BALTIMORE Blog

Tips on Energy Effieiceny for the New Homebuyer in Baltimore

An energy-efficient home is designed to conserve and reduce energy use. A home’s construction, appliances, and major features can all impact efficiency, so there’s plenty to consider when shopping for your first home.

The excitement of moving into your home for the first time can sometimes be overshadowed by uncertainty and first-time jitters. While you may not initially consider being energy efficient as a top priority in your movers journey, it’s actually a major point in several aspects of your new home. From roofing and insulation to your average utility bill, being conscious about energy efficiency can not only save you in time and stress, but also give you some insights for the long run and future homes.

Homes that are energy-efficient are designed to conserve and reduce energy usage without sacrificing the comforts of home. Here are some areas to look into when buying your new home:

•   Consider Your Home’s Size and Shape

The home’s shape can impact efficiency, too. Open floor plans and rooms with high ceilings are harder to keep warm. These rooms have more space to heat, which requires extra energy to keep things comfortable.

•  Check That Windows and Doors Are Insulated

The entry points to your home can drain your home’s energy use. The Department of Energy estimates that 25% to 30% of residential energy from heating and cooling your home is lost through windows.

•  Take a Look at the Insulation

Insulation is essential for maintaining the temperature in your house. It prevents the thermal transfer from inside to the outside of your house, so your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work too hard.

Cooling alone accounts for 16% of residential energy consumption, so it’s important to know how your home is insulated. Ask your home inspector to make sure the home’s insulation is effective and in good shape — especially if you’re considering buying an older home.

• Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting

Lighting accounts for 5% of the average home’s energy consumption. Upgrading to LED lightbulbs throughout your home is an easy way to conserve energy. These bulbs only use 20% of the energy a traditional incandescent bulb does, and they last up to 25 times longer.

•  Look For Moisture Control and Ventilation

An airtight home can prevent energy loss and protect your health. The fewer leaks there are in your home, the harder it is for internal air to escape and outside air to get in. This means that even in extreme temperatures, your heating and cooling don’t have to work as hard.

Koala Insulation of Baltimore Experts are Ready to Help

Insulation experts can then make custom recommendations about the types of insulation that are appropriate for your home's unique needs. Our employees at Koala Insulation of Baltimore train in-house on how to properly handle, install and inspect various types of insulation. Our local crew offers free evaluations so you have a better understanding of your building's needs. We also break down the current condition of your insulation so you can target pain points and future updates while taking into account your schedule and budget. Contact Koala Insulation of Baltimore to learn more about how our free evaluations can impact your comfort, safety, and savings.