Rising costs for fuel and electricity are making energy efficiency more of a priority for homeowners this year. This is particularly true in older homes that don’t have energy-efficient windows and doors, proper insulation, or modern heating and air conditioning systems. Here are some common ways to use home improvement loans for older homes.
1. Energy efficient doors and windows
Older homes may need new doors and windows to keep out drafts and prevent heat or air conditioning from escaping. The energy-efficient products in this category are far better than they were even a few years ago. That makes them an investment, not an expense. Installing energy-efficient doors and windows could also increase the house’s resale value.
2. Upgrade heating, air conditioning, and appliances
Achieving top energy efficiency takes more than just replacing windows and doors. The original heating and air conditioning systems (HVAC) in older homes consume far more fuel and electricity than the newer systems. New appliances are also more energy efficient. Upgrading systems and appliances could cut utility bills down significantly.
3. Seal floorboards and add carpeting
Finished hardwood floors are a feature that most home buyers find appealing. In older homes, they could allow cold air to enter the home from below. Sealing them up and adding some lovely carpeting can warm that room. Area carpets will show off the hardwood on the edges. If you go with wall-to-wall, the hardwood will still be there underneath.
4. LED lights last a lot longer
LED bulbs can last up to 25,000 hours and consume significantly less electricity than traditional or halogen bulbs. They also cost more, but the savings more than outweigh the expense. Homeowners can choose to replace all the bulbs in the house as part of a home improvement project or change them out in small batches.
5. Add blown-in or blanket insulation to attic and walls
Heat rises and can escape through your attic if it’s not properly insulated. Improperly insulated walls can also allow heat and cooled air to leak out of the building. Adding some blown-in or blanket insulation can cut down on that and lower the cost of heating and air conditioning bills. There are several different types of insulation, so consult with a professional.
6. Consider drop ceilings in some rooms
Rooms with low ceilings are easier to heat. This is due to a condition called the “stack effect.” Heat “stacks up,” and the thermostat shuts off when the room reaches a specific temperature. Older homes often have high ceilings. Installing a drop ceiling can improve the stack effect. You don’t need to do it everywhere, but it could make sense in some rooms.
The Bottom Line
Past architects didn’t build older homes to be energy efficient. The doors and windows we have today weren’t available fifty years ago. One hundred years ago, carpet was a luxury, so most hardwood floors remained uncovered. Improvements you can make today include energy-efficient doors and windows, carpets, HVAC systems, modern appliances, LED lights, insulation, and drop ceilings.
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