While older homes are quite charming, they’re notorious for being less than economical when it comes to heating and cooling. Low energy efficiency can cause sky-high utility bills and worn-out systems. If you’re buying an older home to flip or you’re a current owner who is tired of drafty air conditioning in their quaint cottage, you’ll want to consider how you can improve your energy usage.
Luckily, the experts at Alabama Power Smart Financing are here to break down all you need to know about energy efficiency. We cover how you can improve your home’s efficiency and how to improve your energy rating. Don’t miss out on these tips from the experts—keep on reading to get your newest home project running smoothly and effectively.
How Can I Improve My Energy Efficiency?
An energy-efficient home will use less energy than the average household to run its refrigerator, HVAC system, electronics, and more. If you improve your energy efficiency, you can save money, boost power consistency, and even breathe healthier air.
Older homes are notorious for having high energy bills because they lack proper insulation and often have leaky air ducts. Thanks to new technology, it’s possible to improve the way your old home uses and conserves power. Whether you’re house flipping or want to upgrade your own system, there are a few ways to improve your energy efficiency.
Crawlspace Encapsulation
You’ll want to consider encapsulation if your older home has a crawlspace. If your crawl space isn’t sealed and protected, precious cooled or heated air may leak out, causing your HVAC system to work harder to replace it. Crawlspace encapsulation seals your foundation, keeping leaks and moisture problems away. Not only is this an energy-efficient investment, but it can also help maintain your home’s structural integrity.
Attic Insulation
Attic ventilation is our go-to for improving your energy efficiency. Without ventilation, heat can easily escape, and your heating system has to work harder to heat your home. Older homes often don’t have proper ventilation, especially those built before 1980. If your home hasn’t been insulated, we recommend contacting your local insulation expert to recommend the best type of insulation for your home.
Home Window Tinting
Many windows built a few decades ago weren’t double-glazed and are very thin compared to modern constructions. Energy-saving films can reflect the sun better than older windows and improve the stability of your home’s temperature. Various options, like noise canceling and privacy window upgrades, can enhance your home’s efficiency and functionality simultaneously.
Windows/Doors
In many older homes, windows and doors are responsible for air slipping through the cracks. Your windows or doors may have thin glass, wooden frames, holes, damage, or other problems that leak air. You can save big on your next power bill by sealing gaps or replacing these worn items. If you enjoy your older home’s charm, you can find vintage replacements at antique stores, online stores, or your local furniture store.
Attic Ventilation
Proper insulation and attic ventilation are crucial for restoring an older home’s energy efficiency. For the best bang for your buck on your next power bill, you want your attic to be about the same temperature as the outside air. In the winter, this reduces leaks and ice buildup. When temperatures heat up, an attic that’s too hot can cause your HVAC system to work overtime. With attic ventilation, a fan can keep air moving and reduce the chances of stuff air piling up.
How Do I Improve My Energy Efficiency Rating?
If you’re flipping an older home to sell, the home’s energy rating will be important information to advertise to sellers. The Home Energy Score™ was created by the U.S. Department of Energy and measures your home’s energy efficiency and associated costs. This 1-10 scale can provide you with areas for energy improvement that you can show off on your listing.
If you’ve updated the home’s efficiency beforehand, the Home Energy Score should reflect your hard work. To get a score for your latest fixer-upper, contact your local energy expert.
Get Financing for All Your Energy Needs in 2023
Make your house flip irresistible to Alabama homebuyers with these tips for improving energy efficiency. From window tinting to attic ventilation to crawl space encapsulation, there are plenty of options to boost your home’s energy efficiency rating.
If you’re renovating a home before selling, paying for these upgrades can feel overwhelming. At Alabama Power Smart Financing, we want to give you the tools to make these improvements. We offer various plans to fit your budget and your enhancements. Improve your home with the help of Alabama’s most trusted power company since 1906!
Become More Energy Efficient with Alabama Power Smart Financing
If you’re interested in upgrading your older home to be more energy efficient, Alabama Power Smart Financing can help. Our providers are knowledgeable and always get the job done right. To get started, give us a call at 1-888-44-SMART or send an email to G2APCSFSupport@southernco.com.
