Low-Cost Ways to Energy Proof Your New Home in Greensboro

Published: June 01, 2022

If you’re moving to a new home, you likely want to ensure it is energy-efficient and well insulated. Fortunately, there are many low-cost ways to achieve these goals. Here are just a few:

Ensure the walls and attic are well insulated

Well-insulated homes are not only more comfortable but also use less energy for heating and cooling. Installing insulation in the walls of your home can be as simple as having a contractor blow cellulose into the empty framed cavity or hiring someone to blow in loose-fill foam insulation between roof joists (this is often called open-cell spray foam).

If you prefer DIY projects, consider installing rigid foam insulation boards on exterior walls and/or rafters or joists over your attic. Be sure to use low-VOC or completely non-toxic insulation materials, as these are better for your health and the environment.

Add weatherstripping to your doors and windows

Drafty windows and poorly sealed doors can lead to energy loss, causing your heating and cooling systems to work harder than necessary. By installing weatherstripping around your doors and windows you can help reduce these leaks, saving you money on energy bills in the process.

You may also want to consider installing Low-E window film or adding storm windows to further improve the energy efficiency of your home’s windows.

Make use of passive solar design features

From south-facing windows that let in plenty of sunlight during winter months to overhangs that provide shade in the summer, there are many simple and low-cost ways to take advantage of passive solar design features.

These can help reduce your reliance on artificial lighting and heating/cooling systems, lowering your energy bills and making your home more comfortable year-round.

Install a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat can help you save money on energy costs by allowing you to set different temperatures for different times of day or week. For example, you can program it to lower the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep and raise it again shortly before you wake up or come back.

This way you’re not paying to heat or cool an empty house, and yet your home will be comfortable and energy-efficient when you return.

Overall, there are many low-cost ways to energy-proof your new home, from simple insulation and weatherstripping measures to passive solar design features and programmable thermostats. By using these and other strategies, you can help ensure that your home is comfortable and efficient in both the short and long term.

For more tips on moving and storing your belongings, make sure to check out the UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Greensboro blog!