As more and more people are starting to understand the impact individual choices have on the environment as a whole, the desire to improve energy efficiency is increasing. The fact that being kind to the environment can also provide homeowners with significant savings on their energy bills is a happy bonus.

Here are four ways to improve your Sioux Falls home’s energy efficiency. Some of these methods require a larger investment than others, but all are a step towards a greener lifestyle and lower energy bills.

Install a Smart Thermostat

If you don’t have a smart thermostat then your HVAC unit is not operating at its most efficient. The benefits are impressive and include the ability to remotely monitor and control the thermostat, self-adjusting temperatures based on factors tailored to your family, useful energy reports that help you pinpoint areas for improvement, and more. You might be wondering how much you can save? Quality smart thermostats bring a savings of up to $180 a year.

Update Your Insulation

Many homes have no insulation in their attics, but even if yours does there is an excellent chance that your attic is under insulated. In fact, according to a study by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), 90% of homes in the country don’t have sufficient insulation. The savings you’ll enjoy on your heating and cooling bills can pay for this home update in just a year or two. 

Install Low-Flow Showerheads

Did you know that a typical showerhead uses 5 gallons of water per minute? That’s 75 gallons for a 15-minute shower. Installing an affordable low-flow showerhead can cut that number in half. You can find low-flow showerheads for as little as $15, and they are easy to install. It’s a fast and very low-cost way to do something good for the environment.

Install New Windows

If your windows are outdated, you are surely paying too much for your heating and cooling costs. Up to 30% of a home’s energy leaks through the windows, and older windows simply don’t have the money-saving features found on premium window replacement products.

Here’s the deal:

It’s true that installing energy-efficient windows is a bigger investment that the other suggestions on this list, but it will also yield the biggest improvement in your home’s energy efficiency. When upgrading from single-pane window to high-performance windows, a typical homeowner will save nearly $500 a year. When you consider the Sioux Falls climate—where winter temperatures dip into the single digits—it’s easy to imagine the savings will be even greater.

So is it time to replace your windows?

Here are a few signs that it is:

  • Your windows are more than 10 years old.
  • The windows are drafty.
  • You notice frost on the inside of the windows.
  • There are cold/hot spots near your windows.
  • There is noticeable damage or the windows are difficult to open and close.

Still not sure? Contact Juranek Home Improvement to schedule a free consultation. The window specialists at our replacement window company will assess your windows and let you know if you would benefit from an upgrade. Give us a call today or fill out our online form now to get started!