Six Easy Energy-Saving Home Improvement Projects

If you are replacing appliances and building components as part of a remodel then it makes sense to use their energy-efficient counterparts. If not, there are a number of simple and straightforward things that homeowners can do to save energy without tearing out and replacing.

1. Insulate Your Attic
Attic insulation is the single most cost-effective thing you can do to save energy costs. Energy Star recommends R30-R60 attic insulation for the Bay Area. Current building codes require a minimum of R30 but older houses were built with much less (if any). Attic insulation can save you up to 15% on your heating bills. Caution: if you have knob and tube wiring in your attic, consult a professional before installing insulation.

2. Seal Air Leaks and Drafts
The easiest ones to find are located around windows and doors. On the other hand, holes hidden in attics, basements, and crawl-spaces are generally bigger problems. The Energy Star website has a useful diagram showing common energy leak areas, plus a Do-It-Yourself Guide to Sealing and Insulating.

3. Insulate Your Windows
If you have single-pane glass in your windows and sliding doors but don't have the budget to change them to double-pane insulated glass, you can still improve their performance. Install light-screening shades that reduce heat load in the summer, but don't block views of your yard. Install insulated drapes or roman shades to reduce heat loss at night in cold weather. The best insulation comes from window coverings mounted on the wall covering both the window and trim.

4. Seal and Insulate Heating and Air Conditioning Ducts
Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent - and sometimes much more.

5. Install a programmable thermostat
This is ideal if everybody in the house is away during regular hours throughout the week. Programmed settings allow you to turn the heat down at night and still wake up to a warm house. They also prevent you from heating your house all day because you forgot to turn down the heat when you left in the morning. A programmable thermostat can save you $180 per year in energy costs.

6. Maintain your Heating/Cooling system
Changing your filter once a month during heavy use times, and a minimum of every 3 months is recommended. A dirty filter will slow down the air flow and make the system work harder to keep your house warm or cool - wasting energy. A yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can make sure that it is running at optimal performance.


See the Energy Star website http://www.energy.ca.gov/ for additional ideas, Do-It-Yourself recommendations, and tips on finding the right contractor.

Karen Drozda
drozda+others architects
kdrozda@dpluso.com
http://www.dpluso.com/