A Homeowner's Guide to Energy Efficiency for the Fall

Name: Great Northern Insulation
Telephone: 1-800-265-1914

August 31, 2017

Most homeowners are genuinely interested in making their home more energy efficient. Besides the comfort benefits in fall and winter, there are also substantial energy savings to be had - something that no homeowner wants to overlook. fall guide to energy efficiency

In the fall, and just before winter emerges, a basic guide to energy efficiency can be very helpful in plotting out an action plan that will deliver results. And with temperatures dropping month after month, the sooner the work begins, the better.

The important thing about following a guide to energy efficiency is to identify the upgrades and retrofits that will be most effective, while offering real dollar savings from season to season. For some, it’s the small things, for others, the big things.

Lowering the thermostat when temperatures plunge

Lowering the thermostat in fall and winter by only a few degrees can reduce monthly bills. The reverse is true in summer. Whatever the weather, a thermostat should be adjusted when away.

Replacing incandescent light bulbs is easy anytime

Halogen light bulbs and LED light bulbs are long lasting and energy efficient. By replacing the incandescent bulbs, energy consumption can be noticeably reduced, and money can be saved.

Avoid (or stop) running the water tap unnecessarily

Running water unnecessarily is a waste. More than that, a bath uses almost 4 times the water of a shower. And finally, when it comes to laundry, the load should be full (a half load wastes water).

Unplugging phone chargers and appliance chargers

Electric chargers use energy even without a device. With a great many chargers throughout the home, energy is being wasted. As a rule, electric chargers should be unplugged when not used.

Weatherizing and/or weather-stripping the windows

Any good guide to energy efficiency will include improvements to windows and doors. Sealing up air leaks will ensure that warm air won’t escape in winter and cool air won’t escape in summer.

Upgrading and/or retrofitting existing attic insulation

Upgrading a home’s attic insulation prevents air leakage, while effectively insulating for winter and summer weather. With improved energy efficiency, utility savings can offset the investment.

Before the fall, performing an energy audit is incisive

A professional Energy Auditor can accurately assess a home for energy inefficiencies. As such, an Energy Audit can pinpoint areas in the home that could be improved, and could save on energy.

Tuning up HVAC equipment (or possible replacement)

HVAC equipment (heat and cool) that is working efficiently uses less energy. A tune up will make a big difference in home comfort and energy savings. If needed, replacement may be an option.

Working with professionals to upgrade and retrofit

With home energy, the “quick-fix” might be okay for the short term. But for long-term success, nothing beats a professional approach to upgrades and retrofits. For homeowners genuinely committed to improving energy efficiency, Great Northern Insulation offers a practical guide to energy efficiency with an online tool to move things forward. It’s called My EnergyXpert, and it can identify performance areas in the home that can be improved. To find out more, visit the GNI website at www.gni.ca or call Great Northern Insulation directly at 1-800-265-1914.