Best Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades You Need to Make in 2024
October 06, 2023
If you want to level up your living space in 2024, energy-efficient home upgrades are the way to go. It’s a move that could significantly reduce your home utility expenses and help protect the planet.
From cooling your interior spaces with mini-split air conditioners to programming the temperature with a smart thermostat, a range of energy-efficient devices will make your home a lean, green, cost-efficient machine.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most impactful energy-efficient home upgrades worth considering in the coming year. And while you read about your options, keep in mind that YES! can help you integrate most of them into your home.
10 Energy-Efficient Home Improvements to Implement in 2024
With 2024 just around the corner, it's time to think about the best energy-saving home improvements that can make a difference in your daily life. If you're looking to maximize your living space's efficiency, comfort, and value, here are 10 energy-efficient home upgrades you should consider:
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Get Needed HVAC System Upgrades
When you think about what chews up energy in your home, HVAC systems might not always top your list. Yet, they're often the culprits, hogging nearly half of a home's energy use!
Like any piece of equipment, its efficiency can wane over time. That's why giving the system regular check-ups is crucial and, when the time is right, upgrade to newer, more efficient HVAC models. An upgrade ensures a cozy home with optimal air quality while pocketing energy savings. You could even earn tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act.
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Get a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat optimizes energy use by auto-adjusting to your lifestyle and preferences. It learns your habits, ensuring your home is at the right temperature when you're there and conserves energy when you're away. The result? Significant savings on energy bills, a reduced carbon footprint, and a consistently comfortable living environment without the fuss of manual adjustments. It's a simple yet effective step toward a more energy-efficient home.
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Upgrade Your Air Ducts
Upgrading your air ducts can drastically boost energy efficiency, ensuring smooth airflow and reducing energy waste. Ducts in tip-top shape ensure your HVAC system doesn't work overtime, saving on energy and usually reducing your bill.
Considering an upgrade? The skilled technicians at YES! are seasoned professionals at enhancing duct systems, making your home comfortable and efficient.
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High-Efficiency Water Heater Installation
High-efficiency water heaters are a secret weapon for homeowners battling rising energy bills. These models consume up to 50% less energy than their standard counterparts, dramatically slashing water heating costs. Besides being kinder to your wallet, they heat water faster and maintain desired temperatures longer. Making the switch means enjoying consistent hot water, reducing your carbon footprint, and pocketing substantial yearly savings.
The technicians at YES! specialize in water heater upgrades and will help you choose and install an efficient heater that fits your home and budget.
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Switch to LED Lighting
Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs consume at least 75% less energy. The bulbs can also last up to 25 times longer, making them one of the simplest and most effective energy-efficient home upgrades. With LED bulbs, you're cutting down your electricity bill while reducing the frequency of bulb replacements, saving you money.
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Add Solar Panels
A 6 kW solar panel system has the potential to save you over $30,000 in energy costs over its life span. Harnessing the sun's power reduces your reliance on fossil fuels, drastically reducing your carbon footprint. Additionally, a typical residential solar panel system can prevent 3-4 tons of carbon emissions each year, equivalent to planting over 100 trees. Switching to solar is a quantifiable step toward greener living.
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Upgrade to Green Roofing
Believe it or not, your roof plays a significant role in regulating your home's indoor temperature. Standard roofs often absorb sunlight, cranking up the heat inside your house. In contrast, green or cool roofs are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. This is a game-changer, particularly in hot climates, as it can significantly cut down your need for air conditioning.
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Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new appliances, from fridges to dishwashers. Sure, they might pinch your wallet a tad more upfront, but the long-term energy cost savings are well worth it.
Traditional dishwashers can be real water hogs, guzzling more than they need. As a result, you might resort to hand-washing dishes as a cost-saving alternative. Alternatively, an energy-efficient dishwasher uses water more effectively, proving to be a smarter, eco-friendly, and economical choice in the long run.
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Install Advanced Insulation
Considering the precious energy you'll waste, having old or subpar insulation is like throwing money out the window. Upgrading to contemporary insulating materials, especially in crucial areas like attics and walls, seals in comfort. Modern insulation ensures your home stays at the desired temperature and helps reduce skyrocketing energy bills. If you're looking for a smarter way to keep your home cozy and cut costs, it's time to rethink your insulation.
The experts at YES! can quickly assess your needs, fix air leaks, and install more efficient insulation throughout your home.
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Use Smart Power Strips
Utilizing Smart Power Strips can significantly enhance your home's energy efficiency. These ingenious devices intelligently detect when a connected device is not in use and promptly cut the power. This action thwarts any "phantom" energy consumption, ensuring that your devices are not stealthily sipping electricity when they're off or in standby mode. By addressing this often-overlooked problem, Smart Power Strips are a straightforward yet effective solution for reducing energy waste and, consequently, decreasing your electricity bill, making your home more eco-friendly.
There are a myriad of options for energy-efficient improvements, but these 10 stand out for 2024. Remember, the goal is to save on monthly utility bills and increase your home’s overall value and comfort. Each upgrade plays a part in creating a sustainable living environment and contributes to the broader picture of global energy conservation.
Benefits of Improving Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Upgrading your home’s energy efficiency shows that you’re environmentally conscious and committed to sustainability, which is commendable. However, the investment also saves you money! Most homeowners will notice a 5% to 30% reduction in their monthly utility bills after integrating advanced energy-efficient appliances and intelligent home systems.
What's more, this investment can enhance your home's market value. A recent study by lender Freddie Mac showed that homes with energy-efficient upgrades sold faster and for an average of 2.7% more than homes without upgrades. Today's discerning homebuyers are on the lookout for properties that seamlessly blend aesthetics with functionality and sustainability. Also, they tend to assume that properties with energy-efficient upgrades are well-maintained and include other essential upgrades, like new carpeting, water-conserving faucets, or security systems.
But that's not where the benefits end. The best energy-saving home improvements ensure a more harmonious, comfortable living space. Imagine an advanced insulation system maintaining optimal indoor temperatures and energy-efficient windows minimizing external disturbances. Now, that’s comfort!
You can take steps to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reap all the benefits with the help of the professionals at YES!
Turn To YES! For Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades
Ready to make the best energy-saving home improvements? Turn to YES! for all your HVAC, plumbing, and electrical needs. We're the go-to solution for greener, more efficient homes in Nevada and Utah. Plus, we have coupons and special offers that make upgrading a breeze. And remember, we guarantee our work, giving you peace of mind and energy savings.
Why wait? Call us at 844-216-9300 and start your home transformation with YES! today.
Last Updated: April 05, 2024