The average household in Alberta spends over $5000 just to operate their homes every year, according to Statistics Canada. Running electricity, natural gas and water are all part of this cost. How can you improve your home’s energy efficiency and bring down that large operational cost? Here are some simple home renovations that will help you achieve those goals:
Make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed.
Have you noticed a chilly draft coming from your windows or doors? If your window or door frames are damaged or the weather stripping is broken, it will cause a leak and allow your precious heat to escape! Damaged windows and doors should be replaced, but a broken seal could be easily fixed with some new weather stripping. If you need new energy efficient windows and doors, contact one of Edmonton’s best window companies.
Keep up on your furnace maintance.
When is the last time you changed your furnace filter? This simple task will help your furnace run at peak performance and ensure that cleaner air is blowing into your home. If your filter is dirty it means your furnace has to work even harder to heat your home and that could drive up your energy bill. Learn more about replacing your furnace filter.
It is very important that you invest in regular furnace maintenance and duct cleaning. On an annual basis, have one of Edmonton's best furnace and air conditioning companies inspect your furnace and duct work. Having your furnace and duct work inspected and cleaned can improve efficiency, air quality and ensure your system is working safely.
Update your Insulation
Insulation has come a long way over the years. Older insulation has an R-value of about 8, where updated building code states your R-value should be at least R50. If you live in an older home and have never upgrade the insulation in your attic, this small investment could have a huge pay off in energy savings over the long run. Contact one of RenovationFind’s listed Edmonton insulation contactors for an inspection of your current insulation system and a quote for an upgrade. Not only will new insulation keep your home warmer in the winter, but cooler in the summer as well. Plus, most insulation contractors offer environmentally-friendly insulation products that are fire, mould and pest resistant and that won’t settle or lose it's insulation properties over time.
Switch to LED light bulbs
Replacing your bulbs with Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) can save you up to 80% on your electricity cost and they last a lot longer too. They are more expensive than regular incandescent bulbs, but since they use so much less energy and last longer you will see a return on your investment on your electrical bill over time.
Replace your old appliances with energy efficient models.
Outdated appliances are energy suckers. When shopping for new energy efficient appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR logo. This certification is the mark for high efficiency products in Canada. Appliances like stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers that have the ENERGY STAR certification will help reduce your monthly bill.
"ENERGY STAR certified products meet strict technical specifications for energy performance—tested and certified. They save energy without compromising performance in any way. Typically, an ENERGY STAR certified product is in the top 15 to 30 percent of its class for energy performance. Saving energy saves you money and reduces your impact on the environment."
Contact an Edmonton appliance store to upgrade your old appliances.
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