Are you tired of sky-high energy bills in Maryland’s unpredictable weather? You are not alone. Many local homeowners struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures while worrying about their carbon footprint and energy costs. The good news? Strategic home improvements can dramatically boost your energy efficiency, lower bills, and even increase your home’s value. Let’s focus on two key areas that directly affect each other and offer the biggest bang for your buck in Maryland: upgrading your HVAC system and air sealing and insulating your home.
Comfort Boost: Upgrading Your HVAC Equipment
Here in Maryland, our heating and cooling systems work overtime thanks to our significant temperature swings, from hot and humid summers to frigid winters. So, with all that energy usage it may come as no surprise when your HVAC system goes kaput. Here are some signs it may be time for an HVAC system upgrade:
- Your system is over 10 years old.
- It requires frequent repairs.
- It leaves you with inconsistent temperatures throughout your house.
- It is constantly running.
- Your energy bills are increasing.
On the bright side, there are many benefits to installing a new HVAC system, including:
- Substantial energy savings: Newer models are much more efficient.
- Improved comfort: Better temperature regulation and humidity control.
- Increased home value: A selling point for potential buyers.
When choosing a new system, always look for Energy Star certified products. One consideration is heat pumps, which are gaining popularity in Maryland for their efficiency. And be sure to explore state rebates and incentives from local energy companies for making energy efficient upgrades to your home, like Pepco/Delmarva’s Home Energy Savings Program.
Pro Tip: Always opt for professional installation to ensure optimal performance of your new Energy Star certified equipment.
Seal the Deal: Air Sealing and Insulating Your Home
Maintaining an HVAC system is one big step towards an energy efficient home. The other is stopping the sneaky, hidden energy drain that comes from air leaks and poor insulation. These issues allow your conditioned air to escape while letting outside air seep in, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. Common problem areas include drafts around windows and doors, uninsulated attics and basements, and gaps in walls and floors.
Addressing these issues through air sealing and adding insulation in your home can significantly:
- Reduce energy consumption by giving your HVAC system a break.
- Improve comfort by eliminating cold spots and drafts.
- Reduce outside noise with better soundproofing.
When considering insulation work, pay attention to the recommended R-values for different areas of your home in Maryland’s climate. And just as with upgrading your HVAC system, upgrading your insulation and air sealing as part of energy efficient home improvements can qualify you for local and federal rebates and incentives, such as the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), to offset your upfront cost.
Pro Tip: While some simple air sealing and weatherization tasks may be a DIY project, professional help is needed for comprehensive air sealing and insulation work, especially in attics. It’s always best to trust the job to a professional for maximum effectiveness and safety.
A Whole-House Approach for Maximum Efficiency
To maximize the benefits of these upgrades, consider a whole-house approach. Start with a home energy audit to pinpoint specific areas for improvement. A qualified contractor will inspect your home inside and out, often recommending both air sealing/insulation and HVAC upgrades.
By addressing both these systems simultaneously, you’ll see greater energy savings and enjoy a more comfortable home. Plus, combining projects may qualify you for additional rebates and tax credits.
Remember, controlling the air that enters and exits your home and conditioning it with efficient equipment are key steps to increasing your home’s efficiency. This approach not only reduces your reliance on fossil fuels but also shrinks your overall carbon footprint.
By investing in these energy-efficient upgrades, you’re not just saving on energy bills–you’re creating a more comfortable, valuable, and environmentally friendly home. Take the first step towards a more energy efficient home and contact us today! Our expert team at DeVere Insulation Home Performance is ready to help you maximize your home’s efficiency with top quality insulation and air sealing services.
