Energy-Efficient Home Improvements for Maximum Comfort
This summer might be the time to consider making some upgrades around your home. The right energy-efficient home improvements can help you get through the long, hot summers. We'll take a look at projects that offer the most bang for your buck and how they can maximize your comfort this summer.
Replace your HVAC system
Switching from an old HVAC system to an upgraded one costs money today but saves you money as you use it. If you have a home with window or portable AC units, replacing them with a new HVAC system is a great option to save money and improve your comfort. You can save the most with a system that lets you use your furnace on cold summer nights or with the addition of a smart thermostat.
Consider solar panels
Solar panels let you harness the power of the sun to get energy you can use all summer long. In some states, there are even programs that reduce the cost of the panels or give them to you for free. Usually installed on the roof or the side of the home, the panels absorb energy from the sun and turn it into power. They even store energy, allowing you to use them when the sky is cloudy. You'll have more than enough power to run your fans and other cooling devices. Some electric companies also give you money back just for using solar power.
Look for Energy Star appliances
Using Energy Star appliances helps you beat the summer heat. A good rating from this organization means that the appliance costs less to run. Consider swapping out your range with a new one that won't heat your entire kitchen as you use it. Finding a microwave or refrigerator with an Energy Star rating is just as easy. You can also find central AC systems with a high Energy Star rating.
Say goodbye to old windows
One upgrade that's energy efficient and better for the environment is new windows. Why stick with old windows that let out so much of your conditioned cool air and let in so much hot air? Old windows also lack the protection from the sun that new windows have. Whenever it's sunny outside, the rays shine through the glass, raising the interior temperature by at least a few degrees. New windows come in hundreds of designs that are suitable for many types of homes.
Choosing one or more of these projects can help you look forward to summer at home as much as you want to take vacations. New appliances and windows, along with solar panels and an upgraded HVAC, can make your home more comfortable. Discover more project ideas that are perfect for your home on our Instagram page.
