Windows and lighting occupy an interesting place in energy costs and your home. The former can add value to your home as well as allow you to save, while the latter can be cost-effective and still provide decent savings. The rest is up to you, with regard to far you want to take each item in your home.
Photo: P. Gordon
Lighting
Around 10% of your energy bill is found in lighting, and this area can be a very quick way at achieving savings. Many options are not that expensive, either.
Use linear fluorescent tubes and energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in your home. These are much more efficient than your average incandescent bulbs; they will last up to 12 times longer as well. They offer better savings though the normal bulbs are initially cheaper – you will save overall, and then in addition with your utility bills. Energy Star CFLs will save $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulb’s lifetime.
Look at fixtures to operate with Energy Star bulbs. Items like timers, photo cells, and dimmers that are compatible with CFLs are the way to go.
These tips also apply to outdoor, where using CFLs will on all fixtures will save money. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) will even use less energy than CFLs, which is something to consider.
Windows
Indeed, windows can be a fun way to save money on energy. You can’t deny that they can add to the value of your home, and they can be an attractive element of your home. Besides, if you don’t have newer windows – you probably don’t like them too much.
Windows can account for 10% to 25% of your heating bill, and your windows can work hard in the summer months as well. If you are in the market for new windows, you should look for the Energy Star label to ensure that they are energy-efficient. Look for a low U-factor (better insulation) and SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient; reduce heat gain which is helpful in warm climates) for protection against both types of elements.
If you’re not ready to have new windows put in, perhaps the following tips will guide you to claim some savings without such a big step:
- Look to install white window shades, drapes, or blinds to reflect heat away from your home.
- Apply sun-control, or other reflective films, on south-facing windows to reduce solar gain.
- Consider heavy-duty plastic sheets on a frame or clear plastic film for the winter months.
- Install tight-fitting insulating window shades after weatherising.
- Consider storm windows which can reduce heat loss through windows.
Overall, windows and lighting offer plenty of tips that don’t have to be expensive. Yet, however, there is plenty of room if you are looking for investment potential, on your house and your utility bills. Don’t be afraid to start looking at some options, whether it is in some new windows or replacing some light bulbs around the house. There is plenty of potential for any budget in these topics.
