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While your Home Performance contractor will develop
a specific plan for your home, commonly recommended
improvements for an energy-efficient home include:
Sealing Air Leaks and Adding Insulation
Sealing air leaks is critical to improving the overall energy efficiency of your home and will make your
heating and cooling system perform better.
Many air leaks in homes are fairly obvious:
- Windows
- Doors
- Electrical outlets
But other areas are even more significant sources of energy loss:
- Attics and basements
- Recessed light fixtures
Along with air sealing, your contractor may recommend that you add insulation. Many older homes are not well-insulated,
and some have no insulation at all.
Properly installed insulation in walls, floors, and attics:
- Provides for more even temperatures throughout the house
- Results in a quieter, more comfortable living environment that is easier to heat and cool
Sealing Ductwork
Many homes have leaky ductwork and poor air flow, resulting in stuffy
and uncomfortable rooms—regardless of the thermostat setting. Sealing and insulating ductwork
can help to ensure that your home will be more comfortable and energy-efficient.
The Home Performance contractor may recommend the following energy-efficient home improvements:
- Sealing ducts with mastic, durable foil-backed tape, or aerosol-based sealant
- Insulating ductworks in attics, crawlspaces and unconditioned basements
- Balancing the duct system to optimize air flow to all rooms
Improving Home Heating and Cooling Systems
If your furnace or air conditioner is more than 10 years old, your contractor may recommend that you
replace it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency
units can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs.
When it comes to heating and cooling equipment, bigger is not always better. A properly-sized unit will
make your home more comfortable by providing more consistent temperatures and better humidity control.
Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances
Energy used for lighting and appliances can account for half of your home's total utility bill.
As a result, a Home Performance contractor may recommend ENERGY STAR qualified products, such as energy-efficient:
- Refrigerators
- Dishwashers
- Clothes washers
- Light fixtures
- Compact fluorescent bulbs
An energy and water-efficient hot water heating system may also be recommended.
Adding Renewable Energy Solutions
To further reduce your utility bills, your contractor may also recommend adding renewable energy systems such as:
- Solar electric (photovoltaics)
- Solar hot water
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