I am always searching for new ways to reduce home expenses.
While I’ve installed smart lighting & energy saving faucets, the majority of annual costs are due to heating & cooling. I’ve figured out that indoor temperature control accounts for approximately half of our energy bills. The weather in my local section is a year round challenge. With excessive heat & humidity in the summer, cold & snow winters & wet & windy Spring & fall, my buddy and I alternate between running the heater & the air conditioner. There is seldom the opportunity to open the windows & care about a fresh breeze. For the majority of the year, it’s necessary to keep the home sealed tight. With hopes of preventing energy waste & reducing expenses, I inspect the household every year, checking for any leaks or gaps in the solar envelope. While updating to brand new, Energy Star rated, thermal pane windows was a significant investment, I’ve noticed fewer drafts & less condensate on the glass. Removing the old insulation that had been detrimentd by moisture & rodents from the attic was not a pleasant job. I spent a whole weekend dripping with sweat duringstalling new insulation, but there was a small improvement in comfort. I make sure to update the air filters in the heater & air conditioner every other month & schedule professional service for the component in the fall & Spring. I’ve added a smart temperature control & ceiling fans to elevate comfort while trimming costs. My next project is a new roof. The roof has begun to leak whenever it rains, & I’m convinced that it’s no longer an effective barrier against the elements.
