The term “energy efficiency” is heard quite often these days, but what does it mean? How does it relate to your home and daily life? Being energy efficient simply means using less energy to power your needs. Changing to efficient methods and technologies can help reduce energy consumption. Your home’s heating and cooling is a good example. Making improvements will allow your HVAC system to use less energy while maintaining your usual target temperature.

Energy Efficiency Strategies and Benefits

There are two keys to increase a home’s energy efficiency. First, keeping the conditioned envelope airtight. Then, limiting heat transfer through walls and ceilings. Proven strategies for achieving these goals include insulating to the recommended regional R-value. Our climate zone is R49-60. Sealing leaks and making sure windows and doors are efficient also cut conditioned air losses.

Taking such steps to boost your home’s efficiency can bring you some wonderful benefits.

Greater comfort. When you have an energy efficient home, you’ll notice that it stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The interior will also stay at a more consistent temperature, with fewer issues like hot or cold spots. As a result, you and your family can enjoy a more comfortable living environment.
Longer HVAC lifespan. When your home is energy efficient, your HVAC equipment doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your desired comfort level. This reduced workload translates into less equipment strain and wear, so your costly HVAC components can reach (or even exceed) their full expected lifespan.
Cost savings. According to the Department of Energy, making efficiency-wise improvements around your home can save you up to 20 percent annually on your energy bills. Enhancing your household efficiency can also bring long-term savings on HVAC system repairs and replacements.

Because the equipment is under a lighter workload, it’s less likely to break down and need repair. And since it lasts longer, you can postpone the major expense of new heating and cooling equipment purchases.

Have Peace of Mind About Your Home’s Efficiency

Figuring out what efficiency measures your Albuquerque home needs, picking the right materials to use, and installing them correctly takes training and experience. You can rest easy knowing you’ll get the maximum benefit from efficiency upgrades by working with an Owens Corning Certified Energy Expert® like Millers.