Energy efficiency is the need of the hour. With the rising cost of electricity and other energy sources in New Zealand, we must use our precious resources wisely. Plus, the environmental benefits of conserving energy are hard to deny! Reduced heat wave days, cleaner air, and fewer chances of natural disasters due to climate change are all great motivations for homeowners to make their homes more efficient.
But is it enough to switch off the lights and appliances when not in use? No, it’s not! You can take many more measures to make your home energy efficient. Let’s go over them one by one.
Use Ceiling Fans:
Most of us use fans to cool down a room, but did you know that they can also be used in the winter? Reversing the direction of your ceiling fan can pull down cold air from the ceiling and disperse it around the room. It helps reduce your heating costs by making the room feel warmer without using much energy. You can also use a programmable thermostat to adjust the fan’s speed and temperature. You might need a professional to install it, but the return on investment is worth it!
Tend to Your Furnace:
Your furnace is responsible for heating your home in the winter months. However, with usage comes wear and tear. You should schedule regular maintenance for your furnace to ensure it’s functioning correctly. It includes checking the air filters, vents, and ducts for debris and dirt. Cleaning the furnace can enhance its efficiency and reduce energy consumption, helping you save money in the long run.
Look up Electricians Wellington NZ, and hire a professional to ensure your home is energy-efficient and comfortable.
Wrap the Water Heater:
A water heater is a significant energy consumer. To make it more efficient, you can wrap the tank with a thick blanket of insulation. It will keep the heat in, making it easier for the water heater to do its job. It’s also essential to check the temperature setting of your water heater periodically and lower it if necessary. If the settings are too high, heating the water will require more energy. You can also consider getting an on-demand water heater that heats only when needed.
Replace Lights with LEDs:
LED lights are a huge energy-saver. They use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. Switching to LED lights isn’t only cost-effective, but it also makes your home look brighter. You can even choose from several color temperatures to customize the lighting in your home. The warm white light of LED bulbs is especially perfect for bedrooms and living rooms. But if you’re looking for a brighter light, then cool whites are the way to go.
Install Smart Thermostats:
Smart thermostats can sense when you’re away from home and automatically adjust the temperature accordingly. It means that your heating system won’t be running when you’re not there, saving you a good deal of energy and money. Smart thermostats can also be controlled from your phone, so you can adjust the temperature even when you’re away. When installing one of these devices, it’s best to call a professional.
Seal Ductwork:
The air ducts in your home should be adequately sealed and insulated to prevent heat and cool air from escaping. Inspect the ducts regularly for any holes or cracks and fix them immediately. Use a sealant or duct tape to ensure there are no air leaks. Sealing the ducts will make your HVAC system more efficient and help you save energy and money.
You can also consider investing in ductless air conditioning systems, which are more energy-efficient than traditional ones.
Install Double Glazing:
Double glazing helps reduce energy loss through your windows. The two panes of glass trap air between them, which acts as insulation to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It helps reduce your heating and cooling costs while avoiding unwanted noise from the outside world. The trick is to find windows with a low U-value, which measures how well the window prevents heat from escaping. You must also look out for a seal that prevents air leakage.
Go Solar:
One of the most sustainable solutions for energy efficiency is to go solar. Homeowners can install solar panels to generate renewable energy. Not only will it reduce your electricity bills, but it also helps reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere. Plus, you can get tax credits and other incentives if your solar system is eligible. Various solar panel options are available in the market, but crystalline solar panels are the most efficient. You can also discuss the position of your solar system with the installer to maximize efficiency. For instance, a south-facing roof is the best spot for your panels.
Final Thoughts:
You can take all the measures to reduce energy consumption, but if your location doesn’t favor you, then your efforts might be futile. For instance, the orientation of windows and doors and the types of plants around your home can make a big difference in energy efficiency. If you have large windows facing south, you can use the sun’s natural warmth to reduce your heating costs. Planting trees around your home will also work. They’ll provide shade during summer and act as a windbreaker during winter. So, consider surveying your location before investing in major energy-saving measures.
