cut energy use and costs. You’ll save energy and money, and your home will be more comfortable and durable.
In addition to occupant behavior, site conditions, and climate, other variables to consider when creating a more energy efficient and comfortable home include:
- Appliances and home electronics
- Insulation and air sealing
- Lighting and daylighting
- Space heating and cooling
- Water heating
- Windows, doors, and skylights.
It has been found that energy efficient features such as airflow and ventilation, appropriate indoor temperatures and natural light are closely related to homeowners’ notion of home comfort, making the link between energy efficiency and home comfort more evident.
RESOURCES
Energy Saver | U.S. Department of Energy
Home Energy Guide | Minnesota Department of Commerce
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