Summer is a great time for home remodeling projects. The warm weather makes it easier to work on outdoor projects, and the extra daylight provides more time to tackle indoor remodeling. But did you know that you can also use your remodeling project to save on energy bills? By incorporating energy-efficient upgrades, you can enjoy a comfortable home and lower energy bills.
Here are some energy-efficient summer remodeling ideas to consider:
Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat is an excellent way to save on energy bills. It allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, which means you won't waste energy cooling an empty house. You can even control your thermostat remotely using your smartphone or other smart device, so you can adjust the temperature when you're away from home.
Upgrade to energy-efficient windows
Energy-efficient windows are designed to reduce heat transfer, which means they can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Look for windows with low-emissivity coatings and insulated frames to maximize energy efficiency. You can also consider installing solar shades or blinds to block out the sun's rays and keep your home cooler.
Install a ceiling fan
Ceiling fans are a great way to keep your home cool without using a lot of energy. They circulate air throughout the room, which can help you feel cooler even if the temperature hasn't changed. Look for fans with an Energy Star rating, which means they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.
Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting
Replacing your old incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs can help you save on energy bills. LED bulbs use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs, which means you'll have to replace them less often. You can also consider installing motion sensor or dimmer switches to reduce energy use even further.
Add insulation
Adding insulation to your home can help keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Look for insulation with a high R-value, which measures how well it resists heat transfer. You can also consider adding insulation to your attic or crawl space to further improve energy efficiency.
Upgrade to a high-efficiency HVAC system
If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. Look for systems with a high SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) to ensure maximum efficiency. You can also consider installing a geothermal heat pump, which uses the earth's natural energy to heat and cool your home.
Install a tankless water heater
A tankless water heater heats water on demand, which means you won't waste energy heating water that you're not using. It also takes up less space than a traditional water heater, so it's a great option if you're short on space. Tankless water heaters are more expensive to install than traditional water heaters, but they can save you money on energy bills in the long run. If you would like to learn more abou the benefits of tankless water heaters, checkout the article we wrote about the 7 Benefits of A Tankless Water Heater.
By incorporating these energy-efficient summer remodeling ideas, you can enjoy a comfortable home and save money on energy bills. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint, but you'll also have more money to spend on summer activities. Contact a remodeling professional to learn more about incorporating these upgrades into your summer remodeling project.
If your are in Northern Nevada, specifically Reno, Sparks, Incline Village, or surrounding areas and you are ready to tackle the home remodel and get the energy efficient upgrades that will make the biggest impact, our team of remodeling experts at Paramount Craftsman Services are here to Bring Your Vision To Life. We offer a variety of home remodeling services and ensure we understand your budget before putting pen to paper and drawing out our plan of attack. To learn more about our process and see how we can best help you with your home remodel, visit our website by clicking here.