Is your home in Allentown, Pennsylvania as energy efficient as it could be? This question is especially important to consider if you’re thinking about putting your home on the market soon. Smart energy-efficient upgrades lessen your impact on the environment, reduce your utility bills, and increase the resale value of your home. How much value you gain depends on several factors, but here are some upgrade ideas to get started in the right direction.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Your heating and cooling system is the top user of energy in your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, HVAC systems account for about 43% of your energy bill. Upgrading an old unit with a new energy-efficient HVAC system is the biggest way to decrease energy usage and increase savings. Our professional technicians are ready to guide you through our systems to help you decide which HVAC system is the best fit for your home.
Smart Thermostats
A programmable smart thermostat is an affordable investment that can pay off big when used correctly. They’re also an easy way to show potential homebuyers that your home is energy efficient. Precisely control your home’s temperature from anywhere with a convenient mobile app and Wi-Fi connection. Set a schedule so you’re not wasting energy and money on heating or cooling when you aren’t home. Most models offer energy savings modes to help you maximize savings as well.
Ductwork
A system of ducts disperses conditioned air throughout your home, and problems can occur anywhere. Leaky ductwork is a huge waste of energy. According to Energy Star, your home loses about 20% of heated or cooled air due to leaks, holes, and poorly connected ducts. Have your ductwork professionally inspected and repaired so your home will more efficiently heat and cool. You’ll also feel more comfortable and see lower utility bills as a result of this upgrade.
Sealing and Insulation
Air leaks and insufficient insulation are both factors that affect the energy efficiency of your home. Proper sealing and insulation lower your heating and cooling costs. First, find and seal any air leaks on the outside of your home. Sealing prevents conditioned air from escaping and keeps outside hot or cold air from pouring in. Then, evenly distribute additional insulation in the attic area to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your entire home. Keep adding insulation until your joists are covered all the way to the eaves.
Wall insulation is another upgrade you can consider, especially if you have an unfinished basement or an older home that may not be as well insulated as it should be. In addition to energy savings, proper insulation keeps your home’s temperatures even and comfortable.
Windows and Doors
Like sealing and insulating your home, adding energy-efficient windows and doors cuts down on drafts and increases savings on utilities. New windows and doors not only brighten up your home, but they also improve insulation for years to come. Potential homebuyers will appreciate the value that upgraded windows and doors bring to a home. These upgrades are especially worth considering when you take into account the long and cold Pennsylvania winters your home faces each year.
Solar Panels
Installing solar panels on a home pays off in the long run for a lot of homeowners. Solar panels absorb sunlight and use that energy to generate electricity. They’re a great source of alternative energy to power your home. The amount you’ll save on energy costs and how long it’ll take to recoup your investment after installing the panels varies. Discuss this option with a professional in order to decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Homebuyers are more aware of the benefits of energy-efficient homes today than ever before. They understand the value of these upgrades, and some are willing to pay for them as well. Call Sullivan Oil and Propane at (610) 810-3992 to learn more about our energy-efficient HVAC systems and services. Our professional technicians are ready to help you decrease your energy usage and increase the resale value of your Allentown, Pennsylvania home.
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