Energy Conservation

Energy Savings

With the rising cost of energy for your home there are several methods to improve on energy savings.

1. The exterior
   
1. Update any failing caulking or sealants to prevent air or moisture information
2. When installing a new roof consider a light colored roof or even metal too help reflect the heat
3. Some siding material will reflect or not absorb the heat such as wood, cement boards, EIFS or SIP panels
2. The interior
   
1. Caulk around all exterior windows and doors
2. Install gaskets in front and spray foam around exterior receptacles and switches
3. Spray foam around all window and doors behind trim
4. Upgrade single pane, extruded aluminum windows or glazing
5. Upgrade any failing or missing weather stripping at windows or doors
6. Upgrade inadequate attic, wall or floor insulation (attic being the most important in most cases)
7. Install plastic on any single pane windows in the winter if updating is not an option
8. Install quilted drapes and valances over the windows
9. Install storm doors on older type doors

3. Mechanical
   
1. Install insulation blanket on water heater, keep back from flame of gas unit
2. Keep the filter on you HVAC system changed, a dirty filter makes the unit work harder and run more. A dirty filter can even damage the unit.
3. Insulate your water lines, especially the hot lines
4. Turn down the HVAC in rooms not in use, close registers if you have a single zone forced air unit
5. Turn the thermostat to a moderate temperature, around 78 degrees f
6. Set the thermostat slightly higher in your refrigerator and freezer
7. Turn the hot water temperature down to 120 in your water heater
8. Cover skylights in the summer, they can transfer heat into the house and make the unit run more
   

Stephen Showalter

Showalter Property Consultants

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