Just when you thought energy costs might be stabilizing, they are going up again as we approach winter. A combination of factors, including inflation, energy supply reductions and the global energy crisis, are to blame. But there are ways that you can fight against higher energy costs. Here at Dolphin Insulation, we are committed to seeing you stay warm this winter (and comfortable all year around).
Some steps you can take include:
- Upgrading your heating system and/or having regular maintenance performed.
- Installing thermal windows and doors.
- Adding weather stripping around existing windows and doors.
- Installing programmable thermostats and calibrating the settings so heat is turned down in areas of your home that are not being used at specific times of the day. Also, lower the settings during any time your home is unoccupied.
- Lowering your water heater setting to 120 degrees.
- Removing furniture or any objects blocking vents to allow optimal distribution of heat.
- Raising shades and blinds and opening curtains to let the sun warm the home.
The most energy-saving solution
While taking all these steps can help you with optimizing your energy usage, to truly reduce energy consumption and costs in an impactful way, there is nothing better than energy-efficient insulation.
By installing a thick layer of all-natural, moisture-resistant cellulose insulation in your attic and walls, you can keep your home toasty warm at a lower thermostat setting and your heating system will run less frequently. The envelope of your home is sealed so heat doesn’t escape and your home maintains consistent warmth and comfort across all living spaces.
If your HVAC system is in your attic, a “hot roof” (attic insulation) installation will place it in the conditioned space of your home, allowing it to work much more efficiently. Greater HVAC efficiency plus a well-insulated home leads to energy cost savings of around 50%. Yes, you can cut your energy bills in half! And these savings give you a return on your investment in the insulation system in 5-6 years, along with energy cost savings for years to come.
By creating a more energy-efficient home this winter, you can help save both energy and money all year round ⎯ when cooling in summer as well as heating in winter.
Cool Fact:
Having a newly insulated and energy-efficient home will add tremendously to your home’s value when you put it on the market.
Hot Tip:
Having your HVAC system in non-conditioned space (in the cold environment of an uninsulated attic) is like having it outside but a “hot roof” insulation installation places it in the conditioned space of the home, allowing it to work less as well as keep your home warmer or cooler depending on the season. If your HVAC system doesn’t have to work as hard to produce warm air, you will extend its lifespan.