3 Ways to Reduce Your Energy Usage Before Next Summer

Summer will be over soon, but it’s not too early to begin thinking about how you can reduce your energy usage before next summer arrives. There are three main things you can do in your home to help reduce your energy consumption, but they are all projects that require some research on your part, as well the funds to pay for them, so it’s a good idea to get started now!

Beef Up Your Insulation

How well your home is insulated has a lot to do with how much cooling you have to do in the summer. If you lack the proper insulation, the cool air you are pumping in is just going right back out!

Your home’s insulation may be inadequate, or it could just be old, and replacing your current insulation with newer products could make a world of difference!

Spray foam insulation works great, and is even available in do-it-yourself kits. However, the process is messy, difficult, and the kit’s directions need to be followed exactly for it to be effective. Take the time to do some research before you go the DIY route. There are video tutorials online that can give you a good idea of what’s involved in this type of project. And if you do decide to tackle it on your own, take your time and do it right!

You can also hire a professional to add insulation to your San Diego home. You will probably get a better result, but it will obviously set you back some extra money.

Add Solar

With our many sunny days in San Diego, homes in this area are great candidates for solar panels. Adding solar panels to your home can greatly reduce your carbon footprint, as well as reduce your monthly electricity bill. If you add enough solar panels, you can potentially eliminate your electricity bill altogether!

If you don’t have the cash to pay for solar panels up front, there are many companies that offer financing, or that will lease you the solar panels, allowing you to have them installed for no money down. Do your homework on the various financing options, because they can make a big difference in how much you pay for the panels in the long run!

Get several estimates and figure out how long it will take you to recoup the cost of the solar panels through energy savings to see if they are financially worth it in your situation. If saving energy is a bigger concern to you than saving money, then solar panels are a no-brainer!

Replace Your Old, Inefficient Windows and Doors

Not surprisingly, the third method we recommend for saving energy is to add replacement windows to your San Diego home. If your windows only have a single pane, or if they have gaps that let in air from the outside, or if they have old, aluminum frames, your home can greatly benefit from replacement windows.

Today’s windows are made with energy efficiency in mind. Their vinyl frames, gas between the panes, and other energy-saving features make installing them a smart decision for energy-conscious San Diego homeowners.

To find out more about how replacement windows can help you reduce your energy usage, take a look at our e-book, Investing in Your Home: Replacement Windows and Doors, paying special attention to the section on Energy Savings.

Contact BM Windows for Replacement Windows and Doors

The three suggestions above are the best ways for San Diego homeowners to reduce their energy consumption at home. If you’d like more information on replacement windows and doors, we’d love to talk with you about how they can make a big difference in the amount of energy you use. Contact us today to set up your free, in-home consultation with one of our friendly, knowledgeable team members.