Remodeling for Energy Efficiency

Any time you remodel there are always hidden opportunities for improvement. Of course, you're probably more interested in the surface quality of the renovation: that sparkling new kitchen, a fresh coat of paint, replacing that worn out carpet. But beneath each visual enhancement there is a chance for efficiency advancement. As you complete a project it's never a bad idea to consider energy conservation since it not only helps the environment, but also saves money. And, no matter the project it's typically the small things that work best, tiny upgrades that won't distract from the remodel but can detract from your utility bill.

In the Kitchen
Kitchens are the most popular room to renovate since it's important to keep them up to date. And though surface features such as cabinets, counters, and floors are often the focus, as you remodel it may be time to think about replacing your appliances. ENERGY STAR products can instantly cut your energy bill by 40 percent since they use less power and water. Plus, they come in any trendy style and size to match your needs. Additionally, if you replace your gas or electric stove with an induction range that uses a small amount of concentrated heat, you'll use less energy while you cook.

In the Bathroom
Many people spotlight the same features in a bathroom: counters, floors, and fixtures. However, as you replace sinks, showerheads, and faucets, consider low-flow products. The pressure is just as strong as conventional items while still cutting down on water usage. Instead of draining three gallons per a flush, or pouring about four gallons per a minute from a faucet, low-flow fixtures utilize half the amount: enough to be comfortable without the waste. And since the mechanisms inside the fixtures do all the work, the exterior is still able to shine through since they're available in any style, trend, or finish.

In the Living Room
For the rest of the house (family rooms, offices, bedrooms), you'll probably be performing less severe renovations. Unless you're breaking through walls or adding additions, the remainder of the home will probably focus more on interior design issues: paint, furniture, and especially lighting. But as you improve lighting in a particular area, think about how to best utilize the source. Instead of using one overhead bulb, task lighting may be a more efficient enhancement: it looks chic and modern, but it also concentrates the glow. Or buy a three-way lamp to adjust the brightness to your needs without wasting power. Plus, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) last a lot longer and use less energy than traditional incandescent products.

On the Outside
When you remodel the exterior, you're probably thinking about landscaping. But even when picking out plants, take a tip from the xeroscaping handbook. The xeroscaping philosophy recommends you plant vegetation that matches your environment. So make sure you select flowers and shrubs that can easily survive in your neck of the woods and won't require constant watering or tending. Speaking of water, traditional sprinklers are often unable to control their water distribution, and tend to evaporate the moisture before it has a chance to hit the ground. Instead, buy a drip irrigation system that can concentrate smaller amounts of water onto your plant life. Or maybe invest in an underground sprinkler system that can run on a controlled timer. Plus, as you set up your exterior lighting, consider investing in some solar lights: they're not as bright as electric bulbs, but they last all night and cost nothing to use or install.

What about the Windows?
Since most people want their houses to appear airy, windows are the best way to accomplish an open feel. Daylighting, or adding more windows in specific locations, is a great way to capture natural sun, thereby saving on electric and heating bills. However, as you install or replace your glass, make sure your windows are double-paned and glazed. Energy efficient low-e (low emissive) and spectrally-selective coatings block out UV rays while still allowing light and heat to pass through. Also, remember the trimmings: storm windows, solar shades, and window treatments can help to protect your home from solar heat gain.

Helping Your HVAC
When it comes to heating and cooling systems, the best way to conserve energy is to add insulation. If you're converting an attic or basement, lay down an extra layer of fiberglass or cellulose: It'll increase your R-value without breaking your budget. As you seal up a window or wall, remember to take your time caulking and sealing in order to impede invisible drafts. But if you're replacing an old HVAC system with a new model, you may want to think about a few more energy-efficient options, such as an ENERGY STAR boiler or furnace which use an electric igniter instead of a gas-powered pilot light. Or, invest in a programmable thermostat to help you control and stabilize the indoor temperature better.