A comfortable home needs to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. To help keep your energy bills low, you can make a few key home upgrades that will save you money and increase the comfort of your living environment. Here’s how steps like investing in new windows and doors can help.
1. Upgrade Old Windows and Doors
Windows are vulnerable to air leakage, which means that a big portion of an energy bill can be attributed to them. In fact, according to Energy.gov, windows account for about 30% of a home’s heating energy loss. Replacing single-pane windows with double-paned ones will make a huge difference when it comes to insulation. Doors also play a huge role in keeping air within your home, so be sure to check for gaps between the door and the frame. If you can feel a draft, then it’s time for an upgrade.
2. Insulate Walls, Ceilings, and Attics
Another way to decrease your monthly bills is to insulate your walls, ceilings, and attics. Inadequate insulation can lead to temperature swings throughout a home, making your heating system run more often and for longer periods. Investing in quality insulation like foam insulation or cellulose blown-in insulation can help reduce your energy bills substantially.
3. Install Programmable Thermostats
A programmable thermostat is another way to stay comfortable while saving money on your energy bill. It allows you to set different temperatures for certain times of the day or week, so you won’t have to worry about manually adjusting the temperature before you leave for work or school. Not only will this reduce your energy bill, but it will also increase the efficiency of your heating system.
4. Repair Air Leaks
Air leaks can cause windows and doors to become less effective at insulating, resulting in increased energy costs. You can identify air leaks by using a candle or incense stick and running it around windows and doors. If the flame flickers, then you have found an air leak that needs to be sealed up. You can also look out for gaps in walls and insulation, as they are likely to cause air leaks too.
Making a few small home upgrades can go a long way in decreasing your energy bill and increasing the comfort of your living environment. You don’t need to make all the changes at once — start by making one or two upgrades and build from there. Contact All American Door to learn more about your options for new windows and doors, and start saving on your energy bills today!