WEST HOUSTON Blog

6 Ways to Save with ENERGY STAR Home Improvements in West Houston

As a homeowner, you’re more than likely trying to find new ways to save on energy bills and electricity every year. The problem is that in some cases, your safety or comfort could be affected, especially during extreme temperatures throughout the year.

As an ENERGY STAR® Partner, Koala Insulation works with the company to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy bills. There are a number of problems that could be contributing to energy waste, higher utility and energy expenses, and discomfort in your home.

1. Heating & Cooling System

Having energy-efficient heat pumps, which are more effective than furnaces or boilers, can be a big contributor to reduced costs. While newer units can help increase return on investment opportunities, they are also a quality purchase if you’re looking to attract potential buyers. 

These pumps are responsible for about a third of the energy used in your home throughout the year. This use can increase when you're trying to reduce the impact of more drastic temperatures in the summer and winter. Because heat pumps help year-round with both heating and cooling needs, you can reduce the strain on your home's system without sacrificing comfort and safety.

1. Upgraded Insulation

Studies show that updated insulation in U.S. homes can help reduce heating and cooling costs by 15% on average. This material is installed from the attic to the basement in a building, including under floors and within the walls. Insulation reduces the rate of heat transfer in order to improve temperature regulation and climate control capabilities in the house. 

Even if your home had quality insulation installed when it was built, this material wears down over time. Because it falls under an “out of sight, out of mind” task for many homeowners, evaluations aren’t scheduled often enough to check for damages, poor coverage, or deterioration.  

1. Air Sealing

Air leaks in your home can account for up to 40% of the energy wasted for heating and cooling. Unfortunately, many homes are still filled with holes and openings because of the “breathable home" myth. Some homeowners forego quality air sealing because they worry that it can create a "stuffy environment". However, air sealing doesn't impact your ventilation system negatively; instead, it helps to regulate the airflow by reducing areas where heat or cooled air can escape and enter.

Gaps, cracks, and other openings around windows, doors, and other areas with exterior contact are major money-draining culprits. On top of energy waste, they also increase the risk of poor indoor air quality, moisture and humidity, and pest infestation.

1. High-Performing Windows or Storm Windows

While air sealing can help reduce air leaks around window panes and edges, upgrading the actual window can help to improve heating and cooling costs. While older windows can be drafty and full of air leaks, the glass can also contribute to problems with UV and heat. Certified windows can lower your household energy bills by an average of 12%, depending on where they’re located in the house. 

Installing windows that have low-e glass coating, or low-emissivity, helps to reduce sun damage that impacts floors, carpets, and furniture. This is a hidden benefit to extending the lifespan of other areas in a house that many homeowners may not be familiar with. The coated glass can help reduce heat in the home, discoloration of the floor and furniture, or even damage from overexposure. 

1. Smart Thermostat

Did you know that for the average American household, about half of the energy bill is used by heating and cooling? This is largely in part because of ineffective temperature regulation and HVAC use. While it’s largely caused by insufficient insulation and air sealing, your thermostat choices can also be a significant culprit. 

A smart thermostat helps youtube schedule appropriate changes and monitor your energy use throughout the year. Common mistakes are shifting the temperature all day, leaving the AC or heater running while you're out of the house, or forgetting to adjust the temperature when you're comfortable. Smart thermostats help you to keep your home comfortable in the most energy-efficient way possible.

1. Water Heater

Your home’s water heater is typically the second-highest energy user in the house. Upgrades like tankless or solar-powered water heaters can reduce energy waste by working more efficiently or using more effective energy resources.

Switching to an energy-efficient model that falls under the ENERGY STAR recommendations can help you save about $300 on energy bills every year. For example, a tankless water heater can save up to 34% more energy by providing on-demand heat. This is more effective than storing gallons of unused heated water like other traditional water heaters. 

Learn More About Energy Star Savings With A Certified Professional

Koala Insulation of West Houston is dedicated to helping our neighbors improve their environments and reduce headaches. To save more money in your area, use energy-efficient products from companies like ENERGY STAR. These appliances, systems, and upgrades help to reduce the impact of outdoor temperatures and weather changes throughout the year.

On top of finding the best material for your home, we also want to help reduce your costs wherever possible. Our team of industry experts offers free evaluations so you and your household have more details on the current condition of your home’s insulation and air sealing. Contact Koala Insulation of West Houston today to schedule a free evaluation and learn more about how ENERGY STAR can help improve your environment.