Homeowners who make smart upgrades to their homes can enjoy increased functionality and comfort. Many of these improvements also offer energy-efficiency benefits that boost resale value. Homeowners may often find themselves wondering how to fix a leaky bathtub faucet or how to repair a dishwasher. Most times these issues can be repaired by a professional plumber but if you can invest in energy efficient appliances and things around the house, it could save you time and money.
With rising energy costs and climate change concerns, many buyers value homes with lower utility bills. Energy efficiency is a critical factor when it comes to sustainable living.
- Install Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
Introducing energy efficient light bulbs lowers electricity bills and reduces CO2 emissions. Energy-efficient bulbs use less energy to produce the same level of brightness, last longer and generate less heat. They also work with timers, sensors and controls to maximize the efficiency of your lighting system.
Investing in energy-efficient bulbs, such as LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs, can significantly reduce your power bills. They require less energy to operate and can last up to 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. They are also used in smart lighting systems to control the ambiance and mood of your home or business.
- Install Energy-Efficient Window Coverings
Window coverings offer more than just light control and insulation. The right choice can significantly cut energy waste and help lower utility bills, making them one of the smartest home improvements you can make.
Unlike traditional curtains, many energy efficient windows coverings are qualified for rebate programs that can further offset installation costs. Options like cellular shades, Roman shades and natural shutters are all great choices to save energy and boost your home’s style.
You can also up the ante with motorized window treatments. Not only does this add a modern feature to your home, but it allows you to lower or raise the blinds no drilling with a voice command, keeping out harsh rays in summer.
- Install Energy-Efficient Appliances
There are many ways to make a home smarter without the need for major renovations. Swapping out light bulbs for LEDs, integrating energy-efficient appliances into the kitchen and laundry and adding a layer of insulation are just a few simple upgrades that can help reduce household energy usage.
Smart connectivity is also becoming a standard feature in new construction homes. This allows for devices to seamlessly communicate with each other and function as part of a larger system. For example, a smart refrigerator that detects you are low
milk could automatically add it to your shopping list.
- Install Smart Thermostats
Smart technology can streamline many tasks and reduce energy costs. Upgrades like voice-activated microwaves and robotic vacuum cleaners are a hit with homebuyers.
Smart thermostats, which learn a household’s schedule and habits, help minimize heating and cooling costs by automatically adjusting to optimize usage during peak hours. They also monitor indoor temperature and humidity, helping maintain a healthy living environment.
By reducing the demand for energy during peak times, smart thermostats can help alleviate stress on power grids and decrease dependence on non-renewable resources. They can also provide real-time energy consumption information, making it easier to monitor and control energy expenses.
- Install Energy-Efficient Doors
Many people don’t realize that their doors are a major source of energy loss in their homes. Inefficient doors can let warm air escape in winter and cool air escape in summer, leading to higher energy bills.
Adding energy-efficient doors can prevent this unwanted heat transfer and help to lower your energy bills. In addition, energy efficient doors can also help to reduce condensation buildup that leads to mold and improve indoor air quality.
Energy-efficient doors can be a great way to improve your home’s comfort and increase its value. Plus, they often qualify for tax deductions and rebates.
- Install Energy-Efficient Flooring
Oftentimes, we leave lights and gadgets on when we’re not in the room, leading to wasted electricity. Integrating smart home technology, like motion-sensing switches, into your home allows you to control these lights conveniently and cut down on energy waste.
Flooring is one of the biggest contributors to energy loss in homes, especially in colder climates. Energy-efficient floors will keep the heat in your home during winter and prevent cool air from escaping during summer.
Whether you’re looking to boost your home value or make it more comfortable, many of these smart home improvements come with a high ROI and can be easily installed in your home.
- Install Energy-Efficient Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans use less energy than air conditioning units and provide year-round comfort. They also allow building occupants to raise their thermostat settings during the summer by up to four degrees without sacrificing comfort.
In the winter, ceiling fans can be set to run in reverse, pushing warm air downward and reducing reliance on heating systems. ENERGY STAR-certified ceiling fans are a smart choice for homeowners who want to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. Proper fan installation and usage are critical to maximizing energy savings.