Energy Saving Upgrades to Get the Most Out of Your Renovation.
In these times of increasing environmental awareness, energy-saving initiatives have become crucial. By remodelling your home to be more energy efficient you can not only take advantage of government rebate initiatives, but you can reduce your energy bills in the long run. Here are five energy-saving home upgrades that can make a significant difference.
Replace Windows With Energy-Efficient Models
Replacing your old windows with newer energy-efficient ones can significantly reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, improving your home's insulation. Energy-efficient windows are designed with multiple layers of glass, low-emissivity coatings, and advanced framing materials that minimize heat transfer. They also come with better seals, preventing drafts and reducing the need for excessive heating or air conditioning. Certain models of Energy Star certified windows and sliding glass doors are eligible for rebate through the Canada Greener Homes Grant initiative, so be sure to get your home assessed for retrofit to ensure you can take advantage of the savings.
Increase Home Insulation and Weatherstripping.
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy waste. Improving insulation in your walls, attic, and basement can help stabilize the temperature, slow the rate of heat loss, and minimize the need for continuous heating or cooling — resulting in improved energy use and long term savings on your energy bill. In addition to long term savings, improving your home insulation is also eligible for the Canada Greener Homes Grant initiative, a great way to reduce your overall renovation spend.
Weatherstripping, on the other hand, seals gaps around doors and windows, preventing drafts and air leakage. Combined, these upgrades ensure that your HVAC system works more efficiently throughout the year.
Install a Smart Thermostat.
Smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature of your home more efficiently, improve your comfort, and increase savings on your energy bill. They learn your preferred settings and automatically adjust the temperature based on your habits and when you are not at home. Additionally, some smart thermostats have the ability to redirect your energy usage to cleaner sources and communicate with your local energy providers during grid stress to avoid community blackouts or brownouts. Local utility companies occasionally run rebate programs on selected smart thermostat models, so be sure to check with your provider and take advantage of all possible savings!