Attempting to create an energy-efficient home can seem like a daunting task. There are simple steps you can take leading up to larger changes, like installing solar panels. Follow our guide to create an efficient home you’ve been working towards!
STEP 1: INSTALL LED LIGHTING
The first step to creating an energy-efficient home is to take an inventory of your current lighting. Powering light bulbs makes up a significant portion of your energy bill each month. The easiest way to start your energy efficiency journey is to replace all of your incandescent or CFL bulbs with LEDs. With the boom of the LED market, there is likely to be a cost-effective LED fixture that would replace all of your traditional lights.
What makes LEDs such an energy saver? At the end of the day, LEDs give you more bang for your buck. A bulb’s wattage tells you how much energy is needed to power it. The higher the wattage, the more power it takes to turn and keep on. LED replacements for traditional lighting are able to match or exceed the light output of your current bulbs with a much lower wattage. Due to their increase in lumens per watt compared to incandescent or CFL bulbs, you are getting more light from a single bulb while your wattage and power usage is cut in half or more!
Another important fact to consider is the cost of maintaining light bulbs. Regular light bulbs on the market have small lifespans, burning out every few years. LEDs have a lifespan ranging from 50,000 hours to 100,000 hours, lasting decades in many cases, that cuts your costs on replacing burned out bulbs. LEDs provide additional durability that allows them to take the shock of being dropped or roughly handled, equaling less product, and money lost to accidents.
LEDs are greatly efficient on their own, but there are ways to get even more energy savings out of them. Whether you have a habit of leaving the closet light on, your kids forget to turn off their room lights when they leave for school, or you’re tired of searching for light switches in the dark, LEDs installed with motion sensors help make sure lights turn off and on when needed!
Motion sensors are also a great idea for outdoor lighting installations. Installing motion sensor lights outside is a great way to improve home security, as well as a better way to light your driveway or front porch. The lights turn on only when you need them!
Installing LEDs in tandem with motion sensors is a great way to maximize your energy efficiency. These are key steps to take before considering an investment in solar panels.
STEP 3: MAKE THE SWITCH TO SOLAR
Solar panels are becoming more and more widely used for homes, businesses, schools, etc. Solar panels are designed to produce and store the energy required to power your home’s electrical needs. With new battery storage options, it is also possible to become completely energy independent and “off the grid.”
However, installing LED lighting and other energy-efficient measures prior to receiving a solar panel quote is important and your wallet will thank you! We suggest installing LED lighting throughout your home, top to bottom, before seeking solar panel proposals, as a way to reduce your energy usage. You see, the less energy your home uses, the fewer solar panels you will need. Not only are you saving money month to month on utility bills, but you could save a big chunk of change when purchasing solar panels as well!
Solar energy can be a pricey investment, but with the help of the ever more affordable LED bulb, you can save money upfront on panel costs, as well as month to month on the energy stored and used.
Sitler’s partners with solar providers in your area who will work with you on designing a solar solution that fits your budget and goals. If you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint, contact us to receive a free LED proposal and solar advice.
SMALL, ADDITIONAL STEPS TO MAXIMIZE ENERGY-EFFICIENCY
Looking for other ways to minimize your energy usage? If you are in an older home, look at updating your appliances with Energy Star rated ones, as these large machines use a lot of energy as well. For smaller ways to make a difference, you can replace old, drafty windows, or seal up windows during the winter months. Using draft door stoppers underneath doors leading outside can help keep cold air out and warm air in as well. If you are gone most of the day, consider turning up your air conditioning or turning down your heating while you’re away too!
TAKE THE FIRST ENERGY-EFFICIENT STEP WITH SITLER’S!
Remember, solar works smarter, not harder, with LEDs! Before taking any steps to install solar panels, reach out to Sitler’s for a quick evaluation and free proposal. This will save you money now and in the future! Give us a call at (319)-519-0039 to get started.