Who is not concerned by ever increasing energy costs? Here are just some ideas of what you might be able to do to make your property more energy and cost efficient:

Keeping the roof in great repair
Installing insulation in walls, floors, and attics
Reducing air infiltration
Minimizing air pressure imbalances
Sealing and repairing ducts
Cleaning and vacuuming
Regular servicing of heating and cooling units
Installing energy efficient appliances (removing older inefficient ones)

These actions help to effectively do TWO things:

- Cut home energy consumption
- Reduce energy bills.

Regardless of whether you are motivated by the looming energy crisis and ever-rising costs of energy or more personal reasons, convictions or incentive, achieving cost and energy efficient homes (aside from building new – not an option for all of us!), are little changes, adjustment, repairs and installations, maintenance and adaptability, to save dollars and energy effectively!

You can find ways to incorporate alternative energy sources and technologies in and around your home.

Here are a few of the newer features custom-built into houses, optimizing cost-effectiveness of architectural designs. If you are doing a home improvement project think about your options carefully, like skylights, new windows, roof etc.

- Design, open-plan, lots of windows and glass for better air circulation, natural light (less requirement and demand for light, electricity and energy).
- Sealed Double Glazed Glass windows with thermal insulation to keep drafts and chill out, cool in hotter climates and months.
- Insulation that will enhance in-door living conditions, comfort and reduce heating/cooling costs year-round.
- Sturdy and insulated walls, floors, moisture resistant,
- Low-maintenance quality roofing and solar options.

cost/low-cost steps you can take to save energy

Water-heater temperature: Especially if you do have children in the home, turn the warmer setting down to the recommended 120 degrees F (safe and saves money!).

Cover water-beds as they will be insulated that way.

All major appliances have some energy settings (refrigerators, dishwashers, clothese dryers) – utilize them.

Use compact fluorescents (CFLs) and low energy bulb replacements to cut down on electricity consumption and waste.

Upgrade old energy-guzzlers in your property (refrigerators, dishwashers, stove, furnace, A/C and others). Look for the energy efficient symbols and endorsements.

Clean or replace heat-pump filters,furnace and air conditioner.

Water-heater blanket, low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators to reduce consumption and waste.

Seal, caulk and repair all leaks, holes and drafts (walls, doors, windows, floors, corners, cracks and crevices, basement, garage etc.)

Heating and cooling systems, duct work checked, repaired and/or replaced as necessary.

Track and check your consumption/waste. You will or might be pleasantly surprised at what you will typically find. Go back 6 months to a year and review your bills. Split them into what you payfor fuel/gas and electricity, utilities water/sewage)
See where and when, why the most/highest bills/costs are and try to find ways to reduce, save and reduce consumption during those periods.

Check all insulation, also on hot water pipes and ducts, through unheated areas especially.
Air-leaks and drafts, gaps around chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.

Use your thermostat to turn temperature up/down a degree or two when it matters most (at night) to be more efficient and aware. Before you know it this will turn into second nature and some great new habits.

Educate and empower yourself, your kids, your family and friends. Spread the word about cost and energy savings, raise awareness, advocate and value the contribution(s) you are making, no matter how big or little you might consider them to be.

And another way to reduce costs is to do your own tiling projects. Find out more
how to lay tile
installing tile
laying tile

Tags: remodeling, electrical, landscaping, house additions, home improvement