Whether you’re making a few upgrades to your current home or searching for a new one, don’t forget about energy. An energy-efficient house is designed to conserve and reduce energy usage without sacrificing the comforts of home. Making more efficient choices helps you save money in the long term and reduces your environmental footprint.
From insulation to energy-efficient appliances, there are many ways to improve a home's energy performance. Think about these energy-saving home design tips before making any modifications or big purchases.
- Appliances. By using energy-efficient appliances with the ENERGY STAR® label to cook meals, clean dishes, and wash clothes, you can save time, conserve water and reduce energy costs. Tip: Consider a tankless water heater that only heats water as you need it.
- Lighting. For energy-efficient light design, prioritize LED lighting, maximize natural light, and consider smart lighting controls and fixtures. Don’t forget to use fixtures with the ENERGY STAR® label.
- Windows. Energy-efficient windows can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs by minimizing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Depending on your climate, storm windows and extra panes can further insulate your home.
- Design. If you’re remodeling or house hunting, remember that rooms with high ceilings are hard to keep warm, and open floor plans require more heat to maintain a comfortable temperature. Roofing materials can also impact your home’s efficiency. According to the Department of Energy, a cool roof is designed to reflect more sunlight than a conventional roof, absorbing less solar energy and reducing heat flow.
- Eco-friendly materials. The most energy-efficient houses use eco-friendly materials to improve overall efficiency throughout the home. These can include bamboo wood alternatives, recycled steel, and vacuum-insulated panels. Consider these options if you are making an addition or building a home.
- Technology. Smart home technology can save energy through automation, monitoring, and control by allowing for optimized energy usage based on real-time needs. It can go a long way in reducing waste and lowering your energy bill over time as well. Get $100 instant rebate off smart thermostats, exclusively for SJG/ETG customers, at the South Jersey Gas Marketplace / Elizabethtown Gas Marketplace
Unsure how much energy your home is using? Schedule a no-cost Whole Home Energy Assessment to assess your home’s energy usage, discuss savings opportunities, and provide a written report with recommendations for improving efficiency.
Sources: Department of Energy
Sources: VisitSouthJersey.com, EarthDay.org, Energy.gov
