5 Smart Investments To Reduce Your Energy Bills This Winter
Winter is fast approaching, and it is only normal to be concerned with finding ways to reduce energy bills and boost your home’s energy efficiency. Of course, improving your habits is the first step: switching lights off, limiting energy consumption, and switching to more efficient light bulbs helps. But there are also some smart investments that can help you create a more sustainable home and significantly reduce your utility bills for years - or even decades! In this guide, we’ll look at a few investments that you may consider this year before the colder season comes around. Let’s dive in!
Instal Solar Panels
One of the smartest investments you could make to create a more energy efficient home is to invest in solar panel installation. This can help you reduce your reliance on the grid and harness free energy from the sun. It may be especially convenient for homes with large or well-exposed roofs! But solar panels also have other advantages. For instance, you can sell the energy in excess back to utility providers, creating an additional income stream. Plus, it is a great option for off-grid properties that cannot always rely on the grid!
Opt For A Smart Thermostat
Investing in a smart thermostat can offer many benefits, including:
It allows you to automatically adjust temperatures for comfort and savings
It helps you control home heating remotely via smartphone
You can program schedules for lower heat when not home
Your family can more easily monitor energy use easily with app or display
You can set up reminders for maintenance or filter changes
Overall, it reduces heating costs by avoiding wasted energy
Replace Old Windows With Energy-Efficient Models
Did you know that around 30% of energy is dispersed through old windows? This may be because of the low insulating power of single-glazing or unnoticed seals and drafts. Whether you have an old home ready for a restoration or you are looking to upgrade your windows, consider investing in double- or triple-glazed models that can boost your home insulation.
Try Gardening For Energy Efficiency!
Did you know that you can garden for energy efficiency? Estimations show that just by planting trees in the right spots, you can save up to 25% of household energy use! Here are some tips and strategies - but remember that the first step is to partner with a landscaping professional!
Position deciduous trees for summer shade and winter sun access
Plant windbreaks of trees and shrubs on north and northwest sides
Choose native and drought-tolerant plants to reduce outdoor watering
Channel summer breezes toward the home with landscaping
Shade roofs, walls, and windows to lower cooling costs
Avoid planting beds close to the house if they require frequent watering
Adapt your design based on your region and local microclimate
Upgrade Your Insulation
Above we have seen some investments that can help you boost your home’s energy efficiency. But all of this may fall short if your home is not well insulated! That is why, the first step is to invest in a quality, custom-designed insulation solution that will increase the returns on your energy investments!
