Achieving an energy-efficient home involves looking at all the factors that account for its conditioning load. Homes that have adequate insulation, good windows, and low levels of air infiltration need less conditioning resulting in lower energy bills. Making home improvements that lower energy bills will keep more money in your pocket, while creating a more comfortable home.
Insulation
The amount of insulation in the attic and walls will make a big difference in the rate of heat transfer in your home. The DOE recommends that homes in our region have at least 10 inches in the attic to deter heat transfer. Batt and blown-in are affordable products and start working immediately. If you install your own, be sure you don’t block the vents in the attic.
Windows
Unless you have upgraded thermal or Energy Star windows, they can be a source of tremendous energy gain or losses. In our region, the sunshine in the summer can add substantial heat to a room. Shade screens can block up to 90 percent of the UV light and heat entering through windows the sun hits. Reflective window film also works well, and will even keep your home warmer during the winter since the film blocks heat transfer.
Air Infiltration
Sealing the air leaks in your home’s envelope and ductwork contribute a great deal to creating an energy-efficient home. It’s possible to find the air leaks around windows and exterior door frames by visually examining them. Professional energy auditors and HVAC contractors can also conduct a blower door test that finds all the air leaks in your home and measures the amount of infiltration.
Duct leaks can be harder to diagnose unless the ducts are easy to access. HVAC professionals use special equipment to test the ducts and have the tools to permanently seal them. Ductwork leaks can happen at any time and will increase conditioning costs and lower indoor air quality.
To learn more about achieving an energy-efficient home, contact the experts at Thermacon Service Company. We provide outstanding HVAC services for the Beaumont, Vidor, Port Arthur and Orange areas.
