9 Tips to Work Your Way Toward a Zero Energy Home

If it’s contagious, then this is one bug you’ll want to catch. Call it the energy bug or homeowners’ growing interest in creating a zero energy home.

That’s what we in the heating and air conditioning industry call homes that produce as much energy as they use, which is a great goal to pursue.

Can’t be done, you say? Well, there’s no doubt it takes time and effort. But once you’ve been bitten by the energy bug, you might be so inspired that you’ll enact all of the ideas suggested by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Some may sound familiar, while others may be new.

Tips Toward a Zero Energy Home

• Sealing holes and cracks, especially around windows, doors and other problem spots with no more than a few dollars in caulk and weatherstripping.
• Inspecting your insulation and being prepared to add more. Again, don’t go it alone. An HVAC technician can help ensure the levels are up to par and add more insulation where it’s needed.
• Turning off lights, computers and phones when no one’s using them. It’s true that appliances don’t add up to much on the monthly utility bill, but why let them add up at all?
• Replacing old incandescent light bulbs with new, energy efficient bulbs that use about 25 percent less energy. Compact fluorescent lamps will save you even more.
• Installing low-flow faucets and shower heads, which will save you money because there will be less water to heat. Heating water is the second most costly utility expense for most homeowners, right after heating and air conditioning.
• Purchasing only Energy Star appliances.
• Replacing single-pane windows with energy efficient windows.
• Replacing an old and inefficient HVAC system with one that can attain an efficiency level of nearly 98 percent.
• Producing your own energy with solar panels or some other form of renewable energy.

Whoever said that all bugs are bad bugs hasn’t been bitten by the energy bug. Call Scott’s Heating & Air Conditioning for a consultation and we’ll show you how creating a zero energy home can be more rewarding than you ever thought possible.

Scott’s Heating & Air Conditioning is a full-service heating and air conditioning company and a Bryant® Factory Authorized Dealer in Central Florida. Whether you need repair, maintenance, or installation of a new heating or cooling system, we provide efficient, cost-effective, and professional service. When it’s hot, call Scott!

Categorised in: Energy Savings