One of the best things you can do as a homeowner is to make the home more energy-efficient. There are small and large upgrades you can make to the home, from performing basic maintenance to installing new systems. Here are 5 ways to improve the energy efficiency of your house.

Seal Up Gaps Around Windows and Doors

Sealing the home is an easy and effective task for improving a home’s energy efficiency. For openings underneath windows and around the edges of doors, apply adhesive weatherstripping material. If the windows are old and have tiny cracks along the panes, use caulk for sealing up those areas.

Change HVAC Filters on Time

HVAC filters must get changed on time to keep the system running efficiently. The interval depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations and what kind of filter it is. For instance, a HEPA filter should be changed more often because it captures smaller particulates. Usually, the recommendation is every 30-90 days.

Replace Appliances to Make the Home More Energy-Efficient

Appliance manufacturers are constantly innovating to make new models more efficient. Replacing appliances like the refrigerator, washer, dryer, water heater, dishwasher, and HVAC system with newer models will make your energy bills go down. Look for an ENERGY STAR certification when you pick out new appliances.

Add a Water Heater Blanket

A simple measure you can take to increase the efficiency of a tank water heater is to wrap an insulative blanket around it. These blankets are affordable and help the water stay hot inside the tank.

Solar Panels Make the Home More Energy-Efficient

If your roof sees a lot of sunlight, installing solar panels may be the best way to lower your household’s energy consumption. Oftentimes, solar panels can power an entire home. You won’t have an energy bill to pay, so once you have paid off the cost of the solar panels you will easily recoup your investment.

Corex Home Inspections offers home inspection services to Southeast Michigan. Contact us to request an appointment.