Home renovations can be a significant investment, but they also offer an opportunity to make energy-efficient upgrades that can save you money in the long run. In this post, we identify which energy upgrades are most cost-effective during a renovation and which upgrades offer the greatest return on investment.
1. Insulation
Insulation is one of the most cost-effective energy upgrades you can make during a renovation. Good insulation can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, reducing your heating and cooling costs. Properly insulating your home can also improve its overall energy efficiency, making it more comfortable to live in.
2. Sealing Air Leaks
Air leaks are a major source of energy waste in homes. They can let in cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer, making your HVAC system work harder than it needs to. Sealing air leaks is an easy and cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors, and sealing air leaks in your ductwork can save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs each year
3. Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Upgrading to energy-efficient lighting is a simple upgrade that can have a big impact on your energy bills. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. Although LED bulbs cost more upfront, they can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy consumption.
4. Upgrading to a High-Efficiency HVAC System
Upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system is a more expensive energy upgrade but can offer a significant return on investment. A high-efficiency HVAC system can save you up to 20% on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. When replacing your HVAC system, look for models with a high SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and an ENERGY STAR certification
5. Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Windows
Upgrading to energy-efficient windows can offer a significant return on investment over time. Energy-efficient windows are designed to reduce heat transfer, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. They can also reduce noise levels and improve the overall comfort of your home. Although the upfront cost of new windows may be high, the long-term savings on energy bills can be worth the investment.
There are many energy upgrades you can make during a home renovation that can save you money and improve your home’s energy efficiency. Insulation, sealing air leaks, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system, and upgrading to energy-efficient windows are all cost-effective upgrades that can offer a significant return on investment over time. By prioritizing these upgrades during your home renovation, you can make your home more comfortable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly.