Now that the temperature is starting to heat up here in Oklahoma, we could all use a little extra help with saving on our monthly utility bills. While we’ve all heard the standby suggestions of turning on ceiling fans and raising the thermostat to a barely-comfortable level, there are several other things you can do around the house to boost in-home energy efficiency. Here are three solutions that can make the biggest difference.
Evaluate the Age and Condition of Windows and Doors
You may be surprised to learn just how much air can escape out of worn down windows and doors. Have you ever stood right next to an old window in the middle of summer? It’s hard not to feel the heat penetrating into your home. If your windows and doors were installed more than 10 years ago, you may be able to cut back significantly on cooling costs by investing in window replacement. The best part is that you don’t have to sacrifice your old window style; today’s models can be designed to resemble your favorite look.
Consider Upgrading to High-Efficiency Metal
If you have a larger budget, you may also consider replacing your old roof with high-efficiency metal roofing. Unlike traditional materials, metal is built to reflect most of the sun’s harsh rays away from your home. This, in turn, keeps the rest of the house cooler and prevents you from running up your monthly energy usage. Although metal is one of the most expensive roofing materials at the time of installation, its longevity and energy savings often make up for the initial investment.
Don’t Forget to Clean Those Gutters
It may not seem like it, but gutters can make a huge impact on the overall efficiency of our homes. When they are running clear, they prevent unnecessary moisture from accumulating and bogging down air conditioners. When they are clogged, however, the rest of your house has to work harder to dry out.
These are three of the easiest ways to improve in-home energy efficiency.