Today, many homeowners are taking the leap and figuring out ways to ensure that their home is energy efficient. An individual can achieve this by investing in new windows, getting solar panels, purchasing eco-friendly features, improving home insulation, replacing their HVAC system, and buying new home technology. All of these are useful tactics that can guarantee a homeowner is working toward being energy conscious. 

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There are many different ways homeowners can take to make their energy adjustments. If you are wondering how you can make your home more environmentally friendly, consider the tips below.

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Invest in New Windows

Investing in new windows is the first thing you'll want to consider when updating your home to become more eco-friendly. New windows are a great way to make your home look fresh from the outside and become more secure, but they also directly affect the amount of energy you are utilizing. 

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The older your home gets, the greater your chances are that you'll experience air leaks from your windows. Air leaks can cause your heating and air conditioning system to work harder than necessary as air is constantly escaping your home and causing fluctuation with your thermostat. This is why it's a good idea to research upgrading your home's windows and opt for energy-efficient options. Energy-efficient windows are made of more durable materials that can help reduce the amount of heat loss and air leaks. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows is a great way to ensure that no energy or money is going to waste. To ensure you are looking for the best quality windows for your home, look for the ENERGY STAR or National Fenestration Rating Council labels when reviewing window selections. 

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What to Look for in the Most Energy-Efficient Windows 

When searching for the best energy-efficient and high-performance windows, there are several different factors you need to focus on: 

• The Glazing Package (number of panes): Double-pane options that rely on low emissivity (Low-E) glass are also a great option. It includes an invisible coating of metal oxide on one of the interior panes.

• The gas between the Glass: You should consider finding window options that fill the spaces with gasses such as argon, xenon, or krypton. It can reduce condensation and also increase the thermal performance of the window.

• Pane Spacers and Frame Materials: The pane spacers and frame materials are just as important as the glass itself when it comes to actual window performance. Pane spacers that contain little or no metal are known as warm edge spacers and can be much more energy-efficient. The frame materials can also affect the energy performance of the window. Although wood frames are the most natural and energy-efficient, they require maintenance and can lead to leaks. Composite frames that combine an inner timber frame covered with aluminum or plastic rely on wood while also reducing the need for maintenance. 

• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) Rating: This rating measures the amount of solar radiation emitted through a window. Look at the SHGC rating before purchasing your window. 

• U-Factor: The U-Factor is the primary insulation rating for windows. It measures the rate of heat transfer, and generally speaking, the lower the U-Factor, the higher the insulation capability of the window. 

• Frame material: We recommend vinyl or fiberglass window frames since they offer the best insulating characteristics. They tend to have the added option of foam insulation to help reduce heat loss. 

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Sealing Up Your Existing Windows   

If you aren't looking to replace all your windows, other ways to improve efficiency include caulking and weatherstripping your windows to seal any air leaks. You could also consider inserting storm windows and adding window coverings throughout your home. Storm windows are great for retaining heat during the chilly months, and window coverings help give some more privacy and block out strong glares when the sun is out. To give your home some extra shade, consider adding awnings above your windows. Awnings are a great idea if you live in a sunny and hot environment year-round. 

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Look Into Solar Panels 

Another idea is to do some research on solar panels. Solar panels are a great option to explore when you are taking the initiative to create an environmentally friendly home. When you invest in solar panels, you receive clean, renewable energy, gain control of your electricity, qualify for tax breaks and cash incentives, and reduce and potentially eliminate your energy bills. 

Solar panels can work in any type of climate, but your roof and the amount of sun it gets affect their efficiency and whether or not they are ideal for your home. The best way to go about solar panels is by doing your research and talking with a solar professional. If a professional doesn't feel that your home is suitable for solar panels, they may help you find other solar solutions, such as the community solar option. Talking with a professional and using their guidance will help set you up for success. 

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While looking at your options, you'll also come across various payment avenues. It's best to research all options and go with whatever works best for you. There are various ways you can go about financing solar panels, such as using a solar loan, property assessed clean energy program, solar lease, solar power purchase agreement, energy efficiency mortgage program, or you could even look into a personal line credit. Although solar panels can be a hefty investment, the long-term benefits are worth it. And with the help of financing and other programs, payments can be a breeze. 

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Upgrade Home Features and Fixtures

As a homeowner looking to make improvements throughout your whole home, you should also consider investing in various eco-friendly features and fixtures around your living environment. The older appliances get, the more energy they may use and the less efficient they become, so you should consider buying energy-efficient appliances. 

Again, while appliance shopping, remember to look for the ENERGY STAR label. The ENERGY STAR label is a government-backed certification that ensures that your purchasing product is energy-efficient. Purchasing ENERGY STAR-rated products will give you confidence that the appliances you are purchasing uphold a solid energy rating, use less electricity, and help save you money on your electric bill. Different appliances you may want to upgrade, and purchase are refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and dehumidifiers. 

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Another change that is a little easier and faster to make is switching out the light bulbs used in your home. Consider changing out your regular light bulbs for LED ones. When you make that change, you are using 70%-90% less energy than incandescent ones, positively affecting your home's overall energy usage. It may sound like a small change, but it can make a huge difference. 

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Improve Insulation

Improving your home's overall insulation is one of the most important parts of maintaining your home's energy efficiency. Without being properly insulated, you can risk heat escaping your home, and you could even start to notice obvious room temperature changes. 

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Some signs of poor insulation include: 

• High energy bills 

• Feeling drafts 

• Water leaks 

• Rodents

• Ice damage on the roof

• Cold rooms 

• The fluctuating temperature throughout your home

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Poor insulation can directly affect your home's energy usage and cause your bills to skyrocket, so it's crucial to pay attention to those warning signs. If you notice that some of these are happening around your home, it's a good idea to bring in an expert and get their opinion. That way, you know what the issue is and can figure out how to solve it. 

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In some cases, you may have to upgrade and replace your insulation as a whole. In other situations, you may only need to take the time to seal up holes, leaks, or gaps and make it a goal to regularly maintain your home's windows and doors. Taking the initiative to increase your home's insulation is a step in the right direction when it comes to saving energy. 

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Replace the HVAC System

Did you know that you should consider upgrading your home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system every 10 to 20 years? Over time, your HVAC system can build up dust, dirt, mold and just breakdown from everyday wear and tear. Investing in a new HVAC system can be expensive, but it is worth it to increase your home's energy efficiency. When you upgrade your HVAC system, you can improve your home's overall health and comfort, not to mention it can wipe away any worry you may have about issues that could arise within an older system.    

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If you aren't looking to replace your whole system, consider reviewing an HVAC maintenance checklist now and then to ensure you are properly maintaining and prolonging your system's lifespan. To make sure your HVAC system stays up and running to the best of its ability, you'll want to clean out debris monthly or seasonally (especially when there is a dramatic seasonal change). You'll also want to consider purchasing a good-quality air filter and replacing it every couple of months to ensure you have the best air quality flowing through your home. Depending on what air filter you buy directly affects how frequently you need to change it. It's also a good idea to inspect refrigerant lines and replace them if they appear damaged. For even more safety measures, make sure to change the batteries to your home's carbon monoxide detector annually. If you want, you can even hire someone to come in and do routine HVAC maintenance checks when needed. 

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Purchase Smart Home Technology

When making energy-efficient home improvements, it's good to explore smart thermostat options. Smart thermostats can come across as intimidating and look like they are hard to program, but it's the opposite. Smart thermostats are pretty user-friendly. With a smart thermostat, you can easily schedule times for your heating and cooling system to run. This is a convenient feature, especially if you are someone who is going out of town or maybe away from your home for an extended period. Many times you can even control the system from your mobile device–allowing you to adjust it whenever (and from wherever) you need to.  

The majority of smart thermostats enable you to see and track your home's energy usage. This is known as a home energy profile. Your home energy profile is a great way to learn about the usage occurring throughout your home. It is a good way to manage and see what days and times your HVAC system is working the hardest. It provides you with a sense of direction on where you could potentially scale back when it comes to your heating and cooling system. In all, smart thermostats can help teach you how to reduce the amount of energy you use while away and can save you money on your energy bill. 

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Adhere to Good Energy Saving Habits 

Once you've made the biggest changes, such as replacing windows, HVAC systems, and using smart home technology, there are other more nuanced ways to increase your home's energy efficiency. While doing little things like turning off the lights and mindfully using appliances might not seem like much, they can add up quickly over time, especially in a large household with lots of people. 

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Follow these energy-saving habits and incorporate them into your lifestyle to help save money on your electric bills: 

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1. Mindfully use the dishwasher, dryer, and washer. Choose cold water as often as possible and use energy-efficient cycles. Run them at night, especially during warmer months, so they don't heat the house. Air dry both clothes and dishes when you can and avoid running half-loads. 

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2. Take care of appliances, so they work efficiently. Make sure there's an inch of space all around your refrigerator. Clean the coils and replace filters as often as necessary—Descale coffee machines with purified or distilled water. Keep refrigerators full and clean freezers by defrosting regularly. Read the manufacturer's guidelines and keep refrigerators and freezers at the recommended temperatures. 

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3. Turn off lights, faucets, and HVAC systems when you're not using them. Make it a habit to check lamps and overhead lights whenever you leave a room. Be aware of running water when shaving, brushing your teeth, or drying a dish. Turn off your sprinklers when it's raining.

4. Dress to be comfortable, even at home. During the winter, wear a sweater and some socks. During the summer, wear shorts and T-shirts around the house. You'll save energy and feel more comfortable. 

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5. Replace old shower heads with low-flow versions: Modern showerheads have a flow rate lower than 2.5 gallons per minute. Older versions use 3.5 gallons per minute or more. 

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No matter what measures you plan on taking as a homeowner, remember that even the smallest adjustments can help improve your home's energy efficiency and help out the environment as a whole. Implementing these ideas can help make the transition easier. 

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If you're interested in window replacement and installation to help improve energy efficiency, book a free-in home estimate with us. Milgard products carry only EnergyStar-rated windows and offer Low-E coating to help control the temperatures inside your home. US Window and Door sells and installs Milgard windows in San Diego so that they look stunning while also saving you money on energy costs. Learn more about our window installation service by contacting us or requesting a free in-home estimate today.