4 Low-Cost Home Upgrades to Boost Your Charlotte Home’s Energy Efficiency

August 31, 2015
Ross and Witmer

Boosting your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking for cost-cutting ways to make your Charlotte home more energy-efficient this season, consider these suggestions.

1. Window Film

A lot of the cool air produced by your AC can escape through the windows, but low-cost window films are a great option for reducing energy costs. They serve the same purpose as tinted windows on cars, rejecting the sun’s rays, so the interior of your home stays cooler and comfortable, even during the hottest days.

2. Roller Shades

Exterior roller shades prevent excessive heat from entering your home, and these are available for as little as $25 per window. Fixed and retractable awnings are equally great, but they come at a higher price. Exterior shades are even designed large enough to cover your front porch, keeping the entire front end of your home cool.

3. Tankless Water Heaters

Water heaters use the second highest amount of energy in the home. Tankless water heaters deliver hot water on demand, so they aren’t constantly producing energy. You also don’t need to wait for a tank to fill up after all the hot water has been used. Best of all? Electric tankless water heaters start at around $180, much less than traditional models.

4. Efficient Showerheads

You’ve probably heard of low-flow toilets, but did you know that low-flow showerheads are also designed to conserve water and energy use? Some even feature a pause option that allows you to shut off the water while lathering up. Switching out the showerhead is one of the easiest upgrades you can make, and they’re very inexpensive.

If you’ve made countless upgrades and still aren’t satisfied with your home’s energy use, a professional energy audit is an invaluable investment. These services test for indoor air quality, air duct efficiency, appliance efficiency, and so much more, allowing you to identify problem areas, so you know exactly how to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

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