Three Energy Efficient Improvements To Lower Winter Heating Bills

03 Dec Three Energy Efficient Improvements To Lower Winter Heating Bills

Nearly all Americans notice a single trend during frigid winter months: electric, utility, and/or heating bills climb steadily (and sometimes even drastically). Thankfully, there are several things you can do to improve your home’s energy efficiency and permanently lower heating costs. Here are just a few.

Pinpoint Problem Areas
Sometimes, reducing heating costs and improving your home’s energy efficiency may be akin to taking a stab in the dark. It doesn’t have to be that way, however. Call in a professional to perform an energy audit. These professionals will point out the areas in your home where you are losing the most energy. In other words, if drafty windows and doors are taking the largest toll on your heating bills, these services can explicitly tell you that. After having an energy audit, “you can easily target and prioritize exactly what you need to do, and what you can afford to do,” according to Inhabit.com.

Don’t Forget About The Attic
Homeowners typically focus on the rooms they spend the most time in. This isn’t necessarily wrong, but it can leave certain gaps in your home’s energy efficiency — and ultimately hike up your heating and utility bills. For the best results, remember to consider all areas in your home, including the attic. Make sure attics have proper insulation. “The U.S. Department of Energy’s program sheet can help determine the best type of insulation for your attic based on your location,” The Huffington Post reports.

Look Into Vinyl Siding Installation Costs
Siding installing prices (including general house siding installation and vinyl siding trim installation) may be well worth it — especially considering that siding generally improves energy efficiency and is much easier to maintain than comparable materials, such as paint. In fact, a new house wrap and vinyl siding can generally last about 40 years!

Out of five million homes surveyed in 2009, 23,500 had broken and/or drafty windows. Most residential energy problems, however, are not quite as obvious. Improve your home’s energy efficiency by insulating the attic, pricing new vinyl siding installation, and getting an energy audit to pinpoint other problem areas.